Asset 2

School|Public|Academic|Special

Maximizing Library Potential Together

Northeast Ohio Regional Library System

Category View

Paint Night: How to do this at Your Library
9/7/2016

Inspired by the popular local Paint Nite events, the Westerville Public Library decided to bring the programming to their patrons for free!  The program allowed attendees of any skill level to recreate beautiful paintings by following guided, step-by-step instructions from the artist.  Librarians will learn how to coordinate a free paint night event for their patrons and how to select an artist if there is not one on your staff.

Presented by:
Kaya Burgin, Adult Services Librarian
Becky O'Neil, Youth Services Librarian
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Battle of the Books
9/13/2017

Knox County Battle of the Books Program Leaders will be discussing the origin of the program, what is involved “behind the scenes” in prep for the reading list, questions for teams to practice and the final competition questions and procedures. Also, from a PR and community relations viewpoint, why the Battle of the Books program has been such a great fit for the library system and improved relations with the county and local schools. along with how important support by the Friends of the Library (board and their volunteers), and area businesses and community organizations have been to the successful rebirth of this program.

 Battle of the Books  (B.o.B) first appeared on a Chicago radio program in the 1930's. Since then it has expanded to states all over the country, each having its own format.  Battle of the Books was originally started and sponsored by the Mount Vernon City School System and St. Vincent de Paul School in 1993 as a friendly competition between teams of fifth graders who love to read.  In its heyday before it was cut due to school budget constraints in 2012, the program flourished as parents, teams and supporters filled auditoriums for the popular competition and cheered on their favorite teams and contenders in good-natured competition.

Program leaders Marilyn Chidester and Sharon Tharp revived B.o.B last year with a goal of opening the program to all fifth graders from schools throughout the Knox County area and homeschoolers.  Battle of the Books grew into an extraordinarily popular program that encouraged fifth grade students to continue  reading at a time when many of them had slowed their reading down considerably. In addition to helping students learn empathy, discover ways characters overcome obstacles, look in to the future, or even understand history in a way a textbook cannot, the program encourages participants to become lifelong readers and share their excitement with their families, siblings, classmates and friends. It encourages teamwork and community team spirit. Many of the contenders from the past are now adults who read or have children who read and are excited to see the return of the program.

Featured Presenters:
Marilyn Chidester, Retiree, Mount Vernon City Schools 
Sharon Tharp, Library Media Specialist, St. Vincent dePaul School
Linette Porter-Metler, Community Relations and Public Affairs, Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online
You will be sent a link to login to the





Adult Programming Series: 20 Adult Programming Ideas in One Hour
1/9/2018

Get ideas for new ways to engage adult patrons with programming in these fast paced, humorous sessions. Veteran programmer Amy Alessio will go over themes and ideas that were a hit - and ones you may want to avoid! Participate in the chat for a chance to win prizes and receive access to slides, an outline of all ideas and more.
 
Presenter:  Amy Alessio is an award-winning librarian with a black belt in karate. Her latest book is the co-authored of A Year of Fandom Fun (American Library Association, 2017). Her fiction includes the Amazon bestselling Alana O'Neill mysteries with vintage recipes. She teaches graduate-level young adult literature and webinars on book trends and social media. She enjoys helping authors find readers through her work at AuthorRx and she is a romance reviewer for Booklist. Learn more at http://www.amyalessio.com./

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Girls Who Code: Introductory Webinar
1/11/2018

"Girls Who Code, the national non-profit dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology, is partnering with NEO-RLS Libraries! Join Hannah Simon Goldman, Ohio Regional Partnership Coordinator for GWC, for a quick half-hour webinar on Thursday, January 11th at 2:00p.m. to learn all you need to know about how to launch your own FREE after-school coding Club. In GWC Clubs, 6-12th grade girls use computer science skills to impact their community as they join our sisterhood of supportive peers and role models. Clubs are led by Facilitators, who can be volunteers from any background or field. Many Facilitators have NO coding experience and learn to code alongside their Club members! Come learn how easy it is to start your own Club, and ask questions to Ohio's GWC Regional Partnership Coordinator.
 
Clubs that sign up under the NEO-RLS partnership gain access to benefits like extra money from Clubs Fund grants, priority access to engagement opportunities like field trips and speakers, and more! Sign-up for Spring 2018 is open until the end of February, and sign-up for the 2018-19 school year will open mid-summer.
 
When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online
You will be sent a link to login to the





Adult Programming Series: 20 More Adult Programming Ideas in One Hour
2/6/2018

Get ideas for new ways to engage adult patrons with programming in these fast paced, humorous sessions. Veteran programmer Amy Alessio will go over themes and ideas that were a hit - and ones you may want to avoid! Participate in the chat for a chance to win prizes and receive access to slides, an outline of all ideas and more.
 
Presenter:  Amy Alessio is an award-winning librarian with a black belt in karate. Her latest book is the co-authored of A Year of Fandom Fun (American Library Association, 2017). Her fiction includes the Amazon bestselling Alana O'Neill mysteries with vintage recipes. She teaches graduate-level young adult literature and webinars on book trends and social media. She enjoys helping authors find readers through her work at AuthorRx and she is a romance reviewer for Booklist. Learn more at http://www.amyalessio.com./

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.





Battle of the Books: Teen Edition
3/7/2018

How can you encourage young people to read voraciously? Inject some competition into their reading! Join the Director, Benjamin Reid, and Public Services Librarian, Carol Opalka, from Huron Public Library for a webinar on the Erie County Libraries Battle of the Books. Implemented by Reid and Erie County Teen Librarians in 2015, this successful, literary spectator sport is now a highlight of the fall programming schedule. Learn about the rules of the game, time and personnel needed to prepare for the battles, and ways to market this program and build your own team. Our library does the program for grades 4-8 but it can easily be adjusted if you’d like to do this for High School students.  The Battle of the Books is a perfect way to collaborate with local libraries and share a love of great books…down to every last detail.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Programming for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
8/2/2018

Rhonda Johnston, Adult Outreach Coordinator,  Reed Memorial Library focuses on connecting historically underserved populations with library resources. She has transformed the storytime for adults with developmental disabilities into a fun and engaging learning session that has opened the door for this patron group to become fully integrated with what the library has to offer.  They have seen incredible growth in the patrons.  

Learning Objectives:

  • Understanding our patrons

  • Ways to be inclusive

  • Inclusive programming

Presenter:  Rhonda Johnston, Adult Outreach Coordinator,  Reed Memorial Library

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 





They're Not Kids Anymore: Adult Learning Basics for Library Program Planners
9/19/2018

Do you design technology programs and classes for adult patrons in your community? If so, it’s important to understand the basics about how adults learn, where their motivation comes from, and what it takes to keep them engaged. Join Monica Dombrowski, Director of Digital Services at Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin, IL, as she talks about how applying adult learning principles can help staff craft rich and rewarding learning experiences for adults in their libraries!

In this webinar you will learn:

  • Adult learning concepts

  • Learning styles

  • Instructional design basics

  • Goals and outcomes


Presenter:  Monica Dombrowski, Director of Digital Resources,  Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin, IL.
Monica has over 20 years of teaching experience in both the corporate and library worlds and was named a 2017 Library Journal Mover & Shaker for her Gail’s Toolkit grant project. She is passionate about digital literacy and showcasing the library as a premier place of education in the community.    

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 





Tweens...After School Behavior: To Battle or Engage?
3/20/2019

Do you dread the after school crowd? Tired of shushing over and over and getting nowhere? Stuck in a rut in programming for your tweens? This webinar will help give you some ideas and information to help you with your tween crowd.

Attendees will learn:

  • How to develop relationships and rapport with your tweens

  • Tactics for combating after school behavior

  • Develop programming ideas for tweens

Presenters:

Joy Mueller is the Youth Literacy Associate at Tuscarawas County Public Library in New Philadelphia, OH. With a background in education, she's worked in libraries for nearly six years. Currently, she programs for storytimes, tween technology clubs, school-age programs, and guerrilla programs. She enjoys creating ridiculous games for her programs and roaming through the shelves of bookstores and libraries.

Tracy Carpenter is a Children’s Customer Service Associate at Tuscarawas County Public Library in New Philadelphia, Ohio. She's been with the Tuscarawas County Public Libraries for a total of 4 years and in the children’s department for about a year and a half. Tracy attended Kent State University Tuscarawas majoring in Business Management and lives in New Philadelphia with her husband and 2 tween/ teen children. She's involved in programming for all ages, but specializes in tween programming which consists of both scheduled programming- such as Afterschool Art and Food Frenzy programs and Guerrilla or “On The Fly” Programming.


When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.


Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Hosting a Wikipedia Edit-a-thon in Your Library
10/23/2019

In this webinar, you will learn the basics for holding a Wikipedia Edit-a-thon in your library. Edit-a-thons are a great programming activity for adults, or an opportunity to partner with a local organization. The presenter will share what worked and what didn’t from two separate editing events.

Learning objectives:

  • Create/define a Wikipedia Edit-a-thon

  • Prepare and plan for the event

  • Conduct and evaluate the event

Presenter:

Beth Owens is the Research & Scholarly Communications Librarian in the Ingalls Library at the Cleveland Museum of Art. In her role she liaises with several different departments within the museum, and serves as a personal librarian for graduate students enrolled in the Joint Program in Art History and Museum Studies with Case Western Reserve University. Beth has a BA in Art History from Northwestern University, and an MLIS from Kent State University.


When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 
Location: Online via Adobe Connect





Book Club Reboot: Creative Twists on the Reading Groups We Know and Love
1/22/2020

Is your book club feeling stale? Are you struggling to keep readers engaged? In this session, the authors of “Book Club Reboot: 71 Creative Twists” (ALA Editions, 2019) will share out-of-the-box ways to spice up your book clubs, with examples from real clubs from across the country. From unique meeting locations, to reaching niche populations, to time-saving techniques and savvy partnerships, you will leave with ideas to put to work in your library right away.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Understand some of the reasons why book clubs fail

  • Understand the recommended process for revamping a struggling book club

  • Learn about unique book club ideas and partnerships from across the country

 
Presenters:
Stephanie Saba is a Community Program Supervisor at San Mateo County Libraries. Over the last 15 years, she has led book clubs in three different communities, including two 20-30-something book clubs, a mother-daughter book club and a senior book club.


 
Sarah Ostman is the Communications Manager in the American Library Association's Public Programs Office, where she serves as editor of ProgrammingLibrarian.org. Before joining ALA and the library field in 2014, she spent nearly a decade as a newspaper reporter, editor and freelance writer.
 


When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online via Adobe Connect





Encore Entrepreneurship: Serving 50+ Patrons
3/11/2020

Encore entrepreneurship greatly contributes to the economy. Known to many as the “second act”, this type of business venture is on the rise. As a community focal point, libraries are in a significant position to become entrepreneurship hubs for mature audiences. This webinar explores how libraries and librarians can be an asset to launching the business endeavors of budding encore entrepreneurs.

Learning objectives:

  • Understand the relevance of data that supports the need for programming in the area of encore entrepreneurship.

  • Learn about effective practices in the area of encore entrepreneurship.

  • Explore steps to launch your successful initiative.

Presenter:  Fatima Perkins is the Director of Community Outreach & Advocacy for the Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging,

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Teaching Better Behavior: Social-Emotional Learning in Library Programming
3/26/2020

Social-emotional learning (SEL), despite having been around for a few decades now, is still mysterious to many people. In this webinar, we will demystify the jargon so you can learn the basics of social-emotional learning and how to incorporate them into your programming to improve educational and behavioral outcomes for your school-age students. 
 
Learning Objectives:
 

  •  Understand the principles of social-emotional learning and how they apply to school-age children

  • Understand the ways that social-emotional learning can help with behavior management in your library

  • Learn how to incorporate social-emotional learning into your library programming

 
Presenter:

Marisha Sullivan is a Youth Services Librarian at Stark Library in Canton, OH. She has extensive experience in classroom and behavior management in informal learning environments, especially with tweens and teens. Working in low-income libraries, Marisha has learned the importance of helping students to develop "soft skills" in order to achieve their goals. She has taught topics from aeronautics to creative writing to ballroom dance to school-age children and teens and loves nothing more than helping students find their new favorite thing.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Teen Programming: A Mover & Shaker's Recipe for Impact and Success
4/7/2020

Courtney Saldana is the Assistant Director of the Ontario City Library.  She spent the first eight years of her career working for and with teens.  In 2016, Courtney was recognized as a "Change Agent" as a 2016 Library Journal Mover & Shaker [lj.libraryjournal.com].  This webinar will provide a a sampling of her outstanding work with teens, and inspire our libraries and staff to serve teens in our communities. . Learn about her teen programming basics along with practical and actionable steps for doing a teen needs assessment, creating a teen space and hosting a teen book fest. Courtney will also introduce us to Skills for Teen Parenting (STeP), a program connecting teens with what they need to succeed as adults and parents: how to interview successfully, dress professionally, deal with conflict and time management, care for their child, postpone or prevent a second pregnancy, and more. Expanding from local success to state-wide implementation, the STeP program embodies a wonderful example of the replicable innovation brought to the field by Movers & Shakers.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Recognize what a teenager is today

  • Understand the biology behind the teen brain

  • Actionable steps to creating your own impactful teen programs

Presenter:

Courtney Saldana is the Assistant Library Director for the Ontario City Library in Ontario, California.  Courtney is the event lead and creator of Ontario’s annual Teen Book Fest (TBF).  This event brings 15-20 young adult authors to Ontario for a full day of panels, presentations and author signings.   Courtney is also a 2012 Eureka! Leadership Fellow.  Her grant project focused on bringing Life Skills to Teen Moms was offered by the California State Library as a statewide project called Skills for Teens Parents (STeP).  She is heavily involved in CLA and is a 2016 Library Journal Mover and Shaker.  

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
 
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Serving Forgotten Patrons: Libraries in the Fight Against Alzheimer's Dementia
4/10/2020

Alzheimer’s dementia already affects more than 5 million Americans and is the 6th-leading cause of death in the United States; all predictions are for even more rapid spread as the Baby Boomers age. Libraries in many cases have been slow to consider how specifically to serve this growing population among our users, and how to serve the even-larger group of those caring for people with dementia. But there are concrete services we can offer, and positive effects we can have on these patrons
In this webinar we will review:

  • The Alzheimer’s epidemic

  • Current medical research into brain-healthy lifestyles

  • A variety of innovative responses in library programming dedicated to those living with Alzheimer’s and their care givers

Presenter:  Timothy J. Dickey is an adult public service Librarian with the Columbus Metropolitan Libraries, and a library science educator teaching reference, research methods, and library technology for the faculties of Kent State University and San José State University. Prior to these positions, he assisted Lynn Silipigni Connaway at the OCLC Office of Research, specializing in user studies and data mining research. Timothy has taught workshops on various topics for the American Library Association's eLearning division, and also brings his personal experience as an Alzheimer’s caregiver to this topic.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online
Via Adobe Connect





Connecting with Teens Today and Tomorrow
6/11/2020

Library staff working with teens are expert at connecting with the age group in face-to-face settings. However, it can be challenging to keep those connections, and create new ones, within a virtual environment. In this webinar participants have the chance to learn about and brainstorm ways to connect with and build relationships with teens; learn what current needs and interests are; and develop activities that support the social, emotional, and civic engagement in today’s virtual environments and tomorrow’s return to face-to-face.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify strategies for connecting with teens in virtual environments
  • Discover tools to use to connect with teens without internet @ home
  • Identify ways to build teen social emotional skills and civic engagement virtually and face-to-face
Presenter:  

Linda W. Braun is LEO’s Project Management and Consulting Coordinator. Over the past two decades, Linda has provided project management, training, and consulting services to a variety of schools, libraries, and out-of-school-time learning institutions. Linda has a Masters of Science Degree in Library and Information Science from Simmons College and a Masters of Education with a specialization in Technology in Education from Lesley University.

Linda previously taught for Simmons College in their School of Library and Information Science, the University of Maryland Information School, and for the Lesley University, Graduate School of Education. She is a four-time recipient of the WISE Online Teaching Award, has won the Young Adult Library Services Association’s (YALSA) Writing Award, served as President of YALSA in 2009-2010. She co-authored The Future of Library Services for and with Teens: A Call to Action and Libraries Ready to Code: Promoting CS Opportunities for Youth Through Libraries.


Location: Online via Zoom





Connecting with Teens Today and Tomorrow
6/11/2020

Library staff working with teens are expert at connecting with the age group in face-to-face settings. However, it can be challenging to keep those connections, and create new ones, within a virtual environment. In this webinar participants have the chance to learn about and brainstorm ways to connect with and build relationships with teens; learn what current needs and interests are; and develop activities that support the social, emotional, and civic engagement in today’s virtual environments and tomorrow’s return to face-to-face.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify strategies for connecting with teens in virtual environments

  • Discover tools to use to connect with teens without internet @ home

  • Identify ways to build teen social emotional skills and civic engagement virtually and face-to-face

Presenter:  

Linda W. Braun is LEO’s Project Management and Consulting Coordinator. Over the past two decades, Linda has provided project management, training, and consulting services to a variety of schools, libraries, and out-of-school-time learning institutions. Linda has a Masters of Science Degree in Library and Information Science from Simmons College and a Masters of Education with a specialization in Technology in Education from Lesley University.

Linda previously taught for Simmons College in their School of Library and Information Science, the University of Maryland Information School, and for the Lesley University, Graduate School of Education. She is a four-time recipient of the WISE Online Teaching Award, has won the Young Adult Library Services Association’s (YALSA) Writing Award, served as President of YALSA in 2009-2010. She co-authored The Future of Library Services for and with Teens: A Call to Action and Libraries Ready to Code: Promoting CS Opportunities for Youth Through Libraries.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.


Location: Online via Zoom





The Silver Tsunami and Your Library ? Learn to Surf or Be Swept Away!
6/17/2020

The news is everywhere about the aging of America and our changing population.  Aging affects the individual, the family, and the community. What does this mean for you and your library?  Come hear the latest research and learn about trends in this worldwide phenomenon.  We’ll ponder how libraries are being impacted in multiple ways and you’ll have an opportunity to contribute to our collective wisdom.  How can we respond to this seismic shift?  How can we utilize the expertise inherent in an older population?  How can libraries best serve this diverse and growing segment of our society?  How can we partner with other community organizations to expand our reach and impact?  Join us for this fast-paced hour and leave with proven programs and successful strategies as well as a new appreciation for your own aging process!
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Increased empathy and appreciation for ourselves and others who are aging

  • Greater awareness of trends pertaining to aging (sociological, health, economic, technology, innovations)

  • Greater knowledge of possible library programs and services for older adults

Presenter: 
Wendy Pender, Older Adults Program Coordinator, King County Library System 
In addition to her MLS from the University of Pittsburgh, Wendy has a Certificate in Gerontology from the University of Washington and is a trained facilitator with the Northwest Center for Creative Aging.  She has over 20 years of experience as a librarian and branch manager, and now serves as Older Adults Program Coordinator at the King County Library System (KCLS) in Washington State, one of the largest and busiest library systems in the U.S. In her spare time she loves to make music and motorcycle across our beautiful country!
 
When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online via Adobe Connect





Tabletop RPGs (Role Playing Games) for Teens Done Virtually
6/23/2020

We will discuss how transitioning to virtual programming can work with tabletop RPGs. There are a variety of options, including a Harry Potter themed RPG that Mary Beth has written and run both in person and virtually. This is good for anyone interested as you do not have to have previous knowledge of, or experience with, tabletop RPGs.
 
Learning Objectives:

  • Community

    • Teens learn to work together and create connections outside their base friend groups.

  •  Creativity

    •  Teens learn to exercise lateral thinking and problem solving.

  •  Learning

    •  Teens learn about social literacy in a lower stress environment.

 
Presenter:

Mary Beth Rogers earned her MLIS from the University of Kentucky. Her career in libraries started in high school as a library aide and she has had different positions in the Dayton Metro Library system ever since. She is currently the Teen Services Librarian at the New Lebanon Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. Mary Beth is on the Teen Think Tank planning committee. She loves to write and has created two RPGs that her teens have played and request to play again.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online via Zoom





2020 Virtual Emerging Technology Symposium:
Keynote: Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it
9/3/2020

Keynote:  Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it
Janet Hollingsworth, Adam Watts and Zack Weaver, 2019 Library Journal Movers & Shakers, from BLDG 61, Boulder Public Library, will kick off the symposium talking about their space and how they designed their environment, their programming, their partnerships and their staff training.  They will also talk about the inclusive opportunities they have created for a variety of communities that libraries haven’t always engaged. 

BLDG 61 is the Boulder Public Library’s all-ages free community workshop that provides maker education and technology to the public in a creative and inclusive environment.  Since it’s opening in February of 2016, BLDG 61 and a team of 5 “Creative Technologists” have engaged with over 250,000 people through their home space in Colorado, outreach to the surrounding region, national and international speaking engagements and hands on workshops.  They are champions of equitable access for learning everything from spinning and weaving fibers, to fine woodwork, to state-of-the-art electronics and digital fabrication. And they’ve done all of this at no cost to their patrons. How?!  Find out in this opening conversation with Adam Watts, Janet Hollingsworth and Zack Weaver, three of the people behind one of Boulder Public Library’s biggest success stories.  The three will discuss their experiences, failures and successes on topics such as, what it was like to create, open and program BLDG 61,  how programs can implement a community's diverse perspectives and foster accessibility, how to form mutually beneficial partnerships, how to foster a perspective of purposeful making, how to promote technological literacy and what does it take to be a Creative Technologist.  They will also address the library makerspace’s role as a critical resource for economic recovery and social equalizer in particularly challenging times. The presentation will include an open Q&A and the trio will close the day’s events with a virtual Happy Hour to connect more deeply with the audience.

Presenters:

Janet Hollingsworth is a structural engineer, woodworker, and maker educator. She and Adam Watts co-founded BLDG 61, the all-ages makerspace at the Boulder Public Library in 2016 and added Zack Weaver to the team shortly thereafter. As a creative technologist, she curated and facilitated a variety of maker programs at BLDG 61, serving over 25,000 patrons annually. She also developed special apprenticeship programs for underrepresented youth, the blind/VI community, and individuals experiencing homelessness. She helped establish the Colorado Sewing Rebellion, supporting community activism through fiber arts; co-developed Space Camp, a program for educators and students to build, launch, track and retrieve high-altitude balloon packages to the edge-of-space to collect environmental data; and initiated paid internships for teens through the Build a Better Book project, creating multi-modal picture books for blind children using maker technologies.
 
She recently transitioned to director of innovation and making at the Washington Leadership Academy, a public charter school in Washington DC with a focus on computer science, maker education, and social justice.

Adam Watts is a Creative Technologist and one of the grant writers responsible for the establishment of BLDG 61.  He is also a professional illustrator, heavy metal bassist, and award winning tabletop game designer. He has worked in libraries for the past sixteen years, beginning in shelving and then holding various roles in circulation, reference, childrens, web development, and IT management. Last year, his team was honored amongst Library Journal's 2019 Movers and Shakers. He is an unrepentant geek and creature of the night.    
Twitter & Instagram:  atomicwatts

Zack Weaver is a Maker Educator and Creative Technologist at BLDG 61 and an instructor at Colorado University’s ATLAS Institute.  His path to libraries was inspired by increasingly accessible tools, materials and processes for making and a passion for showing learners of all types and all ages their inherent creative potential.  This path included teaching hands-on project-based design classes publicly and privately at the STAMPS School of Art and Design at the University of Michigan and CODE Lab at Carnegie Mellon School of Architecture.  When joining the BLDG 61 team and Boulder Public Library in 2017, he knew he had finally found an equitable place to share the radical power of making with individuals and communities. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 64 spots remaining out of 100




2020 Virtual Emerging Technology Symposium: Keynote: Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it
9/3/2020

Keynote:  Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it
Janet Hollingsworth, Adam Watts and Zack Weaver, 2019 Library Journal Movers & Shakers, from BLDG 61, Boulder Public Library, will kick off the symposium talking about their space and how they designed their environment, their programming, their partnerships and their staff training.  They will also talk about the inclusive opportunities they have created for a variety of communities that libraries haven’t always engaged. 

BLDG 61 is the Boulder Public Library’s all-ages free community workshop that provides maker education and technology to the public in a creative and inclusive environment.  Since it’s opening in February of 2016, BLDG 61 and a team of 5 “Creative Technologists” have engaged with over 250,000 people through their home space in Colorado, outreach to the surrounding region, national and international speaking engagements and hands on workshops.  They are champions of equitable access for learning everything from spinning and weaving fibers, to fine woodwork, to state-of-the-art electronics and digital fabrication. And they’ve done all of this at no cost to their patrons. How?!  Find out in this opening conversation with Adam Watts, Janet Hollingsworth and Zack Weaver, three of the people behind one of Boulder Public Library’s biggest success stories.  The three will discuss their experiences, failures and successes on topics such as, what it was like to create, open and program BLDG 61,  how programs can implement a community's diverse perspectives and foster accessibility, how to form mutually beneficial partnerships, how to foster a perspective of purposeful making, how to promote technological literacy and what does it take to be a Creative Technologist.  They will also address the library makerspace’s role as a critical resource for economic recovery and social equalizer in particularly challenging times. The presentation will include an open Q&A and the trio will close the day’s events with a virtual Happy Hour to connect more deeply with the audience.

