Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.” Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.The webinar will focus on how to engage the communities you serve to record and collect local history as it happens. Learn the mechanics behind a project that gets everyone involved in documenting community history.
Learning Objectives:
Dawne Dewey has retired as Head of Special Collections and Archives for the Wright State University Libraries in Dayton, Ohio and has been with the university since 1989. She received her B.A. in History and Anthropology in 1980 and her M.A. in Public History in 1984, both from Wright State. Her duties include fundraising, grant writing, donor relations, community engagement and administration. She is also a graduate adjunct faculty member, teaching courses in public history, including Research in Local History.
Bill Stolz is the Archivist for Reference and Outreach and handles social media for Special Collections & Archives, Wright State University Libraries. Bill holds a B.A. in History from Ohio University, M.A. in Public History from Wright State University, M.A. in Library Science from the University of Missouri, and is a Certified Archivist.
Lisa Rickey is the Collections Manager at Special Collections & Archives, Wright State University Libraries, where she has worked since 2012. She has been an adjunct faculty member for the Wright State University Public History concentration since 2017. She has an M.A. in Public History from Wright State University, an MLIS from Wayne State University, and is a Certified Archivist.
The webinar will focus on how to engage the communities you serve to record and collect local history as it happens. Learn the mechanics behind a project that gets everyone involved in documenting community history.
Learning Objectives:
Learn how to educate, engage, and empower your local community in recording history as it happens.
Learn how to develop strategies and programming for collaboration with K-12 school classes and community groups.
Learn how to collect, document, and make available historical materials on the pandemic.
Dawne Dewey has retired as Head of Special Collections and Archives for the Wright State University Libraries in Dayton, Ohio and has been with the university since 1989. She received her B.A. in History and Anthropology in 1980 and her M.A. in Public History in 1984, both from Wright State. Her duties include fundraising, grant writing, donor relations, community engagement and administration. She is also a graduate adjunct faculty member, teaching courses in public history, including Research in Local History.
Bill Stolz is the Archivist for Reference and Outreach and handles social media for Special Collections & Archives, Wright State University Libraries. Bill holds a B.A. in History from Ohio University, M.A. in Public History from Wright State University, M.A. in Library Science from the University of Missouri, and is a Certified Archivist.
Lisa Rickey is the Collections Manager at Special Collections & Archives, Wright State University Libraries, where she has worked since 2012. She has been an adjunct faculty member for the Wright State University Public History concentration since 2017. She has an M.A. in Public History from Wright State University, an MLIS from Wayne State University, and is a Certified Archivist.
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio. For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional. She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges.
Navigating through Times of Transition is about how to move forward during times of limbo and uncertainty and take up new behaviors or ways of thinking. This session will teach how to handle transitional periods of change with less disruption and sustained productivity. The program will focus on understanding and mastering the human side of change, which is more complex and harder to achieve.
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio. For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional. She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
It is increasingly important to make certain we are able to communicate effectively with everyone in our communities. The Deaf community faces new communication barriers as the presence of face masks at work and in public becomes the new norm. Join Bill Morgan, Artistic Manager, SignStage, for an overview of Deaf culture and the opportunity to learn common ASL (American Sign Language) signs used in a library setting.
William (Bill) Morgan is the Artistic Manager at CHSC (The Cleveland Hearing and Speech Center) where he controls the day to day activities of SignStage, a Deaf awareness program within the Community Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing department. In Oct. 2013, Bill received an award from the Mayor of Cleveland for his “Creativity in Promoting Awareness of Deaf Culture”. Bill also has several years experience producing and implementing school residencies that integrate theatre arts programming with American Sign Language and the State of Ohio Standards for the Arts.
It is increasingly important to make certain we are able to communicate effectively with everyone in our communities. The Deaf community faces new communication barriers as the presence of face masks at work and in public becomes the new norm. Join Bill Morgan, Artistic Manager, SignStage, for an overview of Deaf culture and the opportunity to learn common ASL (American Sign Language) signs used in a library setting.Learn about Deaf Culture
Learn common ASL signs for Libraries
William (Bill) Morgan is the Artistic Manager at CHSC (The Cleveland Hearing and Speech Center) where he controls the day to day activities of SignStage, a Deaf awareness program within the Community Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing department. In Oct. 2013, Bill received an award from the Mayor of Cleveland for his “Creativity in Promoting Awareness of Deaf Culture”. Bill also has several years experience producing and implementing school residencies that integrate theatre arts programming with American Sign Language and the State of Ohio Standards for the Arts.
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.
Ask yourself, how am I connecting with community partners and families while libraries are closed and social distancing is enforced? Your answer might be, “I’m not” or “Our connections are very limited.” In this webinar you’ll explore how to build and maintain relationships with community members, organizations, stakeholders, and families during COVID-19 and build ideas for keeping those relationships strong when library services are re-launched in your community.Identify community members and organizations for youth-based service planning and implementation
Develop strategies for connecting with partners and families
Explain why it's valuable for library staff working with youth to build experiences that connect families and communities
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.
Joe Pannitto is a Trainer, Speaker and Coach. He is a Certified Instructor in the 3 Vital Questions / TED* (The Empowerment Dynamic). He collaborates with non-profit organizations in the area of staff development, executive coaching and strategic planning. In addition, he works with individuals interested in personal development and addiction recovery. He is a member of the International Coach Federation, Cleveland Chapter and Toastmasters International.
Wouldn't it be great to be getting things done quicker and with less drama? Prior to the session, participants are encouraged to identify a situation which they wouldIncrease leader effectiveness
Improve staff engagement
Advance operational effectiveness
Joe Pannitto is a Trainer, Speaker and Coach. He is a Certified Instructor in the 3 Vital Questions / TED* (The Empowerment Dynamic). He collaborates with non-profit organizations in the area of staff development, executive coaching and strategic planning. In addition, he works with individuals interested in personal development and addiction recovery. He is a member of the International Coach Federation, Cleveland Chapter and Toastmasters International.
Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.
Some managers think that the best way to correct poor library workplace behavior is to wait until someone does something wrong, and then tell the person in front of a crowd how they failed: in detail and going back several decades. A better approach is to create an assignment that deals with a single concrete behavior, which can be measured or observed. The assignment is discussed in private, has specific goals, and sets expectations for improved performance without the drama. It helps hold employees accountable while treating them with courtesy and respect.Ensure employees have the information and tools to do their jobs well.
Create precise outcomes for an assignment to correct behavior.
Stop having “feel-good” conversations that do not set goals and consequences for behavior change.
Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.
Kimberly Salcewicz has a background in education and project management. Over the past 13 years, she has created and facilitated educational/instructional material for a variety of objectives and groups including, public school students, project teams, cross-functional client teams, and library patrons. She also has experience collaborating with companies and departments on how to improve or build their training/instructional materials. She is currently working at the Cuyahoga Falls Library in the circulation department while being enrolled as a full-time Kent State University graduate student. She will graduate in December with a Master’s in Educational Technology.
In this webinar, take a walk with Kimberly Salcewicz through parts of the instructional design process while she shares tips and knowledge on how to design effective instructional material that encourages learner retention and knowledge transfer. 'She will provide examples and explanations of instructional design principles and how to keep your intended audience at the center of your design decisions.She will also discuss how to use Microsoft Word to make sure your future instructional material is considered accessible. Learn how to approach your design with the reader/participant as the focus
Learn about how to create accessible documents using Microsoft Word which will help ensure all patrons can benefit from your created instructional material
Learn about some principles of instructional design and how to apply them to the needs of your patrons or library teams
Kimberly Salcewicz has a background in education and project management. Over the past 13 years, she has created and facilitated educational/instructional material for a variety of objectives and groups including, public school students, project teams, cross-functional client teams, and library patrons. She also has experience collaborating with companies and departments on how to improve or build their training/instructional materials. She is currently working at the Cuyahoga Falls Library in the circulation department while being enrolled as a full-time Kent State University graduate student. She will graduate in December with a Master’s in Educational Technology.
Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, The Accidental Library Marketer, and founded her own marketing consultancy, Libraries Are Essential. Her work is dedicated to helping librarians and information professionals promote their value and expertise in order to gain respect and funding.
You probably have a pretty good understanding of what a "brand" is. But what about a "brand touchpoint"? Do you know what that is? And do you realize that you are a brand touchpoint?Define the business terms and relate them to libraries
Explain how every employee and every interaction matter
Discuss user experience (UX) and public perception
Share real examples of how laypeople see and discuss libraries
Offer guidelines on how to be a positive touchpoint
Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, The Accidental Library Marketer, and founded her own marketing consultancy, Libraries Are Essential. Her work is dedicated to helping librarians and information professionals promote their value and expertise in order to gain respect and funding.
Kaitlyn James and Leah Lattanzi, High School Students
Learn to understand Gen Z; their words, humor, and way of life. This webinar will cover topics such as Gen Z language, social media, and Gen Z as a whole, taught by two teens.Learn about Gen Z language
Social Media
All things Gen Z
Kaitlyn James and Leah Lattanzi, High School Students
We are living and working in dramatic and demanding times. A lot of focus and energy are dissipated on drama instead of productive, proactive work. This workshop focuses on changing your mindset and behavior in ways that help you find happiness and success regardless of your circumstances. In addition, you will learn how to deal with negativity, complaints, and gossip as well as learning tools to coach others.
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio. For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional. She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. 
We are living and working in dramatic and demanding times. A lot of focus and energy are dissipated on drama instead of productive, proactive work. This workshop focuses on changing your mindset and behavior in ways that help you find happiness and success regardless of your circumstances. In addition, you will learn how to deal with negativity, complaints, and gossip as well as learning tools to coach others.
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio. For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional. She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Don Boozer, Manager: Literature Department, Ohio Center for the Book, and Homebound Services at Cleveland Public Library.
In an age when we can easily access online information, share photos with family and friends, and live a large part of our lives via the Internet, we often don't give a second thought to "how" all that works. As Arthur C. Clarke said, "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic." But is there any dark magic at work to make our online lives possible? This presentation will explore how much control you give up - both willingly and unwittingly - over your data, your information, your research, and your privacy when you go online and how you can (possibly) mitigate those effects.Understand the difference between privacy and security
Learn a number of strategies for protecting one's information online
Gain confidence to explain these concerns to patrons
Don Boozer, Manager: Literature Department, Ohio Center for the Book, and Homebound Services at Cleveland Public Library.
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019.
How can we help our teens and tweens when they are struggling? Come to this webinar to find out what we should be aware of and what we can do.Participants will become familiar with the signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders
Participants will learn an action plan to respond to mental health and suicidal crises
Participants will learn how intervene early during the development of a mental health problem to decrease the severity of the impact of the illness
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019.
Keynote: Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it
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.
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.
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. 
Keynote: Don't Panic! WE are going to MAKE it
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.
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.
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. 
This year’s Symposium will look at some of the barriers that prevent widespread and sustained use of the makerspace and offer some solutions. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. In 2018 she received a Movers and Shakers award from Library Journal. Fragola is immediate past board chair of the North Carolina Humanities Council and lives in Durham, NC.
Presenter: Amy Zell, Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.
Presenter: Michael Cimino is the Director of STEAM and Making at the Fayetteville Free Library (FFL). He received his MSED in Literacy from SUNY Cortland in 2011 and worked as a secondary educator before joining the Fayetteville Free Library in the summer of 2013. Michael's primary responsibilities at the FFL are facilitating STEAM and Making program creation and execution. Michael also works to build relationships with members of the community who are interested in enhancing the use and accessibility of our makerspaces.
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.
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. With the challenges and demands supervisors continually face each day, it is essential to possess great critical thinking skills. It is also important to instill such soft skills in your employees so that they can handle the daily demands of their jobs. But what exactly are these crucial abilities? And better yet, why are they important and how can they help us in this ever-changing library environment?
Critical thinking is an overarching skill that helps you succeed in many facets of your professional and personal life. Characteristics like open-mindedness, good decision-making, the ability to be self-aware, and the capacity to adapt in the workplace are all tools that are driven by good critical thinking.
Learning objectives:
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.
This poster session will show you how to execute the Maker Mindset Method in creating programs via Zoom for makers of all ages and how to keep everyone engaged. Kits or no kits, desktop access or phone, we will address it all. From successful Family Makerspace Storytimes to 3D design/print glider races gone wild, complete access to what worked and what didn't.
Presenter: Amy Zell, Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.
This poster session will show you how to execute the Maker Mindset Method in creating programs via Zoom for makers of all ages and how to keep everyone engaged. Kits or no kits, desktop access or phone, we will address it all. From successful Family Makerspace Storytimes to 3D design/print glider races gone wild, complete access to what worked and what didn't.
Presenter: Amy Zell, Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.
So you have a makerspace - now what? Attendees will hear about some of the changes and challenges the Fayetteville Free Library Fab Lab has experienced throughout the years. Additionally, we will discuss the ways the Fab Lab has worked to keep up with the evolving maker movement in our post COVID -19 environment, while also staying relevant and reflective of its community’s needs and skill sets. We will explore various opportunities for strengthening and growing your community member use and participation in your makerspace. Attendees will also have the opportunity to brainstorm some locally relevant ideas and possible partnerships to help strengthen and grow your maker programs and makerspaces.
Presenter: Michael Cimino is the Director of STEAM and Making at the Fayetteville Free Library (FFL). He received his MSED in Literacy from SUNY Cortland in 2011 and worked as a secondary educator before joining the Fayetteville Free Library in the summer of 2013. Michael's primary responsibilities at the FFL are facilitating STEAM and Making program creation and execution. Michael also works to build relationships with members of the community who are interested in enhancing the use and accessibility of our makerspaces.
So you have a makerspace - now what? Attendees will hear about some of the changes and challenges the Fayetteville Free Library Fab Lab has experienced throughout the years. Additionally, we will discuss the ways the Fab Lab has worked to keep up with the evolving maker movement in our post COVID -19 environment, while also staying relevant and reflective of its community’s needs and skill sets. We will explore various opportunities for strengthening and growing your community member use and participation in your makerspace. Attendees will also have the opportunity to brainstorm some locally relevant ideas and possible partnerships to help strengthen and grow your maker programs and makerspaces.
Presenter: Michael Cimino is the Director of STEAM and Making at the Fayetteville Free Library (FFL). He received his MSED in Literacy from SUNY Cortland in 2011 and worked as a secondary educator before joining the Fayetteville Free Library in the summer of 2013. Michael's primary responsibilities at the FFL are facilitating STEAM and Making program creation and execution. Michael also works to build relationships with members of the community who are interested in enhancing the use and accessibility of our makerspaces.
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio. For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional. She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges.
Do you know someone who keeps on keeping on, no matter what life throws at them? How do they continue to thrive, flourish and grow even stronger as they overcome the obstacles they face? The answer is resilience which is described as “the process of facing adversity and bouncing back from difficult experiences. “ This session will focus on key skills to not only survive and bounce back after a setback, but to come back stronger and wiser.
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio. For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional. She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges. When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Is your makerspace garnering the interest you first thought it would? Are you struggling to create programming that stems beyond crafting? Let me guide you through techniques to empower your patrons by encouraging them to develop a Maker Mindset: a combination of processes that include the Maker Empowerment Theory and the Stanford Design process to retrain our thought processes to recognize that learning begins at failure (not ends there), that we live in a designed world, and that we are able to change it through making. We’ll discuss sample programming, techniques, and challenges. No funding in the budget for 3D printers? Not necessary! Come see how to help your patron hold what’s in their mind in the palm of their hand sans printer. A takeaway for every level of interest!
Presenter: Amy Zell, Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.
Amy is a self proclaimed Maker after learning that she, too, has the wherewithal and resources to change the world through making. Amy Zell is using her Final Project through Kent State University's M.L.I.S. program to take this opportunity to inspire and instill the same passion in librarians that the Pittsburgh Fab Institute instilled in her.

Content Warning: This webinar contains opening remarks about suicide and depression.
Is your makerspace garnering the interest you first thought it would? Are you struggling to create programming that stems beyond crafting? Let me guide you through techniques to empower your patrons by encouraging them to develop a Maker Mindset: a combination of processes that include the Maker Empowerment Theory and the Stanford Design process to retrain our thought processes to recognize that learning begins at failure (not ends there), that we live in a designed world, and that we are able to change it through making. We’ll discuss sample programming, techniques, and challenges. No funding in the budget for 3D printers? Not necessary! Come see how to help your patron hold what’s in their mind in the palm of their hand sans printer. A takeaway for every level of interest!
Presenter: Amy Zell, Digital Instructor, Goodwill Industries, Youngstown and former Teen and Patron Technologies Assistant at Hubbard Public Library.
Amy is a self proclaimed Maker after learning that she, too, has the wherewithal and resources to change the world through making. Amy Zell is using her Final Project through Kent State University's M.L.I.S. program to take this opportunity to inspire and instill the same passion in librarians that the Pittsburgh Fab Institute instilled in her.
When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.