Presenters:

Janet Hollingsworth is a structural engineer, woodworker, and maker educator. She and Adam Watts co-founded BLDG 61, the all-ages makerspace at the Boulder Public Library in 2016 and added Zack Weaver to the team shortly thereafter. As a creative technologist, she curated and facilitated a variety of maker programs at BLDG 61, serving over 25,000 patrons annually. She also developed special apprenticeship programs for underrepresented youth, the blind/VI community, and individuals experiencing homelessness. She helped establish the Colorado Sewing Rebellion, supporting community activism through fiber arts; co-developed Space Camp, a program for educators and students to build, launch, track and retrieve high-altitude balloon packages to the edge-of-space to collect environmental data; and initiated paid internships for teens through the Build a Better Book project, creating multi-modal picture books for blind children using maker technologies.
 
She recently transitioned to director of innovation and making at the Washington Leadership Academy, a public charter school in Washington DC with a focus on computer science, maker education, and social justice.

Adam Watts is a Creative Technologist and one of the grant writers responsible for the establishment of BLDG 61.  He is also a professional illustrator, heavy metal bassist, and award winning tabletop game designer. He has worked in libraries for the past sixteen years, beginning in shelving and then holding various roles in circulation, reference, childrens, web development, and IT management. Last year, his team was honored amongst Library Journal's 2019 Movers and Shakers. He is an unrepentant geek and creature of the night.    
Twitter & Instagram:  atomicwatts

Zack Weaver is a Maker Educator and Creative Technologist at BLDG 61 and an instructor at Colorado University’s ATLAS Institute.  His path to libraries was inspired by increasingly accessible tools, materials and processes for making and a passion for showing learners of all types and all ages their inherent creative potential.  This path included teaching hands-on project-based design classes publicly and privately at the STAMPS School of Art and Design at the University of Michigan and CODE Lab at Carnegie Mellon School of Architecture.  When joining the BLDG 61 team and Boulder Public Library in 2017, he knew he had finally found an equitable place to share the radical power of making with individuals and communities. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 81 spots remaining out of 100




Poster Session: Tech Together: Building Bug Robots
9/10/2020

Tech Together is a series of technology programs created for families and designed to engage both adults and children together. This session will focus on the successful creation and implementation of a bug robot building program, challenges we overcame, as well as some tips and tricks for you.  

Presenter:  Niccole Paytosh is a Library Associate at the South Lorain Branch of the Lorain Public Library System. She has spent the last five years working closely with families and youth of all ages. Her passion is creating family programming that enriches the lives of her patrons with creativity, innovation, and fun.  
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Poster Session: Tech Together: Building Bug Robots
9/10/2020

Tech Together is a series of technology programs created for families and designed to engage both adults and children together. This session will focus on the successful creation and implementation of a bug robot building program, challenges we overcame, as well as some tips and tricks for you.  

Presenter:  Niccole Paytosh is a Library Associate at the South Lorain Branch of the Lorain Public Library System. She has spent the last five years working closely with families and youth of all ages. Her passion is creating family programming that enriches the lives of her patrons with creativity, innovation, and fun.  
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Intentionally Making Space: Programming Towards Inclusion
9/17/2020

In 2015, the North Carolina State University Libraries cut a ribbon and threw open its doors to a new cool-looking, tool-filled Makerspace. It didn’t take long, however, for staff to notice that the space wasn’t being used by a diverse cross section of students. Framed by some techniques and concepts from feminist pedagogy and social emotional learning, Marian Fragola will discuss how the Libraries created the Making Space series to confront bias and systemic barriers to inclusion in its Makerspace and gaming offerings. Attendees of this session should come prepared to engage with each other and discuss (and even challenge!) the ideas and concepts presented.

Presenter: Marian Fragola is the Director of Program Planning and Outreach at the NC State University Libraries, where she develops and manages a diverse suite of multidisciplinary programs and activities that benefit the campus and broader community. Fragola is on the board of Student Action with Farmworkers and has served as the board chair for the North Carolina Humanities Council. She lives in Durham, NC.



 

There are currently 58 spots remaining out of 100




Poster Session: Creating Your Own Reality
9/23/2020

We took a planned in-person Teen program on creating AR & VR and turned it into a virtual program where we demonstrated how to create your own reality using apps on a mobile device. We'll share the tools we used to create and present this fun program as well as some of the pitfalls we ran into. Seriously, who wouldn't want to escape to another reality right now? 

Presenters:

Virginia Wright has been with the Tuscarawas County Public Library for 22 years, first as a Reference Assistant and currently as the Emerging Technology Associate for the five-location system. Virginia holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Purdue University. The two things she likes best about her job are that she gets to play with new technologies and to also help others gain confidence to learn something new. When not at the library she enjoys motorcycle rides with her husband, taking Caribbean vacations (pre-pandemic), and spending time with her grandchildren (not necessarily in that order).  

Courtney Wallace is a Public Service Associate at the Tuscarawas County Public Library, focusing on teen programming. Courtney earned a bachelor's degree in environmental science with a minor in earth science from Moravian College.  Prior to her current position, she worked for five years as a math and science teacher. She will be celebrating four years with TCPL this November


Location: Online via Zoom





Poster Session: Creating Your Own Reality
9/23/2020

We took a planned in-person Teen program on creating AR & VR and turned it into a virtual program where we demonstrated how to create your own reality using apps on a mobile device. We'll share the tools we used to create and present this fun program as well as some of the pitfalls we ran into. Seriously, who wouldn't want to escape to another reality right now? 

Presenters:

Virginia Wright has been with the Tuscarawas County Public Library for 22 years, first as a Reference Assistant and currently as the Emerging Technology Associate for the five-location system. Virginia holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Purdue University. The two things she likes best about her job are that she gets to play with new technologies and to also help others gain confidence to learn something new. When not at the library she enjoys motorcycle rides with her husband, taking Caribbean vacations (pre-pandemic), and spending time with her grandchildren (not necessarily in that order).  

Courtney Wallace is a Public Service Associate at the Tuscarawas County Public Library, focusing on teen programming. Courtney earned a bachelor's degree in environmental science with a minor in earth science from Moravian College.  Prior to her current position, she worked for five years as a math and science teacher. She will be celebrating four years with TCPL this November.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.


Location: Online via Zoom





Keeping Your MakerSpace Momentum
9/25/2020

What do you do with your MakerSpace when people can't go to it? Learn creative ideas for virtual programming, keeping the excitement going around your space, and the tools and resources to make it all happen.

Presenters:

Missy Littell, Customer Service Manager, Cuyahoga Falls Library



Carolanne Tkach, Technology Trainer, Cuyahoga Falls Library

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.


Location: Online via Zoom





Keeping Your MakerSpace Momentum
9/25/2020

What do you do with your MakerSpace when people can't go to it? Learn creative ideas for virtual programming, keeping the excitement going around your space, and the tools and resources to make it all happen.

Presenters:

Missy Littell, Customer Service Manager, Cuyahoga Falls Library



Carolanne Tkach, Technology Trainer, Cuyahoga Falls Library


Location: Online via Zoom





Your Makerspace Why
9/29/2020

Let’s examine how to design makerspace programming to engage your patrons. We’ll focus on purposeful making, community voice, and inclusive practices. The presenter will also discuss her MakerCare initiative, a maker program empowering patrons to make a difference through creating service based projects. Takeaways include how to build community partnerships and numerous project ideas from simple low cost items to 3-D technology.   

Presenter:  Gina Seymour, author and national speaker, is the library media specialist at Islip High School on Long Island (NY). Gina was named to Library Journal’s Movers & Shakers (2017) list as a “Change Agent,” named a 2019 AASL Social Media Superstar Finalist in the category of Social Justice Defender and was awarded the Suffolk School Library Media Association’s School Librarian of the Year in 2014. She is author of Makers with a Cause: Creative Service Projects for Library Youth (2018),  a chapter on inclusive makerspaces in School Library Makerspaces in Action and is currently working on a book on how to cultivate social action in the library.  Gina shares her work, musings and reflections on her blog GinaSeymour.com and on Twitter @ginaseymour.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 71 spots remaining out of 100




Your Makerspace Why
9/29/2020

Let’s examine how to design makerspace programming to engage your patrons. We’ll focus on purposeful making, community voice, and inclusive practices. The presenter will also discuss her MakerCare initiative, a maker program empowering patrons to make a difference through creating service based projects. Takeaways include how to build community partnerships and numerous project ideas from simple low cost items to 3-D technology.   

Presenter:  Gina Seymour, author and national speaker, is the library media specialist at Islip High School on Long Island (NY). Gina was named to Library Journal’s Movers & Shakers (2017) list as a “Change Agent,” named a 2019 AASL Social Media Superstar Finalist in the category of Social Justice Defender and was awarded the Suffolk School Library Media Association’s School Librarian of the Year in 2014. She is author of Makers with a Cause: Creative Service Projects for Library Youth (2018),  a chapter on inclusive makerspaces in School Library Makerspaces in Action and is currently working on a book on how to cultivate social action in the library.  Gina shares her work, musings and reflections on her blog GinaSeymour.com and on Twitter @ginaseymour.

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 88 spots remaining out of 100




The Show Must Go Online: Virtual Performances at Your Library
10/27/2020

With in-person rehearsals and performances impossible for the annual teen summer play at the Twinsburg Public Library, Julia Fisher embarked on a wild journey to write and direct an all-virtual production. Learn from her trials and triumphs in navigating a new world of online theatre, and see what kind of virtual performances could be right for your library!
 
Viewing of TPL’s Virtual Teen Summer Play, Skyler’s Storybook Adventure, before the presentation is encouraged, but not at all required. You can watch the full performance here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7F9LiLuum0

Presenter:

Julia Fisher is the Special Projects Coordinator at the Twinsburg Public Library, as well as a playwright, actor, director, and intimacy director throughout Northeast Ohio. Julia has trained with Cleveland Play House, Intimacy Directors and Coordinators, the Great Lakes Michael Chekhov Consortium, Ohio Shakespeare Festival, Theatrical Intimacy Education, and Movement and Combat Education. In her years as a theatre teacher at Saint Martin de Porres High School, Julia co-directed ten productions of the Saint Martin Drama Club, and twelve of her students were honored at the Marilyn Bianchi Kids Playwriting Festival through Dobama Theatre. Julia has recently performed in productions and staged readings at Cleveland Play House, Ensemble Theatre, Ohio Shakespeare Festival, Talespinner Children’s Theatre, Playwrights Local, and other local theatre companies. She is a member of the Young Playwrights Collective through Playwrights Local, where she recently presented a workshop production of Tatterhood, a new musical for which she wrote the book and lyrics. Julia is currently working on a radio adaptation of Lady Molly of Scotland Yard for Ohio Shakespeare Festival, which will be released later this year.
Location: Online via Zoom





The Show Must Go Online: Virtual Performances at Your Library
10/27/2020

With in-person rehearsals and performances impossible for the annual teen summer play at the Twinsburg Public Library, Julia Fisher embarked on a wild journey to write and direct an all-virtual production. Learn from her trials and triumphs in navigating a new world of online theatre, and see what kind of virtual performances could be right for your library!
 
Viewing of TPL’s Virtual Teen Summer Play, Skyler’s Storybook Adventure, before the presentation is encouraged, but not at all required. You can watch the full performance here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7F9LiLuum0

Presenter:

Julia Fisher is the Special Projects Coordinator at the Twinsburg Public Library, as well as a playwright, actor, director, and intimacy director throughout Northeast Ohio. Julia has trained with Cleveland Play House, Intimacy Directors and Coordinators, the Great Lakes Michael Chekhov Consortium, Ohio Shakespeare Festival, Theatrical Intimacy Education, and Movement and Combat Education. In her years as a theatre teacher at Saint Martin de Porres High School, Julia co-directed ten productions of the Saint Martin Drama Club, and twelve of her students were honored at the Marilyn Bianchi Kids Playwriting Festival through Dobama Theatre. Julia has recently performed in productions and staged readings at Cleveland Play House, Ensemble Theatre, Ohio Shakespeare Festival, Talespinner Children’s Theatre, Playwrights Local, and other local theatre companies. She is a member of the Young Playwrights Collective through Playwrights Local, where she recently presented a workshop production of Tatterhood, a new musical for which she wrote the book and lyrics. Julia is currently working on a radio adaptation of Lady Molly of Scotland Yard for Ohio Shakespeare Festival, which will be released later this year.  You can find out more about Julia on her website. 

When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.


Location: Online via Zoom





Back Porch Tips: Encourage Literacy, Learning, and Laughter with Library Videos for Young Children
12/10/2020

Delivering programs remotely during the pandemic has presented unique challenges and opportunities. This webinar will offer some tips to maximize the video format. Learn about editing software, program extenders like downloadable PDFs, and how to expand your reach while keeping it personal. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn ways to increase the appeal of videos for young children 
  • Learn ways in which editing software can enhance the literacy impact of the videos 
  • Discover resources for finding songs and rhymes not restricted by copyright 

Presenter:

Nicki Petrone has over thirty years of experience with children and literacy. She specializes in programming for children under age two at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Creating videos has enabled her to tap into he​r diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor. 


Location: Online via Zoom





Back Porch Tips: Encourage Literacy, Learning, and Laughter with Library Videos for Young Children
12/10/2020

Delivering programs remotely during the pandemic has presented unique challenges and opportunities. This webinar will offer some tips to maximize the video format. Learn about editing software, program extenders like downloadable PDFs, and how to expand your reach while keeping it personal. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn ways to increase the appeal of videos for young children 
  • Learn ways in which editing software can enhance the literacy impact of the videos 
  • Discover resources for finding songs and rhymes not restricted by copyright 

Presenter:

Nicki Petrone has over thirty years of experience with children and literacy. She specializes in programming for children under age two at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Creating videos has enabled her to tap into he​r diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor. 


Location: Online via Zoom





Evaluating Program Success
1/13/2021

Planning public programs and events has become an essential part of library services, but it is also time consuming, and at times, challenging. Library staff who host programs agree that counting attendance will never tell the holistic story of whether a program was a success or failure. There is so much more data that should be collected so that we can tell the complete story about library programming to funders and board members, be prepared to apply for grants, and plan for the future. In this session, a variety of tools and methods for evaluating programs beyond taking attendance will be discussed so that your library can use data to tell a story, drive decisions about future programming and so much more. 
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Be introduced to several tools and methods that can be used to for evaluating programs 
  • Gain a better understanding of what types of data can be collected to drive future programming decisions 
  • Learn how to make statistics and data tell a compelling story that will impress funders and assist with grant writing 
Presenter:

crop-MMDPLCWQ-Presenter-HermannJ.jpg

Janie L. Hermann is the Public Programming Librarian at Princeton Public Library in Princeton, NJ where she oversees a cross-departmental team of 15 staff  members that plan and execute more than 1,700 programs per year with an annual attendance in excess of 54,000 at the programs. She is currently a member of the ALA Public and Cultural Programs Advisory Committee and the co-chair of the ALA Programming Librarian Interest Group. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom





Evaluating Program Success
1/13/2021

Planning public programs and events has become an essential part of library services, but it is also time consuming, and at times, challenging. Library staff who host programs agree that counting attendance will never tell the holistic story of whether a program was a success or failure. There is so much more data that should be collected so that we can tell the complete story about library programming to funders and board members, be prepared to apply for grants, and plan for the future. In this session, a variety of tools and methods for evaluating programs beyond taking attendance will be discussed so that your library can use data to tell a story, drive decisions about future programming and so much more. 
 
Learning Objectives: 
  • Be introduced to several tools and methods that can be used to for evaluating programs 
  • Gain a better understanding of what types of data can be collected to drive future programming decisions 
  • Learn how to make statistics and data tell a compelling story that will impress funders and assist with grant writing 
Presenter:

crop-MMDPLCWQ-Presenter-HermannJ.jpg

Janie L. Hermann is the Public Programming Librarian at Princeton Public Library in Princeton, NJ where she oversees a cross-departmental team of 15 staff  members that plan and execute more than 1,700 programs per year with an annual attendance in excess of 54,000 at the programs. She is currently a member of the ALA Public and Cultural Programs Advisory Committee and the co-chair of the ALA Programming Librarian Interest Group. 


 
Location: Online via Zoom





2021 Children's Summer Reading Program
1/14/2021

The 2020 Summer Reading Program was like no other.  We don’t know exactly what 2021 will bring, however, we have some ideas to share to hopefully make it easier for you and your library.  Join us for a two-part summer reading, online workshop.  The first day will be information sessions and the second will be networking.  We will kick the program off with an overview of the theme, Tails & Tales, given by State Library Consultant, Janet Ingraham Dwyer.

The next presentation will be about adapting programs to fit any delivery style, whether it be face to face, virtual, make and take, outdoors or anything in between.  Laura Lehner and her team from the Hudson Library and Historical Center will present.

We will then have a break for lunch.

Critter Camp will follow lunch and we will hear about the camp planned for Lorain Public Library System with Niccole Paytosh.  We will end the day with crafts and snacks presented by Shelia Privett at Andover Public Library.

In addition to these sessions, we are encouraging you to share your program ideas by creating a Tapas Learning video.  The video can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 30 minutes. You can do this on your phone, no equipment needed.   Contact Melissa Lattanzi if you would like to contribute.

Lastly, be sure to register for the networking portion of this program which is scheduled for Thursday, January 21st at 1 pm.  Click HERE to register.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 183 spots remaining out of 200




Children's Summer Reading Program
1/14/2021

The 2020 Summer Reading Program was like no other.  We don’t know exactly what 2021 will bring, however, we have some ideas to share to hopefully make it easier for you and your library.  Join us for a two-part summer reading, online workshop.  The first day will be information sessions and the second will be networking.  We will kick the program off with an overview of the theme, Tails & Tales, given by State Library Consultant, Janet Ingraham Dwyer.

The next presentation will be about adapting programs to fit any delivery style, whether it be face to face, virtual, make and take, outdoors or anything in between.  Laura Lehner and her team from the Hudson Library and Historical Center will present.

We will then have a break for lunch.

Critter Camp will follow lunch and we will hear about the camp planned for Lorain Public Library System with Niccole Paytosh.  We will end the day with crafts and snacks presented by Shelia Privett at Andover Public Library.

In addition to these sessions, we are encouraging you to share your program ideas by creating a Tapas Learning video.  The video can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 30 minutes. You can do this on your phone, no equipment needed.   Contact Melissa Lattanzi if you would like to contribute.

Lastly, be sure to register for the networking portion of this program which is scheduled for Thursday, January 21st at 1 pm.  Click HERE to register.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 98 spots remaining out of 200




Children's Summer Reading Part II: Networking
1/21/2021

This is Part II of the Summer Reading Program.  This two-hours will be dedicated to networking and brain storming around Summer Reading.  We hope you will join us.  We will be utilizing a new meeting portal called Remo.  Come prepared to share your ideas and challenges for 2021 Summer Reading.
Location: Online via Remo





Teen Summer Reading Program
2/11/2021

The 2020 Summer Reading Program was like no other.  We don’t know exactly what 2021 will bring, however, we have some ideas to share to hopefully make it easier for you and your library.  This online workshop will start with four presentations to spark ideas. 

We will start with Megan Alabaugh from Rocky River Public Library and she will share new ways to create socially distanced programs.  Next Marisha Sullivan, Stark County District Library, will share ideas for make and take programming.  Melanie Lyttle, Madison Public Library, will follow and will give instructions on building your library’s Youtube page.  Finally, our last presenter will be Shelia Privett, Andover Public Library, who will create some crafts and snacks to go along with the theme, Tails & Tales.

We will end the morning by entering into breakout rooms to brainstorm ideas and then return and report back.  Come prepared to share your ideas and glean from others.

In addition to these sessions we are encouraging you to share your program ideas by creating a Tapas Learning video. The video can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 30 minutes.  Contact Melissa Lattanzi if you would like to contribute.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 145 spots remaining out of 200




Teen Summer Reading Program
2/11/2021

The 2020 Summer Reading Program was like no other.  We don’t know exactly what 2021 will bring, however, we have some ideas to share to hopefully make it easier for you and your library.  This online workshop will start with four presentations to spark ideas. 

We will start with Megan Alabaugh from Rocky River Public Library and she will share new ways to create socially distanced programs.  Next Marisha Sullivan, Stark County District Library, will share ideas for make and take programming.  Melanie Lyttle, Madison Public Library, will follow and will give instructions on building your library’s Youtube page.  Finally, our last presenter will be Shelia Privett, Andover Public Library, who will create some crafts and snacks to go along with the theme, Tails & Tales.

We will end the morning by entering into breakout rooms to brainstorm ideas and then return and report back.  Come prepared to share your ideas and glean from others.

In addition to these sessions we are encouraging you to share your program ideas by creating a Tapas Learning video. The video can be as short as 5 minutes or as long as 30 minutes.  Contact Melissa Lattanzi if you would like to contribute.
 
Location: Online via Zoom

There are currently 198 spots remaining out of 200




Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part I
3/11/2021

Back by popular demand! This hands-on workshop will help you build a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Once you registered for Part I be sure to sign up for Part II which is on Thursday, March 18, 2021  at 2:00 PM
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
Location: Online via Zoom


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part II
3/18/2021

Back by popular demand! This hands-on workshop will help you build a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
Location: Online via Zoom


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Gaming & Esports in Libraries
4/14/2021

Welcome to "Gaming & Esports in Libraries," a webinar where you'll learn what esports are, ways that games-related programming can strengthen your library, and how to establish them. Even with the challenges we currently face, there are still many ways to provide these events to patrons! 
 
Tristan Wheeler initiated and runs the fast-growing and popular series of gaming events at the Cleveland Public Library, now called CPL Play. Patrons of all ages, genders, and backgrounds experience a wide variety of ways to play, from video games to board games, all while creating and developing new relationships. Gaming and esports events provide an environment of both cooperative and competitive gaming, exposing patrons to the many different facets of gaming and videogame culture. 
  
Attendees are given the opportunity to learn about the business of video games, including professional gaming, the latest trends in technology, entrepreneurial opportunities, and the many jobs that exist within this field. With access to the hardware, software, community, educational opportunities, and many resources available at the library, patrons are given the tools and materials they need to pursue different pathways to success. 
 
In 2020, the CPL Play events moved even more into the online space with the new series, CPL Play Online—so patrons can enjoy elements of the Library’s gaming and esports at home! This live-streamed event series features new and different ways for patrons to learn and interact with online tournaments, group gaming sessions, guest speakers, workshops and presentations, unboxing videos and more. 
  
Join us for this introduction to esports in libraries and learn why a program like this is important to our library… and could be for yours! 
 
Learning Objectives: 
 
  • Learn what esports are
  • Learn ways that games-related programming can strengthen your library
  • Learn how to establish them 
 
Presenter:  
 
Tristan Wheeler is an Audiovisual & Event Planning Specialist at the Cleveland Public Library. Since 2003, Tristan has worked with other library staff to bring a wide variety of video games-related programming and events to Clevelanders at Main Library and branch locations. For the past five years, Tristan has led the team which plans and delivers esports and gaming at Cleveland Public Library, bringing national and international recognition for the program and for Cleveland Public Library. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Gaming & Esports in Libraries
4/14/2021

Welcome to "Gaming & Esports in Libraries," a webinar where you'll learn what esports are, ways that games-related programming can strengthen your library, and how to establish them. Even with the challenges we currently face, there are still many ways to provide these events to patrons! 
 
Tristan Wheeler initiated and runs the fast-growing and popular series of gaming events at the Cleveland Public Library, now called CPL Play. Patrons of all ages, genders, and backgrounds experience a wide variety of ways to play, from video games to board games, all while creating and developing new relationships. Gaming and esports events provide an environment of both cooperative and competitive gaming, exposing patrons to the many different facets of gaming and videogame culture. 
  
Attendees are given the opportunity to learn about the business of video games, including professional gaming, the latest trends in technology, entrepreneurial opportunities, and the many jobs that exist within this field. With access to the hardware, software, community, educational opportunities, and many resources available at the library, patrons are given the tools and materials they need to pursue different pathways to success. 
 
In 2020, the CPL Play events moved even more into the online space with the new series, CPL Play Online—so patrons can enjoy elements of the Library’s gaming and esports at home! This live-streamed event series features new and different ways for patrons to learn and interact with online tournaments, group gaming sessions, guest speakers, workshops and presentations, unboxing videos and more. 
  
Join us for this introduction to esports in libraries and learn why a program like this is important to our library… and could be for yours! 
 
Learning Objectives: 
 
  • Learn what esports are
  • Learn ways that games-related programming can strengthen your library
  • Learn how to establish them 
 
Presenter:  
 
Tristan Wheeler is an Audiovisual & Event Planning Specialist at the Cleveland Public Library. Since 2003, Tristan has worked with other library staff to bring a wide variety of video games-related programming and events to Clevelanders at Main Library and branch locations. For the past five years, Tristan has led the team which plans and delivers esports and gaming at Cleveland Public Library, bringing national and international recognition for the program and for Cleveland Public Library. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom





What Can I Do? How Libraries Can Support and Heal Communities in Conflict
4/22/2021

From racial unrest to the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries all over the country are grappling with many societal challenges. With our cities and states in need, how does a library respond and help cultivate healing, social awareness and empathy in our communities?
 