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.
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
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.
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.
Dr. Regula is an instructor of Human Anatomy at the University of Dayton. He has taught upper level anatomy using novel technology and pedagogy for six years and recently published an anatomy lab manual specifically designed to be intersectional and inclusive to all students. He prides himself on bringing critical thinking, accuracy, and intersectionality into a discipline that has often been treated as rote memorization in the past. When not challenging students in the classroom, Dr. Regula enjoys 3D print designing, games, and being outdoors with his husband and son. 
In this session, Dr. Regula will do a walk through of a virtual anatomy program for instructional purposes that fit all learning levels, and follow up with a tutorial of an anatomical database to construct individualized study tools including 3D images and models.
Dr. Regula is an instructor of Human Anatomy at the University of Dayton. He has taught upper level anatomy using novel technology and pedagogy for six years and recently published an anatomy lab manual specifically designed to be intersectional and inclusive to all students. He prides himself on bringing critical thinking, accuracy, and intersectionality into a discipline that has often been treated as rote memorization in the past. When not challenging students in the classroom, Dr. Regula enjoys 3D print designing, games, and being outdoors with his husband and son.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Brittney C. Howard is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). She joined the agency in March of 2018 and currently serves in the Cleveland, Ohio field office. In this role, Ms. Howard aids in the resolution of labor and management disputes by providing collective bargaining mediation and grievance mediation services. Ms. Howard also provides training tailored to parties’ needs and covering a variety of labor and management topics, including labor/management committees, contract administration, grievance processing, steward/supervisor relationship building, interest-based problem solving, and consensus decision making. Ms. Howard is a licensed attorney in the State of Ohio. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ohio University and obtained her Juris Doctorate from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law (Cleveland State University).Dive deep into the tools and skills needed to verify the authenticity of information, and learn to create engaging fact-checking investigations that inspire students and patrons to investigate viral content. Access to News Literacy Project resources and classroom-ready examples are included.
Learning Objectives:
Peter Adams is the News Literacy Project’s senior vice president of education and has been with the organization since 2009. He began his career in education as a classroom teacher in the New York City schools. He has also worked as a trainer with the New York City Teaching Fellows Program, a youth media after-school instructor in the Chicago public schools and an adjunct instructor at Roosevelt University and Chicago City Colleges.
Dive deep into the tools and skills needed to verify the authenticity of information, and learn to create engaging fact-checking investigations that inspire students and patrons to investigate viral content. Access to News Literacy Project resources and classroom-ready examples are included.
Learning Objectives:
Peter Adams is the News Literacy Project’s senior vice president of education and has been with the organization since 2009. He began his career in education as a classroom teacher in the New York City schools. He has also worked as a trainer with the New York City Teaching Fellows Program, a youth media after-school instructor in the Chicago public schools and an adjunct instructor at Roosevelt University and Chicago City Colleges.When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Subject cataloging gets a bad rap as fussy and hard to learn. While mastery takes time, there are smaller steps copy catalogers can take to expand their knowledge and improve the use of subject terms in their catalogs. This brief workshop will introduce you to some of the most common subject systems, rules, and principles with a focus on Library of Congress Subject Headings.
Learning objectives:
Presenter:
Misty Alvaro is the Catalog Librarian for the Columbus Metropolitan Library. She received her MLIS after achieving a degree in Japanese and Italian at the Ohio State University. Misty has worked in public and technical services at a variety of library types including academic, public, and special libraries; she loves to talk about how all of them are awesome.
Subject cataloging gets a bad rap as fussy and hard to learn. While mastery takes time, there are smaller steps copy catalogers can take to expand their knowledge and improve the use of subject terms in their catalogs. This brief workshop will introduce you to some of the most common subject systems, rules, and principles with a focus on Library of Congress Subject Headings.
Learning objectives:
Presenter:
Misty Alvaro is the Catalog Librarian for the Columbus Metropolitan Library. She received her MLIS after achieving a degree in Japanese and Italian at the Ohio State University. Misty has worked in public and technical services at a variety of library types including academic, public, and special libraries; she loves to talk about how all of them are awesome.
When you receive your confirmation of registration for this archive the link to the archive will be included in the confirmation email.
Join us to discover how marketing automation can streamline your customer engagement, help strengthen the library brand and build awareness of all the wonderful things your library offers the community. Hear how libraries around the world are hooking Patron Point's marketing automation platform up to their ILS to leverage the wealth of data and transform library processes.
Jennifer Koerber is a consultant who advises and guides libraries on staff training programs, especially around technology change and skill-building. She has more than 20 years of experience in public-facing and behind-the-scenes roles, including children’s librarian, reference generalist, branch manager, and web services librarian. After 17 years at the Boston Public Library, she established her own business providing technology training and consulting services to libraries. In 2017, Jennifer became staff Training Manager for the Harvard Library ILS migration and pivoted her career to follow this new path.
When a library system moves to a new service platform, it can feel chaotic and disruptive. The whole staff needs to be trained at the same time, while the implementation team is still actively working on configuration and data migration. How do you give everyone what they need to start work on Day 1 when even staff who know the most are still learning and the system isn’t entirely ready? Just as importantly, how do you address the change management needed to prepare staff for a new technological system that may also change physical workflows and even job responsibilities?
Jennifer Koerber is a consultant who advises and guides libraries on staff training programs, especially around technology change and skill-building. She has more than 20 years of experience in public-facing and behind-the-scenes roles, including children’s librarian, reference generalist, branch manager, and web services librarian. After 17 years at the Boston Public Library, she established her own business providing technology training and consulting services to libraries. In 2017, Jennifer became staff Training Manager for the Harvard Library ILS migration and pivoted her career to follow this new path.
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention. Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing.
Participants will engage in learning around ways to take care of ourselves and provide quality public service during COVID.
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention. Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing.
It’s that time of year again! It's the time that everyone begins their search to find the best toys for their loved one, friends, or even themselves. Learn about the new emerging tech products that your patrons may likely want, have questions about, or even bring into your library for assistance. Indeed, there may even be some fun, new emerging tech tools that you might consider for your library!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:
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 her diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor.
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.
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 her diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor.
Kimberly Salcewicz has a background in education and project management. Over the past 13 years, she has created and facilitated instructional material for a variety of objectives and groups including, public school students, project teams, cross-functional client teams, and library patrons. She also has experience collaborating with companies and departments on how to improve or build their training and/or instructional materials. She is currently a full-time student at Kent State University earning a Master’s in Educational Technology. She will graduate in December.
In part 2, we will continue the walk with Kimberly Salcewicz through parts of the instructional design process. She will focus on Task Analysis which is when an instructional designer takes a detailed look at the instructional project’s topic/procedure, before beginning to design. In addition to Task Analysis, she will share instructional design tips and strategies by walking through examples and addressing two instructional challenges.
Kimberly Salcewicz has a background in education and project management. Over the past 13 years, she has created and facilitated instructional material for a variety of objectives and groups including, public school students, project teams, cross-functional client teams, and library patrons. She also has experience collaborating with companies and departments on how to improve or build their training and/or instructional materials. She is currently a full-time student at Kent State University earning a Master’s in Educational Technology. She will graduate in December.
Stephanie Anderson is the Assistant Director, Selection, for BookOps, serving the branch collections of the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library. She was previously the Assistant Director of Public Services at the Darien Library (CT). She is a founding member of LibraryReads, the national public library staff picks list, and has written about readers' advisory for RUSQ and Library Journal. She reviews for Kirkus Reviews, Shelf Awareness, and People, and when she's not reading or chasing her toddler, can be found online at bookavore.net.
Virginia Grubbs is the Assistant Head of Reader Services, Darien Library (CT). Although, a relative newbie in the Library world, Virginia brings more than 15 years of experience in strategic communications and public relations. In her most recent pre-librarian role, she served as vice president of a global PR firm. Virginia has worked with several significant organizations including American Airlines, the ExxonMobil Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, and Dallas Independent School District. Her area of specialty was educational programs and nonprofits. Since starting at Darien Library in the Reader Services Department in 2013, Virginia has used her talents and love of books to help enhance the patron experience. She has developed innovative, eye-catching displays and she has managed both the Book Matchmaker and Adult Summer Reading programs. Outside the library you will find Virginia reading, snuggled up with her pets, enjoying time outside or golfing.
Elisabeth Marrocolla is the Associate Director of Public Services at Darien Library (CT). She has worked at Darien Library for nearly ten years, previously serving as Head of Children and Teen Services. Elisabeth graduated from Pratt Institute with her MLIS in 2011 and is a 2017 graduate of ALA’s Leadership Institute. She has written regularly for the ALSC Blog, Children in Libraries, and School Library Journal, and is a firm believer that the book is always better than the movie.
Pat Tone has worked in a variety of library positions for 24 years. Currently she is the Head of Reader Services at Dairen Library (CT). Pat came to appreciate and enjoy library work because of her volunteer work at her children’s school libraries. Over the years, she has found working at the library to be a fulfilling and enriching profession because of her love of books, the connection and relationships developed with library patrons, and colleagues and the ability to learn something new every day! When she is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, gardening and walking with the company of four-legged furry friends.
In a world of personalized services delivered via impersonal applications, where can we find librarians? Join the panel as they discuss Book Matchmaker, an online readers' advisory (RA) tool that merges a Buzzfeed-style quiz with a Stitch Fix-esque business model. Book Matchmaker is a proven way to connect with patrons online and create strong relationships in real life. Learn how to bring Book Matchmaker to your library and get tips on making online RA work for all ages.
Stephanie Anderson is the Assistant Director, Selection, for BookOps, serving the branch collections of the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library. She was previously the Assistant Director of Public Services at the Darien Library (CT). She is a founding member of LibraryReads, the national public library staff picks list, and has written about readers' advisory for RUSQ and Library Journal. She reviews for Kirkus Reviews, Shelf Awareness, and People, and when she's not reading or chasing her toddler, can be found online at bookavore.net.
Virginia Grubbs is the Assistant Head of Reader Services, Darien Library (CT). Although, a relative newbie in the Library world, Virginia brings more than 15 years of experience in strategic communications and public relations. In her most recent pre-librarian role, she served as vice president of a global PR firm. Virginia has worked with several significant organizations including American Airlines, the ExxonMobil Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, and Dallas Independent School District. Her area of specialty was educational programs and nonprofits. Since starting at Darien Library in the Reader Services Department in 2013, Virginia has used her talents and love of books to help enhance the patron experience. She has developed innovative, eye-catching displays and she has managed both the Book Matchmaker and Adult Summer Reading programs. Outside the library you will find Virginia reading, snuggled up with her pets, enjoying time outside or golfing.
Elisabeth Marrocolla is the Associate Director of Public Services at Darien Library (CT). She has worked at Darien Library for nearly ten years, previously serving as Head of Children and Teen Services. Elisabeth graduated from Pratt Institute with her MLIS in 2011 and is a 2017 graduate of ALA’s Leadership Institute. She has written regularly for the ALSC Blog, Children in Libraries, and School Library Journal, and is a firm believer that the book is always better than the movie.
Pat Tone has worked in a variety of library positions for 24 years. Currently she is the Head of Reader Services at Dairen Library (CT). Pat came to appreciate and enjoy library work because of her volunteer work at her children’s school libraries. Over the years, she has found working at the library to be a fulfilling and enriching profession because of her love of books, the connection and relationships developed with library patrons, and colleagues and the ability to learn something new every day! When she is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, gardening and walking with the company of four-legged furry friends.
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.
Mike Monaco has been a cataloger for nineteen years with experience working in public and academic libraries in both public and technical services. He has served in professional organizations from the local to national level, including NOTSL, OLC, OVGTSL, and ALCTS, and presented at numerous state, regional, and national conferences. He is now Coordinator, Cataloging Services at the University of Akron.
Technical Services (TS) can seem mysterious and esoteric from the outside, and this becomes a real liability when we need the outsiders to understand why our work is vital – especially in these times when funding is tighter and everything is “on the table.” In this webinar we’ll look at ways you as a TS librarian can help your colleagues, administrators, board, and patrons understand the importance of your work.
Mike Monaco has been a cataloger for nineteen years with experience working in public and academic libraries in both public and technical services. He has served in professional organizations from the local to national level, including NOTSL, OLC, OVGTSL, and ALCTS, and presented at numerous state, regional, and national conferences. He is now Coordinator, Cataloging Services at the University of Akron.
Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
E-Health devices and services have become more important than ever in tracking and taking charge of our health and wellness in 2020 and 2021. Even before the pandemic, e-Health devices were one of the most popular technology trends that library communities requested to learn about. Now, COVID-19 has particularly impacted our community’s and our own health recently in a variety of ways, and learning about these devices and how they can help us find ways to track valuable health information, stay safe and further our fitness levels when we can’t get out is vital. Advances in technology have allowed these devices to become extremely robust to where they can monitor our health better and more effectively than we could have dreamed just a few short years ago, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.
Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Approximately 40 million Americans deal with anxiety disorders. Anxiety is a common mental health concern that we are seeing more often. Our brain function remains the same but our lifestyles keep taking on more and more stress, just like what is happening during the current COVID-19 crisis. Yoga helps to reduce anxiety by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system or the “rest and digest” system.
Learning Objectives
Vanessa Blair Farris, currently residing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is no stranger to Northeast Ohio. Born and raised near Youngstown, Vanessa has a passion for both her Indiana and Ohio communities. She uses yoga to soothe the mind and the body. Vanessa has a passion for helping people with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She has spent countless hours educating herself on trauma-sensitive yoga methods, attending online summits for trauma sensitivity, as well as learning the fundamentals of yoga and meditation to help those that are struggling.

During the pandemic lock-down (followed by the NE Ohio winter) many people noticed a shift in their personal and professional habits: some for the better, some for the worse. Harnessing the better habits and nixing the unwelcome habits requires an understanding of the science of habits, awareness of the foundational habits, and the tools to evaluate your habits. Join Dr. Tamsin Astor, Chief Habit Scientist, International Speaker & Author for a deep dive into habits, so you can create and maintain the right habits for your life!
Learning Objectives:
Tamsin Astor, PhD is the founder and Chief Habit Scientist of Yoga Brained Coaching. She is known for giving her clients the tools to shift their mindset, organize their vision, and improve their habits to create an efficient, productive business. We make 35,000 decisions every day, which leads to decision fatigue. Dr. Astor helps her clients reduce the amount of overwhelming decision-making they do by harnessing their goal-achieving machine – AKA – their brains. This also increases their time and energy for fun!
This online workshop is for people who prefer to look on the upside instead of the downside and who recognize that we can all use some support in doing so from time to time. Join Cheryl as she talks about our natural instincts to be problem solvers and how we can re-frame stressful situations. By stressing the value of play and fun (which we’ll be having in this session), you’ll get some new solutions for dealing with negativity and learn how to move forward to a positive new future.
Cheryl Gould is a learning facilitator and training consultant who believes in the transformative role libraries can play in their communities. Cheryl’s professional role is to help libraries with the culture shift required to move from an institution that provides access to resources to one that promotes conversation, learning and engagement at all levels. Cheryl’s ability to connect people and ideas, to facilitate conversation and to enhance learning has been demonstrated through 17 years of working with libraries in thousands of hours of consulting,mentoring and training. Her passion for learning, crossed with current developments in neuroscience and her involvement with Applied Improvisation to create library cultures of “Yes, And…” define her work.
It’s not enough to criticize and complain if you want to make your workplace better, particularly when you don’t have power or authority. Also, being right about the technical details of the problem and possible solutions is usually not enough either. You can improve your situation by building better workplace relationships, learning to navigate the political maze of your workplace, and ensuring your own behavior is beyond reproach.
Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.

When bad things happen, most people need time to mourn and make sense of the experience. Budget cuts, furloughs and layoffs, the loss of familiar routines and connections with people, working remotely, the worries that accompany the pandemic, and the impact on-coworkers and library customers. Workplace grief can be debilitating. Discover new and practical ways to cope and learn how to focus on tomorrow.
Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.
Considering it takes just 2.45 seconds to load a typical web page and just a few more than that to send a text, it’s not surprising that anything in the range of 10 seconds has us huffing and puffing about why it’s taking so long. Google has even found that a web page on a mobile device takes a “jarring” 7 seconds to load – gasp!
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
Cheryl Gould is a learning facilitator and training consultant who believes in the transformative role libraries can play in their communities. Cheryl’s professional role is to help libraries with the culture shift required to move from an institution that provides access to resources to one that promotes conversation, learning and engagement at all levels. Cheryl’s ability to connect people and ideas, to facilitate conversation and to enhance learning has been demonstrated through 17 years of working with libraries in thousands of hours of consulting,mentoring and training. Her passion for learning, crossed with current developments in neuroscience and her involvement with Applied Improvisation to create library cultures of “Yes, And…” define her work.
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
Caitlin Hawkins, Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
As a community social worker, Caitlin is passionate about creative, authentic engagement in workplaces and communities. Her educational and professional experiences in community development and higher education lead her to the understanding that relationships matter, and that relationships with people who are different from ourselves provide opportunities for immense growth and collaboration, as long as we know how to harness those connections. At The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, she works alongside businesses and organizations through every step of the consulting process and engages staff in customized workshops around the topics of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Caitlin works with the express intention of facilitating the growth of inclusive and equitable workplaces.
Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.
Dr. Steve Albrecht manages a training, coaching, and management consulting firm, using a dedicated and experienced team of subcontractor specialists. As a trainer, speaker, author, and consultant, Steve is internationally recognized for his expertise in high-risk HR issues.
He provides HR consulting, site security assessments, coaching, and training workshops in supervisory improvement, workplace violence prevention, harassment prevention, drug and alcohol awareness, team building and team conflict resolution, negotiation, and stress management.
Thursday, January 28, 2021
We Need to Talk: A Step by Step Guide to Difficult Conversations
10:00 am - 12:15pm
This highly interactive webinar will give participants the tools for having difficult conversations that achieve results. Participants will learn, and practice, a step by step process for managing difficult conversations about a variety of workplace issues.
Learning Objectives:
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.Friday, January 29, 2021
Creating & Maintaining Good Habits
10:00 am - 11:30 am
During the pandemic lock-down (followed by the NE Ohio winter) many people noticed a shift in their personal and professional habits: some for the better, some for the worse. Harnessing the better habits and nixing the unwelcome habits requires an understanding of the science of habits, awareness of the foundational habits, and the tools to evaluate your habits. Join Dr. Tamsin Astor, Chief Habit Scientist, International Speaker & Author for a deep dive into habits, so you can create and maintain the right habits for your life!
Learning Objectives:
Tamsin Astor, PhD is the founder and Chief Habit Scientist of Yoga Brained Coaching. She is known for giving her clients the tools to shift their mindset, organize their vision, and improve their habits to create an efficient, productive business. We make 35,000 decisions every day, which leads to decision fatigue. Dr. Astor helps her clients reduce the amount of overwhelming decision-making they do by harnessing their goal-achieving machine – AKA – their brains. This also increases their time and energy for fun!Learning Objectives
Vanessa Blair Farris, currently residing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is no stranger to Northeast Ohio. Born and raised near Youngstown, Vanessa has a passion for both her Indiana and Ohio communities. She uses yoga to soothe the mind and the body. Vanessa has a passion for helping people with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She has spent countless hours educating herself on trauma-sensitive yoga methods, attending online summits for trauma sensitivity, as well as learning the fundamentals of yoga and meditation to help those that are struggling.

This highly interactive webinar will give participants the tools for having difficult conversations that achieve results. Participants will learn, and practice, a step by step process for managing difficult conversations about a variety of workplace issues.
Learning Objectives:
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
New research suggests that pandemic fatigue - the mental exhaustion caused by being in a state of heightened awareness and alertness due to COVID-19 coupled with uncertainty about how the pandemic will develop - is real, and it is already causing an increase in difficult customer behaviors such as resistance to wearing masks and ignoring social distancing guidelines.
Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training programs for organizations for more than 15 years. He has presented web-based, online, and face-to-face sessions on customer service, managing customer behaviors and communication skills in the U.S. and numerous other countries around the world.

Andrew Sanderbeck has been developing and conducting training programs for organizations for more than 15 years. He has presented web-based, online, and face-to-face sessions on customer service, managing customer behaviors and communication skills in the U.S. and numerous other countries around the world.
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built a robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.
To say that Covid-19 has rocked the U.S. economy is an understatement. Every day, we read headlines about how quickly the coronavirus is spreading, the rising death toll, and how more and more employees are losing their jobs. For businesses still operating and those who just opened, there’s plenty of workplace stress due to COVID-19, from adapting to new working arrangements, having the kids home, employees getting sick, and much more. It can be difficult for employees to manage their stress and anxiety amid COVID-19. Managers and HR professionals can play an important role in helping employees cope with the added stress and uncertainties of the pandemic.
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built a robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.
Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.” Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates. Scott will not only inform you of these important changes, but he will use his over three decades of Employment Law/Human Resource Management experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!
Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.” Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
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.
Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System
Want to engage children with the latest technology but don’t know where to begin? Interested in using technology in your programming but you’re on a tight budget? Join us for the sixth annual Gadgets and Gizmos webinar. This popular, detailed webinar presentation will showcase some cool new tech gadgets, websites and resources you can incorporate into your youth services programs! You will also have an opportunity to share your technology successes and challenges with other attendees.
Holly Klingler, Research and Innovation Coordinator, Northeast Ohio Regional Library System
Jack Phoenix is a librarian in the Greater Cleveland area. He is the author of the SLJ starred review book, Maximizing the Impact of Comics in Your Library: Graphic Novels, Manga, and More, and a member of the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table of the American Library Association.
Do you struggle to keep your comics collection organized? Comics, graphic novels, and manga that are organized by traditional library classification systems, like Dewey, can become unwieldly and difficult for patrons to find specific items or even browse. Learn how creating an in-house classification system can provide a perfect solution to raise your comics circulations, as well as some cataloging and merchandising tips.
Jack Phoenix is a librarian in the Greater Cleveland area. He is the author of the SLJ starred review book, Maximizing the Impact of Comics in Your Library: Graphic Novels, Manga, and More, and a member of the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table of the American Library Association.
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
It’s official – there is simply too much to do to ever get it all done! Funding cuts, fewer staff, higher expectations for programming and services…it all adds up to “not enough time in the day.”
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
Kimberly Bishop, MA, MLS, currently serves as the Staff Development Manager for Dayton Metro Library (Ohio). She has held a variety of public service and management positions in libraries and non-profit organizations across the United States. Kim is devoted to creating passionate and purposeful teams by empowering library workers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities they need to succeed. You can find her online @Love4Libraries on both Twitter and Instagram where she shares food for thought as well as occasional foodie musings.
Institutional knowledge and library leadership skills are quickly exiting libraries through retirement, job mobility, and routine turnover. How can we best deal with this knowledge loss? Through succession planning, building bench strength, and focusing on the strengths and knowledge of exiting employees, organizations can create a dynamic process for providing employees with the resources and support they need to grow into new roles.
Kimberly Bishop, MA, MLS, currently serves as the Staff Development Manager for Dayton Metro Library (Ohio). She has held a variety of public service and management positions in libraries and non-profit organizations across the United States. Kim is devoted to creating passionate and purposeful teams by empowering library workers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities they need to succeed. You can find her online @Love4Libraries on both Twitter and Instagram where she shares food for thought as well as occasional foodie musings.
Alexis Vaughan, has an MA in English from Cleveland State University and has been an Adjunct Instructor at Bryant & Stratton College for the past eleven years where she teaches English, Communications, Information Technology and Internship courses. In addition, Ms. Vaughan has been an Instructor with the Berlitz Corporation for the past two years, tutoring individual students from overseas looking to improve their spoken and written business English. Ms. Vaughan was named the Adjunct Faculty Member of the Year for 2015 and is a highly accomplished professional with classroom based and virtual instruction. She is an expert problem solver able to devise creative solutions to help learners reach their goals and has consistently received the highest possible evaluation rating during classroom observation.
We have all likely been a bystander, seeing a situation where someone is acting inappropriately with another person, and we didn't know what to do or how to help make a difference. In this session you will be transported to the "bystander zone" and learn how to safely intervene as a bystander to help defuse a situation and still provide a level of service beyond any other.
Donna Seaton has over 30 years working at EVPL public library system, first as a customer services representative, then as a supervisor for 20 years and for the last 8 years the system wide training specialist. Donna develops and conducts training for both new and existing employees and conducts On-Boarding for all EVPL staff. Donna has conducted the Bystander Intervention presentation for many library conferences and library systems. Donna loves the library, reading, traveling and spending time with her husband, family and friends.

Donna Seaton has over 30 years working at EVPL public library system, first as a customer services representative, then as a supervisor for 20 years and for the last 8 years the system wide training specialist. Donna develops and conducts training for both new and existing employees and conducts On-Boarding for all EVPL staff. Donna has conducted the Bystander Intervention presentation for many library conferences and library systems. Donna loves the library, reading, traveling and spending time with her husband, family and friends.
Bec Czarnecki is the assistant to the City Librarian at Denver Public Library. When they’re not herding cats or arranging calendars, they work on special projects on a variety of topics. They are passionate about the library's role in engaging the community and committed to helping it be a welcoming and inclusive space for all.
Adrian Johnson works as a Library Program Associate at the Denver Public Library where he provides access to tech services in the Denver community, shows folks new creative opportunities in the Central library’s makerspace, and helps digitize materials in the Western History and Genealogy department.


Bec Czarnecki is the assistant to the City Librarian at Denver Public Library. When they’re not herding cats or arranging calendars, they work on special projects on a variety of topics. They are passionate about the library's role in engaging the community and committed to helping it be a welcoming and inclusive space for all.
Adrian Johnson works as a Library Program Associate at the Denver Public Library where he provides access to tech services in the Denver community, shows folks new creative opportunities in the Central library’s makerspace, and helps digitize materials in the Western History and Genealogy department.
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.
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.
Ally Dowds is the Health & Human Services Librarian for the Boston Public Library. In this role, Ally fosters strategic partnerships with local public health organizations, emergency shelters, and human service agencies to provide supportive services to patrons experiencing homelessness, substance use and mental health. She also performs weekly outreach to local shelters to eliminate barriers to library access, programming and resources. Prior to this position, Ally worked in the BPL’s Teen Central and served as a consultant for ALA's Great Stories Club, where she facilitated a library-led book discussion group at a local middle school focused on the emotional, behavioral, and learning needs of its students. Discussions were designed around the theme of Empathy: The Cost of Switching Sides, allowing students to read, reflect, and share ideas on topics that resonate with them.
Public libraries often are safe spaces for patrons seeking shelter, warmth, information, quiet, and a sense of community. But what happens when a public health pandemic impedes our abilities as librarians to provide outreach and supportive resources to patrons living on the fringes of our neighborhoods, cities and towns when our doors closed and traditional librarianship went virtual? Ally Dowds will discuss outreach efforts developed during the beginning months of the COVID-19 shutdown and how the Boston Public Library continued to reach patrons where they are while preserving existing partnerships with local organizations and forging new ones to maintain access and dissemination of supportive public health services to its community members.
Ally Dowds is the Health & Human Services Librarian for the Boston Public Library. In this role, Ally fosters strategic partnerships with local public health organizations, emergency shelters, and human service agencies to provide supportive services to patrons experiencing homelessness, substance use and mental health. She also performs weekly outreach to local shelters to eliminate barriers to library access, programming and resources. Prior to this position, Ally worked in the BPL’s Teen Central and served as a consultant for ALA's Great Stories Club, where she facilitated a library-led book discussion group at a local middle school focused on the emotional, behavioral, and learning needs of its students. Discussions were designed around the theme of Empathy: The Cost of Switching Sides, allowing students to read, reflect, and share ideas on topics that resonate with them.
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.
"Starting May 3, Ohio libraries will migrate from Lynda.com to LinkedIn Learning. OPLIN director Don Yarman and LinkedIn's Julie Palmer will demo the new interface and answer questions about the switchover. Cuyahoga County Public Library has had preview access to the new interface, and Kaitlin Booth will discuss their early impressions."
Elizabeth Cipolla, SHPR, SHRM-SCP
Aaron Phillips is the Owner, HR & Business Consultant of Decision Associates. He also has 20+ years in human resources. He holds an MBA from Gannon University.
This engaging session is designed for Human Resources Executives as well as other senior leaders. All participants will be provided tips and trained on tools that can be taken back to their library that will immediately address succession challenges they are currently facing.
Elizabeth Cipolla, SHPR, SHRM-SCP
Aaron Phillips is the Owner, HR & Business Consultant of Decision Associates. He also has 20+ years in human resources. He holds an MBA from Gannon University.
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.
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 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.
This presentation addresses customer service training by growing and nurturing empathy and empowering staff to navigate the gray areas in our policies. Using storytelling and group interaction, we will look at special and challenging situations such as code of conduct violations and difficult patrons. Discover how understanding our own implicit biases and not assuming the worst of our patrons can help you offer consistent customer service to everyone we serve.
Molly Meyers LaBadie has been in Libraries since 2001. She was lucky to have four of those as a Library Trainer allowing her to train staff in customer service. Currently, as a Deputy Director, she finds that empathy for both staff and patrons is a powerful tool in offering exceptional customer service.

Molly Meyers LaBadie has been in Libraries since 2001. She was lucky to have four of those as a Library Trainer allowing her to train staff in customer service. Currently, as a Deputy Director, she finds that empathy for both staff and patrons is a powerful tool in offering exceptional customer service.
We know these uncertain times are a challenge for everyone. Here is an opportunity to talk with your peers and learn how they are managing this crisis. This meeting will be held through Zoom which is user friendly for all devices. You will receive a link in your email when you register and 2 hours before the meeting. We hope you will join us. Please send agenda items/questions to Melissa Lattanzi.
Carrie Girton is the Public Services Librarian at Rentschler Library at Miami University Hamilton in Hamilton, Ohio. She earned her MLIS from the University of Kentucky. Carrie recently served as the Interest Group Coordinator for the Academic Library Association of Ohio (ALAO) and as Co-Chair for the Association of College & Research Library’s (ACRL) Distance Learning Section (DLS) Bibliography Committee. She volunteers for a local community center’s afterschool program, coaching K-5 students on reading and literacy skills.
Empathetic marketing is the latest marketing trend—showing users how you can meet their core emotional needs. When libraries use empathetic marketing to show users how library services and staff can meet their emotional needs, it helps users feel more connected, shows them that people know and care about what they are experiencing, and lets them know that we can help them in a variety of ways. Once users realize that the library staff know and care about their needs, they often feel more comfortable seeking assistance from us when they need it—whether related to the library and research or not.
Carrie Girton is the Public Services Librarian at Rentschler Library at Miami University Hamilton in Hamilton, Ohio. She earned her MLIS from the University of Kentucky. Carrie recently served as the Interest Group Coordinator for the Academic Library Association of Ohio (ALAO) and as Co-Chair for the Association of College & Research Library’s (ACRL) Distance Learning Section (DLS) Bibliography Committee. She volunteers for a local community center’s afterschool program, coaching K-5 students on reading and literacy skills.
Meghan Harper, Ph.D, Professor, Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.
Literature creates a gateway to help library patrons understand concepts of empathy, compassion and kindness. Creating a curated collection of library resources inspires and fosters understanding of others and different perspectives and is the foundation of building a climate of empathy in the library. Empathy is transformative and can bring about positive change in the community.
Meghan Harper, Ph.D, Professor, Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.
Good manners and a friendly demeanor can handle most library customer issues. But what if being courteous is not enough? Do you, your staff, and your co-workers know what to do if someone is emotionally bullying or physically threatening to staff or library visitors? Belligerent? Acting out because of drugs, alcohol, or other cognitive issues? Refusing to leave? Caught stealing or damaging property?
Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.

Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.
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.
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.
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.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.
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.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Vanessa Bullock was appointed Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service in May 1997. She is employed as a mediator in the Philadelphia office located in the Northeast region. As a Commissioner, Ms. Bullock has mediated both Labor and Employment disputes in the private and public sectors. In addition to her primary duties of dispute mediation, she is responsible for curriculum development and training in a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) programs for the FMCS Institute; Federal Executive Board; and the Cornell University ILR Scrimmage program.
This highly interactive session will explore the meaning of diversity and the benefits of an inclusive workplace. The session will cover discrimination and harassment laws and participants will discuss various workplace scenarios to explore discrimination vs. inappropriate behavior. Training will include tips for creating an inclusive workplace and having difficult conversations about diversity and discrimination.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Vanessa Bullock was appointed Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service in May 1997. She is employed as a mediator in the Philadelphia office located in the Northeast region. As a Commissioner, Ms. Bullock has mediated both Labor and Employment disputes in the private and public sectors. In addition to her primary duties of dispute mediation, she is responsible for curriculum development and training in a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) programs for the FMCS Institute; Federal Executive Board; and the Cornell University ILR Scrimmage program.
Assertiveness – grrrrr! Oh wait, that’s being aggressive! In this webinar, we’ll discuss the differences between being assertive and aggressive, as well as the dangers of being passive. Moving through today’s world, no matter what our position is in the workplace, learning to be assertive can be a valuable skill. But there can definitely be a fine line between that and aggressiveness. And it won’t serve us well to cross that line, just like it typically doesn’t serve us well to be passive.
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.


Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
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.
Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Presenter: Carol Jackson, MLIS, has held various management positions at Ramsey County Library (MN). She is currently Branch Manager of the Shoreview branch and Adult Programming Coordinator for the library system. An enthusiastic community partner and advocate, she was named a Library Journal Movers & Shakers in 2019, primarily due to the Ask series and other community well-being programming.
In polarizing times, building community and trust through communication is vitally important. This session will discuss how public libraries can help break down barriers and further understanding among people through programming and powerful partnerships. Ramsey County Library’s Ask series, presented in partnership with local grass roots organization Do Good Roseville, was a bi-monthly facilitated discussion designed to give a voice to the underrepresented in the community. Our new endeavor, Sidewalk Talks, focuses on providing a one-to-one empathetic listening experience in public spaces. We’ll discuss the unexpected challenges and the continuing rewards of building programming in response to racism and inequity, as well as the importance of keeping the voices of the community front and center.
Presenter: Carol Jackson, MLIS, has held various management positions at Ramsey County Library (MN). She is currently Branch Manager of the Shoreview branch and Adult Programming Coordinator for the library system. An enthusiastic community partner and advocate, she was named a Library Journal Movers & Shakers in 2019, primarily due to the Ask series and other community well-being programming.
Have you ever been guilty of “not listening” (who, me??), even when you are right there in front of the speaker, looking them in the eye? Communication experts say that 42% to 57% of our time communicating is spent listening – or maybe we should say “hearing,” since we all can be adept at hearing without listening!
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.


Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, The Accidental Library Marketer, and founded her own marketing consultancy, Libraries Are Essential. Her work is dedicated to helping librarians and information professionals promote their value and expertise in order to gain respect and funding.
Even if your library never completely closed to the public, you’ll still want to alert everyone when your building is fully open again. To draw people back to your spaces and services, your outreach will need to be creative and attention-getting, as well as thoughtful and reassuring. It will also need to be well-planned.
Kathy Dempsey wrote the popular how-to tome, The Accidental Library Marketer, and founded her own marketing consultancy, Libraries Are Essential. Her work is dedicated to helping librarians and information professionals promote their value and expertise in order to gain respect and funding.
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.
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.
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.
Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
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?
Holly Klingler, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Vanessa Bullock was appointed Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service in May 1997. She is employed as a mediator in the Philadelphia office located in the Northeast region. As a Commissioner, Ms. Bullock has mediated both Labor and Employment disputes in the private and public sectors. In addition to her primary duties of dispute mediation, she is responsible for curriculum development and training in a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) programs for the FMCS Institute; Federal Executive Board; and the Cornell University ILR Scrimmage program.
This highly interactive session will take an in depth look at the diversity in the workplace. The group will explore topics including the meaning of diversity and the benefits of a diverse workplace, inclusion, unconscious bias, and cultural competency and civility. Participants will discuss various workplace scenarios to explore these concepts. Training will include tips for creating an inclusive workplace and having difficult conversations about diversity and inclusion.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Vanessa Bullock was appointed Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service in May 1997. She is employed as a mediator in the Philadelphia office located in the Northeast region. As a Commissioner, Ms. Bullock has mediated both Labor and Employment disputes in the private and public sectors. In addition to her primary duties of dispute mediation, she is responsible for curriculum development and training in a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) programs for the FMCS Institute; Federal Executive Board; and the Cornell University ILR Scrimmage program.
Jen Johnson is the State Library of Ohio’s digitization consultant and project coordinator for Ohio Digital Network, Ohio’s DPLA hub.
This session will be a broad introduction to what disability is, what the Americans with Disabilities Act says, and how we in libraries can assist patrons with disabilities who use our services and spaces. We will cover a variety of topics including some disability statistics, examples of good and poor accessibility as well as where to get more information.
JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees. His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.

JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees. His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.
Security Specialist and Library Trainer, Eddie Kristan, will present 10 concrete and actionable solutions to difficult patron interactions with the goal of providing empathetic service, keeping staff safe, and upholding the principles of librarianship.
Eddie Kristan ran the Safety & Security Team at Warren-Newport Library in Gurnee, IL for 6 years before finishing graduate school and becoming a reference librarian and staff trainer in 2020. During his time as Head of Security, Eddie re-wrote procedure and advised on policy to turn a distrusted and counter-productive security team into a force of support and empathy for staff and the community. With the close help of Ryan Dowd (author of "A Librarian's Guide to Homelessness") and Warren Graham (author of "The Blackbelt Librarian"), Eddie was able to balance a need for confident enforcement of policy with a desperate need for trauma informed services and empathy in all things. He was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker in the Community Builder group in 2020 and Herbert Goldhor Award Winner for Public Librarianship by the University of Illinois School of Information Sciences in 2021. 