Communications professional and librarian, Tamara King will share how Richland Library in Columbia, S.C. found its voice and used innovative ways to reach their customers in 2020. From holding virtual discussions about race to using telephone town halls to remove access barriers, King will provide valuable tools libraries can use to support communities in conflict.

Presenter:  
Tamara King is the Community Relations Director for Richland Library. In her role, she is tasked with developing, directing and implementing communications strategies to key stakeholders and audiences of Richland Library. Tamara also supervises the Office of Development, which supports the Richland Library Friends and Foundation along with the library volunteer program.  She has nearly two decades of experience in broadcast television, public relations, marketing, strategic communications, media and crisis communication training and program management.

Tamara also chairs the library’s award-winning Social Awareness Taskforce. Through Tamara’s leadership the taskforce has held discussions surrounding empathy, race, women’s rights and social justice for more than 1,300 participants.   Tamara is a nationally and locally recognized award-winning public relations professional and was recently recognized as a 2019 Library Journal Mover and Shaker for her role in Richland Library’s race, equity and social awareness work. Tamara has a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication, and a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina.
Location: Online via Zoom





What Can I Do? How Libraries Can Support and Heal Communities in Conflict
4/22/2021

From racial unrest to the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries all over the country are grappling with many societal challenges. With our cities and states in need, how does a library respond and help cultivate healing, social awareness and empathy in our communities?
 
Communications professional and librarian, Tamara King will share how Richland Library in Columbia, S.C. found its voice and used innovative ways to reach their customers in 2020. From holding virtual discussions about race to using telephone town halls to remove access barriers, King will provide valuable tools libraries can use to support communities in conflict.

Presenter:  
Tamara King is the Community Relations Director for Richland Library. In her role, she is tasked with developing, directing and implementing communications strategies to key stakeholders and audiences of Richland Library. Tamara also supervises the Office of Development, which supports the Richland Library Friends and Foundation along with the library volunteer program.  She has nearly two decades of experience in broadcast television, public relations, marketing, strategic communications, media and crisis communication training and program management.

Tamara also chairs the library’s award-winning Social Awareness Taskforce. Through Tamara’s leadership the taskforce has held discussions surrounding empathy, race, women’s rights and social justice for more than 1,300 participants.   Tamara is a nationally and locally recognized award-winning public relations professional and was recently recognized as a 2019 Library Journal Mover and Shaker for her role in Richland Library’s race, equity and social awareness work. Tamara has a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication, and a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina.
Location: Online via Zoom





Escape Rooms at Your Library
5/4/2021

Escape rooms are relentlessly fun and deceptively educational - a perfect library program for all ages! This webinar will cover everything you need to know in order to host an escape room at your library.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand what an escape room is and how to adapt the concept to your library's programming
  • Learn the logistics, from materials to puzzle types, behind planning an escape room program
  • Experience a virtual (and quick) escape room scenario
Presenter:

Chris Labib is an Adult Services Librarian at Kent Free Library. She loves to learn and have fun, and her programs for the adults in her community reflect those passions.

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Escape Rooms at Your Library
5/4/2021

Escape rooms are relentlessly fun and deceptively educational - a perfect library program for all ages! This webinar will cover everything you need to know in order to host an escape room at your library.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand what an escape room is and how to adapt the concept to your library's programming
  • Learn the logistics, from materials to puzzle types, behind planning an escape room program
  • Experience a virtual (and quick) escape room scenario
Presenter:

Chris Labib is an Adult Services Librarian at Kent Free Library. She loves to learn and have fun, and her programs for the adults in her community reflect those passions.

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Three Things to Consider When Presenting Online
5/12/2021

Discover three steps to help you excel in delivering great online presentations.  Online presentations follow many of the same ideas as presenting in person; however, the difference in presentation vehicle and environment can prove to make presentations challenging in new ways.  Whether you are just beginning to present online or if you have been presenting for a while, this program will be filled with many tips to make your presentations excel.

Learning Objectives:

⦁ Prepare:  Learn how you should prepare for your presentation including setting up your environment, creating your presentation, scheduling, and dressing for the event
⦁ Presentation:  Discover tips for the online presentation to add professionalism, enthusiasm, and engagement
⦁ After the Presentation:  Explore ways to guide question-and-answer sessions and follow up with attendees

Presenter: 

Angela Paterek is the Training Manager at the Rocky River Public Library.  She has been creating online content for library patrons for more than 5 years.   Along with her over 19 years of being a library trainer and 11 years of training in the corporate environment, Angela has also taught in public schools and business colleges.  She has a degree in Business Education from the University of Akron.


Location: Online via Zoom





Three Things to Consider When Presenting Online
5/12/2021

Discover three steps to help you excel in delivering great online presentations.  Online presentations follow many of the same ideas as presenting in person; however, the difference in presentation vehicle and environment can prove to make presentations challenging in new ways.  Whether you are just beginning to present online or if you have been presenting for a while, this program will be filled with many tips to make your presentations excel.

Learning Objectives:

⦁ Prepare:  Learn how you should prepare for your presentation including setting up your environment, creating your presentation, scheduling, and dressing for the event
⦁ Presentation:  Discover tips for the online presentation to add professionalism, enthusiasm, and engagement
⦁ After the Presentation:  Explore ways to guide question-and-answer sessions and follow up with attendees

Presenter: 

Angela Paterek is the Training Manager at the Rocky River Public Library.  She has been creating online content for library patrons for more than 5 years.   Along with her over 19 years of being a library trainer and 11 years of training in the corporate environment, Angela has also taught in public schools and business colleges.  She has a degree in Business Education from the University of Akron.


Location: Online via Zoom





Zoom Out: Other Innovative Online Platforms and Tools to Connect with your Audience
5/26/2021

Many of us have become very familiar with Zoom over the last year. While it is an excellent platform that has met the needs for many libraries during this pandemic and beyond, there may be some other platforms and tools available that can help you to better connect with your audience.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about alternative online services and their features that might better meet your needs 
  • Discover innovative new platforms that can boost virtual interaction and learning
  • Explore tools that can be used to enhance or augment your current virtual presence
Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Zoom Out: Other Innovative Online Platforms and Tools to Connect with your Audience
5/26/2021

Many of us have become very familiar with Zoom over the last year. While it is an excellent platform that has met the needs for many libraries during this pandemic and beyond, there may be some other platforms and tools available that can help you to better connect with your audience.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about alternative online services and their features that might better meet your needs 
  • Discover innovative new platforms that can boost virtual interaction and learning
  • Explore tools that can be used to enhance or augment your current virtual presence
Presenter:

Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
 
Location: Online via Zoom





How To Launch a Podcast At Your Library
6/16/2021

Podcasting is an excellent way for libraries to connect to their communities, especially as it becomes increasingly important to reach patrons beyond the library's physical space. Jeff Laser, Adult Services Librarian at Bexley Public Library and host of The BPL Podcast, will cover the ins and outs of starting a podcast at your library. Learn what equipment and software you'll need, how to find guests, and how to market your podcast on a reasonable budget. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to start a podcast
  • Learn what equipment is needed
  • Learn how to find guests
  • Learn how to cost effectively market your podcast 
Presenter:

Jeff Laser is an Adult Services Librarian at Bexley Public Library, where he has worked since 2012. He graduated with an MLIS from Kent State University in 2015 and a BM in Music Composition from Capital University in 2012.
Location: Online via Zoom





How To Launch a Podcast At Your Library
6/16/2021

Podcasting is an excellent way for libraries to connect to their communities, especially as it becomes increasingly important to reach patrons beyond the library's physical space. Jeff Laser, Adult Services Librarian at Bexley Public Library and host of The BPL Podcast, will cover the ins and outs of starting a podcast at your library. Learn what equipment and software you'll need, how to find guests, and how to market your podcast on a reasonable budget. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to start a podcast
  • Learn what equipment is needed
  • Learn how to find guests
  • Learn how to cost effectively market your podcast 
Presenter:

Jeff Laser is an Adult Services Librarian at Bexley Public Library, where he has worked since 2012. He graduated with an MLIS from Kent State University in 2015 and a BM in Music Composition from Capital University in 2012.
Location: Online via Zoom





Working with Zoom
6/17/2021

Over the past year we have all become familiar with Zoom.  However, do you know all the ins and outs, and the capabilities of this platform?

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to set up a meeting including advanced settings
  • Learn what needs to happen before a meeting
  • Learn how to run a successful Zoom meeting to include polls, breakout rooms, and more
  • Learn about utilizing the social media options within Zoom
Presenters:

Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS






Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Location: Online via Zoom





Working with Zoom
6/17/2021

Over the past year we have all become familiar with Zoom.  However, do you know all the ins and outs, and the capabilities of this platform?

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to set up a meeting including advanced settings
  • Learn what needs to happen before a meeting
  • Learn how to run a successful Zoom meeting to include polls, breakout rooms, and more
  • Learn about utilizing the social media options within Zoom
Presenters:

Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS






Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Location: Online via Zoom





8th Annual Emerging Technology Symposium: Explore, Adapt and Transform
9/8/2021 - 9/30/2021

This year marks our 8th Emerging Technology Symposium - the 2nd time it has been held virtually, and the 1st time it has been sponsored as a statewide event by NEO-RLS, NORWELD, SERLS, SWON and the State Library of Ohio.  It will run throughout the entire month of September.
 
The theme of this year’s Symposium focuses on the incredible ability of the nation's libraries to explore, adapt and transform through the use of emerging technology.  Libraries are always seeking new and responsive ways in which to meet the needs of their communities.  In recent years libraries have engaged emerging technologies in a variety of creative ways to build tech literacy, bridge the tech and digital divide, and make innovation accessible to all. In the past year, libraries have responded and adapted swiftly during the pandemic, utilizing technology to evolve their services in a safe and inventive manner. As we enter a new landscape, the 2021 Symposium will celebrate libraries and their emerging tech ideas as they continue to transform their services in exceptional ways.
 
The Symposium will feature national speakers who have demonstrated an incredible ability to take emerging technology into new territories in libraries. Their projects highlight the value of thinking and generating big ideas but, even more importantly, they demonstrate that it takes a village and focus to execute and develop. They will explain their strategies, experiences, challenges, failures and successes, all of which are paths to innovation. We will also hear from multiple poster sessions throughout the month, showcasing projects that have employed emerging technology to enhance services or take library services to the next level. Join us to celebrate and learn how libraries have, and can, explore, adapt and transform.
  
Innovation in Libraries
Dr. Roslyn Dean, Broward County (FL) Library
Wednesday, September 8th, 10:00 am-11:00 am
 
What is next for library innovation? As libraries continue their primary mission, to offer access to information, they garner ideas to implement emerging technologies that broaden the reach and access. Broward County Library recently implemented two innovative initiatives designed to expand access to the library in unique ways and reach customers beyond the walls of the library.
 
Broward County Library’s Project Welcome initiative innovatively invites and guides newcomers/immigrants – English Language Learners as they adjust to living in Broward. The multi-faceted initiative consists of several ways to offer programs and services in multiple languages so that limited or non-English speakers have access to information without the limitation of language. One way the initiative did this was through the implementation of Amazon Echo Dot voice assistance devices, using language translation skills to bridge the language barrier.
 
Virtual AARLCC, another Broward County Library innovation, is the 3D modeling program that expanded access to the African American Research Library and Culture Center’s special collections. The project team 3D scanned African artifacts in the special collections and made them available on a website designed especially for featuring the objects. Although accessible to the public by appointment, these objects were hidden treasures that some may have never been aware of until the inception of Virtual AARLCC. Now, the 3D images of these artifacts are accessible to anyone interested via a free website.
 
Participates in this presentation will leave understanding how voice assistance can work as a language-translation tool in their library and will be able to determine if 3D modeling is a viable option. Participants will also leave with the speaker’s ideas on what is next in innovation for libraries.
 
Learning Objectives:
The goal of this presentation is to help participants understand how voice assistance tools enhance library services. The speaker will also help participants identify ways to use digitization to expand access to library collections and explore new ways to innovate library services.
 
 Presenter: 
Dr. Roslyn Dean is the Community Engagement Manager for Broward County Library in Fort Lauderdale, FL area. She supervises adult, youth, and learning program services for the library system as well as digital initiatives, outreach, volunteer services, and advantage marketing. In her over three years with Broward County Library, she has spearheaded initiatives such as the library’s LSTA grant awarded projects on 3D scanning archived objects in the Special Collections, the Echo Dot language translation program, and bridging the digital divide through the library’s new “My Digital Summer Learning Program,” for students in grades K – 3. Roslyn was one of Library Journal’s 2020 Movers and Shakers for Innovation, and she implemented and oversees the library’s virtual program model as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Dean’s primary focus is on bringing innovative programs and services with a technology spin to Broward County Library users.
 
Insights into Innovation (and why this "innovator" really just wants a warm brownie and a nap)
Rebecca Millerjohn, Madison Public Library, Wisconsin
Wednesday, September 15th, 10:00 am-11:00 am
 
In 2020, Rebecca Millerjohn was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker for the innovations she championed with Madison Public Library's learning and assessment practices. She has had many wonderful people in the last year jovially ask her, "How does it feel?!" If she were being honest, she would answer uncomfortable. She always assumed that innovating was a born trait, that some people just naturally generate brilliant new ideas and *poof* make them come true. Yet, she has been at the head of several successful innovations with the Bubbler at Madison Public Library over the last 6 years, and every time there is no *poof*. They generally start with trepidation, a lot of sighing, and even when there is giddiness about the possibilities and potential, there is also anxiety and the sobering truth that stepping out into the unknown is most likely going to take a lot of work. Yet when the outcomes are worthwhile - the chance to co-build opportunities with your community to enhance learning - we need to be able to say yes. We need to be able to acknowledge that discomfort while continuing to persist in exploring, adapting and transforming. This is a talk for all of the reluctant innovators out there. And when it’s over, we can all go eat a warm brownie and take a nap, because we deserve it. 
 
Presenter:
Rebecca Millerjohn is the youth services librarian with the Bubbler at Madison Public Library. Before entering the library world, she was a middle and high school classroom teacher in Houston, Texas and Chicago, Illinois. A 2020 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, her library work focuses on hands-on exploratory learning, educator support, and strategic partnerships with MPL's Bubbler program. As the Bubbler’s project manager for their Summer of Making Internship and Making Spaces initiatives, she loves sock monsters, power tools, paper circuits, and when kids get little scrunched faces that shows they are THINKING. Her current projects include community engagement with Madison educational partners, the creation of Madison Public Library’s Impact blog, and research into making & learning assessments and practices. When she grows up, she would like to go back to school to become a landscape architect or a furniture restorer. ​​
 
 
Prototype Your Professional Life
Julia Maddox, University of Rochester Libraries
Friday, September 17th, 10:00 am-11:00 am
 
In this interactive session, we will learn how to use Stanford’s Design Thinking process to prototype out-of-the-box solutions for addressing challenges in our library and profession. Julia Maddox will help us begin by identifying problems we’re experiencing in our work. We’ll then imagine unexpected ideas for addressing those problems. Finally, we’ll design a prototype for testing out one of the ideas... within a week! In a year like no other, we’ve all had to learn to experiment with new ways of working. This session will help us continue that spirit of experimentation, agility, and risk-taking long after the pandemic.
  
Presenter: 
Julia Maddox is an educator and consultant who helps teams build their capacity for creative problem solving. She is the founder of the Barbara J. Burger iZone at the University of Rochester Libraries, helping students make creative connections that spark action. In iZone’s vibrant innovation space (and now online!), our team helps students learn to explore ideas with creativity, empathy and resilience.
  
Why Not Us? The Case for AI in Libraries
Michael Hibben, Roanoke County Public Library
Thursday, September 30th from 10:00 am-11:00 am
 
Over the past decade, artificial intelligence has gone from science fiction to science fact. From smart sensors in our homes, to virtual assistants in our phones, and our recommendations on Amazon, Netflix, Google, and social media feeds, AI’s rapid expansion into our daily lives is taking place with little oversight or regulation. What role should libraries play in helping our communities understand all the possibilities and possible pitfalls of artificial intelligence? In this session, Michael Hibben will make the case that libraries must take the lead with AI literacy. He’ll talk about the Roanoke County Public Library’s award-wining work with AI and high tech and show you the many options you have to start AI programming at your library.
 
Learning Objectives:
By attending this session, you’ll learn why libraries must lead with AI literacy, how to make the case for AI programing to your Director, staff, and community, and how to get started with AI programming.
 
Presenter:
Michael Hibben is Administrative Librarian with the Roanoke County Public Library in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia where he oversees the system’s headquarters library. Named one of Library Journal’s 2020 Movers & Shakers, Michael leads technology initiatives for his system including the recruitment of SoftBank Robotics’ Pepper the humanoid robot and Misty the robot from Misty Robots – both first in the nation for public libraries. Before moving to Virginia, he lived in Los Angeles where he worked for the Los Angeles Public Library.
 
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





8th Annual Emerging Technology Symposium: Explore, Adapt and Transform-Keynote -Innovations in Libraries
9/8/2021 - 9/30/2021

 






Innovation in Libraries
Dr. Roslyn Dean, Broward County (FL) Library
Wednesday, September 8th, 10:00 am-11:00 am
 
What is next for library innovation? As libraries continue their primary mission, to offer access to information, they garner ideas to implement emerging technologies that broaden the reach and access. Broward County Library recently implemented two innovative initiatives designed to expand access to the library in unique ways and reach customers beyond the walls of the library.
 
Broward County Library’s Project Welcome initiative innovatively invites and guides newcomers/immigrants – English Language Learners as they adjust to living in Broward. The multi-faceted initiative consists of several ways to offer programs and services in multiple languages so that limited or non-English speakers have access to information without the limitation of language. One way the initiative did this was through the implementation of Amazon Echo Dot voice assistance devices, using language translation skills to bridge the language barrier.
 
Virtual AARLCC, another Broward County Library innovation, is the 3D modeling program that expanded access to the African American Research Library and Culture Center’s special collections. The project team 3D scanned African artifacts in the special collections and made them available on a website designed especially for featuring the objects. Although accessible to the public by appointment, these objects were hidden treasures that some may have never been aware of until the inception of Virtual AARLCC. Now, the 3D images of these artifacts are accessible to anyone interested via a free website.
 
Participates in this presentation will leave understanding how voice assistance can work as a language-translation tool in their library and will be able to determine if 3D modeling is a viable option. Participants will also leave with the speaker’s ideas on what is next in innovation for libraries.
 
Learning Objectives:
The goal of this presentation is to help participants understand how voice assistance tools enhance library services. The speaker will also help participants identify ways to use digitization to expand access to library collections and explore new ways to innovate library services.
 
 Presenter: 
Dr. Roslyn Dean is the Community Engagement Manager for Broward County Library in Fort Lauderdale, FL area. She supervises adult, youth, and learning program services for the library system as well as digital initiatives, outreach, volunteer services, and advantage marketing. In her over three years with Broward County Library, she has spearheaded initiatives such as the library’s LSTA grant awarded projects on 3D scanning archived objects in the Special Collections, the Echo Dot language translation program, and bridging the digital divide through the library’s new “My Digital Summer Learning Program,” for students in grades K – 3. Roslyn was one of Library Journal’s 2020 Movers and Shakers for Innovation, and she implemented and oversees the library’s virtual program model as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Dean’s primary focus is on bringing innovative programs and services with a technology spin to Broward County Library users.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





8th Annual Emerging Technology Symposium: Explore, Adapt and Transform-Poster Sessions
9/8/2021 - 9/30/2021











The Metamorphosis of a Special Collection: The Ashley Bryan Art Series at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center
Lisa Jackson, Broward County Library System, Florida
Steven Marshall, African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, Florida
Lauren Odom,  African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, Florida
Tuesday, Septemeber 21, 2021 from 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
In 2020, the Broward County African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) received an ALA Carnegie-Whitney grant to create an electronic resource that highlights their unique Ashley Bryan Art collection and Coretta Scott King book collection. The intent was to use the bulk of the money to pay a web designer to create the resource and staff would research and provide content. After receiving the grant, we learned that Sirsi Dynix, a newly purchased ILS for our library system, has a platform called Sirsi Rooms that we could use to create our resource which would link directly to the library's catalog. The AARLCC Youth Services Team - Lisa Jackson, Steven Marshall and Lauren Odom - will discuss the process it took to completely switch gears, find new ways to expend the funds, learn how to use the new ILS and create a resource that is both functional and beautifully rendered.

Presenters:
Lisa Jackson has been a Librarian with the Broward County Library System in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for over 20 years and is currently the Supervisor of Youth Services at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center branch. Here she has the distinct pleasure of coordinating materials and services - with her team of committed librarians - geared toward youth from birth to 18 and their parents. She earned her Master of Library and Information Science from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. is an avid reader of non-fiction and works with the local Humane Society's Trap-And-Release program.

Steven Marshall is a Librarian Senior at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Originally from the Chicago suburbs, Steven earned his Master’s of Library and Information Science degree from Florida State University and has worked at public and university libraries in Illinois and Florida. He has worked at AARLCC as a Youth Services Librarian since 2016.

Lauren Nicole Odom is a librarian at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center located in Fort Lauderdale, FL. There she works in the youth services department and coordinates programs primarily for teens and tweens. Ms. Odom attended Nova Southeastern University for her undergraduate studies and went on to graduate from North Carolina Central University with a Master of Library Science. She enjoys the arts, including making masterpieces of her own creation and writing poetry as well as reading.

 


Virtual Story times with a Tech twist: How we use Livestreams, and Google Meet to share literacy apps and technology tools with families and teens​
Tawnee Isner, Kinsman Free Library
Friday, September 24, 2021 from 10:00 am - 10:45 am
Virtual story times with a tech twist. When we switched to all virtual programing, we took the groundwork of, our digital story time called Tap n’Read and turned it into a virtual programming that still allowed for traditional story time activities like songs, rhymes or crafts, as well as digital resource recommendations. The success of this program then led to the creation of our Teen Collaboratory that combined Makerspace thinking with tech gadgets and stories for Middle Schoolers through High School teens.  
Presenter:  
Tawnee Isner graduated with her MLIS in 2020 from Kent State University. She has worked at the Kinsman Free Public Library for three years as an aide and then was promoted to Technology Trainer. When she is not at work, she can be found reading horror, crafting, and baking. 
 


Alexa, place that book on hold
Molly Howard, Granville Public Library
Tuesday, September 28, 2021 from 2:00 pm -- 2:45 pm
"Alexa, place that book on hold" talks about how we use our smart devices like your Alexa or Google Home AI to allow people to access their library account, check our catalog, and put books on hold. 

Presenter:
Molly Howard is the Technology Coordinator at the Granville Public Library in Granville, Ohio, where she teaches a wide range of technology classes for all ages. She was born and raised in Central Ohio, leaving for a short stint to Florida to earn her Associate of Science specializing in Video Production. When not at work, she lives with her husband, their teenage son, and three cats. She ups her nerd cred by playing Dungeons and Dragons and throwing rocks and trees competitively in a kilt at Highland Games around the midwest.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





From Entertainment to Education
9/8/2021 - 9/30/2021

From Entertainment To Education:  VR for Skills Development
Bharani Rajakumar, founder and CEO of TRANSFR www.transfrvr.com and
Sam Chada, MLIS, Career Success Manager, TRANSFR, former NEO-RLS Library Member and M&S - Tech Innovator award winner
Friday, September 10th from 10:00-10:45am

NEO-RLS has expressed the importance of using technology to create a sense of community-and make technology  accessible to everyone. Open-access and unrestricted exploration via VR is the first step.  

What comes next?

What if libraries could use the existing Virtual Reality equipment and not just to inform but to inspire? How can VR be used to invite creativity, open doors to new exploration, teach, train, support and inspire library patrons of all ages? How can Media Centers adapt existing technology and networks to open doors to new opportunities and greater quality of life?

With TRANSFR’s hands-on simulation-based training, libraries can expose people to new careers they may love but have never even imagined. Currently, learners can study and watch but there is no realistic way to offer hands-on workplace training to ensure learners experience the tools and skills needed in the workplace. 
Libraries will be able to provide a way to close the skills gap, explore emerging industry technologies, and create a pathway to the many well-paying, in-demand jobs in America. 

In this interactive workshop, CEO and founder Bharani Rajakumar and CSM Sam Chada, MLIS will provide a glimpse inside a TRANSFR training Simulation,  share real-life examples of the transformative power of simulation-based training and  then move on to a roundtable discussion of how to best engage library patrons of all ages to explore new skills via the TRANSFR catalog, existing relationships and community connections.


Learning Objectives:
Together, the participants will explore:

  • What transforms VR from entertainment to education?  

  • How can libraries leverage TRANSFR to bridge the digital divide?

  • What should programming look like to get the best out of the TRANSFR partnership?

Presenters:

Bharani Rajakumar, founder and CEO of TRANSFR, is on a mission to create alternative pathways to career success through intuitive learning methods so more people can succeed and be upwardly mobile. A determined “Disruptor”, Bharani passionately leads the TRANSFR team in strategic partnerships to achieve his mission  “Our goal is to come up with a more effective and enjoyable way to get people jobs that pay well. What we’re disrupting is the idea that there’s only one way to get there. If we can work with schools to help people find their best career path so they are better trained and have a higher earnings potential while helping employers get the high caliber teammates they need then everyone wins”
 
This is Rajakumar’s second technology company with its sights set on transforming the way people learn and achieve. He was the co-founder of math tutoring software company LearnBop, which was acquired in 2014 by online learning company K12 Inc.

Sam Chada MLIS MBA is a TRANSFR career success manager with over ten years of experience successfully integrating emerging technologies into public libraries. An experienced collectionHQ/digital products customer success manager with Baker & Taylor, Sam has also served as an emerging technologies librarian at Sandusky Library (OH) and assistant director of Wayne County Public Library (OH).

In 2012, Library Journal recognized Sam as a Mover & Shaker – Tech Leader for her dedication to the professional and worked accomplished at Sandusky Library. Here, she rolled out the nation’s first Roku & WiFi lending program, as well as installed a state-of-the-art digital media lab and early literacy center.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Insights into Innovation (and why this "innovator" really just wants a warm brownie and a nap)
9/8/2021 - 9/30/2021








Insights into Innovation (and why this "innovator" really just wants a warm brownie and a nap)
Rebecca Millerjohn, Madison Public Library, Wisconsin
Wednesday, September 15th, 10:00 am-11:00 am
 
In 2020, Rebecca Millerjohn was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker for the innovations she championed with Madison Public Library's learning and assessment practices. She has had many wonderful people in the last year jovially ask her, "How does it feel?!" If she were being honest, she would answer uncomfortable. She always assumed that innovating was a born trait, that some people just naturally generate brilliant new ideas and *poof* make them come true. Yet, she has been at the head of several successful innovations with the Bubbler at Madison Public Library over the last 6 years, and every time there is no *poof*. They generally start with trepidation, a lot of sighing, and even when there is giddiness about the possibilities and potential, there is also anxiety and the sobering truth that stepping out into the unknown is most likely going to take a lot of work. Yet when the outcomes are worthwhile - the chance to co-build opportunities with your community to enhance learning - we need to be able to say yes. We need to be able to acknowledge that discomfort while continuing to persist in exploring, adapting and transforming. This is a talk for all of the reluctant innovators out there. And when it’s over, we can all go eat a warm brownie and take a nap, because we deserve it. 
 
Presenter:
Rebecca Millerjohn is the youth services librarian with the Bubbler at Madison Public Library. Before entering the library world, she was a middle and high school classroom teacher in Houston, Texas and Chicago, Illinois. A 2020 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, her library work focuses on hands-on exploratory learning, educator support, and strategic partnerships with MPL's Bubbler program. As the Bubbler’s project manager for their Summer of Making Internship and Making Spaces initiatives, she loves sock monsters, power tools, paper circuits, and when kids get little scrunched faces that shows they are THINKING. Her current projects include community engagement with Madison educational partners, the creation of Madison Public Library’s Impact blog, and research into making & learning assessments and practices. When she grows up, she would like to go back to school to become a landscape architect or a furniture restorer. ​​
 
 
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Practicing Empathy with Virtual Reality
9/8/2021 - 9/30/2021

Practicing Empathy with Virtual Reality
Cecil Decker, Richland Library, South Carolina
Thursday, September 23rd from 2:00 pm - 3:00pm
Studies show that experiencing someone else’s life deepens understanding, understanding cultivates empathy, and empathy motivates action— thereby fostering a more welcoming, vibrant community. However, there are many reasons you might not be able to physically meet and learn directly from others: time, money, location, and more.

In this postmortem we break down Richland Library’s My Life Experience Empathy Lab to answer the questions: Why use virtual reality to build empathy? What programming challenges were faced? What kinds of equipment and training are necessary? And what changes have there been in the technology?

Presenter:
Cecil Decker is a teaching artist providing free access to professional media tools in Columbia, SC. They teach regular classes and workshops through Richland Library and the University of South Carolina. Most recently, they have worked in collaboration with the MIT Media Lab’s Public Library Innovation Exchange to help youth and adults explore creative coding through Scratch and micro:bits.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Prototype Your Professional Life
9/8/2021 - 9/30/2021


Prototype Your Professional Life
Julia Maddox, University of Rochester Libraries
Friday, September 17th, 10:00 am-11:00 am
 
In this interactive session, we will learn how to use Stanford’s Design Thinking process to prototype out-of-the-box solutions for addressing challenges in our library and profession. Julia Maddox will help us begin by identifying problems we’re experiencing in our work. We’ll then imagine unexpected ideas for addressing those problems. Finally, we’ll design a prototype for testing out one of the ideas... within a week! In a year like no other, we’ve all had to learn to experiment with new ways of working. This session will help us continue that spirit of experimentation, agility, and risk-taking long after the pandemic.
  
Presenter: 
Julia Maddox is an educator and consultant who helps teams build their capacity for creative problem solving. She is the founder of the Barbara J. Burger iZone at the University of Rochester Libraries, helping students make creative connections that spark action. In iZone’s vibrant innovation space (and now online!), our team helps students learn to explore ideas with creativity, empathy and resilience.
  
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Why Not Us? The Case for AI in Libraries
9/8/2021 - 9/30/2021








Why Not Us? The Case for AI in Libraries
Michael Hibben, Roanoke County Public Library
Thursday, September 30th from 10:00 am-11:00 am
 
Over the past decade, artificial intelligence has gone from science fiction to science fact. From smart sensors in our homes, to virtual assistants in our phones, and our recommendations on Amazon, Netflix, Google, and social media feeds, AI’s rapid expansion into our daily lives is taking place with little oversight or regulation. What role should libraries play in helping our communities understand all the possibilities and possible pitfalls of artificial intelligence? In this session, Michael Hibben will make the case that libraries must take the lead with AI literacy. He’ll talk about the Roanoke County Public Library’s award-wining work with AI and high tech and show you the many options you have to start AI programming at your library.
 
Learning Objectives:
By attending this session, you’ll learn why libraries must lead with AI literacy, how to make the case for AI programing to your Director, staff, and community, and how to get started with AI programming.
 
Presenter:
Michael Hibben is Administrative Librarian with the Roanoke County Public Library in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia where he oversees the system’s headquarters library. Named one of Library Journal’s 2020 Movers & Shakers, Michael leads technology initiatives for his system including the recruitment of SoftBank Robotics’ Pepper the humanoid robot and Misty the robot from Misty Robots – both first in the nation for public libraries. Before moving to Virginia, he lived in Los Angeles where he worked for the Los Angeles Public Library.
 
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Indoors, and Outdoors, and Zoom! Oh My! – Flexible Storytelling for the 21st Century
9/14/2021

Storytelling in the 21st century (and during a pandemic!) poses new challenges. But these challenges are also opportunities to grow our skills and expand our audience! In this workshop, we’ll explore how to adapt our storytelling to different settings – from in-person indoor and outdoor programs to Zoom and even hybrid events. Tackling such topics as story selection, involving the audience, technological considerations and safety protocols, we’ll share ideas for how to make the most out of any program, no matter the method of delivery.

Learning Objectives:
  • Adapt storytelling to different settings
  • Story selection
  • Audience involvement
  • Technology concerns
Presenter:

Lindsay Bonilla is a professional storyteller and children’s book author from North Canton, Ohio. While earning her Bachelor’s degree in theatre and religion at Northwestern University, she fell in love with folktales and world travel and has been performing interactive theatre, sharing stories and teaching workshops all over the world ever since. Lindsay is the award-winning author of POLAR BEAR ISLAND, a picture book which celebrates inclusivity and diversity. Her forthcoming books include: I LOVE YOU WITH ALL OF MY HEARTS (Creative Editions, August 2021), THE STORYTELLER (Nancy Paulsen/Penguin, 2022), and THE NOTE WHO FACED THE MUSIC (Page Street, 2023), as well as two soon-to-be-announced titles from Holiday House and Penguin. Lindsay loves to travel and has visited 28 countries on 5 different continents. Learn more at http://www.lindsaybonilla.com
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Put on the Polish: Use Editing Software to Level-Up Your Videos
10/28/2021

Videos can be a great way to offer programming and instruction that patrons can access at their convenience. Learn how to add titles, move and split clips, add text, transitions, sound effects, music and more to make your videos more interesting, professional, and effective.  Get basic instruction in editing using iMovie on a desktop computer or an iPad. Hear about other editing software options. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Add items into your video
  • Learn how to edit using IMovie
  • Learn about other editing software
Presenter:

Nicki Petrone has over thirty years of experience with children and literacy. She specializes in programming for children under age two at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Creating videos has enabled her to tap into he​r diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor. 


Location: Online via Zoom





Put on the Polish: Use Editing Software to Level-Up Your Videos
10/28/2021

Videos can be a great way to offer programming and instruction that patrons can access at their convenience. Learn how to add titles, move and split clips, add text, transitions, sound effects, music and more to make your videos more interesting, professional, and effective.  Get basic instruction in editing using iMovie on a desktop computer or an iPad. Hear about other editing software options. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Add items into your video
  • Learn how to edit using IMovie
  • Learn about other editing software
Presenter:

Nicki Petrone has over thirty years of experience with children and literacy. She specializes in programming for children under age two at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Creating videos has enabled her to tap into he​r diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor. 


Location: Online via Zoom





Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part I
11/30/2021

Back by popular demand! This hands-on workshop will help you build a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Once you registered for Part I be sure to sign up for Part II which is on Tuesday, December 7, 2021  at 2:00 PM
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening the public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
Location: Online via Zoom


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part II
12/7/2021

Part II of this hands-on workshop will help you continue building a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn more about how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening the public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
Location: Online via Zoom


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


2022 Children's Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
1/12/2022

There is an ocean of possibilities for this year's virtual children’s summer reading program.  Marilyn Weiss, Mentor Public Library, will share her oceans of possibilities with some indoor and outdoor programs.  Next, we will help you put some STEAM into your summer reading program with Jennifer Norton from Westlake Porter Public Library.    Join your peers for a lively breakout room discussion of more ideas for programs. 

Lunch Break:  12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

The afternoon will start with a rapid-fire session of craft ideas and a 7 week preschool storytime.  We will  also be sharing passive program ideas.  Please send a one-page sheet to Melissa Lattanzi by January 10th.  We will end the day with a general roundtable discussion which will be kicked off with a talk about the Cleveland Public Library Partnership.  Come prepared to discuss partnership opportunities, prizes, registration, and other topics of interest.  We look forward to seeing everyone.

Lost at Sea - Launch Points for Your Summer Programming
Feeling lost in the ocean of possibilities for programming this summer? We can help with some jumping off points. Marilyn will present a few programming ideas that can fit into this year's summer reading theme, or be run completely separately, including some passive programming in VR.

Presenter:

Marilyn Weiss has been working in libraries for the past 15 years, specifically working as a Library Associate at Mentor Public Library for the past 8 years. She's always looking for an opportunity to create something new in her work, be it a covered wagon or cardboard tractor. She strives to make her story times and programming exciting, educational, and entertaining

Preschool Storytimes with Oceans of Possibilities
A handout will be shared with preschool storytimes all laid out with poetry, fingerplays, songs, rhymes, and musical selections on a variety of topics related to this year's theme.  There will also be a brief discussion about the importance of rhyme and movement with the littles!

Presenter:

Barbara Scott has been the Children's Librarian at the Bucyrus Public  Library for the past 36 years.  She has also been a member of numerous OLC committees/divisions, and has presented on the library's popular Music and Movement program at ALSC symposiums.  She also heads up Crawford Reads 20, a grass-roots literacy organization in Crawford County to get books into the hands of children and is also the Executive Director of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library/Governor's Imagination Library's Crawford County affiliate.  


 
Location: Online via Zoom





 


Children's Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
1/12/2022

There is an ocean of possibilities for this year's virtual children’s summer reading program.  Marilyn Weiss, Mentor Public Library, will share her oceans of possibilities with some indoor and outdoor programs.  Next, we will help you put some STEAM into your summer reading program with Jennifer Norton from Westlake Porter Public Library.    Join your peers for a lively breakout room discussion of more ideas for programs. 

Lunch Break:  12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

The afternoon will start with a rapid-fire session of craft ideas and a 7 week preschool storytime.  We will  also be sharing passive program ideas.  Please send a one-page sheet to Melissa Lattanzi by January 10th.  We will end the day with a general roundtable discussion which will be kicked off with a talk about the Cleveland Public Library Partnership.  Come prepared to discuss partnership opportunities, prizes, registration, and other topics of interest.  We look forward to seeing everyone.

Lost at Sea - Launch Points for Your Summer Programming
Feeling lost in the ocean of possibilities for programming this summer? We can help with some jumping off points. Marilyn will present a few programming ideas that can fit into this year's summer reading theme, or be run completely separately, including some passive programming in VR.

Presenter:

Marilyn Weiss has been working in libraries for the past 15 years, specifically working as a Library Associate at Mentor Public Library for the past 8 years. She's always looking for an opportunity to create something new in her work, be it a covered wagon or cardboard tractor. She strives to make her story times and programming exciting, educational, and entertaining

Preschool Storytimes with Oceans of Possibilities
A handout will be shared with preschool storytimes all laid out with poetry, fingerplays, songs, rhymes, and musical selections on a variety of topics related to this year's theme.  There will also be a brief discussion about the importance of rhyme and movement with the littles!

Presenter:

Barbara Scott has been the Children's Librarian at the Bucyrus Public  Library for the past 36 years.  She has also been a member of numerous OLC committees/divisions, and has presented on the library's popular Music and Movement program at ALSC symposiums.  She also heads up Crawford Reads 20, a grass-roots literacy organization in Crawford County to get books into the hands of children and is also the Executive Director of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library/Governor's Imagination Library's Crawford County affiliate.  


 
Location: Online via Zoom





 


Teen Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
2/1/2022

Get ready to experience the Oceans of Possibilities.  This year’s teen summer reading program will begin with a conversation about getting to know your teens presented by Mark Tidrick of Cleveland Public Library.  Next we will go into breakout rooms and hear about escape rooms, treasure hunts in your community and a mystery box.  We will end the morning with a lively discussion of partnerships that will be kicked off by Debra Quarles of Shaker City Schools talking about their partnership with the Shaker Heights Public Library.

Mystery Boxes in your Library
Mystery boxes are perfect for your true crime, detective loving teens. Fun, innovative, and adaptable, mystery boxes give your teens the opportunity to solve crimes and mysteries all while in the safety of their local library branch. Together they'll join their brain power and connect to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and narrow down the suspects one by one until they catch that culprit.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Understand the basis of teen-centered mystery boxes
  • Learn how to curate your own mystery boxes and adapt mystery boxes from others 
  • Explore the contents of a mystery box
Presenter:
Taylor Swan is a generalist librarian by day and a historical crafter and film lover by night. She loves anything historical, creepy, or mysterious. She received her MLIS from Kent State University in May of 2021, her BS in Education from Youngstown State University in 2017, and has worked for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County since 2018.


Escape Rooms 101
An introduction to how escape rooms work and can be utilized in the library, with some examples of how this could pertain to the summer reading theme: underwater.

Presenter:
Libby McCuan is a children's librarian with the Cleveland Public Library. She loves to read and come up with fun programs for the kids at her branch. She has a Bachelor's degree from Penn State and a Masters degree from Kent State University School of Library and Information Science.


Lunch Break:  12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

After lunch we will learn all about RPG’s and D&D.

So You Want To Be a GM/DM?
Learn what it takes to run your own Dungeons and Dragons campaign. We’ll discuss D&D Beyond, roll20, and other virtual tools. We’ll also learn a little about D&D and discuss how to DM your own D&D teen program series. Of course, D&D isn’t the only role-playing game. Learn more about tabletop RPGs for teen programming and how you can start a gaming series at your own location.
 
Presenter:
 Kelly Chaplin is a Teen Librarian from Akron-Summit County Public Library in Akron, OH. Kelly has helped organize large scale programs such as Geekfest and implemented youth-requested programs such as After Hours events and Teen Advisory Boards. She has led programming, from Murder Mystery Dinners to STEM Space Challenges, that help deliver educational and social lessons that are of interest to teens. She enjoys when teens teach her new things and encourages youth to participate at their library and in the community. Above all, she is committed to helping teens succeed.
 
The last segment of the day will be a rapid-fire brainstorm of programming ideas presented by Taylor Swan of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.  We will end the day with a roundtable discussion.  Be sure to bring your ideas for summer reading and don’t miss out on this interactive program.

Rapid-Fire Summer Teen Programs
From weird, wild, and wondrous to interesting, interactive, and intellectual, this session will be a quick brainstorm for programs which can be used in conjunction with the ALA Summer Reading theme of Oceanography.

Learning Objective: 
  •  Brainstorm and inspire thematic programming ideas for teens


 
Location: Online via Zoom





Teen Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
2/1/2022

Get ready to experience the Oceans of Possibilities.  This year’s teen summer reading program will begin with a conversation about getting to know your teens presented by Mark Tidrick of Cleveland Public Library.  Next we will go into breakout rooms and hear about escape rooms, treasure hunts in your community and a mystery box.  We will end the morning with a lively discussion of partnerships that will be kicked off by Debra Quarles of Shaker City Schools talking about their partnership with the Shaker Heights Public Library.

Mystery Boxes in your Library
Mystery boxes are perfect for your true crime, detective loving teens. Fun, innovative, and adaptable, mystery boxes give your teens the opportunity to solve crimes and mysteries all while in the safety of their local library branch. Together they'll join their brain power and connect to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and narrow down the suspects one by one until they catch that culprit.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Understand the basis of teen-centered mystery boxes
  • Learn how to curate your own mystery boxes and adapt mystery boxes from others 
  • Explore the contents of a mystery box
Presenter:
Taylor Swan is a generalist librarian by day and a historical crafter and film lover by night. She loves anything historical, creepy, or mysterious. She received her MLIS from Kent State University in May of 2021, her BS in Education from Youngstown State University in 2017, and has worked for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County since 2018.


Escape Rooms 101
An introduction to how escape rooms work and can be utilized in the library, with some examples of how this could pertain to the summer reading theme: underwater.

Presenter:
Libby McCuan is a children's librarian with the Cleveland Public Library. She loves to read and come up with fun programs for the kids at her branch. She has a Bachelor's degree from Penn State and a Masters degree from Kent State University School of Library and Information Science.


Lunch Break:  12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

After lunch we will learn all about RPG’s and D&D.

So You Want To Be a GM/DM?
Learn what it takes to run your own Dungeons and Dragons campaign. We’ll discuss D&D Beyond, roll20, and other virtual tools. We’ll also learn a little about D&D and discuss how to DM your own D&D teen program series. Of course, D&D isn’t the only role-playing game. Learn more about tabletop RPGs for teen programming and how you can start a gaming series at your own location.
 
Presenter:
 Kelly Chaplin is a Teen Librarian from Akron-Summit County Public Library in Akron, OH. Kelly has helped organize large scale programs such as Geekfest and implemented youth-requested programs such as After Hours events and Teen Advisory Boards. She has led programming, from Murder Mystery Dinners to STEM Space Challenges, that help deliver educational and social lessons that are of interest to teens. She enjoys when teens teach her new things and encourages youth to participate at their library and in the community. Above all, she is committed to helping teens succeed.
 
The last segment of the day will be a rapid-fire brainstorm of programming ideas presented by Taylor Swan of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.  We will end the day with a roundtable discussion.  Be sure to bring your ideas for summer reading and don’t miss out on this interactive program.

Rapid-Fire Summer Teen Programs
From weird, wild, and wondrous to interesting, interactive, and intellectual, this session will be a quick brainstorm for programs which can be used in conjunction with the ALA Summer Reading theme of Oceanography.

Learning Objective: 
  •  Brainstorm and inspire thematic programming ideas for teens


 
Location: Online via Zoom





Adult Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
2/15/2022

Oceans of Possibilities is the theme for the adult summer reading program.  This year we will be hosting a virtual adult programming palooza during which everyone will have the opportunity to hear about treasure hunts involving the community, subscription boxes, and other program ideas.  Following the palooza breakout sessions we will continue the conversation with more idea sharing.  Bring your ideas to the workshop.

Lunch Break:  12:00 pm - 1:00 pm 

After lunch we will hold a roundtable discussion focused on he following topics: 
  • Potential Speakers
  • Partnerships
  • Prizes
  • Modality – indoor, outdoor, and hybrid
 
We value input from everyone.  Do not miss this opportunity to learn about great programs and to network with your peers for the upcoming 2022 summer reading season.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Adult Summer Reading Program: Oceans of Possibilities
2/15/2022

Oceans of Possibilities is the theme for the adult summer reading program.  This year we will be hosting a virtual adult programming palooza during which everyone will have the opportunity to hear about treasure hunts involving the community, subscription boxes, and other program ideas.  Following the palooza breakout sessions we will continue the conversation with more idea sharing.  Bring your ideas to the workshop.

Lunch Break:  12:00 pm - 1:00 pm 

After lunch we will hold a roundtable discussion focused on he following topics: 
  • Potential Speakers
  • Partnerships
  • Prizes
  • Modality – indoor, outdoor, and hybrid
 
We value input from everyone.  Do not miss this opportunity to learn about great programs and to network with your peers for the upcoming 2022 summer reading season.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Hybrid Programming: A Conversation about Equipment to Engagement
2/24/2022

No one has completely conquered hybrid programming.  However, this webinar will provide some input from the libraries that have implemented it.  CJ Lynce, Assistant Director of Westlake Porter Public Library will share information about the equipment that the library purchased and how it is being best utilized along with other equipment that is available on the market.

Avon Lake Public Library made plans for full-on hybrid programming this fall, but some procedures and expectations had to be adjusted. Gerry Vogel , Assistant Director, will offer some lessons learned during the process, and a frank discussion of human factors in successful hybrid programming: what went right, what went wrong, what worked at ALPL, and what may work better elsewhere. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about different equipment needed for hybrid programming
  • Learn about programs offered
  • What lessons were learned along the way
Presenters:

CJ Lynce, Assistant Director, Westlake Porter Public Library

Gerry Vogel has been assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library since May 2006
Location: Online via Zoom





Hybrid Programming: A Conversation about Equipment to Engagement
2/24/2022

No one has completely conquered hybrid programming.  However, this webinar will provide some input from the libraries that have implemented it.  CJ Lynce, Assistant Director of Westlake Porter Public Library will share information about the equipment that the library purchased and how it is being best utilized along with other equipment that is available on the market.

Avon Lake Public Library made plans for full-on hybrid programming this fall, but some procedures and expectations had to be adjusted. Gerry Vogel , Assistant Director, will offer some lessons learned during the process, and a frank discussion of human factors in successful hybrid programming: what went right, what went wrong, what worked at ALPL, and what may work better elsewhere. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn about different equipment needed for hybrid programming
  • Learn about programs offered
  • What lessons were learned along the way
Presenters:

CJ Lynce, Assistant Director, Westlake Porter Public Library

Gerry Vogel has been assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library since May 2006
Location: Online via Zoom





Consistent Programming and Unrelenting Empathy: Building a Teen Audience
4/5/2022

Reaching the teens in your community can be tough even in the best of times, but the COVID-19 pandemic has left many of us wondering: where did all the teens go?  Join Steve Moser and Sarah Amazing, long-time teen librarians, as we share our tried-and-true strategies and brainstorm some new ideas. While there's no guarantee that if you do this they will come, it has worked for countless libraries.  Through a multi-step process, learn how to help set yourself up for success.

 

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn the importance of creating a safe, welcoming space for ALL teens
  • Develop strategies for determining teens’ needs & interests and connecting them to programs
  • Refresh their planning & marketing knowledge

 

Sarah Amazing is the Teen Services Supervisor at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library. Having worked with teens since 2007, she has worked with YALSA and the Ohio Library Council as a committee member, speaker, and writer. She writes at zen-teen.com.

Steve Moser is the Teen Services Librarian at the Trotwood Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. Having worked with teens in libraries since 2004, he has worked with the Ohio Library Council on multiple committees, chairing several. Steve is currently a part of Ohio's Transforming Teen Services Team through YALSA.


Location: Online via Zoom





Consistent Programming and Unrelenting Empathy: Building a Teen Audience
4/5/2022

Reaching the teens in your community can be tough even in the best of times, but the COVID-19 pandemic has left many of us wondering: where did all the teens go?  Join Steve Moser and Sarah Amazing, long-time teen librarians, as we share our tried-and-true strategies and brainstorm some new ideas. While there's no guarantee that if you do this they will come, it has worked for countless libraries.  Through a multi-step process, learn how to help set yourself up for success.