Eddie Kristan ran the Safety & Security Team at Warren-Newport Library in Gurnee, IL for 6 years before finishing graduate school and becoming a reference librarian and staff trainer in 2020. During his time as Head of Security, Eddie re-wrote procedure and advised on policy to turn a distrusted and counter-productive security team into a force of support and empathy for staff and the community. With the close help of Ryan Dowd (author of "A Librarian's Guide to Homelessness") and Warren Graham (author of "The Blackbelt Librarian"), Eddie was able to balance a need for confident enforcement of policy with a desperate need for trauma informed services and empathy in all things. He was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker in the Community Builder group in 2020 and Herbert Goldhor Award Winner for Public Librarianship by the University of Illinois School of Information Sciences in 2021.
Peter Adams is the News Literacy Project’s senior vice president of education and has been with the organization since 2009. He began his career in education as a classroom teacher in the New York City schools. He has also worked as a trainer with the New York City Teaching Fellows Program, a youth media after-school instructor in the Chicago public schools and an adjunct instructor at Roosevelt University and Chicago City Colleges.
Bias is one of the most controversial and important subjects in news literacy. People frequently perceive and allege bias in news coverage, but what does this really mean? What makes a piece of news biased, and who decides? What role do our own biases play in our perceptions of bias? In this session, we’ll help you teach this vital, complex topic in ways that empower students and customers to meaningfully evaluate the fairness and impartiality of news coverage.
Peter Adams is the News Literacy Project’s senior vice president of education and has been with the organization since 2009. He began his career in education as a classroom teacher in the New York City schools. He has also worked as a trainer with the New York City Teaching Fellows Program, a youth media after-school instructor in the Chicago public schools and an adjunct instructor at Roosevelt University and Chicago City Colleges.
Scott Warrick, JD, MLHR, CEQC, SHRM-SCP (www.scottwarrick.com) is both a practicing Employment Law Attorney and Human Resource Professional with almost 40 years of hands-on experience. Scott uses his unique background to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical, entertaining and humorous style.
Scott Warrick, JD, MLHR, CEQC, SHRM-SCP (www.scottwarrick.com) is both a practicing Employment Law Attorney and Human Resource Professional with almost 40 years of hands-on experience. Scott uses his unique background to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical, entertaining and humorous style.
Vania Sherepita is a JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) Specialist at the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. As a believer in social justice and equity for all, she has committed herself to maintaining a lens of empathy while seeking out the common ground where diverse communities can meet and mutually understand each other through passionate storytelling and compassionate listening. While working with organizations such as Human Rights Campaign, American Civil Liberties Union, and Equality Ohio, she has utilized emotional intelligence, social perceptiveness, and a stance of sincere vulnerability to negotiate, work with, and act as liaison between people of diverse backgrounds and differing opinions. As a JEDI Specialist at the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, she combines her passionate commitment to this work with her professional background in Consulting and Learning & Development (and just a pinch of on-stage experience) to facilitate workshops on creating and maintaining diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace climates.
Mannie Brown, Diversity, Equity and INclusion Consultant, SHIFT Consuting Team, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
Roger Rill is the President of the Ohio Society of Notaries, and 2019 National Notary Of The Year Special Honoree. The Ohio Society of Notaries is a non-profit, professional association dedicated to providing education, awareness, training, and advocacy for Ohio’s notaries.
One of the most difficult issues for frontline library staff to navigate is the balance between personalized service, which can devolve into special favors for well-liked customers, and even-handed consistency, which can become volumes of rigid rules. The key is to establish guidelines for how you treat all library users, regardless of who they are. The welcome for everyone, services that anyone can use, and common courtesy are standards that you can apply to every library visitor, including strangers, difficult customers, and people who are different from you.
Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.
One of the most difficult issues for frontline library staff to navigate is the balance between personalized service, which can devolve into special favors for well-liked customers, and even-handed consistency, which can become volumes of rigid rules. The key is to establish guidelines for how you treat all library users, regardless of who they are. The welcome for everyone, services that anyone can use, and common courtesy are standards that you can apply to every library visitor, including strangers, difficult customers, and people who are different from you.
Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant with 40 years of experience working for libraries, universities, local government, non-profits, and small businesses. She supports the success of libraries with programs on personnel, supervision, management, leadership, marketing, strategic planning, project management, and communication. Pat has worked with libraries and library organizations throughout the United States, from the smallest rural storefronts to the largest academic and urban library institutions. Pat also is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences. She is known for her good-humored and practical presentations.
JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees. His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.
This session will briefly talk about the Americans with Disabilities Act and what the law says about accommodations. Then we will segue into a discussion of what the accommodation process can look like and what to prepare for. Finally, we will discuss boundary setting and tips and tricks to navigating library workplaces with disabilities, especially chronic ones. This session will involve lecture, with a QA to follow, however questions are encouraged throughout the session.
JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees. His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.
Greg Hatch has served as Rocky River Public Library's Cowan Pottery Museum Curator since 2018. During his first two years he has launched a new all- ages art activity program, brought in ceramic artists for live demonstrations, and began digitizing the museum's records and archives. He began his curating career at Kent State University where he earned his BA in Art History and his Masters in Library Science. He then went on to earn his MFA in Sculpture from Ohio University where he gained experience as a museum educator.
Often libraries become the stewards of historic and cultural artifacts from their communities. These non-circulating collections can present unique challenges to public, special and academic libraries alike. In this webinar you will discover strategies for managing your institution's special collection and issues to consider as you balance access and preservation. You will be presented with resources for improving archival storage as well as options for giving your collection a virtual presence. At the end participants will have a chance to share experiences and best practices.
Greg Hatch has served as Rocky River Public Library's Cowan Pottery Museum Curator since 2018. During his first two years he has launched a new all- ages art activity program, brought in ceramic artists for live demonstrations, and began digitizing the museum's records and archives. He began his curating career at Kent State University where he earned his BA in Art History and his Masters in Library Science. He then went on to earn his MFA in Sculpture from Ohio University where he gained experience as a museum educator.
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
There was a day in the not-so-distant past when folks who needed access to reading materials, computer information, and other life pursuits, naturally sought out their local library.
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
Have you given much thought to why patrons come to your library? “They have to,” you say? Not so fast. In today’s world, they have a wealth of options to choose from when they need to access resource material, conduct research on a computer, or any other type of service or programming your library currently provides.
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.


Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
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
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built a robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.
Successful companies are made up of great employees, so why not hire great employees? Hiring and training employees is an expensive venture. Be sure to hire the right person for the right position. Hiring the right person is about more than skills and abilities; it is about finding the right combination of skills, attitude, and fit for your organization's culture.
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built a robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.
JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees. His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.
In this session, the presenter will talk about accessibility for people with disabilities during the accommodation process as well as increasing recruitment of people with disabilities. The presenter, a person with disabilities himself, will use personal experience to discuss these issues and will encourage questions throughout his session to elicit a robust discussion rather than a lecture.
JJ Pionke is the Applied Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is an award-winning librarian whose research revolves around disability and accessibility for library patrons and employees. His most recent work focuses on the educational and behavioral needs of library science graduate students and current library employees in regards to disability and accessibility in libraries.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
This interactive webinar will give participants an overview of traditional collective bargaining negotiations, typical contract provisions, “dos and don’ts” at the bargaining table and hot topics in collective bargaining. This webinar will help people new to negotiations learn about collective bargaining as well as giving seasoned bargaining team members the opportunity to brush up on their skills.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Jarrett Dapier has worked as a young adult librarian for over 10 years at Evanston Public Library and, most recently, at Skokie Public Library, both just outside Chicago, IL. He has written about policing and libraries for American Libraries and Library Journal and in 2019 was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker for his years of work producing teen theater in libraries. Also a children’s book author, his debut picture book, JAZZ FOR LUNCH!, was released by Simon & Schuster on September 7, 2021 and was followed by another, MR. WATSON'S CHICKENS, which was released by Chronicle Books on October 5, 2021. Both are available for purchase wherever you buy books.
Emily Knox is Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and an associate professor in the School of Information Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. Her book, Book Banning in 21st Century America (Rowman & Littlefield) is the first monograph in the Beta Phi Mu Scholars’ Series. Emily's articles have been published in the Library Quarterly, Library and Information Science Research, and the Journal of Intellectual Freedom and Privacy. She is president of the Board of Trustees of the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF) and serves on the boards of Beta Phi Mu and the National Coalition Against Censorship.
Presenters Jarrett Dapier and Dr. Emily Knox will present information regarding how/why to reduce police presence in libraries, how to change white supremacist library policies, and how "the fog of implicit bias" influences who is considered a threat and who is not in our spaces.
Jarrett Dapier has worked as a young adult librarian for over 10 years at Evanston Public Library and, most recently, at Skokie Public Library, both just outside Chicago, IL. He has written about policing and libraries for American Libraries and Library Journal and in 2019 was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker for his years of work producing teen theater in libraries. Also a children’s book author, his debut picture book, JAZZ FOR LUNCH!, was released by Simon & Schuster on September 7, 2021 and was followed by another, MR. WATSON'S CHICKENS, which was released by Chronicle Books on October 5, 2021. Both are available for purchase wherever you buy books.
Emily Knox is Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and an associate professor in the School of Information Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. Her book, Book Banning in 21st Century America (Rowman & Littlefield) is the first monograph in the Beta Phi Mu Scholars’ Series. Emily's articles have been published in the Library Quarterly, Library and Information Science Research, and the Journal of Intellectual Freedom and Privacy. She is president of the Board of Trustees of the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF) and serves on the boards of Beta Phi Mu and the National Coalition Against Censorship.
Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
Fundraising is as much an art as it is a science. In this introductory session, participants will learn what it takes to attract, engage and retain donors for fundraising success. We will review general fundraising concepts and discuss donor behavior and general donor approaches.
Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.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:
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 her diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor.
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:
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 her diverse skill set by incorporating early literacy, music, creativity, design, and humor.
Courtney L. Young is University Librarian at Colgate University. She graduated with a BA from The College of Wooster and earned a MS in Library Science from Simmons College (now University). Before coming to Colgate, she held library positions at Penn State University, Michigan State University, and The Ohio State University. Courtney has served in a variety of leadership roles in the American Library Association (ALA), including being elected the 2014-2015 ALA President. She is a recipient of the Simmons Alumni Achievement Award for Outstanding Achievement and Excellence in Library and Information Professional Endeavors. Courtney frequently presents and publishes on issues related to advocacy, academic librarianship, diversity, leadership, and professional development.
Many colleges and universities are (re)affirming their commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. To highlight and demonstrate that commitment, all units from across the institution are being asked how they are advancing this work. The development of collections, both print and electronic, is essential in academic libraries. They are also an obvious way for libraries to support these initiatives. Courtney L. Young, University Librarian at Colgate University and a Past President of the American Library Association, will discuss the importance of developing a diverse academic library collection.
Courtney L. Young is University Librarian at Colgate University. She graduated with a BA from The College of Wooster and earned a MS in Library Science from Simmons College (now University). Before coming to Colgate, she held library positions at Penn State University, Michigan State University, and The Ohio State University. Courtney has served in a variety of leadership roles in the American Library Association (ALA), including being elected the 2014-2015 ALA President. She is a recipient of the Simmons Alumni Achievement Award for Outstanding Achievement and Excellence in Library and Information Professional Endeavors. Courtney frequently presents and publishes on issues related to advocacy, academic librarianship, diversity, leadership, and professional development.
Tiffeni Fontno is the Head Librarian of the Educational Resource Center at Boston College. A former classroom teacher and school librarian, Tiffeni's areas of educational interest are in Curriculum & Instruction, Children & Young Adult Literature, and Educational Technology.
All children need to see themselves and people in our world in books. Building an inclusive collection is challenging. It's more than a diversity list. It requires reflection, investigation, exploration, and analysis. Tiffeni Fontno, Head Librarian, Educational Resource Center, Boston College, will talk about diverse collection building, evaluating, and resources to acquire diverse children's literature.
Tiffeni Fontno is the Head Librarian of the Educational Resource Center at Boston College. A former classroom teacher and school librarian, Tiffeni's areas of educational interest are in Curriculum & Instruction, Children & Young Adult Literature, and Educational Technology.
Alexandria Yurosko is the Marketing Content Manager for the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes. With a decade of experience in marketing, Alexandria has developed a passion for helping nonprofit organizations reach their target audiences through relevant and strategic marketing.
In this 2-hour session, we will explore how to leverage Canva to create content for social media, email marketing, and more. This course will cover the basics of graphic design and general rules to keep in mind when designing your next Instagram post or email header. Then, we will walk through the process of using Canva and some helpful features that can help your work look more professional! In the second half of the series, we will discuss social media trends and brainstorm ideas to take your digital marketing efforts to the next level. Time will be provided for discussion and questions.
Alexandria Yurosko is the Marketing Content Manager for the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes. With a decade of experience in marketing, Alexandria has developed a passion for helping nonprofit organizations reach their target audiences through relevant and strategic marketing.
Mark your calendars to attend the NEO-RLS 2021 Annual Membership and Appreciation Meeting on Tuesday, November 16, 2021.
Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention. Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing.
Providing care and customer service in a public setting is purposeful and wonderful work. However, without our ability to take care of ourselves outside of the work, we can become unwell and at risk of burnout. Our communities need you now more than ever! Let's come together to discuss how and why this work can be depleting and ways to seek and sustain balance so that we can keep doing it!
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention. Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing.
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.
Sara Lundenberger, director, nonprofit consulting, Dot Org Solutions
Fundraising involves more than just asking for gifts and hosting special events. There is also a significant amount of work to be done to manage the fundraising operation itself. A strong infrastructure helps your organization remain compliant, consistent and accurate. Plus, it helps you secure more gifts. This session will focus on the importance of strong systems, plans, policies and procedures for your development office.
Sara Lundenberger, director, nonprofit consulting, Dot Org Solutions
Millennials, Gen X, Baby Boomers: these terms can bring to mind both good and bad characteristics and personal attributes that may automatically influence the way we interact with clients and coworkers. This session will discuss some of the common age-based stereotypes and the way they can influence learning situations and workplace interactions. Different ways to (and not to) think about common situations will be presented so as to break down and prevent prejudices that might exist in your institution.
Jessica Curtis has worked in Ohio libraries for 20 years and is currently an adult services librarian for the Westerville Public Library. She specializes in creating user-friendly adult classes for emerging technology and library services. She is also an instructor for Kent State University's iSchool and the author of the ABC-CLIO publication, Teaching Adult Learners: A Guide for Public Librarians (2019).
Millennials, Gen X, Baby Boomers: these terms can bring to mind both good and bad characteristics and personal attributes that may automatically influence the way we interact with clients and coworkers. This session will discuss some of the common age-based stereotypes and the way they can influence learning situations and workplace interactions. Different ways to (and not to) think about common situations will be presented so as to break down and prevent prejudices that might exist in your institution.
Jessica Curtis has worked in Ohio libraries for 20 years and is currently an adult services librarian for the Westerville Public Library. She specializes in creating user-friendly adult classes for emerging technology and library services. She is also an instructor for Kent State University's iSchool and the author of the ABC-CLIO publication, Teaching Adult Learners: A Guide for Public Librarians (2019).
Managing and responding to the heightened emotions of others can be very challenging in the public service world. Our ability to do this well relies on our understanding of how stress impacts humans and more important, how we are able to regulate during times of increased stress in order to best manage the emotions of others.
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention. Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing. 
Managing and responding to the heightened emotions of others can be very challenging in the public service world. Our ability to do this well relies on our understanding of how stress impacts humans and more important, how we are able to regulate during times of increased stress in order to best manage the emotions of others.
Erin Turner, LISW-S, is the Intensive Services Program Manager at Crossroads/Beacon Health in Lake County and Adjunct Faculty for Youngstown State School of Social Work Graduate Program. She has worked in community mental health settings for over 20 years as a volunteer, direct service provider, clinical supervisor and program manager. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults with a variety of mental health issues, including trauma, mood disorders and crisis situations. Erin specializes in community based crisis intervention. Erin has provided multiple trainings within the context of Social Work including, Risk Assessment, Trauma, Compassion Fatigue and Motivational Interviewing.
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.
Mike Monaco is Coordinator, Cataloging Services at The University of Akron University Libraries. He has worked as a cataloger in public and academic libraries for twenty years. He has served as chair of the ALCTS Catalog Form and Function Interest Group, Coordinator of the Ohio Library Council Technical Services Division, and Chair of the Northern Ohio Technical Services Librarians Board, and presented at the ALA Annual Conference in 2019 and the Library Collective’s 2020 conference.
What is a MARC record, and more importantly, what is a good MARC record? Whether you’re vetting vendor-supplied records, copy cataloging, or creating original records, you will get something out of this webinar. We’ll take a quick tour of the MARC bibliographic format, explaining some of the fields that are important for a functional catalog. Then we’ll tackle some of the most frequent asked questions about cataloging: How many subject headings should a record have? Do we need contents and summary notes? What about series?
Mike Monaco is Coordinator, Cataloging Services at The University of Akron University Libraries. He has worked as a cataloger in public and academic libraries for twenty years. He has served as chair of the ALCTS Catalog Form and Function Interest Group, Coordinator of the Ohio Library Council Technical Services Division, and Chair of the Northern Ohio Technical Services Librarians Board, and presented at the ALA Annual Conference in 2019 and the Library Collective’s 2020 conference.
Caroline Smith is the Inclusive Services Consultant at the South Carolina State Library. She focuses on issues of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility within libraries and provides support to library staff across the state of South Carolina. Her goal is to advocate for libraries that are truly inclusive of the diverse communities they serve. Caroline received her Master's in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina in 2011 and was recognized by Library Journal as a 2020 Mover & Shaker. Prior to her current position, she worked for the Charleston County Public Library in a variety of roles for nine years.
Learn about the foundational principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility and how they affect libraries. How is cultural competence and cultural humility applied in your library practice? How can your library work towards becoming more equitable and inclusive of both internal and external customers? What are the roles of managers and staff in working towards positive change across the organization? The presenter will share tips, resources, and sample programs that can be applied in a variety of library settings.
Caroline Smith is the Inclusive Services Consultant at the South Carolina State Library. She focuses on issues of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility within libraries and provides support to library staff across the state of South Carolina. Her goal is to advocate for libraries that are truly inclusive of the diverse communities they serve. Caroline received her Master's in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina in 2011 and was recognized by Library Journal as a 2020 Mover & Shaker. Prior to her current position, she worked for the Charleston County Public Library in a variety of roles for nine years.
Caitlin Hawkins, Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
As a community social worker, Caitlin is passionate about creative, authentic engagement in workplaces and communities. Her educational and professional experiences in community development and higher education lead her to the understanding that relationships matter, and that relationships with people who are different from ourselves provide opportunities for immense growth and collaboration, as long as we know how to harness those connections. At The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, she works alongside businesses and organizations through every step of the consulting process and engages staff in customized workshops around the topics of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Caitlin works with the express intention of facilitating the growth of inclusive and equitable workplaces.
Vania Sherepita is a JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) Specialist at the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. As a believer in social justice and equity for all, she has committed herself to maintaining a lens of empathy while seeking out the common ground where diverse communities can meet and mutually understand each other through passionate storytelling and compassionate listening. While working with organizations such as Human Rights Campaign, American Civil Liberties Union, and Equality Ohio, she has utilized emotional intelligence, social perceptiveness, and a stance of sincere vulnerability to negotiate, work with, and act as liaison between people of diverse backgrounds and differing opinions. As a JEDI Specialist at the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, she combines her passionate commitment to this work with her professional background in Consulting and Learning & Development (and just a pinch of on-stage experience) to facilitate workshops on creating and maintaining diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace climates.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
Join Peter Miller of Millerdodson Capital Reserve Consultants as he shares his expertise in creating a master facilities replacement plan. A roundtable discussion will follow the webinar.
Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
There is no single way to approach a donor and ask for a gift. But there are strategies to help organizations communicate with and make solicitations at all stages of the donor lifecycle. In this session, participants will learn strategies to approach donors at all levels, run an annual campaign and understand the nuances of major gift fundraising.
Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.” Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates. Scott will not only inform you of these important changes, but he will use his over three decades of Employment Law/Human Resource Management experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!
Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.” Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Brenda Hough is a librarian, writer, and learning professional with 25 years of professional experience working in and supporting libraries by providing training and consulting services. She is the author of Crash Course in Time Management for Library Staff and the co-editor of WebJunction’s Competency Index for the Library Field. She is an adjunct instructor for Emporia State University (KS). She has worked on projects for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, WebJunction, the Public Library Association, Infopeople, California Libraries Learn (CALL), the State Library of Arizona, the State Library of Oregon, the Northeast Kansas Library System, and more. She is the owner of EluciDare Learning.
Since joining OCLC’s WebJunction team in 2005, Betha Gutsche has contributed to library staff training through compiling the Competency Index for the Library Field, developing curricula, delivering training, and exploring new strategies. In addition to leading many grant-funded projects, Betha created curriculum and training for Small Libraries Create Smart Spaces, Supercharged Storytimes, Wikipedia + Libraries, and Creating Pathways to Civil Legal Justice. Betha received her MLIS from the University of Washington Information School and interned with the Gates Foundation U.S. Libraries Program 2002-2004.
Meghan Harper, Ph.D. Director and Professor, School of Information at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.
Eddie Kristan ran the Safety & Security Team at Warren-Newport Library in Gurnee, IL for nearly 7 years before finishing his MLIS to become a reference librarian and staff training coordinator in 2020. During his time as Head of Security, Eddie re-wrote procedure and advised on policy to turn a distrusted and counter-productive security team into a force of support and empathy for staff and the community. With the help of Ryan Dowd (author of "A Librarian's Guide to Homelessness") and Warren Graham (author of "The Black Belt Librarian") Eddie was able to balance a need for confident enforcement of policy with a desperate need for trauma informed services and empathy in all things. He was named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker in the Community Builder group in 2020 and Herbert Goldhor Award Winner for Public Librarianship by the University of Illinois School of Information Sciences in 2021. As Staff Training Coordinator, Eddie has developed monthly content for his library on a wide range of subjects including Person Pronouns, Trauma Informed Services, Material Challenges, and Bystander Intervention.
Nicole Bryan, MLS Neighborhood Library Supervisor, Brooklyn Public Library
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
John is a business owner and private consultant. His company: Winsoft Computer Education, has provided corporate training and consulting to business organizations for over twenty years. During this time, he has been a frequent trainer to libraries throughout Ohio. John specializes in Microsoft applications but has trained on many platforms. His courses include Office applications, Adobe, Project Management, database management, report writing, and more. In addition to training, John provides consulting services, focusing particularly on database creation for managing projects, departments, or company-wide functions.
Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.” Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Join Scott Warrick as he reviews the most recent and most important employment law changes and updates. Scott will not only inform you of these important changes, but he will use his over three decades of Employment Law/Human Resource Management experience to tell you how to use this information IMMEDIATELY!
Scott Warrick combines the areas of law and human resources to assist organizations in “Solving Employee Problems BEFORE They Happen.” Scott uses his unique background of LAW and HUMAN RESOURCES to help organizations get where they want to go, which includes coaching and training managers and employees in his own unique, practical and entertaining style.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Interest-Based Bargaining (IBB) is an alternative to traditional collective bargaining and focuses on collaboration and exploring party interests. This highly interactive webinar will cover the principles of IBB, and participants will have a hands-on opportunity to apply IBB to a workplace scenario. This training is for both experienced and novice negotiators.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Lindsey Dorfman is a dynamic leader dedicated to strengthening libraries through curiosity, compassion, and connection. While serving the Kent District Library (MI) as their Director of Branch Services and Operations, she received a Library Journal Mover and Shaker Award for her work spearheading the KDL Way, a customer service model based on kindness, empathy, and love. Ms. Dorfman currently serves as Director of the Glenview Public Library, located just north of the city of Chicago.
Authentically connecting with people through kindness and compassion is more important than ever. Libraries are perfectly positioned to enhance social connections and positively impact lives through thoughtful and dependable patron service.
Lindsey Dorfman is a dynamic leader dedicated to strengthening libraries through curiosity, compassion, and connection. While serving the Kent District Library (MI) as their Director of Branch Services and Operations, she received a Library Journal Mover and Shaker Award for her work spearheading the KDL Way, a customer service model based on kindness, empathy, and love. Ms. Dorfman currently serves as Director of the Glenview Public Library, located just north of the city of Chicago.
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.
Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families.As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
Small organizations often avoid promoting planned giving opportunities to donors. Many don’t know where to start and others are nervous because planned giving seems too complex to manage. This session will focus on the basics of planned giving and how even the smallest of organizations can promote planned giving as part of their fundraising programs.
Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families.As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
Brittany Burchett has been working in various libraries for the past ten years in Cincinnati, Midpointe, and Greene County Public Library. Brittany has been with GCPL for five years and is the Head Librarian at the Beavercreek Community Library.
Sue Jeffery has nearly fifteen years of academic, school and public library experience in Massachusetts, Hawaii, and in Ohio with Greene County Public Library. Sue has served the last seven years as Head Librarian in two GCPL locations and currently manages the Winters Bellbrook Community Library.
Melissa Fasanella has more than 24 years of working academic/public library experience. Melissa’s has worked in libraries at The Ohio State University, various public library locations in Cincinnati, and Greene County Public Library. Melissa has served as the Head Librarian at the Xenia Community Library for the past five years.
Keesha Chambers Summers is in her thirteenth year as the Head of Youth Services at the Xenia Community Library. Keesha previously worked in a variety of public and academic library positions in Georgia that included bibliographic instruction, interlibrary loan, and management.
Libraries have faced insurmountable changes in the past year. How can libraries carefully adapt to this new normal and keep their team spirit? Our panelists will discuss how they were successful in getting their teams on board with cross-training.
Brittany Burchett has been working in various libraries for the past ten years in Cincinnati, Midpointe, and Greene County Public Library. Brittany has been with GCPL for five years and is the Head Librarian at the Beavercreek Community Library.
Sue Jeffery has nearly fifteen years of academic, school and public library experience in Massachusetts, Hawaii, and in Ohio with Greene County Public Library. Sue has served the last seven years as Head Librarian in two GCPL locations and currently manages the Winters Bellbrook Community Library.
Melissa Fasanella has more than 24 years of working academic/public library experience. Melissa’s has worked in libraries at The Ohio State University, various public library locations in Cincinnati, and Greene County Public Library. Melissa has served as the Head Librarian at the Xenia Community Library for the past five years.
Keesha Chambers Summers is in her thirteenth year as the Head of Youth Services at the Xenia Community Library. Keesha previously worked in a variety of public and academic library positions in Georgia that included bibliographic instruction, interlibrary loan, and management.
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.
CJ Lynce, Assistant Director, Westlake Porter Public Library
Gerry Vogel has been assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library since May 2006
CJ Lynce, Assistant Director, Westlake Porter Public Library
Gerry Vogel has been assistant director of Avon Lake Public Library since May 2006
Want to get a little more life from your paperbacks? Need a few more circs on your best sellers before they fall apart? If so, then this program is for you! Loaded with useful information on how to get the most from your collection, this program covers a wide range of book repair techniques. While some techniques may be applicable, this program is not recommended for those interested in archival repair.
Bobbie Patridge is the supervisor of the Conservation and Processing departments at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. Bobbie has been mentoring new conservationists and has been teaching interested groups on materials repair for over thirty years.
Bobbie Patridge is the supervisor of the Conservation and Processing departments at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. Bobbie has been mentoring new conservationists and has been teaching interested groups on materials repair for over thirty years.
John is a business owner and private consultant. His company, Winsoft Computer Education, has provided corporate training and consulting to business organizations for over twenty years. During this time, he has been a frequent trainer to libraries throughout Ohio. John specializes in Microsoft applications but has trained on many platforms. His courses include Office applications, Adobe, Project Management, database management, report writing, and more. In addition to training, John provides consulting services, focusing particularly on database creation for managing projects, departments, or company-wide functions.
Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC. She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant. She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations. Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations. Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.
Knowing which recruitment strategies to use for hiring non-librarian professional positions has always been a challenge in our libraries, and has been especially difficult during the Pandemic. In this course, you will learn creative websites to use for recruitment and creative ways to use existing websites. You will also learn how to utilize partners and vendors to assist you in sorting through the deluge of resumes that you will receive.
Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC. She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant. She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations. Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations. Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.
This training will provide practical tools to help staff and supervisors empower employees/colleagues. It will also provide ways to stay productive and inspired in the face of new challenges.
Learning Objectives:
Presenter:
Nicole Bryan, MLS Neighborhood Library Supervisor, Brooklyn Public Library
Nicole has spent some of her career within the social services arena, developing programs and meeting constituents' needs. Currently, she assess the delivery of library services, by employing trauma-informed methods, to transitional populations in public library branches and homeless shelters in Brooklyn, N.Y. She received her MLS degree from Long Island University.
This training will provide practical tools to help staff and supervisors empower employees/colleagues. It will also provide ways to stay productive and inspired in the face of new challenges.
Learning Objectives:
Presenter:
Nicole Bryan, MLS Neighborhood Library Supervisor, Brooklyn Public Library
Nicole has spent some of her career within the social services arena, developing programs and meeting constituents' needs. Currently, she assess the delivery of library services, by employing trauma-informed methods, to transitional populations in public library branches and homeless shelters in Brooklyn, N.Y. She received her MLS degree from Long Island University.