 

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn the importance of creating a safe, welcoming space for ALL teens
  • Develop strategies for determining teens’ needs & interests and connecting them to programs
  • Refresh their planning & marketing knowledge

 

Sarah Amazing is the Teen Services Supervisor at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library. Having worked with teens since 2007, she has worked with YALSA and the Ohio Library Council as a committee member, speaker, and writer. She writes at zen-teen.com.

Steve Moser is the Teen Services Librarian at the Trotwood Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. Having worked with teens in libraries since 2004, he has worked with the Ohio Library Council on multiple committees, chairing several. Steve is currently a part of Ohio's Transforming Teen Services Team through YALSA.


Location: Online via Zoom





Book Discussion Networking Meeting
6/22/2022

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Outreach Virtual Networking Meeting
8/9/2022

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





STEM Programming for Youth Services
9/8/2022

Welcome to a day of STEM programming for youth services at the newly renovated Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.  The morning will consist of two sessions highlighting two successful programs for Youngstown.  In the afternoon be sure to bring your own STEM programming ideas to share for a roundtable discussion.  We will also have a tour of the new library at the end of the day.

Next Level LEGOs

Take your LEGO programming to the next level. Learn about FIRST and how you can work with their organization to offer LEGO programming for kids and more. 

Summer of Solar at PLYMC

Learn how the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County partnered with Youngstown State University's ADMETE team to create The Summer of Solar.  YSU Engineering students and Library staff led programs where middle schoolers created circuits powered by a solar panel on model houses.  They not only learned about microelectronics and solar power, but also about potential career paths in engineering and microelectronics.  We'll share the planning process, how we partnered with community members, as well as the goals, assessments, and outcomes of the program.  


Presenters:

Tracy Harris has been an assistant librarian for 3 years with the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County. She has worked in Youth Services and is now the STEAM Specialist at the Main location in Youngstown. She oversees the STEAM and DIY spaces and is active in promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math throughout the county and with community partners. 
 

Lindsay Platt has been a librarian for almost 9 years with the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County. She has worked in Adult Services, Youth Services and is now the Supervisor at the Michael Kusalaba Branch on the west side of Youngstown. She oversees a tech-heavy makerspace, works towards implementing EDI practices in the workplace and neighborhood, and is currently building a teen volunteer program. 

Marnie Alvarez is the Family Engagement Supervisor at the Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County, where she's worked for over 10 years. She's conducted programs for patrons of all ages, and is passionate about finding ways to connect with and support the community.  As the Supervisor of the Main Library Family Engagement Area, she couldn't be prouder of their new dedicated space for families and children of all ages and is looking forward to future innovative programming and greater collaborations with community organizations.


 
Location: Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County
305 Wick Ave
Youngstown, OH 44503

There are currently 9 spots remaining out of 50




Carving a Path from the Public Library to the College Classroom
10/5/2022

In this class, library staff will learn how to play an active, positive role in helping teen and young adult patrons navigate the process of applying to college. From learning the basics about the college application process today to programs they can run themselves and with partners, library staff will leave class not only more informed about the on-going changes and evolutions of the college application process, but also excited about using library resources to create a more equitable experience for young adults.

Learning Objectives:

  • Participants will build a baseline understanding of the contemporary college application process, including vocabulary and general components.
  • Participants will learn about and explore various databases and library resources that will be relevant in serving college curious teens and young adults.
  • Participants will formulate new and explore existing program ideas that can be implemented at libraries to help serve teens interested in learning more about applying to college and completing the process.
Presenter:

Aryssa Damron is a children’s librarian with the District of Columbia Public Library system. She serves on the YALSA Alex Awards for 2023, the ALSC Membership Committee, and is involved with the Jane Austen Society of North America. She holds a BA in English from Yale University and a MSLS from the University of Kentucky. She is the author of "The Path to the Ivy League Leads Straight Through the Public Library," a chapter in the book Hope and a Future: Perspectives on the Impact that Librarians and Libraries Have on Our World.
Location: Online via Zoom





Carving a Path from the Public Library to the College Classroom
10/5/2022

Recorded 10/5/2022

In this class, library staff will learn how to play an active, positive role in helping teen and young adult patrons navigate the process of applying to college. From learning the basics about the college application process today to programs they can run themselves and with partners, library staff will leave class not only more informed about the on-going changes and evolutions of the college application process, but also excited about using library resources to create a more equitable experience for young adults.

Learning Objectives:

  • Participants will build a baseline understanding of the contemporary college application process, including vocabulary and general components.
  • Participants will learn about and explore various databases and library resources that will be relevant in serving college curious teens and young adults.
  • Participants will formulate new and explore existing program ideas that can be implemented at libraries to help serve teens interested in learning more about applying to college and completing the process.
Presenter:

Aryssa Damron is a children’s librarian with the District of Columbia Public Library system. She serves on the YALSA Alex Awards for 2023, the ALSC Membership Committee, and is involved with the Jane Austen Society of North America. She holds a BA in English from Yale University and a MSLS from the University of Kentucky. She is the author of "The Path to the Ivy League Leads Straight Through the Public Library," a chapter in the book Hope and a Future: Perspectives on the Impact that Librarians and Libraries Have on Our World.
Location: Online via Zoom





Back to the Book XXI: Booktalking, Bringing Readers Back into the Building Along with Feel Good Reads, and Horror Just in Time for Halloween
10/27/2022

We are excited to bring back the popular Back to the Book program.  In our twenty-first year for Back to the Book, our featured speaker will be well-known author and blogger Becky Spratford.  She will start the day with : Booktalking Your Way to the Friendliest Library in Town, followed by Bringing Readers Back to the Building: Book Based In-Person Events Beyond Community Reads.  After lunch we will have some reading conversations.  Mary Olson, Medina County District Library and Katlin Booth, Cuyahoga County Public Library will share the feel good reads that everyone is craving.  We will end the day, if you dare, with Becky's expertise in the horror genre -  just in time for Halloween!

Booktalking Your Way to the Friendliest Library in Town
Booktalking is at the heart of what we do with patrons each and every day at the public library. Whether we are sharing books informally at the services desk, presenting a prepared list of books, or posting information online, talking about books is something we do each and every day. It is a core service, but it is also hard to teach. Booktalking is more of an art than a skill, but with the right guidance and some practice, it can go a long way toward engaging your patrons and re-energizing your staff. Join experienced Readers’ Advisory expert, Becky Spratford, as she shares the secret behind delivering great book talks, giving you tips and tricks you can begin using right away to hone your own skills. Rediscover the power and joy that comes from sharing books with patrons.

Bringing Readers Back to the Building: Book Based In-Person Events Beyond Community Reads
After years of social distancing, our patrons are eager to return to our buildings. Why not welcome them back with new programs, ones that focus on our brand, books? Join experienced Readers’ Advisory expert, Becky Spratford, as she shares a variety of proven in-person, book based programming from small scale to on-going series and everything in between; programs that are not only engaging and fun, but will also increase patron visits and checkouts. There will be plenty of options for all sizes of libraries. Try one, all, or just use her ideas to help you craft your own. Your results: a trail of happy patrons in your wake.

Horror Readers’ Advisory: How to Help Your Scariest Patrons
A recent poll of thousands of library workers identified Horror as one of the Top 5 genres they were “most scared of,” and yet, the genre is basking in a popularity among our patrons that hasn’t been seen in decades. We cannot ignore it any longer. It’s time to stop worrying that your horror readers are monsters, and start remembering they only like to read about them. The library world’s horror expert, Becky Spratford, is here to help you conquer your own fears and walk you through today’s horror landscape. In this webinar she will explain how to talk to fans, break down the appeal of horror, identify what resources will serve you best, and most importantly, give you dozens of authors and titles to start suggesting with confidence, immediately. Becky will break it all down for you so that you can get up to speed on this fast growing genre. As people look for an escape from the horrors of real life, the interest and demand in the genre will only continue to grow, you need to stop cowering in the corner and start leading the horror charge. And, Becky promises, you won’t have to terrorize yourself in the process, not even for a second. Let’s have some fun, talk books, help patrons, and learn about the scariest genre together.

Presenters:

Becky Spratford [MLIS] is a Readers' Advisor in Illinois, specializing in serving patrons ages 13 and up. She trains library staff all over the world on how to match books with readers through the local public library. She runs the critically acclaimed RA training blog, RA for All. She is under contract to provide content for EBSCO’s NoveList database and writes reviews for Booklist and a horror review column for Library Journal. Becky is a 20 year locally elected Library Trustee [still serving] and a Board member for the Reaching Across Illinois Library System. Known for her work with horror readers, Becky is the author of The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Horror, Third Edition [ALA Editions, 2021]. She is a proud member of the Horror Writers Association and currently serves as the Association’s Secretary and organizer of their annual Librarians’ Day. You can follow Becky on Twitter @RAforAll.
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087

There are currently 8 spots remaining out of 100




Service Anchors: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Youth Library Services and Programming
11/9/2022

It’s crucial for youth services library paraprofessionals and Librarians to support lifelong learning by constantly developing cultural awareness, acceptance, and understanding of how diverse and rich our young library patrons and families are. During this speaking engagement, attendees will be introduced to basic diverse, equitable, and inclusive concepts, theories, and terminology key for youth library services and programming.  They will learn key knowledge regarding children and race research and identify how it’s helpful in planning EDI youth programming. Similarly, library team members will explore ways to equitably introduce diverse and inclusive collections and technology to youth, caregivers, and educators, and analyze the book banning movement.  

Learning Objectives: 

  • Utilize take-a-aways to thoroughly analyze communities, services, and programs and develop an awareness and understanding of how important genuine representation is to young library patrons and their caregivers.
  • Commence their journey in designing and facilitating diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible library services and enriching programs without incorporating or displaying common misconceptions.
  • Spark the desire to continuously self-reflect on diverse, equitable, and inclusive concepts, theories, and terminology that will foster lifelong learning
Presenters:

Maria F. Estrella (She/Her/Hers/Ella) earned a Master of Communication and Information in Library and Information Science from Kent State University, two Bachelors of Arts and Sciences in Social Work, and Spanish from Cleveland State University, and received Diversity and Inclusion certification from Cornell University.  Her career history includes approximately two decades of library experience working in a five-star rated urban-research library system.  She served on national committees, juries, and task forces, whose primary goal is to provide diverse literacy and technological resources/services to enhance the lives of young readers and encourage them to become lifelong scholars.   She was similarly honored with the 2021 recipient of the Dr. Arnulfo D. Trejo Librarian of The Year Award and is currently an American Library Association Councilor-at-Large as well as a Board Member of the Association of Library Services for Children. Maria is also the founder of Young Diverse Readers Consulting.

Erica Marks is a public librarian and owner of Book Marks Live Consulting. Within her twenty years of public library service, Erica has created unique and unconventional programming for youth. Through collaborative partnerships, programs such as Books-n-Beats, Girl Power!, and Man Up, CLE (Cleveland) became successful empowerment events, promoting literacy, leadership, and self-respect. Erica is a member of the American Library Association. She served on the 2020 Randolph Caldecott Committee and previously served on the 2017-2018 Coretta Scott King Book Awards Jury. Erica graduated from Kent State University with a Masters of Information and Library Science and Ashford University, receiving a Masters of Public Administration and a Bachelor in Social and Criminal Justice.

Annisha Jeffries is a public librarian and Founder of Born Readers, LLC Consulting.  Within her 25 years of public library service, Annisha has established herself as an advocate for children's services through collaborative partnerships, with community organizations locally and nationally. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Annisha is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a Master of Information and Library Science and Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Cleveland State University. She is a 2000 American Library Association Spectrum Scholarship recipient and has served on various selection committees, including the 2018 Caldecott Committee, and was the Chair of the 2021 Caldecott Committee. Currently, she is the Chair of the Norman A Sugarman Children’s Biography Award.


Location: Online via Zoom





Children's Summer Reading Workshop: All Together Now
1/12/2023

All Together Now, we are back in-person!  Let NEO-RLS spark ideas for your summer reading program, starting with a commercial from Conneaut Public Library.  Next, Hubbard Public Library will share their intergenerational outreach program.  Next we will change the channel to Library Remodeling for summer reading - it's all about the decorations.  After lunch is Craft Wars with some hands-on activities and so much more.  We also want to hear your ideas! There will be time to share your outreach, decorations, crafts, programs, & more. You won't want to miss this opportunity to network with your peers not to mention all the fun!

Lunch is included in this workshop.
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Book Discussion Networking Meeting
1/18/2023

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  
Location: Online
Via Zoom





A Long-Term Approach to Hybrid Programming
1/25/2023

The pandemic forced libraries to have virtual programming to meet their patron's needs. Although it can be difficult to iron out all the problems, hybrid programming has continued to expand the library's reach, allowing patrons who cannot attend library events in person to reap the full benefits of the library's services, and creating an archive of programming for patrons to experience well after the program is finished.

In this webinar Zach and Josh plan to show the positives of hybrid programming as a more permanent fixture at Bexley Public Library and how other libraries can plan for the future of hybrid programming.

Learning Objectives:
  • What makes a good hybrid program
  • Scalable hybrid set up for your needs
  • Planning for the future of hybrid programming

Presenters:  

Zach Parish has worked in public libraries for 10 years and currently serves as the Programming Librarian at the Bexley Public Library where he oversees the coordination of Adult Services programming.

Joshua Bryant has 11 years of library experience and is currently the Technology Librarian at Bexley Public Library.


Location: Online via Zoom





A Long-Term Approach to Hybrid Programming
1/25/2023

Recorded 1/25/2023

The pandemic forced libraries to have virtual programming to meet their patron's needs. Although it can be difficult to iron out all the problems, hybrid programming has continued to expand the library's reach, allowing patrons who cannot attend library events in person to reap the full benefits of the library's services, and creating an archive of programming for patrons to experience well after the program is finished.

In this webinar Zach and Josh plan to show the positives of hybrid programming as a more permanent fixture at Bexley Public Library and how other libraries can plan for the future of hybrid programming.

Learning Objectives:
  • What makes a good hybrid program
  • Scalable hybrid set up for your needs
  • Planning for the future of hybrid programming

Presenters:  

Zach Parish has worked in public libraries for 10 years and currently serves as the Programming Librarian at the Bexley Public Library where he oversees the coordination of Adult Services programming.

Joshua Bryant has 11 years of library experience and is currently the Technology Librarian at Bexley Public Library.


Location: Online via Zoom





Teen Summer Reading Program: All Together Now
1/31/2023

All Together Now, we are back in-person!  Let NEO-RLS help you plan your summer reading program. We will begin the morning by talking about the theme, sharing crafts, and discussing how to get more teens into your library through service hours and volunteering. After lunch, you will hear about STEAM projects that build on one another and you will get the chance to participate in such a project. You will learn about the latest and most participative games, both technology-based and retro. Lastly, there will be plenty of time to share your own ideas and have group discussions with your peers.
Location: Westlake Porter Public Library
27333 Center Ridge Road
Westlake, OH 44145


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Warming Up to Summer
2/16/2023

It’s February! Time for summer! Whether you’re planning your first summer library program or just want a refresher, this session will get you in the summer mood. We'll reflect on 2022 and look forward to 2023; chat about some summer “basics” like registration and completion, tracking, and prizes; explore resources to support your summer planning, and look at CSLP’s “All Together Now” and other theme options. There will be time for questions and idea sharing, so bring your questions and ideas! This webinar will cover planning for all ages.

Presenter:

Janet Ingraham Dwyer is the youth services library consultant at the State Library of Ohio. Her job is to support, advise, and empower children’s and teen services specialists in public and school libraries around the state. She manages Ohio’s participation in the nationwide Collaborative Summer Library Program and collaborates with the Ohio Library Council on Ohio Ready to Read, a statewide resource network to facilitate early literacy activities in libraries.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Warming Up to Summer
2/16/2023

Recorded 2/16/2023

It’s February! Time for summer! Whether you’re planning your first summer library program or just want a refresher, this session will get you in the summer mood. We'll reflect on 2022 and look forward to 2023; chat about some summer “basics” like registration and completion, tracking, and prizes; explore resources to support your summer planning, and look at CSLP’s “All Together Now” and other theme options. There will be time for questions and idea sharing, so bring your questions and ideas! This webinar will cover planning for all ages.

Presenter:

Janet Ingraham Dwyer is the youth services library consultant at the State Library of Ohio. Her job is to support, advise, and empower children’s and teen services specialists in public and school libraries around the state. She manages Ohio’s participation in the nationwide Collaborative Summer Library Program and collaborates with the Ohio Library Council on Ohio Ready to Read, a statewide resource network to facilitate early literacy activities in libraries.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Adult SRP: All Together Now Palooza
2/21/2023

We are excited to be back in-person for the adult summer reading program! This year we will be returning to our programming palooza model. In the morning, you will have the opportunity to hear about 6 to 8 different programs. After lunch, Paula Wagner from Geauga County Public Library will give you rapid fire craft ideas along with a craft for you to make and take. Shelia Privett from Andover Public Library will share a great list of summer reading program ideas. At the end of the day, you will have an opportunity to network and share ideas revolving around summer reading.
Location: Bainbridge Branch
17222 Snyder Rd.
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part I
3/15/2023

Back by popular demand! This hands-on workshop will help you build a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Once you registered for Part I be sure to sign up for Part II which is on Wednesday, March 22, 2023  at 2:00 PM
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
Location: Online via Zoom


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Early Literacy 101-An Ohio Ready to Read Workshop-Part II
3/22/2023

Back by popular demand! This hands-on workshop will help you build a firm foundation in early literacy. Participants will learn how brain development impacts how young children learn and will explore effective, research-based early literacy resources and activities. The workshop covers the Six Early Literacy Skills presented in the PLA/ALSC Every Child Ready to Read® 1st edition, and the Five Early Literacy Practices presented in the 2nd edition, along with other early literacy concepts and tools. The instructor will help attendees get ready to offer early literacy story times and become well-equipped to work with parents and community partners to share early literacy concepts and build community support.

Who will enjoy and benefit from this workshop?
  • Library workers who are new to children's services
  • Department managers or library directors with new children's services staff
  • Outreach staff
  • Newly degreed youth services librarians
  • Any library worker who wants a refresher course in early literacy
Presenters:

Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations.  Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s literacy initiatives, school and community partnerships, outreach services, technology training, and events.  She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success.


Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
Location: Online via Zoom


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Outreach Networking Meeting
5/2/2023

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Book Discussion Networking Meeting
5/3/2023

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Jane Carle any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
5/17/2023

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
6/1/2023

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom





Youth Adapted & Inclusive Programming: What is the Difference and How Do I Do It?
9/12/2023

Libraries play a vital role in fostering inclusive environments where children of all abilities can thrive and develop a love for learning. In this workshop, participants will delve into the essential aspects of adapted and inclusive programming. Learn how to manage behavior challenges as well as gain literacy techniques for disabled children.

Adapted Storytime Basics
Interested in offering adapted storytime at your library? Learn best practices for getting started and high-impact modifications you can make to traditional storytime elements.
 
Presenter:  Rebecca Price-Donahue has been working in public libraries for 8 years and is currently the children’s services supervisor at the Middleburg Heights Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, one of the system’s three adapted programming hubs.




Adapted Outreach
Take Adapted Storytime on the road! Learn how to host an Adapted Storytime at local preschools. 

Tour Westlake Porter Public Library's Storytime Space
View the room where Westlake Porter Public Library hosts its storytimes and see how it gets adapted for the Adapted Storytime program. See the props, accessibility tools, sensory manipulatives, and more that WPPL uses in its adapted and inclusive programming.

Presenter:  Natalie Bota is the Westlake Porter Public Library's Disability Resources Librarian, a full-time position within the youth services department. She hosts programming for patrons with disabilities, both in the library and at local schools. She works with patrons of all ages and her favorite programs are cooking programs and Next Chapter Book Club Natalie. graduated in 2013 from Kent State University with a master's degree in library and information science. Her background is in English literature and creative writing. Her work experience includes working in two academic libraries, being a school librarian in a small parochial school, and years of coffeehouse management and food service.




Inclusive Programming
Jen Johnson will share tips and strategies for making all children's programming more inclusive and accessible for children with disabilities and other barriers. 

Presenter:  Jen Johnson started her library career with Cuyahoga County Public Library in 2000. She has worked in the children's department at three CCPL branches and as a grant coordinator out of central administration. Jen's areas of special interest include adapted/inclusive programming and kindergarten readiness. Outside the library, she does professional storytelling and trains Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

More details coming soon.


 
Location: Westlake Porter Public Library
27333 Center Ridge Road
Westlake, OH 44145


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Back to the Book XXII: Bookaverse, Book Discussion, and Books Celebrating the LGBTQ+ Community & More
10/25/2023

It is hard to believe that this is the 22nd Back to the Book. This year we are focusing on the Bookaverse, Book Discussion, and Books Celebrating the LGBTQ+ Communitiy.

Featured Author:  
Kristen Lepionka (she/her) is a writer, artist, and problem-solver in Columbus, Ohio. She writes crime fiction featuring cool queer women, including the award-winning Roxane Weary private investigator series and the forthcoming One of Those Girls (Minotaur). She likes: telling stories, inclusivity, cats, tattoos, iced coffee, film noir, museums, DIY, looking at stars, sunflowers, and hot sauce. She lives with her partner and two cats.

BookTube, Bookstagram, and BookTok, Oh My: Understanding the Online "Bookaverse" As Tool for Professional Development

In this session, participants will learn how to engage with bookish social media spaces as a site of professional development. Whether you enter as a passive observer or an active creator, these online spaces can be a robust tool for collection development, programming ideas, lesson planning, and advocacy. Plus it's fun! Participants will leave this session with ideas for how to find content on social media to ignite ideas and address needs in the school library, as well as inspiration for how to join in by sharing content of their own!

This presentation will start by covering the different social media platforms and their respective bookish subspaces: Bookstagram, BookTube, and BookTok. Participants will learn about the value of building a curated feed in each of these spaces and building networks. We will look at hashtags, recommended accounts to follow, and best practices for finding useful content. Additionally, we will look at genres of participation both as a participant in these spaces and as a content creator.

Participants will be guided through setting a purpose for their participation in social media spaces in the Bookaverse, developing a framework and strategy for that participation, and developing goals for building their personal networks in one or more social media sites. They will also learn language for articulating the value of participation in the Bookaverse on yearly evaluations and professional development plans.

Learning Objectives:
  • Upon completion, participants will be able to describe their personal learning needs that can be met through participation in the Bookaverse.
  • Upon completion, participants will be able to identify which social media platforms would suit their learning needs and why.
  • Upon completion, participants will be able to articulate the value of social media as a professional development tool.
Presenter:

Tara Gold is a high school librarian in Durham, NC. She has a PhD in Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she researched adolescent literacy practices on BookTube, and a master's in Library and Information Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Dr. Gold has dabbled in book blogs, book Tumblr (Booklr), Bookstagram, BookTube, and BookTok. She has also served K-12 schools as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and student teacher supervisor.


You will have a choice from the following two breakout sessions after lunch.

Making it Happen: Discussions 101
Are you new to book discussion?  Have you ever wanted to start a discussion group, but didn't know where to begin?  From book choices to group dynamics, this session will share information to help ensure that your discussions are meaningful and fun for both the participants and the discussion leader.

Mary Frances Burns, Librarian Emeritus
Mary Frances came to Ohio in December 1994 to assume the Directorship of Morley Library, the public library in Painesville.  Under her leadership, the library district passed a bond issue for $11.6 million to build a new library, which opened in late fall, 2004.  Mary Frances retired in 2015. Much to her surprise, this position lead her to book discussions, a special interest that she still pursues. Mary Frances leads two book discussion groups, one of which is a cooperative venture with Lakeland Community College.  She participates in one other for which she only needs to read the book!

Deep Dive!: Enhance and Diversify Your Book Discussion Programs
Two veteran book discussion leaders will share their ideas for spicing up your book discussions. You will come away with fresh picks, unique titles and ideas to bring more diversity to your discussions. We will consider the benefits and practicalities of offering “deep dive” readers’ series.  Plus, we will review the pros and cons of in-person, virtual and combined formats, and how to include the author. Finally, we will share some tips and tricks that we’ve learned over the years, with opportunities for your participation.

David McNally is the Adult Services Librarian Supervisor at the Beachwood Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library, where he has worked for the past 12 years. He leads two monthly book discussions, one in-person and one virtual. He spent the prior 17 years working in children’s services at three different CCPL branches, as well as the Lakewood Public Library. David graduated from Kent State with his MLIS in 2000. He also attended Baldwin-Wallace College where he obtained a BA in Business Administration.

 
Kate Merlene is the Adult Services Librarian Supervisor at Cuyahoga County Public Library’s Orange Branch, where she has been a longtime, passionate advocate for connecting people with their next great read. She leads three monthly book discussions and annual deep-dive reader’s series with her colleague Dave McNally.  She has moderated fiction panels for Library Journal’s Virtual Day of Dialog, and is part of CCPL’s author event team.  She writes Library Journal’s daily column Book Pulse, which provides current title, author, and media information for librarians who buy and recommend books.