Cari Hillman has nearly 20 years of marketing experience, though she uses assorted social media filters to make it look more like 5. She serves as the community engagement director for the MidPointe Library System in southwest Ohio, overseeing library marketing, system-wide programming and community partnership development. She assists on multiple local boards and committees, including Downtown Middletown Inc. and Women Enriching Lives. Additionally, she is the chair of the CSLP Social Media Committee. She hates Twitter, loves Instagram and dreams of enlisting TikTok celebrities in her library marketing campaigns.
Cari Hillman, Community Engagement Director of the MidPointe Library System shares marketing tips and tricks to help make your summer a success. Scalable to libraries of all sizes, this session will outline the power of a comprehensive marketing plan and (if applicable) ways to use CSLP resources for your marketing mix.
Cari Hillman has nearly 20 years of marketing experience, though she uses assorted social media filters to make it look more like 5. She serves as the community engagement director for the MidPointe Library System in southwest Ohio, overseeing library marketing, system-wide programming and community partnership development. She assists on multiple local boards and committees, including Downtown Middletown Inc. and Women Enriching Lives. Additionally, she is the chair of the CSLP Social Media Committee. She hates Twitter, loves Instagram and dreams of enlisting TikTok celebrities in her library marketing campaigns.
Mental Health First Aid is a training course designed to give members of the public key skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Just as CPR training helps a layperson without medical training assist an individual following a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid training helps a layperson assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis. This course will run 9:00 am - 3:30 pm. There will be two hours worth of pre-work before the online workshop. This course is limited to 30. We will take a waitlist. Register for this class only if you are able to attend. This class will not be archived.
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019.
Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
Your donors and prospective donors are bombarded with information – just like the rest of us. In fact, the average person encounters an estimated 6,000-10,000 marketing messages/ads per day both online and in person. Participants in this session will learn ways their organization can reach donors through the everyday noise and distractions.
Amy Wong, president, Dot Org Solutions, believes the world is a better place because of the special work nonprofits do for our communities, making them better places to live, work and raise families. As president of Dot Org Solutions, she is a champion for small businesses for the role they play in creating jobs, delivering important products and services, and keeping the economy strong. Her goal for nonprofits and small businesses is to get the recognition they deserve for the role they play in the success of our communities. She supports this goal through volunteer activities, mentoring other business owners and the relationships the Dot Org team develops with its clients and partners.
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
As new supervisors you may find unresolved challenges with your staff that need to be addressed sooner rather than later. How do you go about addressing something that might have been brewing for a long time without Rocking the Boat? Learn how to use expectations, goals, communication, follow-up and follow-through to right the ship and move forward with confidence.
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
Ericableu Bartik has enjoyed a varied library career. She has worked as a both a reference and music librarian in academic and public libraries. In 2009, she joined Cuyahoga County Public Library’s collection development department where she selects adult nonfiction, music, and magazines and newspapers.
This is for new adult paraprofessionals/librarians or staff who may be new to collecting, providing reader's advisory or creating displays for the diverse non-fiction found throughout library collections.
Ericableu Bartik has enjoyed a varied library career. She has worked as a both a reference and music librarian in academic and public libraries. In 2009, she joined Cuyahoga County Public Library’s collection development department where she selects adult nonfiction, music, and magazines and newspapers.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:
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.
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:
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.
Wendy Tressler Jasper, M.Ed, MLIS, is a part time Library Consultant and works full time as the Manager of Capital Planning & Construction, Columbus Metropolitan Library. Over the past 18 years, Wendy Tressler Jasper has worked in a variety of management roles at the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) beginning her career in the HR department as the Organizational Development Manager. After 7 years working on a variety of HR projects (such as, training on Customer Service, Diversity, Management, and Reference Skills, revision of Policies & Procedures, Job Descriptions, creation of a Wellness Program, Unobtrusive Survey, and Staff Development Day), she transitioned to the Project Management & Quality Department to serve as manager. Ms. Jasper and her team worked on a variety of projects including process improvements in support and public services, the creation of the Outdoor Reading Room at Columbus Commons Park (which gained national press), and the creation and implementation of project management methodology across the system. Her knowledge of project management lead Wendy to be assigned as a member of the 2020 Vision Plan (CML’s aspirational building program) core team in 2012. In 2013, she joined the 2020 Vision Plan department full time and to date has lead the completion of ten building projects including the renovation of Main Library. In addition to her work at CML, she is involved in external leadership roles with OLC and ALA-LLAMA, including serving as Chair of the Executive Committee of LLAMA’s Building and Equipment Committee and is a member of LLAMA’s Project Management Committee.
Interested in learning more about library building projects? In this session, we will cover an overview of common terms, provide sample design and construction timelines, share examples for communicating with patrons, as well as, review land selection criteria, and considerations for when to renovate or build new. At the end of the session, we will provide an overview of the upcoming sessions. There will be ample time for questions. The session will be facilitated by Wendy Tressler, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library. Wendy has worked on library building projects of all shapes and sizes for over a decade. She also is active with ALA Core Building & Operations Section serving on the Building & Operations Leadership Committee.
Wendy Tressler Jasper, M.Ed, MLIS, is a part time Library Consultant and works full time as the Manager of Capital Planning & Construction, Columbus Metropolitan Library. Over the past 18 years, Wendy Tressler Jasper has worked in a variety of management roles at the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) beginning her career in the HR department as the Organizational Development Manager. After 7 years working on a variety of HR projects (such as, training on Customer Service, Diversity, Management, and Reference Skills, revision of Policies & Procedures, Job Descriptions, creation of a Wellness Program, Unobtrusive Survey, and Staff Development Day), she transitioned to the Project Management & Quality Department to serve as manager. Ms. Jasper and her team worked on a variety of projects including process improvements in support and public services, the creation of the Outdoor Reading Room at Columbus Commons Park (which gained national press), and the creation and implementation of project management methodology across the system. Her knowledge of project management lead Wendy to be assigned as a member of the 2020 Vision Plan (CML’s aspirational building program) core team in 2012. In 2013, she joined the 2020 Vision Plan department full time and to date has lead the completion of ten building projects including the renovation of Main Library. In addition to her work at CML, she is involved in external leadership roles with OLC and ALA-LLAMA, including serving as Chair of the Executive Committee of LLAMA’s Building and Equipment Committee and is a member of LLAMA’s Project Management Committee.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Whether you are a new a supervisor or a seasoned manager, this interactive webinar will help you enhance your skills in managing your team. The webinar will focus on building a cohesive team and creating and maintaining trust. It will also provide a step-by-step guide for having difficult conversations and give participants the opportunity to practice conversations about common work situations.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
A superb high school librarian, in a discussion of making a place for all stories, explained the groups she was expanding her collection to more accurately and completely represent. When I asked about voices of those living in generational poverty, she paused and very honestly replied, “I never thought about representation and socioeconomics.” And proceeded to ask me about titles. So in this webinar, we will do just that: think about our children and teens navigating the world today living in poverty – both their joys and challenges. And how to develop our collections to represent their voices. There will be time for questions and answers, and sharing our stories. Please visit Christina's website to get a taste of who she is and what she does: www.opendorrs2books.com
Learning Objectives:
Christina Dorr’s love affair with books began early when her mother took her to the tiny, red-brick public library in their village. This involvement has led her to become an award-winning librarian, faculty member, author, presenter, and consultant. She has served on a number of state and national book award committees, including the Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, Geisel Award, and Stonewall committees. Profiles in Resilience: Books for Children and Teens that Center the Lived Experience of Generational Poverty is her third book, and second published by the American Library Association. You can visit her website at www.opendorrs2books.com.
A superb high school librarian, in a discussion of making a place for all stories, explained the groups she was expanding her collection to more accurately and completely represent. When I asked about voices of those living in generational poverty, she paused and very honestly replied, “I never thought about representation and socioeconomics.” And proceeded to ask me about titles. So in this webinar, we will do just that: think about our children and teens navigating the world today living in poverty – both their joys and challenges. And how to develop our collections to represent their voices. There will be time for questions and answers, and sharing our stories. Please visit Christina's website to get a taste of who she is and what she does: www.opendorrs2books.com
Learning Objectives:
Christina Dorr’s love affair with books began early when her mother took her to the tiny, red-brick public library in their village. This involvement has led her to become an award-winning librarian, faculty member, author, presenter, and consultant. She has served on a number of state and national book award committees, including the Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, Geisel Award, and Stonewall committees. Profiles in Resilience: Books for Children and Teens that Center the Lived Experience of Generational Poverty is her third book, and second published by the American Library Association. You can visit her website at www.opendorrs2books.com.