 
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


Online Registration has closed for this event


Start a Comic or Graphic Novel Book Club at Your Library
11/7/2023

This webinar will focus on how to lead a comics and graphic novels book club at your library or in partnership with another organization.We will think about the history and formalistic qualities of comics and reflect on the how the medium invites new ways of participation in reading groups. Finally, we will consider how to curate and focus on book clubs related to diverse subjects such as LGBTQ identity.  
  
Learning Objectives:   
  • Participants will develop skills to lead a comics and graphic novel book discussion  
  • Participants will be able to incorporate creative activities into their book discussions  
  • Participants will learn about diverse subjects through comics and graphic novels  
Presenter:

Valentino L. Zullo is the Anisfield-Wolf Postdoctoral Fellow in English and Public Humanities at Ursuline College. He is the former Scholar-in-Residence at the Ohio Center for the Book where he continues to co-lead the Get Graphic program and is the American editor of the Journal of Graphic Novels and Comics. He is also a licensed independent social worker training to be a psychoanalyst at the Cleveland Psychoanalytic Center. 
Location: Online via Zoom





Start a Comic or Graphic Novel Book Club at Your Library
11/7/2023

Recorded 11/7/23

This webinar will focus on how to lead a comics and graphic novels book club at your library or in partnership with another organization.We will think about the history and formalistic qualities of comics and reflect on the how the medium invites new ways of participation in reading groups. Finally, we will consider how to curate and focus on book clubs related to diverse subjects such as LGBTQ identity.  
  
Learning Objectives:   
  • Participants will develop skills to lead a comics and graphic novel book discussion  
  • Participants will be able to incorporate creative activities into their book discussions  
  • Participants will learn about diverse subjects through comics and graphic novels  
Presenter:

Valentino L. Zullo is the Anisfield-Wolf Postdoctoral Fellow in English and Public Humanities at Ursuline College. He is the former Scholar-in-Residence at the Ohio Center for the Book where he continues to co-lead the Get Graphic program and is the American editor of the Journal of Graphic Novels and Comics. He is also a licensed independent social worker training to be a psychoanalyst at the Cleveland Psychoanalytic Center. 
Location: Online via Zoom





So You are a New Children’s Librarian Supervisor or you Want to be One?
12/5/2023

What do you need to know?  Children’s Supervisors juggle onboarding and supporting staff, scheduling staff, programming, and outreach…and a lot more.  Learn the basics you need to run a successful children’s department.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the steps to successfully onboard new children’s staff and support them in their roles.
  • Learn tips on creating a work schedule and a programming schedule that meets the needs of their community.
  • Learn how to connect with community resources such as local schools, childcare centers, and nonprofit agencies.
Presenters:

Julia Boxler is the Youth Programming Manager at Cuyahoga County Public Library. In her role, she has led programming from birth to age 18 and has been an integral lead in a number of youth initiatives at CCPL. Julia’s work includes the expansion and re-imagination of homework services, the creation of a new avenue of programming to assist youth who struggle to meet the third-grade reading guarantee, the coordination of Parent Engagement programming, including a kindergarten readiness initiative, and the ongoing creation of partnerships with local organizations to support youth with special needs and their families.  Julia's ability to get the most out of her budget has provided the resources necessary to implement her various programs.

Maria Trivisonno is the Family Engagement Specialist for Cuyahoga County Public Library in suburban Cleveland, Ohio.  She started paging at CCPL when she was 16 years old and served as a children’s assistant, teen librarian, and children’s department head throughout the years.  Maria received a Laura Bush 21st Century “Youth Services, Librarians, and Museums—A New Vision of Learning” scholarship funded by the federal Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) in Washington, D.C. to get her MLIS at Kent State University, graduating in 2011. She is a member of the advisory board of the Virginia Hamilton Conference on Multicultural Literature for Youth, is co-chair of ALSC’s Intellectual Freedom Committee, and the current chair of the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction.


 
Location: Online via Zoom





So You are a New Children’s Librarian Supervisor or you Want to be One?
12/5/2023

Recorded 12/5/23

What do you need to know?  Children’s Supervisors juggle onboarding and supporting staff, scheduling staff, programming, and outreach…and a lot more.  Learn the basics you need to run a successful children’s department.

Learning Objectives:
  • Learn the steps to successfully onboard new children’s staff and support them in their roles.
  • Learn tips on creating a work schedule and a programming schedule that meets the needs of their community.
  • Learn how to connect with community resources such as local schools, childcare centers, and nonprofit agencies.
Presenters:

Julia Boxler is the Youth Programming Manager at Cuyahoga County Public Library. In her role, she has led programming from birth to age 18 and has been an integral lead in a number of youth initiatives at CCPL. Julia’s work includes the expansion and re-imagination of homework services, the creation of a new avenue of programming to assist youth who struggle to meet the third-grade reading guarantee, the coordination of Parent Engagement programming, including a kindergarten readiness initiative, and the ongoing creation of partnerships with local organizations to support youth with special needs and their families.  Julia's ability to get the most out of her budget has provided the resources necessary to implement her various programs.

Maria Trivisonno is the Family Engagement Specialist for Cuyahoga County Public Library in suburban Cleveland, Ohio.  She started paging at CCPL when she was 16 years old and served as a children’s assistant, teen librarian, and children’s department head throughout the years.  Maria received a Laura Bush 21st Century “Youth Services, Librarians, and Museums—A New Vision of Learning” scholarship funded by the federal Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) in Washington, D.C. to get her MLIS at Kent State University, graduating in 2011. She is a member of the advisory board of the Virginia Hamilton Conference on Multicultural Literature for Youth, is co-chair of ALSC’s Intellectual Freedom Committee, and the current chair of the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction.


 
Location: Online via Zoom





Special Libraries: How Can They Help Your Patrons and Library
12/12/2023

We have many special libraries in the Northeast Ohio region.  Here we highlight three special libraries and what they can offer your patrons and library.
 
Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden)
Did you know that NE Ohio contains one of the best botanical and horticultural libraries in the country? The special libraries at Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden) not only contain books to help you learn about plants and trees but also a museum-class collection of botanical illustration, landscape architecture, and scientific manuscripts from Darwin to Redoute to van Leeuwenhoek. Learn about the resources, including outreach programs for public libraries, present in your own backyard! 
 
Presenter:
Marisha Sullivan (she/they) is the Librarian at Holden Forests & Gardens, overseeing the Archives, Special Collections, and Circulating Collections at both Cleveland Botanical Garden and Holden Arboretum. Previously a public librarian, Marisha brings a passion for lifelong learning, accessibility, and equity to her work with plants, trees, and people. When not in the library or wandering the woods, Marisha enjoys fiber arts, video games, and exploring the Greater Cleveland area. 


Ingalls Library, Cleveland Museum of Art
The Ingalls Library at the Cleveland Museum of Art is one of the largest art research libraries in the United States. We offer comprehensive access to art information covering all periods and geographic areas in many languages. The Museum Archives houses institutional records that document the history and role of the museum in the social and cultural history of the community and the world of art; and the personal papers of regional artists, arts businesses, and art collectors. We are open to the public, offering resources and assistance to meet any research need.  
Presenter:
Leslie Cade is the director of the Ingalls Library & Museum Archives at the Cleveland Museum of Art, responsible for all library and archival functions. A graduate of John Carroll University and Case Western Reserve University, Leslie’s career includes leadership positions in a variety of special libraries. Her wealth of experience includes policy and long-range planning; successful grant writing; library and archival collection development and management; preservation of materials in all formats; and records management.  



Cleveland Law Library
Fun fact: Every county in Ohio has a law library. Some are not staffed full-time and are only a bookshelf, while others can look like a typical branch of a public library.  Stark County Law Library provides legal information services to judges, attorneys, county and township officials AND the public. With four full-time staff and access to many valuable legal resources, the Stark County Law Library is happy to assist with legal information needs.

Presenter:

Kathleen M. Dugan, Esq., MLS: Ms. Dugan currently serves two roles as the Librarian and Secretary of the Cleveland Law Library and the Librarian & Chief Administrator of the Cuyahoga County Law Library. Ms. Dugan came to the Law Library in 2003 after working as a Reference Librarian at the CWRU School of Law Library. In addition to her administrative duties, Ms. Dugan performs reference and research services for the Library’s patrons and conducts training for Library members and staff. She frequently lectures on legal research topics, and she has written the chapter on law libraries for the Ohio State Bar Association’s online book entitled OfficeKeeper. Ms. Dugan is a 1984 graduate of John Carroll University, where she obtained a B.A. in English, a minor in Political Science and a concentration in business. Thereafter in 1987, Ms. Dugan obtained her J.D. from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, where she served as a Managing Editor of the Cleveland State Law Review. Upon graduation, Ms. Dugan practiced civil litigation for 13 years at a small boutique Cleveland law firm. While engaged in the practice of law, Ms. Dugan taught paralegal classes for both Notre Dame College of Ohio and the American Institute for Paralegal Studies. In 1999, Ms. Dugan finally pursued her true career love and went to Kent State University, where she obtained a graduate appointment and completed her Masters in Library in Science by the year 2000, graduating No. 1 in her class. Ms. Dugan is an active member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and its Justice For All Committee

Location: Online via Zoom





Special Libraries: How Can They Help Your Patrons and Library
12/12/2023

Recorded 12/12/23

We have many special libraries in the Northeast Ohio region.  Here we highlight three special libraries and what they can offer your patrons and library.
 
Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden)
Did you know that NE Ohio contains one of the best botanical and horticultural libraries in the country? The special libraries at Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden) not only contain books to help you learn about plants and trees but also a museum-class collection of botanical illustration, landscape architecture, and scientific manuscripts from Darwin to Redoute to van Leeuwenhoek. Learn about the resources, including outreach programs for public libraries, present in your own backyard! 
 
Presenter:
Marisha Sullivan (she/they) is the Librarian at Holden Forests & Gardens, overseeing the Archives, Special Collections, and Circulating Collections at both Cleveland Botanical Garden and Holden Arboretum. Previously a public librarian, Marisha brings a passion for lifelong learning, accessibility, and equity to her work with plants, trees, and people. When not in the library or wandering the woods, Marisha enjoys fiber arts, video games, and exploring the Greater Cleveland area. 


Ingalls Library, Cleveland Museum of Art
The Ingalls Library at the Cleveland Museum of Art is one of the largest art research libraries in the United States. We offer comprehensive access to art information covering all periods and geographic areas in many languages. The Museum Archives houses institutional records that document the history and role of the museum in the social and cultural history of the community and the world of art; and the personal papers of regional artists, arts businesses, and art collectors. We are open to the public, offering resources and assistance to meet any research need.  
Presenter:
Leslie Cade is the director of the Ingalls Library & Museum Archives at the Cleveland Museum of Art, responsible for all library and archival functions. A graduate of John Carroll University and Case Western Reserve University, Leslie’s career includes leadership positions in a variety of special libraries. Her wealth of experience includes policy and long-range planning; successful grant writing; library and archival collection development and management; preservation of materials in all formats; and records management.  



Cleveland Law Library
Fun fact: Every county in Ohio has a law library. Some are not staffed full-time and are only a bookshelf, while others can look like a typical branch of a public library.  Stark County Law Library provides legal information services to judges, attorneys, county and township officials AND the public. With four full-time staff and access to many valuable legal resources, the Stark County Law Library is happy to assist with legal information needs.

Presenter:

Kathleen M. Dugan, Esq., MLS: Ms. Dugan currently serves two roles as the Librarian and Secretary of the Cleveland Law Library and the Librarian & Chief Administrator of the Cuyahoga County Law Library. Ms. Dugan came to the Law Library in 2003 after working as a Reference Librarian at the CWRU School of Law Library. In addition to her administrative duties, Ms. Dugan performs reference and research services for the Library’s patrons and conducts training for Library members and staff. She frequently lectures on legal research topics, and she has written the chapter on law libraries for the Ohio State Bar Association’s online book entitled OfficeKeeper. Ms. Dugan is a 1984 graduate of John Carroll University, where she obtained a B.A. in English, a minor in Political Science and a concentration in business. Thereafter in 1987, Ms. Dugan obtained her J.D. from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, where she served as a Managing Editor of the Cleveland State Law Review. Upon graduation, Ms. Dugan practiced civil litigation for 13 years at a small boutique Cleveland law firm. While engaged in the practice of law, Ms. Dugan taught paralegal classes for both Notre Dame College of Ohio and the American Institute for Paralegal Studies. In 1999, Ms. Dugan finally pursued her true career love and went to Kent State University, where she obtained a graduate appointment and completed her Masters in Library in Science by the year 2000, graduating No. 1 in her class. Ms. Dugan is an active member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and its Justice For All Committee

Location: Online via Zoom





Library Boot Camp: Reaching the Community Through Programming and Outreach
12/14/2023

Programs and outreach can feel daunting for new and old library staff alike. Where do you start? How do you decide what to offer? This webinar will provide a basic overview on what programs and outreach services can look like, how to design and implement them, challenges your library might face, and how to evaluate their success.

Learning Objectives:
  • Attendees will learn about the forms programs and outreach services can take.
  • Attendees will learn about challenges and considerations when designing and implementing programs
  • Attendees will learn how to evaluate their programs whether they go well or poorly, and how to use that data to prepare for the future.
Presenters:  

Ann MacNamara has been with Heights Libraries in Cleveland Heights, OH for nearly 10 years. As a Technology Trainer, she provides group and one-on-one technology instruction on everything from how to use the mouse to Excel formulas and 3D printing. Ann earned a Bachelor of Arts from Earlham College in German Language and Literature and International Studies and a Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University.



Steve Sanders has been the Refugee Services Librarian at the Noble Neighborhood Branch of Heights Libraries for the past six years. He is responsible for leading the library’s programming and outreach efforts with the Bhutanese refugee community living near the Noble Library and coordinating with other refugee service organizations to provide programs and services to the community. He graduated with a Master of Library and Information Science and a Master of Education from Kent State University in 2015.

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Library Boot Camp: Reaching the Community Through Programming and Outreach
12/14/2023

Recorded 12/13/23

Programs and outreach can feel daunting for new and old library staff alike. Where do you start? How do you decide what to offer? This webinar will provide a basic overview on what programs and outreach services can look like, how to design and implement them, challenges your library might face, and how to evaluate their success.

Learning Objectives:
  • Attendees will learn about the forms programs and outreach services can take.
  • Attendees will learn about challenges and considerations when designing and implementing programs
  • Attendees will learn how to evaluate their programs whether they go well or poorly, and how to use that data to prepare for the future.
Presenters:  

Ann MacNamara has been with Heights Libraries in Cleveland Heights, OH for nearly 10 years. As a Technology Trainer, she provides group and one-on-one technology instruction on everything from how to use the mouse to Excel formulas and 3D printing. Ann earned a Bachelor of Arts from Earlham College in German Language and Literature and International Studies and a Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University.



Steve Sanders has been the Refugee Services Librarian at the Noble Neighborhood Branch of Heights Libraries for the past six years. He is responsible for leading the library’s programming and outreach efforts with the Bhutanese refugee community living near the Noble Library and coordinating with other refugee service organizations to provide programs and services to the community. He graduated with a Master of Library and Information Science and a Master of Education from Kent State University in 2015.

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Children's Summer Reading Workshop: Adventure Begins at Your Library
1/11/2024

Adventure Begins at Your Library, and let's start the adventure with NEO-RLS's summer reading workshop. The adventure begins with getting to know new people with a fun icebreaker that will generate many program ideas. This will be followed by sessions focused on intergenerational, STEM, and preschool programming. Don't forget the decorations.  After lunch, we will be hosting a program palooza. You will have the opportunity to hear 6 different programs and ask questions. We will end the day with art and a conversation about tracking. More details will be coming soon. Don't miss this fun-filled day and opportunity to connect with your peers.

Lunch is included in this workshop.

 
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Teen Summer Reading Program: Adventure Begins at Your Library
2/1/2024

Adventure Begins at Your Library, and let's start the adventure with NEO-RLS's teen summer reading workshop. The adventure begins with getting to know new people with a fun icebreaker that will generate many program ideas. This will be followed by sessions focused on marketing and messaging to teens, a spy series, and an opportunity to try engineering. We will have a conversation about speakers and organizations to partner with, so bring your best contacts. Before lunch, we will have a role-playing demo with a craft. After lunch, we will be hosting a program palooza. You will have an opportunity to hear 6 different programs and ask questions. If you didn't get enough programming in the palooza, there will be a rapid-fire program feature and we will end the day learning about how NEO-RLS's VR kits can offer exciting adventures at your library. More details will be coming soon. Don't miss this fun-filled day and opportunity to connect with your colleagues.

Lunch is included in this workshop.
Location: Bainbridge Branch
17222 Snyder Rd.
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Adult SRP: Adventure Begins at Your Library
2/8/2024

Adventure Begins at Your Library, and let's start the adventure with NEO-RLS's adult summer reading workshop. The adventure begins with getting to know new people with a fun icebreaker will generate many program ideas. Then we will learn about adult escape rooms with a virtual element. Next, we will have a conversation about speakers and organizations to partner with, so bring your best contacts. Before lunch, we will have a rapid-fire craft program. After lunch, we will be hosting a program palooza. You will have an opportunity to hear 7 different programs and ask questions. We will end the day by learning how NEO-RLS's VR kits can offer exciting adventures at your library as well as a round table discussion to share ideas, talk about prizes, and explore tracking solutions. More details will be coming soon. Don't miss this fun-filled day and opportunity to connect with your colleagues.

Lunch is included in this workshop.
 
 

Location: Westlake Porter Public Library
27333 Center Ridge Road
Westlake, OH 44145


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Library Bootcamp: Unlocking the World of Youth Services in Public Libraries
2/21/2024

Recorded 2/21/24

Delve into the vibrant world of Youth Services in Public Libraries with Carolyn Burrier and Kathleen Mockensturm as they share over 45 years of combined experience./

Explore the multifaceted responsibilities of a youth services department, ensuring that the diverse needs of the youth demographic are met and celebrated. Kathleen and Carolyn will guide you through the essential pillars of youth library services, including programming, collection development, reference services, outreach efforts, and community engagement initiatives. These are the core elements that help build a strong and well-rounded youth services department within a public library.

Whether you're considering a career in youth services or new to the field, this presentation promises valuable insights. Join us as we unravel the layers of expertise and passion that Carrie and Kathleen bring to the table, and discover how you can make a lasting impact on the lives of the young readers and learners in your community.

Learning Objectives:
  • Collection – Ensuring the library has materials that meet the needs of all youth.
  • Programming – The library's role in supporting youth through library programming with a focus on Every Child Ready to Read, diversity, and the 40 Developmental Assets
  • Outreach/Community Engagement – Ensuring the library supports organizations that support youth.
Presenters:

Carrie Burrier started her library career as a student shelver at the Niantic Public Library in Connecticut where she decided she wanted to be a children's librarian. She has been the Youth Services Coordinator for the Akron-Summit County Public Library since 1999. Carrie's work includes representing the library on various community committees dealing with early childhood literacy and other topics of significance to youth and their families, planning and providing training for the systems early childhood librarians, overseeing the systems summer reading program and sitting on the Administrative team. Carrie also serves as a state trainer for Literacy 101. She manages an office of four who together support the 20 locations in providing service to the Library's customers. Carrie has also honed her customer service skills early on working in food service and retail.

Kathleen Mockensturm currently serves as the Assistant Youth Services Coordinator at the Akron Summit County Public Library. Throughout the year, she is actively engaged in various roles, including providing training sessions for intermediate/teen librarians, participating in committees focusing on youth, spearheading the signature event GeekFest, overseeing book acquisitions for the Summer Reading program, representing the library at community events, and orchestrating system-wide reading programs. Her diverse career in library services includes previous roles as an Early Childhood Librarian at the Akron-Summit County Public Library, a Youth Services Librarian at the Lenawee County Public Library in Michigan, and a Clerk in the Youth Department at the Wood County District Public Library. Prior to her venture into librarianship, Kathleen spent three years as a High School Teacher in Toledo.

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Library Bootcamp: Unlocking the World of Youth Services in Public Libraries
2/21/2024

Delve into the vibrant world of Youth Services in Public Libraries with Carolyn Burrier and Kathleen Mockensturm as they share over 45 years of combined experience.

Explore the multifaceted responsibilities of a youth services department, ensuring that the diverse needs of the youth demographic are met and celebrated. Kathleen and Carolyn will guide you through the essential pillars of youth library services, including programming, collection development, reference services, outreach efforts, and community engagement initiatives. These are the core elements that help build a strong and well-rounded youth services department within a public library.

Whether you're considering a career in youth services or new to the field, this presentation promises valuable insights. Join us as we unravel the layers of expertise and passion that Carrie and Kathleen bring to the table, and discover how you can make a lasting impact on the lives of the young readers and learners in your community.

Learning Objectives:
  • Collection – Ensuring the library has materials that meet the needs of all youth.
  • Programming – The library's role in supporting youth through library programming with a focus on Every Child Ready to Read, diversity, and the 40 Developmental Assets
  • Outreach/Community Engagement – Ensuring the library supports organizations that support youth.
Presenters:

Carrie Burrier started her library career as a student shelver at the Niantic Public Library in Connecticut where she decided she wanted to be a children's librarian. She has been the Youth Services Coordinator for the Akron-Summit County Public Library since 1999. Carrie's work includes representing the library on various community committees dealing with early childhood literacy and other topics of significance to youth and their families, planning and providing training for the systems early childhood librarians, overseeing the systems summer reading program and sitting on the Administrative team. Carrie also serves as a state trainer for Literacy 101. She manages an office of four who together support the 20 locations in providing service to the Library's customers. Carrie has also honed her customer service skills early on working in food service and retail.

Kathleen Mockensturm currently serves as the Assistant Youth Services Coordinator at the Akron Summit County Public Library. Throughout the year, she is actively engaged in various roles, including providing training sessions for intermediate/teen librarians, participating in committees focusing on youth, spearheading the signature event GeekFest, overseeing book acquisitions for the Summer Reading program, representing the library at community events, and orchestrating system-wide reading programs. Her diverse career in library services includes previous roles as an Early Childhood Librarian at the Akron-Summit County Public Library, a Youth Services Librarian at the Lenawee County Public Library in Michigan, and a Clerk in the Youth Department at the Wood County District Public Library. Prior to her venture into librarianship, Kathleen spent three years as a High School Teacher in Toledo.

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Book Discussion Networking Meeting
2/28/2024

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Jane Carle any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Living Well With Dementia: The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide
2/28/2024

The library, a community gathering and learning place that serves people at all stages of life’s journey, plays a vital role in helping individuals live well with dementia. The new free resource from the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health, The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, provides a roadmap and practical tools for libraries and other community organizations to unite with fellow Ohioans in reshaping the narrative surrounding dementia to one of engaged community living.
 
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to: 
  • To navigate the free and comprehensive Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide and use its ready-to-implement resources to grow dementia inclusive practice in their libraries.
  • To facilitate staff development (including Dementia Friends training) and build staff enthusiasm for dementia inclusive service.
  • To identify potential allies for ongoing support and growth of their library’s Dementia Inclusive Initiative as a catalyst for a dementia inclusive community.
  • To craft next steps that are a “right fit” for the staffing, budget, and environmental capacities of their libraries.
Presenter:

Barb White, retired after 31 years of service with the Akron-Summit County Public Library (in early childhood and adult services and in public services administration),  continues her commitment to Dementia Inclusive communities as a Dementia Friends Champion, founding member of Dementia Friendly Summit County (OH), and Education and Programming Committee Chair with Dementia Action Alliance. Barb has shared strategies for Dementia Inclusive library practice on a statewide and national level, and brings Dementia Friends workshops to organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies across multiple community sectors in Summit County and beyond. Most recently, Barb co-authored (with Jennifer Brush and Margaret Jarrell) The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, a publication of the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Living Well With Dementia: The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide
2/28/2024

Recorded 2/28/24

The library, a community gathering and learning place that serves people at all stages of life’s journey, plays a vital role in helping individuals live well with dementia. The new free resource from the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health, The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, provides a roadmap and practical tools for libraries and other community organizations to unite with fellow Ohioans in reshaping the narrative surrounding dementia to one of engaged community living.
 