There are so many ways to get information these days. Tweets, texts, news feeds, search engines, and social media bring it to us with a touch at all hours. When any newsclip or meme you want can be retweeted, pushed, or streamed with little effort and (sometimes) even less thought, how can library users determine the credibility and authority of what they’ve discovered? With information in different formats on disparate platforms, how can librarians help their community members make sophisticated decisions instead of uninformed leaps? How has the value of information changed for library users, who’ve become skeptical of experts and challenged the value of public discourse?
Megan Mamolen is a Librarian and Assistant Professor at Lakeland Community College. During her time at Lakeland, Megan has provided information literacy education and reference services, and has served as e-resources manager. Megan is interested in creating unique library programming that highlights the Association of College and Research Libraries’ information literacy framework as well as mental health resources that are available in the library and throughout the college.
Thomas Hyland is the Library Program Chair and a Professor at Lakeland Community College. Thomas focuses on information literacy instruction, specializing in active learning in the classroom and the assessment of student learning outcomes.
Megan Mamolen is a Librarian and Assistant Professor at Lakeland Community College. During her time at Lakeland, Megan has provided information literacy education and reference services, and has served as e-resources manager. Megan is interested in creating unique library programming that highlights the Association of College and Research Libraries’ information literacy framework as well as mental health resources that are available in the library and throughout the college.
Thomas Hyland is the Library Program Chair and a Professor at Lakeland Community College. Thomas focuses on information literacy instruction, specializing in active learning in the classroom and the assessment of student learning outcomes.
Rick Ortmeyer has 30 years of experience serving the public sector and institutional clients, providing him with a deep understanding of the responsibilities inherent to institutions supported through public and philanthropic funding. His career experience includes over 80 library planning and design projects, 45 with Bostwick Design Partnership since he joined the firm in 2003.
Curious about what's new in library design? In this session, we will cover an overview of current trends in library design with a panel of experts in library design. Case studies of 5 new buildings will be reviewed to highlight examples in action. There will be ample time for questions. The session will be moderated by Wendy Tressler, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library. The panel of experts include:
Rick Ortmeyer has 30 years of experience serving the public sector and institutional clients, providing him with a deep understanding of the responsibilities inherent to institutions supported through public and philanthropic funding. His career experience includes over 80 library planning and design projects, 45 with Bostwick Design Partnership since he joined the firm in 2003.
Critical cataloging as a subset of Critical Librarianship has been around for decades but has been getting more well-known and gaining support recently. In this presentation we will review what critical cataloging is, the changes that the Library of Congress has been making recently, and what libraries can do locally to support a more ethical catalog.
Mary DeGenaro is the Chief Legal Counsel for Auditor of State Keith Faber, the third branch of government in which she has served Ohio. For 18 years she served in the judiciary as the 159th justice of the Ohio Supreme Court and as a judge on the Seventh District Court of Appeals, comprised of Belmont, Carroll, Columbiana, Harrison, Jefferson, Mahoning, Monroe and Noble Counties. Prior to that she was a member of Poland Village Council.
Recorded 5/10/2022
Mary DeGenaro is the Chief Legal Counsel for Auditor of State Keith Faber, the third branch of government in which she has served Ohio. For 18 years she served in the judiciary as the 159th justice of the Ohio Supreme Court and as a judge on the Seventh District Court of Appeals, comprised of Belmont, Carroll, Columbiana, Harrison, Jefferson, Mahoning, Monroe and Noble Counties. Prior to that she was a member of Poland Village Council.
Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in youth. This 6-hour training gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to children and adolescents (ages 6-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care.
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019.
John is a business owner and private consultant. His company, Winsoft Computer Education, has provided corporate training and consulting to business organizations for over twenty years. During this time, he has been a frequent trainer to libraries throughout Ohio. John specializes in Microsoft applications but has trained on many platforms. His courses include Office applications, Adobe, Project Management, database management, report writing, and more. In addition to training, John provides consulting services, focusing particularly on database creation for managing projects, departments, or company-wide functions.
Dr. April Dawkins is an assistant professor in the Library and Information Science department at UNC Greensboro. She teaches Materials for Adolescents, Legal & Ethical Issues in School Libraries, and Reading, Literacy, and the Library. Dr. Dawkins is a member of the School Library Research editorial board. She is also the editor of Intellectual Freedom Issues in School Libraries (Libraries Unlimited, 2017). Her research interests include intellectual freedom, self-censorship, and access and equity issues in school libraries and diversity in young adult literature.
Recorded 5/18/2022
Dr. April Dawkins is an assistant professor in the Library and Information Science department at UNC Greensboro. She teaches Materials for Adolescents, Legal & Ethical Issues in School Libraries, and Reading, Literacy, and the Library. Dr. Dawkins is a member of the School Library Research editorial board. She is also the editor of Intellectual Freedom Issues in School Libraries (Libraries Unlimited, 2017). Her research interests include intellectual freedom, self-censorship, and access and equity issues in school libraries and diversity in young adult literature.Identify legal elements of financing library projects.
Utilizing facilities plans in the budget process
Rebecca Princehorn, Partner, Bricker & Eckler LLP
Lauren Hagan, Chief Financial Officer/Fiscal Officer, Columbus Metropolitan Library
Recorded 5/19/2022Identify legal elements of financing library projects.
Utilizing facilities plans in the budget process
Rebecca Princehorn, Partner, Bricker & Eckler LLP
Lauren Hagan, Chief Financial Officer/Fiscal Officer, Columbus Metropolitan LibraryMaking certain LGBTQIA+ books are accessible for all children is more important than ever, but would-be censors are making it much more difficult. We will talk about why these books are a critical part of your collection and how to deal with would-be censors and other stakeholders. We will suggest ways to make sure your teens continue to view your library as a safe space with the books they need. And finally, we will share some of the newest books published in the past year.
There will be time for questions.
Learning Objectives:
Presenters:
Please visit our websites to get a taste of who we are and what we do.
Dr. Christina Dorr. https://www.opendorrs2books.com/
Christina Dorr’s love affair with books began early when her mother took her to the tiny, red-brick public library in their village. This involvement has led her to become an award-winning librarian, faculty member, author, presenter, and consultant. She has served on a number of state and national book award committees, including the Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, Geisel Award, and Stonewall committees. Profiles in Resilience: Books for Children and Teens that Center the Lived Experience of Generational Poverty is her third book, and second published by the American Library Association.
Liz Deskins. http://www.lizdeskins.com
Lizabeth (Liz) Deskins began teaching as an adjunct instructor for Kent State’s School Library Media K-12 Program in 2017. Prior to teaching at Kent State, Liz taught graduate courses in education and library science at Ohio Dominican University for eight years. In addition, Liz has taught multiple online courses and webinars for the American Library Association's AASL and ALSC divisions, as well as for INFOhio. Liz has worked 30+ years as a school librarian. Liz’s master’s degree focused on literature for children and young adults. She has co-authored two books with Dr. Christina Dorr: Linking Picture Book Biographies to National Content Standards: 200+ Lives to Explore (ABC-Clio, 2015) and LGBTQAI+ Books for Children and Teens: Providing a Window for All (ALA Editions, 2018). Her latest book is Content Area Collaborations for Secondary Grades, published by ALA Editions in 2019.
Recorded 5/24/2022
Making certain LGBTQIA+ books are accessible for all children is more important than ever, but would-be censors are making it much more difficult. We will talk about why these books are a critical part of your collection and how to deal with would-be censors and other stakeholders. We will suggest ways to make sure your teens continue to view your library as a safe space with the books they need. And finally, we will share some of the newest books published in the past year.
There will be time for questions.
Learning Objectives:
Presenters:
Please visit our websites to get a taste of who we are and what we do.
Dr. Christina Dorr. https://www.opendorrs2books.com/
Christina Dorr’s love affair with books began early when her mother took her to the tiny, red-brick public library in their village. This involvement has led her to become an award-winning librarian, faculty member, author, presenter, and consultant. She has served on a number of state and national book award committees, including the Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, Geisel Award, and Stonewall committees. Profiles in Resilience: Books for Children and Teens that Center the Lived Experience of Generational Poverty is her third book, and second published by the American Library Association.
Liz Deskins. http://www.lizdeskins.com
Lizabeth (Liz) Deskins began teaching as an adjunct instructor for Kent State’s School Library Media K-12 Program in 2017. Prior to teaching at Kent State, Liz taught graduate courses in education and library science at Ohio Dominican University for eight years. In addition, Liz has taught multiple online courses and webinars for the American Library Association's AASL and ALSC divisions, as well as for INFOhio. Liz has worked 30+ years as a school librarian. Liz’s master’s degree focused on literature for children and young adults. She has co-authored two books with Dr. Christina Dorr: Linking Picture Book Biographies to National Content Standards: 200+ Lives to Explore (ABC-Clio, 2015) and LGBTQAI+ Books for Children and Teens: Providing a Window for All (ALA Editions, 2018). Her latest book is Content Area Collaborations for Secondary Grades, published by ALA Editions in 2019.
Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC. She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant. She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations. Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations. Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.
Recorded 6/1/2022
Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC. She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant. She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations. Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations. Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization. 
Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
Recorded 6/2/2022
Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College. 
Recorded 6/14/2022
Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College.
Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC. She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant. She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations. Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations. Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.
Recorded 6/22/2022
Pam Linger is an experienced Human Resources professional and owner of PML Consulting, LLC. She has experience working both inside organizations as an HR professional, and outside organizations, as an HR consultant. She often serves as an outsourced HR Manager for small to medium-sized organizations. Her specialization is in executive and career coaching and handling difficult employee relations situations. Pam believes that the most important characteristic of an excellent HR professional is the ability to balance the needs of the employees, effectively and compassionately, with those of the organization.
Recorded 7/12/2022
Andrew Sanderbeck is a respected expert presenter and consultant for libraries and library organizations on communication skills, customer service and self-care. He has presented at many national, state and regional conferences, as well as international conferences in the United Arab Emirates and more than a dozen European Countries. He is the past board president of the Haywood County Public Libraries in Western North Carolina and now resides in Bradenton, Florida.
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and co-chairs PLA’s Membership Advisory Group. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.
Recorded 7/13/2022
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and co-chairs PLA’s Membership Advisory Group. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.You’ve decided to renovate your library either in its entirety or just a section. This session will cover case studies of recent library renovations in the state of Ohio. The presenters will share what decisions they had to make during the design and construction process, as well as lessons learned. There will be ample time for questions.
Learning Objectives:Learn what design considerations to contemplate when renovating a library.
Hear lessons learned from recent renovation projects in Ohio libraries.
Peter Bolek, President and Director of design for HBM Architects, is the heart of the firm’s collaborative working model, taking an active role in both strategic and detailed design solutions in the studio. His passion lies in the belief that in addition to solving complex and pragmatic needs of a client’s program, design has the transformative power to enhance our everyday life experiences. Peter provides design leadership and insight into all the firm’s projects, as well as acting as the project designer on the firm’s most significant projects.
Wendy Tressler, M.Ed, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library
Throughout the past two decades, Wendy Tressler, M.Ed., MLIS has worked in a variety of leadership roles at Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML). Currently serving as the Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, she leads construction, facilities, technology, and lean/operational excellence projects for the library’s 24-building system. In her role, Tressler leads the library’s nearly $275M aspirational building program that includes the replacement or significant renovation of 18 buildings to date.
Ms. Tressler is one of only a few women in Ohio leading construction management, and is recognized as an expert in library facilities building planning and project management. Her expertise and consultation has been shared widely; presenting and serving on numerous local, state, regional and national panels for the library, architecture and construction industries. Tressler’s leadership experience includes the Ohio Library Council and American Library Association (ALA). She has also guest lectured at Kent State University- Columbus Campus Master of Library Information Sciences (MLIS) program and Syracuse University Online MLIS program on project management in libraries. Tressler has been a member of ALA’s Core Library Interiors & Furnishings and Equipment committee since 2014 and was appointed Chair of the Building and Operations Section Leadership Team.
Recorded 7/14/2022
You’ve decided to renovate your library either in its entirety or just a section. This session will cover case studies of recent library renovations in the state of Ohio. The presenters will share what decisions they had to make during the design and construction process, as well as lessons learned. There will be ample time for questions.
Learn what design considerations to contemplate when renovating a library.
Hear lessons learned from recent renovation projects in Ohio libraries.
Peter Bolek, President and Director of design for HBM Architects, is the heart of the firm’s collaborative working model, taking an active role in both strategic and detailed design solutions in the studio. His passion lies in the belief that in addition to solving complex and pragmatic needs of a client’s program, design has the transformative power to enhance our everyday life experiences. Peter provides design leadership and insight into all the firm’s projects, as well as acting as the project designer on the firm’s most significant projects.
Wendy Tressler, M.Ed, MLIS, Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, Columbus Metropolitan Library
Throughout the past two decades, Wendy Tressler, M.Ed., MLIS has worked in a variety of leadership roles at Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML). Currently serving as the Director of Capital Planning & Project Management, she leads construction, facilities, technology, and lean/operational excellence projects for the library’s 24-building system. In her role, Tressler leads the library’s nearly $275M aspirational building program that includes the replacement or significant renovation of 18 buildings to date.
Ms. Tressler is one of only a few women in Ohio leading construction management, and is recognized as an expert in library facilities building planning and project management. Her expertise and consultation has been shared widely; presenting and serving on numerous local, state, regional and national panels for the library, architecture and construction industries. Tressler’s leadership experience includes the Ohio Library Council and American Library Association (ALA). She has also guest lectured at Kent State University- Columbus Campus Master of Library Information Sciences (MLIS) program and Syracuse University Online MLIS program on project management in libraries. Tressler has been a member of ALA’s Core Library Interiors & Furnishings and Equipment committee since 2014 and was appointed Chair of the Building and Operations Section Leadership Team.
Misty Alvaro is the Materials Manager for Columbus Metropolitan Library, in charge of all cataloging and processing operations. They have worked in public, academic, and special libraries; in all functional areas from circulation and public services librarianship to special collections cataloging and management.
Recorded 7/21/2022
Misty Alvaro is the Materials Manager for Columbus Metropolitan Library, in charge of all cataloging and processing operations. They have worked in public, academic, and special libraries; in all functional areas from circulation and public services librarianship to special collections cataloging and management.Learn tips and tricks for selecting furniture.
Identify considerations in selecting fabric/material options.
See what’s new in furniture options.
Recorded 7/26/2022Learn tips and tricks for selecting furniture.
Identify considerations in selecting fabric/material options.
See what’s new in furniture options.
Topics for this webinar include:
Laura Solomon, MCIW, MLS, is the Library Services Manager for the Ohio Public Library Information Network and a W3C-certified front-end web developer. She has been doing web development and design for more than twenty years in both public libraries and as an independent consultant. She specializes in developing with Drupal. She is a 2010 Library Journal Mover & Shaker. She’s written three books about social media and content marketing, specifically for libraries, and speaks nationally on both these and technology-related topics. As a former children’s librarian, she enjoys bringing the “fun of technology” to audiences and in giving libraries the tools they need to better serve the virtual customer.
Recorded 8/3/2022Topics for this webinar include:
Laura Solomon, MCIW, MLS, is the Library Services Manager for the Ohio Public Library Information Network and a W3C-certified front-end web developer. She has been doing web development and design for more than twenty years in both public libraries and as an independent consultant. She specializes in developing with Drupal. She is a 2010 Library Journal Mover & Shaker. She’s written three books about social media and content marketing, specifically for libraries, and speaks nationally on both these and technology-related topics. As a former children’s librarian, she enjoys bringing the “fun of technology” to audiences and in giving libraries the tools they need to better serve the virtual customer.
Recorded 8/10/2022
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students.
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio. For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional. She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges.
Recorded 8/16/2022
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio. For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional. She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges.
Liz Knapp is a Regional Manager I at Kent District Library in Kent County, Michigan. Liz's region includes three libraries, two in rural areas, and two in suburban areas. Liz has worked in libraries for over 20 years in Michigan, Florida and Indiana. She has been part of the Response Framework project for 6 years and is the current leader. Liz has presented on a regional, state, and national level on kind, empathetic and compassionate communication in difficult situations.
Shelley Roossien has been the Accessibility & Inclusion Specialist for KDL for the past 17 years. She heads up the Talking Book & Braille Center program, as well as other library services and programs for people with disabilities. She is also the co-leader for the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion workgroup.
Leigh Verburg is a Branch Librarian at Kent District Library and is engaged with the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion workgroup within the library system. She is passionate about social justice and acknowledging race, power and privilege to help deconstruct systemic racism.
Recorded 8/17/2022
Liz Knapp is a Regional Manager I at Kent District Library in Kent County, Michigan. Liz's region includes three libraries, two in rural areas, and two in suburban areas. Liz has worked in libraries for over 20 years in Michigan, Florida and Indiana. She has been part of the Response Framework project for 6 years and is the current leader. Liz has presented on a regional, state, and national level on kind, empathetic and compassionate communication in difficult situations.
Shelley Roossien has been the Accessibility & Inclusion Specialist for KDL for the past 17 years. She heads up the Talking Book & Braille Center program, as well as other library services and programs for people with disabilities. She is also the co-leader for the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion workgroup.
Leigh Verburg is a Branch Librarian at Kent District Library and is engaged with the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion workgroup within the library system. She is passionate about social justice and acknowledging race, power and privilege to help deconstruct systemic racism.
We have all heard the saying, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” This is the essence of Agile Project Management. In contrast to more traditional project management methodologies, Agile puts the emphasis on consistent collaboration, evaluation, and iteration throughout the project lifecycle to increase the possibility of a successful deliverable. Much of the work done in libraries is in the form of projects (e.g., a new program, the redesign of a space, or a library-wide collection audit). In this webinar, we will discuss Agile Project Management and the benefits of utilizing and adapting this methodology when embarking on a new library project, big or small.
Learning Objectives:
Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College.
Recorded 8/18/2022
We have all heard the saying, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” This is the essence of Agile Project Management. In contrast to more traditional project management methodologies, Agile puts the emphasis on consistent collaboration, evaluation, and iteration throughout the project lifecycle to increase the possibility of a successful deliverable. Much of the work done in libraries is in the form of projects (e.g., a new program, the redesign of a space, or a library-wide collection audit). In this webinar, we will discuss Agile Project Management and the benefits of utilizing and adapting this methodology when embarking on a new library project, big or small.
Learning Objectives:
Ragan Snead is a Continuing Education Coordinator at the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System and has over 10 years of experience in public and academic libraries. She has a passion for staff development and helping library staff reach their full potential. In addition to her work in various areas of librarianship, Ragan has also helped library staff and patrons navigate new and evolving technology. She received her MLIS from Kent State University and her MBA from Lake Erie College.
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Recorded 8/23/2022
Barbara Baker is a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Independence, Ohio. As a Federal Mediator, she assists parties in collective bargaining negotiations and mediates labor and employment disputes in the private, public and federal sectors. In addition, Ms. Baker trains labor advocates and management in collective bargaining including bargaining processes, contract administration, steward/supervisor training and developing effective labor management committees. She also provides training in communication skills such as conflict resolution, active listening and communication dynamics. Ms. Baker facilitates person to person dialogues as well as group discussions to promote strong workplace relationships.
Brenda Hough is a librarian, writer, and learning professional with 25 years of professional experience working in and supporting libraries by providing training and consulting services. She is the author of Crash Course in Time Management for Library Staff and the co-editor of WebJunction’s Competency Index for the Library Field. She is an adjunct instructor for Emporia State University (KS). She has worked on projects for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, WebJunction, the Public Library Association, Infopeople, California Libraries Learn (CALL), the State Library of Arizona, the State Library of Oregon, the Northeast Kansas Library System, and more. She is the owner of EluciDare Learning.
Recorded 8/31/2022
Brenda Hough is a librarian, writer, and learning professional with 25 years of professional experience working in and supporting libraries by providing training and consulting services. She is the author of Crash Course in Time Management for Library Staff and the co-editor of WebJunction’s Competency Index for the Library Field. She is an adjunct instructor for Emporia State University (KS). She has worked on projects for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, WebJunction, the Public Library Association, Infopeople, California Libraries Learn (CALL), the State Library of Arizona, the State Library of Oregon, the Northeast Kansas Library System, and more. She is the owner of EluciDare Learning.
Nicole Bryan, MLS Neighborhood Library Supervisor, Brooklyn Public Library
Recorded 9/7/2022
Nicole Bryan, MLS Neighborhood Library Supervisor, Brooklyn Public Library
Ken Ditlevson, serves as Kent State University’s first director for the LGBTQ+ Center, where he started in 2014. Ditlevson is a two-time graduate of Kent State University, having received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Masters of Education degree in Community Counseling.
Eamon Tewell (he/him/his) is Head of Research Support and Outreach for Columbia University’s Science, Engineering, & Social Science Libraries, where he supervises a team of subject librarians and identifies ways to support the research and learning needs of students and faculty through reference and instruction. Eamon has published and presented on the topics of critical information literacy, library instruction, critical reference practice, and questioning narratives of grit and resilience in libraries, and is a recipient of the Jesse H. Shera Award for Distinguished Research. He received his MS in Library & Information Science from Drexel University and his MA in Media Studies from Long Island University.
Recorded 9/27/2022
Eamon Tewell (he/him/his) is Head of Research Support and Outreach for Columbia University’s Science, Engineering, & Social Science Libraries, where he supervises a team of subject librarians and identifies ways to support the research and learning needs of students and faculty through reference and instruction. Eamon has published and presented on the topics of critical information literacy, library instruction, critical reference practice, and questioning narratives of grit and resilience in libraries, and is a recipient of the Jesse H. Shera Award for Distinguished Research. He received his MS in Library & Information Science from Drexel University and his MA in Media Studies from Long Island University.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:
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.
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:
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.
Recorded 10/11/2022
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 our of her budget has provided the resources necessary to implement her various programs.
Rebecca Ranallo, Director of the Literacy & Learning
Recorded 10/12/2022
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 our of her budget has provided the resources necessary to implement her various programs.
Rebecca Ranallo, Director of the Literacy & Learning
Recorded 10/13/2022
Amber Salmon
Brooke VanDerlin
Recorded 10/19/2022
Amber Salmon
Brooke VanDerlin
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students.
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:
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.
Mandi Goodsett (she/her) is the Performing Arts & Humanities Librarian, as well as the Open Educational Resource & Copyright Advisor, at Cleveland State University. Her research interests include open education, critical thinking in library instruction, mentoring new professionals, and sustainability in libraries. In her free time Mandi loves cooking, playing board games with friends, and enjoying the outdoors of Northeast Ohio.
Recorded 11/15/2022
Mandi Goodsett (she/her) is the Performing Arts & Humanities Librarian, as well as the Open Educational Resource & Copyright Advisor, at Cleveland State University. Her research interests include open education, critical thinking in library instruction, mentoring new professionals, and sustainability in libraries. In her free time Mandi loves cooking, playing board games with friends, and enjoying the outdoors of Northeast Ohio.Presenter:
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
Recorded 11/17/2022Presenter:
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
Mary Frankenfield is the Deputy Director of the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library. She has worked at MRCPL for the past 20 years and has been in management positions for the last 8 years. In her current role she has focused much of her time and attention on staff training and development, crafting policy and procedure, writing job descriptions, and refining the library's hiring and onboarding process. In her spare time she lavishes affection on her two kitties, Sasha and Bitty, and she enjoys directing and performing in local, community theater.
Recorded 11/30/2022
Mary Frankenfield is the Deputy Director of the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library. She has worked at MRCPL for the past 20 years and has been in management positions for the last 8 years. In her current role she has focused much of her time and attention on staff training and development, crafting policy and procedure, writing job descriptions, and refining the library's hiring and onboarding process. In her spare time she lavishes affection on her two kitties, Sasha and Bitty, and she enjoys directing and performing in local, community theater.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students.
Good decisions do not happen by chance. They are the result of a step-by-step decision-making process that includes understanding the effect of emotional and situational influences. This interactive one-hour webinar will help participants assess their dominant decision-making style and identify factors that can hinder effective decision making.
Learning Objectives:
Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups. Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.
Recorded 12/7/2023
Good decisions do not happen by chance. They are the result of a step-by-step decision-making process that includes understanding the effect of emotional and situational influences. This interactive one-hour webinar will help participants assess their dominant decision-making style and identify factors that can hinder effective decision making.
Learning Objectives:
Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups. Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.
Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Recorded 12/8/2022
Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students.
Keeping abreast of changes in employment laws is an on-going challenge for employers generally and for HR Professionals in particular. In this webinar, we will examine recent developments in the law that significantly impact the ability of public libraries to manage the workforce in a challenging environment.
Learning Objectives: Attendees will come away with a stronger understanding of recent changes and developments in the law, including:
Recorded 1/10/2023
Keeping abreast of changes in employment laws is an on-going challenge for employers generally and for HR Professionals in particular. In this webinar, we will examine recent developments in the law that significantly impact the ability of public libraries to manage the workforce in a challenging environment.
Learning Objectives: Attendees will come away with a stronger understanding of recent changes and developments in the law, including:
Angela Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
Recorded 1/11/2023
Angela Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveListIn this session, you’ll learn specific tips to help you delegate more effectively – not just more – and you’ll also discover why doing so is important to your success as a supervisor.
We’ll uncover some important questions to consider when you finally make that leap to delegating on a consistent basis. We’ll also look at not just whether or not a task should be delegated, but also to whom – and how to make sure the delegation process is successful.
Learning objectives:
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
Recorded 1/18/2023In this session, you’ll learn specific tips to help you delegate more effectively – not just more – and you’ll also discover why doing so is important to your success as a supervisor.
We’ll uncover some important questions to consider when you finally make that leap to delegating on a consistent basis. We’ll also look at not just whether or not a task should be delegated, but also to whom – and how to make sure the delegation process is successful.
Learning objectives:
Linda Bruno has been developing and conducting training workshops for libraries and other organizations for more than fifteen years. She offers workshops on topics ranging from Leadership Skills to Emotional Intelligence – and lots of areas in between! Linda received her MBA from the University of Florida and has years of experience in hands-on management positions. She develops her workshops based on solid research and – more importantly – real-life application.
Recorded 1/19/2023Presenters:
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.
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.
Recorded 2/1/2023
Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.
Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.
Intersectionality is a concept that allows us to examine multiple areas of our lives and social identities. During this session, participants will examine what it actually is, discuss the history of the theory and begin to apply an intersectional lens.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students.
Angela Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
Angela Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
Recorded 2/16/2023Social media algorithms make success seem impossible for small and rural libraries, especially when the rules keep changing! But you can rise above algorithm changes by centering your social media promotions on strategy and implementing best practices that will hold no matter what changes are made by the platforms. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to match your promotional goals with the available audience on each of the social media platforms and how to determine which kind of content works best on the platforms. Plus, you’ll get the secrets for handling negative comments and learn how to turn your trolls into supporters.
Learning Objectives
Angela Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveListRecorded 3/8/2023
Social media algorithms make success seem impossible for small and rural libraries, especially when the rules keep changing! But you can rise above algorithm changes by centering your social media promotions on strategy and implementing best practices that will hold no matter what changes are made by the platforms. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to match your promotional goals with the available audience on each of the social media platforms and how to determine which kind of content works best on the platforms. Plus, you’ll get the secrets for handling negative comments and learn how to turn your trolls into supporters.
Learning Objectives
Angela Hursh, Senior Engagement Consultant, NoveList
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.
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
Cheryl Kuonen, Director, Mentor Public Library
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and ALA’s Council Orientation Committee. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and ALA’s Council Orientation Committee. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.
Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups. Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.
Taurean J. Johnson (who also goes by TJ) serves as a Commissioner with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). In his capacity as Commissioner, Mr. Johnson works with parties in the private, public and federal sectors, mediating collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and employment disputes. In addition to his mediation work, Mr. Johnson frequently delivers training programs to labor and management groups. Taurean attended the University of Cincinnati (UC) earning dual degrees in Political Science and African American Studies.
Recorded 5/2/2023
ChatGPT and other generative AI platforms have thrust us into a new world of technologies that are amazing, but also slightly alarming. Dr. Christopher Harris, School Library System Director for Genesee Valley (NY) BOCES and Senior Fellow with the American Library Association, will introduce and explain the technology that drives ChatGPT and explore potential uses in different types of libraries.
Due to a statewide collaboration among all four Ohio Regional Library Systems--SWON Libraries Consortium, Northeast Ohio Library System (NEO), Northwest Library System (NORWELD), and the Southeast Regional Library System (SERLS)--this webinar is being offered for FREE to all regional library members.
Dr. Christopher Harris is the Director of the School Library System for the Genesee Valley BOCES, an educational services agency supporting the libraries of 22 small, rural districts in Western NY. He was a participant in the first American Library Association Emerging Leaders program in 2007 and was honored as a Library Journal Mover and Shaker in 2008. In 2022, Dr. Harris was named a Senior Fellow for the American Library Association for school libraries and youth policy issues. Dr. Harris received his Ed.D. from St. John Fisher College in 2018 for dissertation research on helping teachers become more confident teaching computer science.
Returning to his earlier work as a member of the ALA/Verizon gaming initiative panel of experts on games in libraries, Christopher started Play Play Learn in 2014. The site provides educational resources and consulting services to connect games and learning in libraries, schools, and homes for students of all ages. In 2015, the first titles in Christopher's Teaching Through Games series were released by Rosen Publishing as professional books with lesson plans for using tabletop games in classroom and library instruction. The Playful Classroom, a series of books with artwork tied to games from HABA were released from Rosen Classroom in 2018. The Unplugged Activities for Future Coders series with play-based approaches for computational thinking was published by Enslow in 2019.
An avid gamer and reader, Christopher lives with his wife, a K-12 school librarian, their daughter, and cats outside of Rochester, NY.
Race and racism are significant parts of our society and shape the way it works. Participants will explore their own understandings, discuss how racism is upheld through policy and practice, and develop strategies to disrupt it
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Marquis Davis earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration in 2012 from Kent State University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management in 2015 from Kent State University. Marquis is a strong advocate for student success, not only in their academic, but in their personal lives. Marquis joins DEI after spending the last five years in the Undergraduate Programs Office in the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship as their Academic Diversity Outreach Coordinator. Marquis was very instrumental with helping create diversity initiatives with the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship; Diversity in Business (an interest area) within the Business Learning Community (BLC), developing the Cultural Diversity course for first-year students in the BLC, and establishing The Network. Marquis has a passion for developing creative diversity programming for faculty, staff and students.
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and ALA’s Council Orientation Committee. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.
Recorded 6/6/23
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and ALA’s Council Orientation Committee. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and co-chairs PLA’s Membership Advisory Group. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 11 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organizations and co-chairs PLA’s Membership Advisory Group. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.Join us for an informative webinar as we dig into the world of online accessibility and inclusion. Learn about key concepts of digital accessibility and address important questions.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insight and practical strategies to create inclusive and accessible library websites. Let's bridge the gap and empower everyone to access the digital world seamlessly.
Learning Objectives:
Recorded 7/26/23
Join us for an informative webinar as we dig into the world of online accessibility and inclusion. Learn about key concepts of digital accessibility and address important questions.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insight and practical strategies to create inclusive and accessible library websites. Let's bridge the gap and empower everyone to access the digital world seamlessly.
Learning Objectives:
In an era where public libraries are evolving into vibrant community centers, the need for comprehensive and inclusive support services has become increasingly apparent. This webinar is designed to explore the integration of social work professionals into library settings to enhance the overall well-being of library patrons and strengthen community connections. You will hear from both administration and the social workers on staff.
Learning Objectives:
Presenters:
Enda Bracken is the Branch Services Director for the east side of Cuyahoga County Public Library. He works closely with the 7 branch managers who oversee 9 branches. Enda has previously worked for Dublin Public Libraries in Ireland, The Free Library of Philadelphia, Mentor Public Library and Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library.
Byanta Spencer, LISW-S, CCTP, Social Work Manager, Cuyahoga County Public Library
Bryanta L. Spencer is a licensed independent Social Worker and founder of Fortitude Wellness and Consultations LLC where she provides psychotherapy and professional development training. She holds certifications as a Clinical Trauma Professional and Mental Health First Aider. To compliment her passion for helping others and rooting for the underdog, she completed her undergraduate studies at The Ohio State University earning dual degrees in Social Work and Communications with a minor in Criminology. She also holds a Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University. Currently, she is serving as the Social Work Manager of Cuyahoga County Public library. Social services being provided in libraries is a growing trend and she is the first Social Worker in Cuyahoga County to be employed by a library system.
Deborah McCullough , Chief of Operations, Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County
As part of the Administrative Leadership Team, the COO has oversight of public services operations and buildings—staffing, hours of operation, management of a group of administrative team members that include the Director of Facilities and Maintenance, the Technical Services Manager ( including all materials acquisitions and processing), the public services managers and coordinators responsible for Main Library and all branch supervisors, and most recently the social worker who is a valued member of our team. She is also the staff representative for the Building and Sites committee of the Board of Trustees. She s in all building and renovation projects for PLYMC.
Jim Young is the Social Work Specialist for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County which consists of 14 active branches. Jim has 18 years of experience and has worked in various community mental health settings providing therapy and intervention techniques to children, adolescents, and adults. He is active in helping the library’s patrons in finding assistance for their various needs like shelter, benefits, and community agency access. In addition, Jim has experience working as a social worker for home health agencies and hospice providers. Jim has been vocal in helping to provide library staff with De-Escalation techniques for dealing with difficult situations and patrons. Prior to obtaining his Masters of Social Work degree from Youngstown State University, Jim worked for the state of Ohio aiding veterans with barriers to employment. Jim is licensed by the Counselor and Social Work Board in Ohio to practice as a LISW with Supervisor designation. He resides in Rogers Ohio with his therapy dogs Kirby, Katie, Loki, and Tonks that accompany him to work and help provide therapeutic benefits to those who need it.
Recorded 8/2/23
In an era where public libraries are evolving into vibrant community centers, the need for comprehensive and inclusive support services has become increasingly apparent. This webinar is designed to explore the integration of social work professionals into library settings to enhance the overall well-being of library patrons and strengthen community connections. You will hear from both administration and the social workers on staff.
Learning Objectives:
Presenters:
Enda Bracken is the Branch Services Director for the east side of Cuyahoga County Public Library. He works closely with the 7 branch managers who oversee 9 branches. Enda has previously worked for Dublin Public Libraries in Ireland, The Free Library of Philadelphia, Mentor Public Library and Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library.
Byanta Spencer, LISW-S, CCTP, Social Work Manager, Cuyahoga County Public Library
Bryanta L. Spencer is a licensed independent Social Worker and founder of Fortitude Wellness and Consultations LLC where she provides psychotherapy and professional development training. She holds certifications as a Clinical Trauma Professional and Mental Health First Aider. To compliment her passion for helping others and rooting for the underdog, she completed her undergraduate studies at The Ohio State University earning dual degrees in Social Work and Communications with a minor in Criminology. She also holds a Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University. Currently, she is serving as the Social Work Manager of Cuyahoga County Public library. Social services being provided in libraries is a growing trend and she is the first Social Worker in Cuyahoga County to be employed by a library system.
Deborah McCullough , Chief of Operations, Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County
As part of the Administrative Leadership Team, the COO has oversight of public services operations and buildings—staffing, hours of operation, management of a group of administrative team members that include the Director of Facilities and Maintenance, the Technical Services Manager ( including all materials acquisitions and processing), the public services managers and coordinators responsible for Main Library and all branch supervisors, and most recently the social worker who is a valued member of our team. She is also the staff representative for the Building and Sites committee of the Board of Trustees. She s in all building and renovation projects for PLYMC.
Jim Young is the Social Work Specialist for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County which consists of 14 active branches. Jim has 18 years of experience and has worked in various community mental health settings providing therapy and intervention techniques to children, adolescents, and adults. He is active in helping the library’s patrons in finding assistance for their various needs like shelter, benefits, and community agency access. In addition, Jim has experience working as a social worker for home health agencies and hospice providers. Jim has been vocal in helping to provide library staff with De-Escalation techniques for dealing with difficult situations and patrons. Prior to obtaining his Masters of Social Work degree from Youngstown State University, Jim worked for the state of Ohio aiding veterans with barriers to employment. Jim is licensed by the Counselor and Social Work Board in Ohio to practice as a LISW with Supervisor designation. He resides in Rogers Ohio with his therapy dogs Kirby, Katie, Loki, and Tonks that accompany him to work and help provide therapeutic benefits to those who need it.
Every organization has problems to solve, obstacles to overcome, and a desire to do things better, but how do you harness that energy and bring about change and improvement? Design thinking might be a useful tool for tackling complex challenges. It is both a process and a mindset fueled by curiosity. Join us for an overview of the how, what and why of design thinking. Follow along one organization’s journey through the process and learn about the unexpected, insightful and fun path they took to develop impactful solutions. Participants will be guided through this process with structured support to spur their creativity and set a course for new discoveries.
Learning Objectives
Rachel Siegel is a design + innovation specialist at Lakeland Community College, spearheading The Teachers Guild program for K-12 educators in Northeast Ohio since 2018. Rachel also co-leads Alumni Engagement efforts for The Lakeland Foundation. Trained in human-centered design, Rachel has worked with design + innovation firm IDEO on multiple consulting projects, including the global Parents as Allies initiative. She is currently leading design teams from twenty-eight school districts in Western Pennsylvania on a family-school engagement partnership program supported by The Grable Foundation, Kidsburgh, The Brookings Institution, HundrED, and Learning Heroes. Rachel holds a M.S.Ed in School Counseling from Duquesne University.
Jen Smyser is the program manager of the Nonprofit and Public Service Center at Lakeland Community. Jen draws on her experiences in higher education, nonprofit organizations and government agencies to inform her work serving the nonprofit community. She relishes volunteer opportunities, serving on the Lake Soil and Water Conservation District as a Board Supervisor and as the “cookie mom” for Girl Scout Troop 70444. Jen graduated from The Ohio State University with a B.A. in Sociology and a B.S. in Natural Resource Management.
Recorded 8/8/23
Every organization has problems to solve, obstacles to overcome, and a desire to do things better, but how do you harness that energy and bring about change and improvement? Design thinking might be a useful tool for tackling complex challenges. It is both a process and a mindset fueled by curiosity. Join us for an overview of the how, what and why of design thinking. Follow along one organization’s journey through the process and learn about the unexpected, insightful and fun path they took to develop impactful solutions. Participants will be guided through this process with structured support to spur their creativity and set a course for new discoveries.
Learning Objectives
Rachel Siegel is a design + innovation specialist at Lakeland Community College, spearheading The Teachers Guild program for K-12 educators in Northeast Ohio since 2018. Rachel also co-leads Alumni Engagement efforts for The Lakeland Foundation. Trained in human-centered design, Rachel has worked with design + innovation firm IDEO on multiple consulting projects, including the global Parents as Allies initiative. She is currently leading design teams from twenty-eight school districts in Western Pennsylvania on a family-school engagement partnership program supported by The Grable Foundation, Kidsburgh, The Brookings Institution, HundrED, and Learning Heroes. Rachel holds a M.S.Ed in School Counseling from Duquesne University.
Jen Smyser is the program manager of the Nonprofit and Public Service Center at Lakeland Community. Jen draws on her experiences in higher education, nonprofit organizations and government agencies to inform her work serving the nonprofit community. She relishes volunteer opportunities, serving on the Lake Soil and Water Conservation District as a Board Supervisor and as the “cookie mom” for Girl Scout Troop 70444. Jen graduated from The Ohio State University with a B.A. in Sociology and a B.S. in Natural Resource Management.
Mary Frankenfield has worked in the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library system for more than 20 years. During her time at MRCPL, Mary has worked as a page, a clerk, a children's librarian, and a branch manager. She has been in her current position as Deputy Director for a little over five years. Among her many other duties, Mary has an active role in employee training and development and has presented workshops for NEO-RLS, OLC, and the MRCPL staff.
Mary Frankenfield has worked in the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library system for more than 20 years. During her time at MRCPL, Mary has worked as a page, a clerk, a children's librarian, and a branch manager. She has been in her current position as Deputy Director for a little over five years. Among her many other duties, Mary has an active role in employee training and development and has presented workshops for NEO-RLS, OLC, and the MRCPL staff.
Have you noticed the conversation shift towards equity and away from equality? This session will examine why. Participants will explore the concept of equity and begin to understand individual and institutional detours to achieving it.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Marti Peden is the owner and principal of Peden & Associates, a training and consulting company based in Akron, Ohio. For more than 30 years, she has been a trainer, facilitator, speaker and organizational development professional. She specializes in conflict resolution, managing change, strategic planning, team building and positive approaches to life’s challenges.
Jeff Laser is a Continuing Education Coordinator for the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System (NEO-RLS). Prior to joining NEO-RLS, he worked in public libraries for a decade, in both a single-building library and a large metropolitan system. His experience includes roles in circulation, adult services, and youth services.
Jeff Laser is a Continuing Education Coordinator for the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System (NEO-RLS). Prior to joining NEO-RLS, he worked in public libraries for a decade, in both a single-building library and a large metropolitan system. His experience includes roles in circulation, adult services, and youth services.
Various people, institutions and organizations help shape the way we view the world, sometimes in inaccurate ways. Participants will learn to identify implicit and explicit biases and explore strategies for challenging them in ourselves and others.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Various people, institutions and organizations help shape the way we view the world, sometimes in inaccurate ways. Participants will learn to identify implicit and explicit biases and explore strategies for challenging them in ourselves and others.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Nick Tanzi is a nationally recognized library technology consultant, and author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). From 2019-2021, Tanzi served as the column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library”. His work has also been featured in publications including VOYA Magazine, Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Recorded 11/28/23
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019.
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.
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.
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.
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. Navigating Issue 2: What Public Libraries Need to Know About Ohio’s Marijuana Legalization
Join Kastner Westman & Wilkins attorneys Michael Karst and Mike Tontillo on this timely, FREE, one-hour networking workshop explaining how the passage of Issue 2 affects public libraries and what they can still do to regulate marijuana in the workplace. This is a great opportunity for interactive dialogue about how to manage the workplace as marijuana becomes more available to the public.
Navigating Issue 2: What Public Libraries Need to Know About Ohio’s Marijuana Legalization
Join Kastner Westman & Wilkins attorneys Michael Karst and Mike Tontillo on this timely, FREE, one-hour networking workshop explaining how the passage of Issue 2 affects public libraries and what they can still do to regulate marijuana in the workplace. This is a great opportunity for interactive dialogue about how to manage the workplace as marijuana becomes more available to the public.
Dana Bomba is a Branch Manager with the Chesterfield County Public Library, near Richmond, Virginia, and the 2022 Virginia Library Association’s Librarian of the Year. Her primary focuses are strategic initiatives, community outreach opportunities, and staff development. As an experienced manager, Dana is committed to team building and coaching her employees to excellence. As a frontline manager, she is driven to create connections with her community and takes pride in providing personalized service to every customer. Previously she served on the Executive Board of the Central Virginia Young Professionals and the Conference Committee for the Virginia Library Association.
Dana Bomba is a Branch Manager with the Chesterfield County Public Library, near Richmond, Virginia, and the 2022 Virginia Library Association’s Librarian of the Year. Her primary focuses are strategic initiatives, community outreach opportunities, and staff development. As an experienced manager, Dana is committed to team building and coaching her employees to excellence. As a frontline manager, she is driven to create connections with her community and takes pride in providing personalized service to every customer. Previously she served on the Executive Board of the Central Virginia Young Professionals and the Conference Committee for the Virginia Library Association.
Keeping abreast of changes in employment laws is an on-going challenge for employers generally and for HR Professionals in particular. In this webinar, we will examine recent developments in the law that impact the ability of public libraries to manage the workforce in a challenging environment.
Learning Objectives: Attendees will come away with a stronger understanding of recent changes and developments in the law, including:
Recorded 1/9/24
Keeping abreast of changes in employment laws is an on-going challenge for employers generally and for HR Professionals in particular. In this webinar, we will examine recent developments in the law that impact the ability of public libraries to manage the workforce in a challenging environment.
Learning Objectives: Attendees will come away with a stronger understanding of recent changes and developments in the law, including:
Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.
Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.
Mary Frankenfield has worked in the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library system for more than 20 years. During her time at MRCPL, Mary has worked as a page, a clerk, a children's librarian, and a branch manager. She has been in her current position as Deputy Director for a little over five years. Among her many other duties, Mary has an active role in employee training and development and has presented workshops for NEO-RLS, OLC, and the MRCPL staff.
Mariana Branch, Director at Kingsville Public Library
Mary Frankenfield has worked in the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library system for more than 20 years. During her time at MRCPL, Mary has worked as a page, a clerk, a children's librarian, and a branch manager. She has been in her current position as Deputy Director for a little over five years. Among her many other duties, Mary has an active role in employee training and development and has presented workshops for NEO-RLS, OLC, and the MRCPL staff.
Mariana Branch, Director at Kingsville Public Library
Discover how everyday comments and actions can unintentionally hurt or harm someone. Participants will build skills and practice strategies to recognize and interrupt microaggressions.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
What does an inclusive workplace look like and how can we create one? Participants will explore these questions, learn some basics and strategize on how they can contribute to making a more inclusive work environment.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Loida Garcia-Febo is a Puerto Rican American librarian and International Library Consultant with 24 years of experience as an expert in library services to diverse populations and human rights. President of the American Library Association 2018-2019. Garcia-Febo is worldwide known for her passion about diversity, communities, sustainability, innovation and digital transformation, library workers, library advocacy, wellness for library workers, and new librarians about which she has taught in 45 countries. In her job, she helps libraries, companies and organizations strategize programs, services and strategies in areas related to these topics and many others. Recently Garcia-Febo started a partnership with the San Jose State University iSchool where she is its first Health and Wellness Ambassador. Garcia-Febo has a Bachelors in Business Education, Masters in Library and Information Sciences.
Garcia-Febo has a long history of service with library associations. Highlights include- At IFLA: Governing Board 2013-2017 2023-Present, Co-Founder of IFLA New Professionals, two-term Member/Expert resource person of the Free Access to Information and Freedom of Expression Committee of IFLA (FAIFE), two-term member of the Continuing Professional Development and Workplace Learning Section of IFLA (CPDWL). Currently: CPDWL Advisor, Chair of the Management of Library Associations Section. Currently at ALA: Chair, IRC United Nations Subcommittee, Chair Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship. Recently at ALA: Chair, Public Awareness Committee; Chair, ALA United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals Task Force developing a multi-year strategic plan for ALA. Garcia-Febo is serving her second term on the Freedom to Read Foundation. She is a Past President of REFORMA. Born, raised, and educated in Puerto Rico, Garcia-Febo has advocated for libraries at the United Nations, the European Union Parliament, U.S. Congress, NY State Senate, NY City Hall, and on sidewalks and streets in various states in the U.S.
Loida Garcia-Febo is a Puerto Rican American librarian and International Library Consultant with 24 years of experience as an expert in library services to diverse populations and human rights. President of the American Library Association 2018-2019. Garcia-Febo is worldwide known for her passion about diversity, communities, sustainability, innovation and digital transformation, library workers, library advocacy, wellness for library workers, and new librarians about which she has taught in 45 countries. In her job, she helps libraries, companies and organizations strategize programs, services and strategies in areas related to these topics and many others. Recently Garcia-Febo started a partnership with the San Jose State University iSchool where she is its first Health and Wellness Ambassador. Garcia-Febo has a Bachelors in Business Education, Masters in Library and Information Sciences.
Garcia-Febo has a long history of service with library associations. Highlights include- At IFLA: Governing Board 2013-2017 2023-Present, Co-Founder of IFLA New Professionals, two-term Member/Expert resource person of the Free Access to Information and Freedom of Expression Committee of IFLA (FAIFE), two-term member of the Continuing Professional Development and Workplace Learning Section of IFLA (CPDWL). Currently: CPDWL Advisor, Chair of the Management of Library Associations Section. Currently at ALA: Chair, IRC United Nations Subcommittee, Chair Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship. Recently at ALA: Chair, Public Awareness Committee; Chair, ALA United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals Task Force developing a multi-year strategic plan for ALA. Garcia-Febo is serving her second term on the Freedom to Read Foundation. She is a Past President of REFORMA. Born, raised, and educated in Puerto Rico, Garcia-Febo has advocated for libraries at the United Nations, the European Union Parliament, U.S. Congress, NY State Senate, NY City Hall, and on sidewalks and streets in various states in the U.S.
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019.
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 12 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organization and ALA’s Council Training and Engagement Committee. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 12 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on ALA Council, ALA’s Committee on Organization and ALA’s Council Training and Engagement Committee. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead to Melissa Lattanzi of time or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitator:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
Recorded 6/6/24
Questions Answered:
Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead to Melissa Lattanzi of time or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitator:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
Jeremy Streem is an award winning MHFA instructor within the Ohio Army National Guard and the Northeast Ohio VA Medical Center. Jeremy also provides MHFA training to communities at large with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Jeremy has been a member of the Ohio Army National Guard for over 22 years, including 1 deployment, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class and specializing in supporting other Soldiers in need. Jeremy is also a Master Resilience Trainer, certified through the University of Pennsylvania, and has taught Resilience and Effective Communication strategies to over 2,500 Soldiers as well as the general public. SFC Streem's military experience and education allows him to teach MHFA within the VA, Ohio National Guard, and local communities, providing a Veteran's perspective to the unique challenges of supporting and caring for our military population. Jeremy was recognized by the National Council for Behavioral Health as one of the Top Veterans Mental Health First Aid Instructors for both 2018 and 2019, as well as the Top Mental Health First Aid instructor in the State of Ohio in 2019. Empathic design, often referred to as empathetic design, takes a user-centered approach with empathy and compassion towards your user. Through observation and listening, empathic design calls libraries to analyze and apply what users need with empathy and purpose. Through visualization and creativity, you will develop knowledge and skills to identify critical needs of your library. Counter to individualistic ideals and gratifications, you will learn the importance of seeing the library through the eyes of others with compassion and grace, putting aside preconceived notions to establish a library that seeks solutions to the problems of the people they serve.
Learning Objectives:
Recorded 7/10/24
Empathic design, often referred to as empathetic design, takes a user-centered approach with empathy and compassion towards your user. Through observation and listening, empathic design calls libraries to analyze and apply what users need with empathy and purpose. Through visualization and creativity, you will develop knowledge and skills to identify critical needs of your library. Counter to individualistic ideals and gratifications, you will learn the importance of seeing the library through the eyes of others with compassion and grace, putting aside preconceived notions to establish a library that seeks solutions to the problems of the people they serve.
Learning Objectives:
Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitator:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
Recorded 9/11/24
Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitator:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
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.
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.
Recorded 9/18/24
Intersectionality is a concept that allows us to examine multiple areas of our lives and social identities. During this session, participants will examine what it actually is, discuss the history of the theory and begin to apply an intersectional lens.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
How can we make a staff hiring process more inclusive? Participants will examine the application review and interview phases, become aware of some common barriers, and learn about what practices they can incorporate.
Learning Objectives:
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.