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to: 
  • To navigate the free and comprehensive Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide and use its ready-to-implement resources to grow dementia inclusive practice in their libraries.
  • To facilitate staff development (including Dementia Friends training) and build staff enthusiasm for dementia inclusive service.
  • To identify potential allies for ongoing support and growth of their library’s Dementia Inclusive Initiative as a catalyst for a dementia inclusive community.
  • To craft next steps that are a “right fit” for the staffing, budget, and environmental capacities of their libraries.
Presenter:

Barb White, retired after 31 years of service with the Akron-Summit County Public Library (in early childhood and adult services and in public services administration),  continues her commitment to Dementia Inclusive communities as a Dementia Friends Champion, founding member of Dementia Friendly Summit County (OH), and Education and Programming Committee Chair with Dementia Action Alliance. Barb has shared strategies for Dementia Inclusive library practice on a statewide and national level, and brings Dementia Friends workshops to organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies across multiple community sectors in Summit County and beyond. Most recently, Barb co-authored (with Jennifer Brush and Margaret Jarrell) The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, a publication of the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom





The Science of Reading: You Don't Have to be a Scientist to Understand It
3/13/2024

Recorded 3/13/24

Phonics. Vocabulary. Comprehension. These are just a few of the components of the science of reading. It’s not a curriculum or a special program schools are using to better align with Ohio’s plan to raise literacy achievement; it’s all the research behind the best ways we learn to read. And libraries have been using this information since the early 2000s through the six early literacy skills and the Every Child Ready to Read program. In this webinar, we will focus on what the science of reading actually tells us about how children learn to read, Ohio’s plan, and what it all means for libraries. Past attendance or background knowledge of the Every Child Ready to Read program is encouraged, but not required.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand what the science of reading is and what it tells us about how children learn to read
  • Understand Ohio's plan to raise literacy achievement
  • Discuss how libraries can support students, families, and schools through collection development and programming
Presenter:

Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
Location: Online via Zoom





The Science of Reading: You Don’t Have to be a Scientist to Understand It
3/13/2024

Phonics. Vocabulary. Comprehension. These are just a few of the components of the science of reading. It’s not a curriculum or a special program schools are using to better align with Ohio’s plan to raise literacy achievement; it’s all the research behind the best ways we learn to read. And libraries have been using this information since the early 2000s through the six early literacy skills and the Every Child Ready to Read program. In this webinar, we will focus on what the science of reading actually tells us about how children learn to read, Ohio’s plan, and what it all means for libraries. Past attendance or background knowledge of the Every Child Ready to Read program is encouraged, but not required.

Learning Objectives:
  • Understand what the science of reading is and what it tells us about how children learn to read
  • Understand Ohio's plan to raise literacy achievement
  • Discuss how libraries can support students, families, and schools through collection development and programming
Presenter:

Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees a staff of five who work with the SPARK program in Stark County. Through this program, her staff visit homes of preschoolers to provide early intervention and help prepare the preschoolers and their parents or caregivers for Kindergarten. She also oversees the literacy efforts of Stark Library by providing staff training, parent workshops, and professional development for educators. She has also provided Every Child Ready to Read training to librarians in Northeast Ohio through the Early Literacy 101 workshops. Previously, she has worked as a teen programmer and provided baby storytime for two years in the Youth Services department at Main library. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Walsh University in Education.
Location: Online via Zoom





Dementia Friends for Libraries Training
3/26/2024

Living well with a dementia diagnosis is possible. With the rate of diagnosis increasing dramatically in the state of Ohio and across the country, reducing stigma, addressing myth and misinformation, and supporting individual purpose and community participation is the work of all of us in libraries and beyond. Dementia Friends for Libraries participants will learn what role they can play in this effort—by understanding better what dementia is (and what it isn’t) and how flexible, responsive strategies and dementia-inclusive community partnerships can ensure the abundant life for all.
 
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able:
 
  • To share with customers and community members the impact of dementia on brain health, memory, and cognitive processing.
  • To compare the early signs of dementia with those of typical aging.
  • To implement communication and environmental strategies for continuing to engage those living with a dementia diagnosis, and their care partners, in a life of purpose and participation.
  • To evaluate current practice, and build community partnerships, through a dementia inclusive lens.
Presenter:

Barb White, retired after 31 years of service with the Akron-Summit County Public Library (in early childhood and adult services and in public services administration), continues her commitment to Dementia Inclusive communities as a Dementia Friends Champion, founding member of Dementia Friendly Summit County (OH), and Education and Programming Committee Chair with Dementia Action Alliance. Barb has shared strategies for Dementia Inclusive library practice on a statewide and national level, and brings Dementia Friends workshops to organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies across multiple community sectors in Summit County and beyond. Most recently, Barb co-authored (with Jennifer Brush and Margaret Jarrell) The Dementia Inclusive Public Library Guide, a publication of the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health. 
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
4/11/2024

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
4/30/2024

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom





Outreach Networking Meeting
5/7/2024

Here is an opportunity to share your challenges and successes with other staff involved in library outreach.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email  a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Become a Sustainability Leader: How to Increase the Environmental Capital of your Library.
8/28/2024

Sustainability is one of the nine core values in librarianship. This webinar, which will focus specifically on the environmental aspect of sustainability, is geared towards all library staff that are interested in bolstering their library and community against the effects of climate change. It will highlight examples of how librarians can increase their library’s environmental capital through practices, collections, spaces, programs, and strategic plans.
 
Learning objectives
  • Participants will learn what environmental sustainability means in the context of librarianship.
  • Participants will understand why environmental stewardship is necessary and important for libraries.
  • Participants will gain strategies to increase the environmental capital at their library by applying the obtainable examples given in the webinar.
Presenter:

Emily Lindberg is a Youth Services Associate at Westlake Porter Public Library and earned her MLIS from Valdosta State University with a specialization in youth services. In 2021 she was certified as a cycling instructor from the League of American Bicyclists, which she uses to educate people who bike and drive how to share the road safely and legally.  Emily recently worked alongside city planners to develop an active transportation plan for Lakewood, Ohio.  She continues to work as an advocate for pedestrians and bicyclists by implementing programs aimed at giving residents the information, skills, and practical experience they need to take advantage of existing and future active transportation infrastructure.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Become a Sustainability Leader: How to Increase the Environmental Capital of your Library.
8/28/2024

Recorded 8/28/24

Sustainability is one of the nine core values in librarianship. This webinar, which will focus specifically on the environmental aspect of sustainability, is geared towards all library staff that are interested in bolstering their library and community against the effects of climate change. It will highlight examples of how librarians can increase their library’s environmental capital through practices, collections, spaces, programs, and strategic plans.
 
Learning objectives
  • Participants will learn what environmental sustainability means in the context of librarianship.
  • Participants will understand why environmental stewardship is necessary and important for libraries.
  • Participants will gain strategies to increase the environmental capital at their library by applying the obtainable examples given in the webinar.
Presenter:

Emily Lindberg is a Youth Services Associate at Westlake Porter Public Library and earned her MLIS from Valdosta State University with a specialization in youth services. In 2021 she was certified as a cycling instructor from the League of American Bicyclists, which she uses to educate people who bike and drive how to share the road safely and legally.  Emily recently worked alongside city planners to develop an active transportation plan for Lakewood, Ohio.  She continues to work as an advocate for pedestrians and bicyclists by implementing programs aimed at giving residents the information, skills, and practical experience they need to take advantage of existing and future active transportation infrastructure.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Book Discussion Networking Meeting
9/4/2024

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Carrie Kibby any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Book Talking for Teens: In Middle Schools and High Schools
9/12/2024

Conducting a book talk for teens and middle school students requires engaging presentation techniques, relevant book choices, and ways to capture their interest. 

Learning Objectives:
  • The “Do’s” and “Don’ts” of book talking in schools: what works best and what doesn’t
  • Understand the basic components of a book talk presentation
  • How to find the most appealing titles for middle graders and high school students

Presenter:

Mel Vavra is the Teen Librarian at Brunswick branch of the Medina County District Library System. She has been making the public library memorable for teens since 2015.   


Location: Online via Zoom





Book Talking for Teens: In Middle Schools and High Schools
9/12/2024

Recorded 9/12/24

Conducting a book talk for teens and middle school students requires engaging presentation techniques, relevant book choices, and ways to capture their interest. 

Learning Objectives:
  • The “Do’s” and “Don’ts” of book talking in schools: what works best and what doesn’t
  • Understand the basic components of a book talk presentation
  • How to find the most appealing titles for middle graders and high school students

Presenter:

Mel Vavra is the Teen Librarian at Brunswick branch of the Medina County District Library System. She has been making the public library memorable for teens since 2015.   


Location: Online via Zoom





Challenging Post-COVID Impacts on School Readiness through Storytime Standards
9/24/2024

Faced with dismal reading scores and school readiness in Charleston County (SC) K-8 students, Charleston County Public Library (CCPL) created new Storytime standards prioritizing early literacy, raising awareness on school readiness, and leveraging staff expertise to address community needs. Through intentional Storytime practices and collaboration with Charleston County School District, CCPL is challenging post-COVID bridges and barriers to school readiness. Participants will learn what CCPL does and how to adapt our framework for your community.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize the importance of intentionally sharing early literacy information with parents/caregivers.
  •  Gauge the changing landscape of storytime needs in a post-COVID world.
  • Identify methods for partnering with your school district to help children on their journey to school readiness.
  • Learn how to establish and implement Storytime standards at your own library.
Presenters:

Cassie Welch (she/her) is the Children’s System Coordinator at Charleston County Public Library (SC). She has a B.A. in Elementary Education (K-6), an Early Childhood Certification (PK-3), and a Master’s in Library and Information Science. She has over a decade of experience in education and libraries working with young children and the adults who care for them. She believes in the necessity of diverse children's literature and the importance of helping parents, caregivers, and educators develop a child's early literacy and early years skills.
 
Kristin Hare is a Children’s Services Manager at Charleston County Public Library where she has become a leader in EDI work, serving on CCPL’s Strategic Vision Planning Committee, EDI Committee, and Children’s Annual Booklist Committee, as well as serving as the Chair of the South Carolina Library Association’s Rainbow Round Table. She holds a B.A. in English and a Master’s in Library and Information Science.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Challenging Post-COVID Impacts on School Readiness through Storytime Standards
9/24/2024

Recorded 9/24/24

Faced with dismal reading scores and school readiness in Charleston County (SC) K-8 students, Charleston County Public Library (CCPL) created new Storytime standards prioritizing early literacy, raising awareness on school readiness, and leveraging staff expertise to address community needs. Through intentional Storytime practices and collaboration with Charleston County School District, CCPL is challenging post-COVID bridges and barriers to school readiness. Participants will learn what CCPL does and how to adapt our framework for your community.

Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize the importance of intentionally sharing early literacy information with parents/caregivers.
  •  Gauge the changing landscape of storytime needs in a post-COVID world.
  • Identify methods for partnering with your school district to help children on their journey to school readiness.
  • Learn how to establish and implement Storytime standards at your own library.
Presenters:

Cassie Welch (she/her) is the Children’s System Coordinator at Charleston County Public Library (SC). She has a B.A. in Elementary Education (K-6), an Early Childhood Certification (PK-3), and a Master’s in Library and Information Science. She has over a decade of experience in education and libraries working with young children and the adults who care for them. She believes in the necessity of diverse children's literature and the importance of helping parents, caregivers, and educators develop a child's early literacy and early years skills.
 
Kristin Hare is a Children’s Services Manager at Charleston County Public Library where she has become a leader in EDI work, serving on CCPL’s Strategic Vision Planning Committee, EDI Committee, and Children’s Annual Booklist Committee, as well as serving as the Chair of the South Carolina Library Association’s Rainbow Round Table. She holds a B.A. in English and a Master’s in Library and Information Science.

 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Youth Services (Children & Teen) Virtual Networking Meeting
10/1/2024

Here is an opportunity to share your successes and challenges with your peers.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
 
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Teen Book Discussion
10/9/2024

Join us for an engaging teen book discussion webinar where you'll discover insights from two successful teen book discussion programs.

Learn from Christina Getrost, who will share the secrets behind her long-running high school book club, a joint effort between Stow-Munroe Falls High School and Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, which averages 30 students each month.

Hear from Danielle Weiser-Cline of Kingsville Public Library about her unique approach to running a coffee shop teen book club.

Presenters:

Christina Getrost has worked as teen librarian/adult reference librarian at the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library in Stow, Ohio since May 2000. Prior to that she was a children’s librarian for several years at the Kent Free Library in Kent, Ohio, having obtained her BA and MLIS from Kent State University. Christina's other current professional commitments include serving as the President of the Buckeye Children’s and Teen Book Awards Council. 




Dani Weiser-Cline serves as the Youth Services and Outreach Coordinator at Kingsville Public Library, a small rural library in Northeast Ohio. In this role, she designs, implements, and runs all programming for children from birth to age 18. She is a PhD Candidate in Cultural Foundations of Education at Kent State University where she takes a philosophical approach to understanding out of school learning environments. She holds an M.A. in Theatre History and Criticism, a B.F.A. in Acting, and a B.F.A. in Technical Theatre and Design. She loves helping youth of all ages find their next favorite book!


 
Location: Online via Zoom





Teen Book Discussion
10/9/2024

Recorded:  10/9/24

Join us for an engaging teen book discussion webinar where you'll discover insights from two successful teen book discussion programs.

Learn from Christina Getrost, who will share the secrets behind her long-running high school book club, a joint effort between Stow-Munroe Falls High School and Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, which averages 30 students each month.

Hear from Danielle Weiser-Cline of Kingsville Public Library about her unique approach to running a coffee shop teen book club.

Presenters:

Christina Getrost has worked as teen librarian/adult reference librarian at the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library in Stow, Ohio since May 2000. Prior to that she was a children’s librarian for several years at the Kent Free Library in Kent, Ohio, having obtained her BA and MLIS from Kent State University. Christina's other current professional commitments include serving as the President of the Buckeye Children’s and Teen Book Awards Council. 




Dani Weiser-Cline serves as the Youth Services and Outreach Coordinator at Kingsville Public Library, a small rural library in Northeast Ohio. In this role, she designs, implements, and runs all programming for children from birth to age 18. She is a PhD Candidate in Cultural Foundations of Education at Kent State University where she takes a philosophical approach to understanding out of school learning environments. She holds an M.A. in Theatre History and Criticism, a B.F.A. in Acting, and a B.F.A. in Technical Theatre and Design. She loves helping youth of all ages find their next favorite book!


 
Location: Online via Zoom





RescheduledWe See You: Library Programming for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
10/24/2024

This presentation aims to provide library workers with practical strategies and tools for developing outreach and in-library programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Participants will walk away with practical ideas for engaging with their community and concrete suggestions for successful and rewarding programming for adults with IDD.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will recognize the value and rewards inherent in providing services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Participants will learn concrete first steps for implementing programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Participants will learn details for at least three programming models to use with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Presenter:

Rebecca Wolfe is the manager of the Grabill branch of the Allen County Public Library in Indiana. She worked for twenty years as manager of a large suburban branch of ACPL before moving in 2022 to the beautiful Grabill branch, which is a rural branch with its own hitching post for equine visitors. For the past decade, Rebecca has focused on programming for adults and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This work led to recognition as one of Library Journal's 2024 "Mover & Shakers."
Location: Online via Zoom





We See You: Library Programming for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
10/24/2024

Recorded 10/24/24

This presentation aims to provide library workers with practical strategies and tools for developing outreach and in-library programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Participants will walk away with practical ideas for engaging with their community and concrete suggestions for successful and rewarding programming for adults with IDD.

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will recognize the value and rewards inherent in providing services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Participants will learn concrete first steps for implementing programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Participants will learn details for at least three programming models to use with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Presenter:

Rebecca Wolfe is the manager of the Grabill branch of the Allen County Public Library in Indiana. She worked for twenty years as manager of a large suburban branch of ACPL before moving in 2022 to the beautiful Grabill branch, which is a rural branch with its own hitching post for equine visitors. For the past decade, Rebecca has focused on programming for adults and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This work led to recognition as one of Library Journal's 2024 "Mover & Shakers."
Location: Online via Zoom





Adult Services Virtual Networking Meeting
10/29/2024

Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom





Practical Approaches to Library Assessment: Focus on Library Instruction and Programming
12/3/2024

Assessment is a key component of determining the success of library programming and services. Knowing where to begin with assessment can be a difficult task, made even more challenging by the large variety of programming and services in need of assessment. This webinar will introduce basic assessment concepts and connect them to practical approaches to engaging in library assessment with a focus on library instruction and library programs. Key aspects of library assessment will be discussed, including the importance of determining who, what, when, where, why, and how.

Learning Objectives:
  • Gain an understanding of assessment basics, including the distinction between formative and summative assessment.
  • Identify at least three potential approaches to assessment that can be applied to library instruction or programming.
  • Understand the importance of addressing who, what, when, where, why, and how when planning library assessment.
Presenter:

Dr. Kawanna Bright (she/her) is Assistant Professor of Library Science at East Carolina University. Dr. Bright earned her PhD in Research Methods and Statistics from the University of Denver in 2018. Prior to earning her doctorate, Dr. Bright worked as an academic librarian for 12 years, with a focus on reference, instructional services, and information literacy. Dr. Bright’s current research focuses on assessment in libraries, equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in libraries, the application of research methodology to the study of LIS, and the importance of the liaison librarianship role in academic libraries. Dr. Bright provides consulting and training for libraries and other information organizations in support of EDI efforts, strategic planning, and project development.
Location: Online via Zoom





Practical Approaches to Library Assessment: Focus on Library Instruction and Programming
12/3/2024

Recorded 12/3/24

Assessment is a key component of determining the success of library programming and services. Knowing where to begin with assessment can be a difficult task, made even more challenging by the large variety of programming and services in need of assessment. This webinar will introduce basic assessment concepts and connect them to practical approaches to engaging in library assessment with a focus on library instruction and library programs. Key aspects of library assessment will be discussed, including the importance of determining who, what, when, where, why, and how.

Learning Objectives:
  • Gain an understanding of assessment basics, including the distinction between formative and summative assessment.
  • Identify at least three potential approaches to assessment that can be applied to library instruction or programming.
  • Understand the importance of addressing who, what, when, where, why, and how when planning library assessment.
Presenter:

Dr. Kawanna Bright (she/her) is Assistant Professor of Library Science at East Carolina University. Dr. Bright earned her PhD in Research Methods and Statistics from the University of Denver in 2018. Prior to earning her doctorate, Dr. Bright worked as an academic librarian for 12 years, with a focus on reference, instructional services, and information literacy. Dr. Bright’s current research focuses on assessment in libraries, equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in libraries, the application of research methodology to the study of LIS, and the importance of the liaison librarianship role in academic libraries. Dr. Bright provides consulting and training for libraries and other information organizations in support of EDI efforts, strategic planning, and project development.
Location: Online via Zoom





Book Discussion Networking Meeting
12/18/2024

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Here from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Jane Carle any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Children's Summer Reading Workshop: Color Our World
1/9/2025

Explore the 2025 theme Color Our World and discover how to infuse creativity, culture, and connection into your library’s youth services! This interactive workshop equips library staff with tools, strategies, and program ideas to celebrate the colors in our world.  The day will consist of presentations in the morning and the interactive program palooza in the afternoon.  Don't miss this fun-filled day and opportunity to connect with your peers. More details will be coming soon.


 
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Going the Extra Mile: Making Your Library ADA-friendly Instead of ADA-compliant
1/23/2025

Recorded 1/23/25

Librarian Rachel Stevenson will discuss various techniques to make your physical library space more ADA-friendly instead of only ADA-compliant. She will also discuss ways to look at programs to make them more ADA-friendly as well. We will look at physical, mental health, and sensory ways to make your library a more welcoming space to all.
 
Objectives: 
  • Will learn where to find terminology to use when talking about people with disabilities and how language matters
  •  Will learn quick ways to make their library more ADA Friendly without a major renovation 
  •  Will learn how to make programming more inclusive
Presenter:

Rachel Stevenson is a librarian from Northwest Pennsylvania. It was not until her father lost her leg to a parasite she realized how the world is not built for people in wheelchairs and became an advocate for those with disabilities. She lives with an invisible disability she grew up being told she should never talk about because people would judge her harshly over it. She is the first to admit that she is always learning. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Going the Extra Mile: Making Your Library ADA-friendly Instead of ADA-compliant
1/23/2025

Librarian Rachel Stevenson will discuss various techniques to make your physical library space more ADA-friendly instead of only ADA-compliant. She will also discuss ways to look at programs to make them more ADA-friendly as well. We will look at physical, mental health, and sensory ways to make your library a more welcoming space to all.
 
Objectives: 
  • Will learn where to find terminology to use when talking about people with disabilities and how language matters
  •  Will learn quick ways to make their library more ADA Friendly without a major renovation 
  •  Will learn how to make programming more inclusive
Presenter:

Rachel Stevenson is a librarian from Northwest Pennsylvania. It was not until her father lost her leg to a parasite she realized how the world is not built for people in wheelchairs and became an advocate for those with disabilities. She lives with an invisible disability she grew up being told she should never talk about because people would judge her harshly over it. She is the first to admit that she is always learning. 

 
Location: Online via Zoom





Teen Summer Reading Program: Color Our World
1/30/2025

Get your palette ready for Color Our World, NEO-RLS's teen summer reading workshop. You will get to know your fellow attendees through the paint chips and generate many program ideas. Next you will learn how to work with a shoe string programming budget, followed by After-Hours Programming.  Just before lunch you will be treated to rapid fire program ideas presented by the popular Steve Moser.  After lunch, we will be hosting a program palooza. You will have an opportunity to hear 6 different programs and ask questions.  The day will end with round table discussion and a presentation by the Janet Ingraham Dwyer on the CSLP. More details will be coming soon. Don't miss this fun-filled day and opportunity to connect with your colleagues.


Late-Night Library: Teen After-Hours Programming 
Color outside the lines this summer by hosting a teen event after hours. Kelly Chaplin will discuss the ins and outs of planning late-night teen programming. She’ll talk about how to run one for smaller and larger libraries and will provide program ideas, permission slip details, and logistic advice.  
 
Presenter:Kelly Chaplin has been working with youth for ten years and is currently a Teen Services Librarian from Akron-Summit County Public Library. Kelly has helped organize large scale programs such as the Library's mini-comicon Geekfest and implemented youth-requested programs such as After-Hours events and Teen Dungeons and Dragons.  She enjoys it when teens teach her new things and encourages youth to participate at their library and in the community


40 programs in 40 minutes 
Looking for teen program ideas to go with Summer Reading 2025 and beyond? You'll get 40 ideas in just 40 minutes at this fast-paced race to arts and crafts program success. Use them as individual program ideas or combine them for longer programs. These ideas are fun, flexible, engaging, and teen-approved!

Presenter: Steve Moser is the Teen Services Librarian at the Trotwood Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. He has worked with teens in a variety of positions in libraries since 2004. He has worked with the Ohio Library Council, serving on multiple committees, and chairing several. Steve is one of the founders of the Teen Think Tank, a grassroots effort to inspire, collaborate, and connect with others, reaching hundreds of librarians in Ohio, and numerous other states. He is currently a part of Ohio's Transforming Teen Services Team through YALSA.




Lunch is included in this workshop.
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Success in Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (DD)
2/4/2025

Offering programs for a subset of adults with DD is a great start, but it’s time to reach out to neurodiverse patrons in an evidence based, more holistic, and systemic way.
In this webinar, the authors of Library Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities will lead a discussion on:
  • How to identify and overcome barriers to inclusive programming
  • How to create a library-wide culture of inclusion
  • How to design and implement fun and exciting programs that work for patrons both with and without disabilities, and more.
You’ll leave the session informed, inspired, and empowered to begin or grow your own successful programming!

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to list three techniques they can use to make their adult programs more inclusive and accessible.
  • Participants will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the various stakeholders in successful programming and at least two ways they can involve self-advocates and community partners.
  • Participants will be able to identify at least three program models and how they can bring these to their own libraries.
Presenters:

Barbara Klipper is a retired public librarian who has been an advocate for people with developmental disabilities in libraries since the early 2000s. She is the author or Programming for Children and Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ALA, 2014), and co-author with Carrie Banks of several book chapters as well as Library Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (ALA, 2021). She created the “Autism Welcome Here: Library Programs, Services, and More grant, which funded innovative programs and services over a five-year period.
 


Carrie Banks runs Brooklyn Public Library’s services to children and teens with disabilities, Inclusive Services. Inclusive Services serves youth throughout Brooklyn in libraries, schools, hospitals, transitional housing facilities, group homes and detention centers. She taught Including Youth with Disabilities at Pratt Institute. Active in ALA since 2000, she was ASGCLA’s President in 2020 and part of ALA President Loida Garcia-Febo’s EDI Presidential Team. Publications include revising Including Families of Children with Special Needs: A How to Do It Manual for Librarians, Libraries and Garden: Growing Together, with Cynthia Mediavilla, and Library Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities, with Barbara Klipper. She is currently working on a book on libraries disrupting the school to prison pipeline.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Success in Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (DD)
2/4/2025

Recorded 2/4/25

Offering programs for a subset of adults with DD is a great start, but it’s time to reach out to neurodiverse patrons in an evidence based, more holistic, and systemic way.
In this webinar, the authors of Library Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities will lead a discussion on:
  • How to identify and overcome barriers to inclusive programming
  • How to create a library-wide culture of inclusion
  • How to design and implement fun and exciting programs that work for patrons both with and without disabilities, and more.
You’ll leave the session informed, inspired, and empowered to begin or grow your own successful programming!

Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to list three techniques they can use to make their adult programs more inclusive and accessible.
  • Participants will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the various stakeholders in successful programming and at least two ways they can involve self-advocates and community partners.
  • Participants will be able to identify at least three program models and how they can bring these to their own libraries.
Presenters:

Barbara Klipper is a retired public librarian who has been an advocate for people with developmental disabilities in libraries since the early 2000s. She is the author or Programming for Children and Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ALA, 2014), and co-author with Carrie Banks of several book chapters as well as Library Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (ALA, 2021). She created the “Autism Welcome Here: Library Programs, Services, and More grant, which funded innovative programs and services over a five-year period.
 


Carrie Banks runs Brooklyn Public Library’s services to children and teens with disabilities, Inclusive Services. Inclusive Services serves youth throughout Brooklyn in libraries, schools, hospitals, transitional housing facilities, group homes and detention centers. She taught Including Youth with Disabilities at Pratt Institute. Active in ALA since 2000, she was ASGCLA’s President in 2020 and part of ALA President Loida Garcia-Febo’s EDI Presidential Team. Publications include revising Including Families of Children with Special Needs: A How to Do It Manual for Librarians, Libraries and Garden: Growing Together, with Cynthia Mediavilla, and Library Programming for Adults with Developmental Disabilities, with Barbara Klipper. She is currently working on a book on libraries disrupting the school to prison pipeline.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Adult SRP: Color Our World
2/13/2025

Be inspired by Color Our World, NEO-RLS's adult summer reading workshop. Let's start by getting to know each other through paint chips and generate some program ideas.  You will hear presentations on Trivia Nights, Passive Programs, and Marketing to Adults.  There will be a chance to hear from library presenters, share presenter ideas, and so much more. After lunch, we will be hosting a program palooza. You will have an opportunity to hear 6 different programs and ask questions. We will end the day with a round table discussion and a presentation from Katy Hite on the CSLP.  More details will be coming soon. Don't miss this fun-filled day and opportunity to connect with your colleagues.

Lunch is included in this workshop.
 

Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


A Deeper Dive into the Science of Reading
3/26/2025

We will dive a little deeper into the actionable strategies for libraries to support the science of reading in their communities. Explore how libraries can integrate the key principles of phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension into programming and services. Learn how to create environments that foster early literacy development for children and caregivers through outreach, storytimes, resources, and other programming. You will leave with a toolkit of ideas and resources to help enhance your library’s early literacy efforts.  

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand what the science of reading is and what it tells us about how children learn to read
  • Learn how to share literacy messages with families in storytime and other programming
  • Discuss how libraries can support students, families, and schools through collection development and programming

**While it’s not required, background knowledge of the Every Child Ready to Read program is encouraged or attending an Early Literacy 101 workshop in the past would be helpful. The EL101 (ECRR) workshop goes over the six early literacy skills which are also the main components behind the science of reading.

The afternoon will consist of a round-table discussion of storytimes and sharing.  Bring your best stortytime to share with the group.
 

Presenter:

Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees the Ready for School program. Through this program, staff visit parents and caregivers to help prepare families for school. She oversees library literacy efforts by providing staff, parent, and educator workshops. She is an Every Child Ready to Read and Reimagining School Readiness trainer presenting workshops throughout Ohio. She provided storytime and other programming in both in-person and virtual capacities. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Education as well as several certificates in reading and early literacy education. She has presented at numerous regional, state and national conferences. She also presents for local schools and organizations and represents Stark Library on radio and television programming.
 
Location: Cuyahoga Falls Library
2015 3rd St.
Cuyahoga Falls,, OH 44221


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


The Adult Programming Equation
4/9/2025

Coming up with new adult programs every year can be difficult. In this interactive workshop, we will learn a process for creating programs that can be used for multiple populations of adults; a new way of designing programs instead of using holidays that the Pennsylvania Library Association designed; and what evaluation is so you can start to evaluate your programs. 

Learning Objectives:
  • The importance of Adult Programming
  • Process for creating programs for all populations
  • A new way of designing programs
  • Evaluation of programs
Presenter:

Rachel Stevenson is a programming librarian in northwest Pennsylvania. She credits her ability to create fun programs for adults to her years as an event planner for colleges and universities. She received her MLIS from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master of Arts in Arts Administration from Goucher College where her thesis focused on programming in museum libraries. She has presented at the Pennsylvania Library Association's annual conference and at other conferences in Pennsylvania as well as teaching classes to librarians in New York.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





The Adult Programming Equation
4/9/2025

Recorded:  4/9/25

Coming up with new adult programs every year can be difficult. In this interactive workshop, we will learn a process for creating programs that can be used for multiple populations of adults; a new way of designing programs instead of using holidays that the Pennsylvania Library Association designed; and what evaluation is so you can start to evaluate your programs. 

Learning Objectives:
  • The importance of Adult Programming
  • Process for creating programs for all populations
  • A new way of designing programs
  • Evaluation of programs
Presenter:

Rachel Stevenson is a programming librarian in northwest Pennsylvania. She credits her ability to create fun programs for adults to her years as an event planner for colleges and universities. She received her MLIS from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master of Arts in Arts Administration from Goucher College where her thesis focused on programming in museum libraries. She has presented at the Pennsylvania Library Association's annual conference and at other conferences in Pennsylvania as well as teaching classes to librarians in New York.
 
Location: Online via Zoom





Book Discussion Networking Meeting
4/16/2025

Here is your opportunity to talk book discussion.  Hear from your peers on what works what doesn't.  Bring your challenges and share books for book discussion.  Please send Carrie Kibby any items you would like to discuss.
Location: Online
Via Zoom





Makerspace Networking Meeting
6/12/2025

Do you have a makerspace?  Are you thinking about creating a makerspace?  Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers to share ideas, successes and challenges.  This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email and a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.



 
Location: Online via Zoom





How Libraries Can Build Connections to Combat Loneliness
8/7/2025

Libraries save lives. Loneliness and social isolation are so rampant in America that the Center for Disease Control calls loneliness an epidemic, exacerbated by COVID. Using programming, community resources, and collection development and display, libraries can address this significant mental (and physical) health condition. This on-demand webinar guides you on how to develop these tools and create a culture of empathy and action by developing micro-communities to combat loneliness.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify existing programs that combat loneliness and modify existing programs to add a social component;
  • Utilize, at no cost, outside agencies, institutions, organizations, and businesses to develop a coordinated series of programs both in and outside the library building; and
  • Identify areas where staff training can prepare them to help patrons in need of socialization.
Presenter:

Tony Iovino (he/him) is the assistant director of the Oceanside (NY) Library, a position he has held since January 2015. Prior to joining the Oceanside Library, he was the head of litigation and managing partner of a medium size law firm he co-founded in 1986.

Tony received his BA from the University of Richmond (History and Economics) in 1979, his Juris Doctorate from St. John’s University in 1982, and his MLIS from the University of Kentucky in 2020, where he was the recipient of the Melody Trosper Award for excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service.

Tony has lectured locally and throughout the United States on library topics. He is the chair of the Membership Committee of the New York Library Association and is a published author and poet. He has received a number of awards for his service to the community.



 
Location: Online via Zoom





How Libraries Can Build Connections to Combat Loneliness
8/7/2025

Recorded 8/7/25

Libraries save lives. Loneliness and social isolation are so rampant in America that the Center for Disease Control calls loneliness an epidemic, exacerbated by COVID. Using programming, community resources, and collection development and display, libraries can address this significant mental (and physical) health condition. This on-demand webinar guides you on how to develop these tools and create a culture of empathy and action by developing micro-communities to combat loneliness.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify existing programs that combat loneliness and modify existing programs to add a social component;
  • Utilize, at no cost, outside agencies, institutions, organizations, and businesses to develop a coordinated series of programs both in and outside the library building; and
  • Identify areas where staff training can prepare them to help patrons in need of socialization.
Presenter:

Tony Iovino (he/him) is the assistant director of the Oceanside (NY) Library, a position he has held since January 2015. Prior to joining the Oceanside Library, he was the head of litigation and managing partner of a medium size law firm he co-founded in 1986.

Tony received his BA from the University of Richmond (History and Economics) in 1979, his Juris Doctorate from St. John’s University in 1982, and his MLIS from the University of Kentucky in 2020, where he was the recipient of the Melody Trosper Award for excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service.

Tony has lectured locally and throughout the United States on library topics. He is the chair of the Membership Committee of the New York Library Association and is a published author and poet. He has received a number of awards for his service to the community.



 
Location: Online via Zoom





Makerspace Active Learning Community Meeting
9/11/2025

We’re excited to unveil a fresh approach to professional connection and collaboration. Our traditional networking meetings are now Active Learning Communities—dynamic spaces designed for shared learning, real conversation, and practical support.

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. You'll also get a guided introduction to our new message boards, which will help keep the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.




 
Location: Online via Zoom





Introduction to Storytime: Planning for Success
9/23/2025

This webinar will help you build the skills and confidence needed to deliver successful storytimes. Whether you are a brand new storytime leader or a seasoned pro looking for a fresh approach, this session will guide you through the process of planning an engaging storytime, including selecting great books, incorporating early literacy practices, and using interactive elements with different age groups. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify the core components of an effective storytime, including early literacy practices and age-appropriate activities.
  • Develop a structured storytime plan with interactive elements that can be delivered confidently and adapted on the fly.
  • Explore a variety of practical tools, tips, and resources created by librarians to support effective and engaging storytime.

Michelle Todd has worked in public libraries for over 20 years, specializing in children's services. She started at Lakewood Public Library, then moved to Cuyahoga County Public Library, working in several branches for 15 years, obtaining her MLIS, and finding her intense passion for children’s programming – particularly in serving at-risk communities as a Children's Services Supervisor. Her passion for programming, early literacy, and helping children find the joy in reading infuses everything she does. Michelle has served on the Youth Services Advisory Committee of Northeast Ohio Regional Library System for a couple years, and presented at the 2024 School Library Journal Youth Leadership Summit. 


Location: Online via Zoom





Introduction to Storytime: Planning for Success
9/23/2025

Recorded: 9/23/25

This webinar will help you build the skills and confidence needed to deliver successful storytimes. Whether you are a brand new storytime leader or a seasoned pro looking for a fresh approach, this session will guide you through the process of planning an engaging storytime, including selecting great books, incorporating early literacy practices, and using interactive elements with different age groups. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify the core components of an effective storytime, including early literacy practices and age-appropriate activities.
  • Develop a structured storytime plan with interactive elements that can be delivered confidently and adapted on the fly.
  • Explore a variety of practical tools, tips, and resources created by librarians to support effective and engaging storytime.

Michelle Todd has worked in public libraries for over 20 years, specializing in children's services. She started at Lakewood Public Library, then moved to Cuyahoga County Public Library, working in several branches for 15 years, obtaining her MLIS, and finding her intense passion for children’s programming – particularly in serving at-risk communities as a Children's Services Supervisor. Her passion for programming, early literacy, and helping children find the joy in reading infuses everything she does. Michelle has served on the Youth Services Advisory Committee of Northeast Ohio Regional Library System for a couple years, and presented at the 2024 School Library Journal Youth Leadership Summit. 


Location: Online via Zoom





Book Discussion Active Learning Community Meeting
10/29/2025

We’re excited to unveil a fresh approach to professional connection and collaboration. Our traditional networking meetings are now Active Learning Communities—dynamic spaces designed for shared learning, real conversation, and practical support.

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. You'll also get a guided introduction to our new message boards, which will help keep the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices. You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send Carrie Kibby any items you would like to discuss.


Location: Online
Via Zoom





Adult Services Active Learning Community Meeting
11/4/2025

We’re excited to unveil a fresh approach to professional connection and collaboration. Our traditional networking meetings are now Active Learning Communities—dynamic spaces designed for shared learning, real conversation, and practical support.

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. You'll also get a guided introduction to our new message boards, which will help keep the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices. You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.


Location: Online via Zoom





Storytime Beyond the Basics: Virtual Panel Discussion
11/6/2025

Join us for Storytime Beyond the Basics, a virtual panel discussion for early childhood educators and library staff looking to enhance their programming. Our panelists will share practical strategies for adapting songs and rhymes, using felt and props creatively, and setting up your space to reflect the needs of your unique community. The session will include a live Q&A so bring your questions and ideas!

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify strategies for adapting songs and rhymes to reflect diverse communities, different age groups and developmental needs.
  • Explore creative ways to incorporate props to enhance engagement and storytelling.
  • Apply practical tips for creating storytime environments that are welcoming, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of their specific community.

Location: Online via Zoom





Storytime Beyond the Basics: Virtual Panel Discussion
11/6/2025

Recorded 11/6/25

Join us for Storytime Beyond the Basics, a virtual panel discussion for early childhood educators and library staff looking to enhance their programming. Our panelists will share practical strategies for adapting songs and rhymes, using felt and props creatively, and setting up your space to reflect the needs of your unique community. The session will include a live Q&A so bring your questions and ideas!

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify strategies for adapting songs and rhymes to reflect diverse communities, different age groups and developmental needs.
  • Explore creative ways to incorporate props to enhance engagement and storytelling.
  • Apply practical tips for creating storytime environments that are welcoming, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of their specific community.

Location: Online via Zoom





Youth Services (Children & Teen) Active Learning Community Meeting
11/13/2025

We’re excited to unveil a fresh approach to professional connection and collaboration. Our traditional networking meetings are now Active Learning Communities—dynamic spaces designed for shared learning, real conversation, and practical support.

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. You'll also get a guided introduction to our new message boards, which will help keep the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices. You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.


Location: Online
Via Zoom





Outreach Active Learning Community Meeting
12/9/2025

We’re excited to unveil a fresh approach to professional connection and collaboration. Our traditional networking meetings are now Active Learning Communities—dynamic spaces designed for shared learning, real conversation, and practical support.

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. You'll also get a guided introduction to our new message boards, which will help keep the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices. You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.


Location: Online
Via Zoom





A Deeper Dive into the Science of Reading-Repeated
12/11/2025

We will dive a little deeper into the actionable strategies for libraries to support the science of reading in their communities. Explore how libraries can integrate the key principles of phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension into programming and services. Learn how to create environments that foster early literacy development for children and caregivers through outreach, storytimes, resources, and other programming. You will leave with a toolkit of ideas and resources to help enhance your library’s early literacy efforts.  

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand what the science of reading is and what it tells us about how children learn to read
  • Learn how to share literacy messages with families in storytime and other programming
  • Discuss how libraries can support students, families, and schools through collection development and programming

**While it’s not required, background knowledge of the Every Child Ready to Read program is encouraged or attending an Early Literacy 101 workshop in the past would be helpful. The EL101 (ECRR) workshop goes over the six early literacy skills which are also the main components behind the science of reading.

The afternoon will consist of a round-table discussion of storytimes and sharing.  Bring your best stortytime to share with the group. Be prepared to share a storytime with a small group at your table.
 

Presenter:

Julia Shaheen is the Literacy Manager at Stark Library where she oversees the Ready for School program. Through this program, staff visit parents and caregivers to help prepare families for school. She oversees library literacy efforts by providing staff, parent, and educator workshops. She is an Every Child Ready to Read and Reimagining School Readiness trainer presenting workshops throughout Ohio. She provided storytime and other programming in both in-person and virtual capacities. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Education as well as several certificates in reading and early literacy education. She has presented at numerous regional, state and national conferences. She also presents for local schools and organizations and represents Stark Library on radio and television programming.
 
Location: Willowick Library
263 East 305th Street
Willowick, OH 44095

There are currently 11 spots remaining out of 30




Children's Summer Reading Workshop: Unearth a Story
1/14/2026

This engaging workshop offers a dynamic forum to collaboratively prepare for the 2026 Children's Summer Reading Program theme, "Unearth a Story."

Start off the morning by learning best practices and pro tips for effectively engaging children directly from an experienced school visit panel. Followed by the popular presentation given by Janet Ingraham Dwyer of the State Library discussing the CSLP theme, Unearth a Story, and the extensive resources offered. Next you will have more time to interact with your colleagues sharing and developing innovative ideas for programs, incentives, and reading tracking methods with fellow librarians.  Before lunch we will embark on creating some theme centered decorations. 

After a provided lunch we will have our program palooza where you will have an opportunity to hear 6 different programs you can implement in your own library.  We will end the day discussing booklist for all ages.  Don't miss this fun-filled day and opportunity to connect with your peers. More details will be coming soon.
 
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Makerspace Active Learning Community Meeting
1/21/2026

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. 

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices.  You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.




 
Location: Online via Zoom





Teen Summer Reading Program: Unearth a Story
1/28/2026

We're hosting a lively workshop to jointly develop ideas for the 2026 teen summer reading theme, "Unearth a Story."

Your day kicks off with a lively game of Trivia, featuring sample questions and themes you can adapt for your own programs. Followed by the popular presentation given by Janet Ingraham Dwyer of the State Library discussing the CSLP theme, Unearth a Story, and the extensive resources offered. Next, you will have dedicated time to connect with colleagues, sharing and developing innovative ideas for programs, incentives, and reading tracking methods. Before lunch you will have the opportunity to create cardboard stand-ups.

After lunch we will have our program palooza where you will have an opportunity to hear 6 different programs you can implement in your own library.  We will wrap up the day with a high-energy session focused on 25 programs under $25!   Don't miss this action-packed day and opportunity to connect with your peers. More details will be coming soon.


Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


On the Road to Reading: Early Literacy Outreach at Cleveland Public Library
2/5/2026

Cleveland Public Library is On the Road....to Reading! In 2024, Cleveland Public Library rebooted and expanded its early literacy outreach initiative, On the Road to Reading. This innovative outreach program transports Library resources and services beyond our buildings and into the community by meeting young children and families where they are—at childcare centers, clinical settings, community centers, schools, parks, and beyond. Using our early literacy outreach van and dedicated outreach team, the program creates opportunities for children and families to play, learn, and grow together by sharing access to free, culturally relevant books, Library resources, cozy reading spaces, and early literacy programming in community spaces. This program has opened new outreach opportunities for the Library, and our team would love to share our experience launching, delivering, evaluating, and adapting this program with others who are passionate about Library Youth and Outreach services.

Regardless of whether a library can procure an outreach vehicle and secure dedicated outreach staff, we have a wealth of experiences to share that can be useful for library staff across Northeast Ohio. From building relationships with strategic community partners to tips on engaging childcare center staff, we are excited to share what we’ve learned in a dynamic session that will be relevant to anyone interested in expanding their Library’s early literacy outreach efforts. Participants in this session will be energized and inspired to bring new ideas back to their home libraries. The session will also include opportunities for brainstorming and ideas-sharing relating to outreach services to children and families.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify key strategies for launching and sustaining early literacy outreach services, including building partnerships, selecting service locations, and adapting services to meet community needs, with or without a dedicated outreach vehicle or staff.
  • Describe effective methods for engaging young children, families, and childcare providers in community-based early literacy programming, using culturally relevant materials, play-based learning, and flexible service models.
  • Develop at least one actionable idea for expanding or enhancing early literacy outreach services at their own libraries.

Presenters:

 Maggie Lawrence, MLIS, has a background in academic and children's librarianship, and joined Cleveland Public Library in 2023 where she currently serves as the Outreach & Programming Services Associate for Early Literacy. She is passionate about children's literature and the transformative possibilities that libraries can bring.




Isabelle Rew, MLIS, is the Community Outreach Manager for the Cleveland Public Library. She has worked in public libraries in northeast Ohio since 2017 in roles ranging from Public Services to Community Outreach and Engagement. Isabelle is passionate about bringing library programs and services directly to our neighbors through joyful literacy experiences in non-traditional spaces—one story and one stop at a time.
Location: Online via Zoom





On the Road to Reading: Early Literacy Outreach at Cleveland Public Library
2/5/2026

Recorded:  2/5/26

Cleveland Public Library is On the Road....to Reading! In 2024, Cleveland Public Library rebooted and expanded its early literacy outreach initiative, On the Road to Reading. This innovative outreach program transports Library resources and services beyond our buildings and into the community by meeting young children and families where they are—at childcare centers, clinical settings, community centers, schools, parks, and beyond. Using our early literacy outreach van and dedicated outreach team, the program creates opportunities for children and families to play, learn, and grow together by sharing access to free, culturally relevant books, Library resources, cozy reading spaces, and early literacy programming in community spaces. This program has opened new outreach opportunities for the Library, and our team would love to share our experience launching, delivering, evaluating, and adapting this program with others who are passionate about Library Youth and Outreach services.

Regardless of whether a library can procure an outreach vehicle and secure dedicated outreach staff, we have a wealth of experiences to share that can be useful for library staff across Northeast Ohio. From building relationships with strategic community partners to tips on engaging childcare center staff, we are excited to share what we’ve learned in a dynamic session that will be relevant to anyone interested in expanding their Library’s early literacy outreach efforts. Participants in this session will be energized and inspired to bring new ideas back to their home libraries. The session will also include opportunities for brainstorming and ideas-sharing relating to outreach services to children and families.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify key strategies for launching and sustaining early literacy outreach services, including building partnerships, selecting service locations, and adapting services to meet community needs, with or without a dedicated outreach vehicle or staff.
  • Describe effective methods for engaging young children, families, and childcare providers in community-based early literacy programming, using culturally relevant materials, play-based learning, and flexible service models.
  • Develop at least one actionable idea for expanding or enhancing early literacy outreach services at their own libraries.

Presenters:

 Maggie Lawrence, MLIS, has a background in academic and children's librarianship, and joined Cleveland Public Library in 2023 where she currently serves as the Outreach & Programming Services Associate for Early Literacy. She is passionate about children's literature and the transformative possibilities that libraries can bring.




Isabelle Rew, MLIS, is the Community Outreach Manager for the Cleveland Public Library. She has worked in public libraries in northeast Ohio since 2017 in roles ranging from Public Services to Community Outreach and Engagement. Isabelle is passionate about bringing library programs and services directly to our neighbors through joyful literacy experiences in non-traditional spaces—one story and one stop at a time.
Location: Online via Zoom





Adult Summer Reading Workshop: Unearth a Story
2/12/2026

We're hosting a lively workshop to jointly develop ideas for the 2026 Adult summer reading theme, "Unearth a Story."

Did someone say murder?  Kicking off the morning with a bang, we present a Murder Mystery Game—and show you exactly how to create and implement one for your own library.  Followed by a presentation on CSLP theme, Unearth a Story, highlighting resources presented by Katy Hite of the State Library. TikTok isn’t just for teens, learn how to create simple summer reading TikToks to market your library effectively.

After a provided lunch, you will have dedicated time to connect with colleagues, sharing and developing innovative ideas for programs, incentives, and reading tracking methods.
The afternoon features our Program Palooza, where you'll hear about six distinct programs you can readily implement in your library. We will wrap up the day with Programming during tough times: Free, Cheap, and Recycled.  Don't miss this energizing day and opportunity to connect with your peers. More details will be coming soon.
 


Location: Hilton Garden Inn
8971 Wilcox Dr
Twinsburg, OH 44087


This class was a popular class and it is full. Please email Melissa Lattanzi, lattanzm@neo-rls.org to be put on a waiting list and an additional class may be added for the future.


Library Programming AI: Using AI to Help Create Impactful and Memorable Library Programs
3/3/2026

Planning and executing engaging library programs takes creativity, strategy, and time. AI can significantly help to streamline and enhance the process, and can do so without losing the heart of your events.

This webinar will explore how AI tools can assist with every stage of library event planning, from gathering community input and brainstorming ideas to managing logistics, writing promotional materials, and crafting welcoming remarks. Discover practical ways to integrate AI into your workflow while maintaining the personal touch that makes library programming memorable. By the end of the session, you’ll have actionable strategies to save time, enhance accessibility, and ensure your programs remain community-focused and impactful.

Learning Objectives:

  • AI as Your Programming Partner-Explore how AI can assist with idea generation, logistics, and outreach.
  • Understanding Community Needs-Learn how AI-powered surveys and analysis can help align events with patron interests.
  • Streamlining Event Logistics-Discover AI tools for scheduling, accessibility considerations, and planning details.
  • Crafting Effective Promotion-Use AI to write compelling event descriptions and generate engaging visuals.
  • Maintaining the Magic-Learn how to balance AI efficiency with the creativity and connection that make library programs special.
Presenter:

Crystal Trice, CSM, CSM@Scale, Library Consultant, Scissors & Glue, LLC
Crystal Trice, founder of Scissors & Glue, LLC, has over 20 years of experience in education and local government, with a focus on improving collaboration and handling challenging situations with patrons and coworkers. She is passionate about creating environments where people work together more effectively.

With certifications as a Scrum Master and in Scrum at Scale for Government, Crystal holds a Master’s in Library & Information Science and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and Psychology. Her dedication to community enrichment fuels her work in supporting organizations to achieve their goals.

Crystal lives near Portland, Oregon, and enjoys organizing her thoughts (and tasks) with Sharpies, Flair pens, and sticky notes. She shares her home with her husband and a quirky mix of animals.

 


Location: Online via Zoom





Book Discussion Active Learning Community Meeting
3/11/2026

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. 

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices. You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send Carrie Kibby any items you would like to discuss.


Location: Online
Via Zoom





Youth Services (Children & Teen) Active Learning Community Meeting
4/29/2026

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. 

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices. You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Hillary Brown.


Location: Online
Via Zoom





Outreach Active Learning Community Meeting
4/30/2026

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges. 

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices. You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.


Location: Online
Via Zoom





Adult Services Active Learning Community Meeting
5/13/2026

Join your peers to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and discover new solutions to common challenges.

This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly to all devices. You will receive a link in your confirmation email a reminder 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.


Location: Online via Zoom