Anti-racism is a term that is frequently discussed in the public consciousness. This session provides a space to understand what anti-racism really means, safely reflect on where you are in your own journey, and explore how we can practice anti-racism in our communities.
Learning Objectives:
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Shaunte Rouse was born and raised in Northeastern Ohio. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Music from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Education degree in College Student Personnel from Ohio University. During her professional experience in Higher Education, Shaunte developed expertise in areas including strategic partnership cultivation, student advocacy, advising, mentoring, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making.
Shaunte has spearheaded initiatives aimed at removing barriers and advocating for policy changes to better support students, faculty, and staff at various higher education institutions. One of her key accomplishments includes the creation and facilitation of college-based diversity and inclusion committees at different institutions, which played a vital role in fostering a culture of inclusion on campuses.
Shaunte Rouse is passionate about creating inclusive and equitable spaces within Higher Education. She is committed to continuing this important work to drive positive change in our institutions and communities.
Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitator:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
Recorded 1/22/25
Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitator:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.
Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.Enhance your knowledge and connect with fellow professionals at this dynamic learning and networking opportunity. This informative webinar will address the latest developments in workplace regulations, including:
What do these changes mean for you and your library?
Join Drew Esposito, HR Consultant at Clemans, Nelson & Associates, as he facilitates an engaging, HR-focused session that provides clarity on these critical updates.
The webinar will conclude with an interactive "Ask the Expert" session, offering a safe and supportive space to address your HR-related questions and concerns. Don’t miss this chance to stay informed and empowered in your role!
Andrew Esposito is the Director of Operations and Shareholder for Clemans Nelson. He joined Clemans Nelson in 2011. Mr. Esposito advises clients in human resource management, labor relations, contract negotiations, regulatory compliance, discipline, employee investigations, EEOC/OCRC investigations and policy development. He regularly conducts training throughout the State of Ohio and across the nation on a variety of human resource and labor relations issues such as social media and technology in the workplace, supervisory principles and practices, performance evaluations, FLSA, FMLA, and discriminatory harassment. Mr. Esposito received his J.D. from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and his Bachelors of Specialized Studies from Ohio University in Political Science and Biology.
Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Shaunte Rouse was born and raised in Northeastern Ohio. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Music from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Education degree in College Student Personnel from Ohio University. During her professional experience in Higher Education, Shaunte developed expertise in areas including strategic partnership cultivation, student advocacy, advising, mentoring, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making.
Shaunte has spearheaded initiatives aimed at removing barriers and advocating for policy changes to better support students, faculty, and staff at various higher education institutions. One of her key accomplishments includes the creation and facilitation of college-based diversity and inclusion committees at different institutions, which played a vital role in fostering a culture of inclusion on campuses.
Shaunte Rouse is passionate about creating inclusive and equitable spaces within Higher Education. She is committed to continuing this important work to drive positive change in our institutions and communities.
Have you thought about using Excel, yet just aren’t comfortable where to start? Then this beginner-friendly webinar is designed to help you unlock the potential of this powerful tool. Whether you're looking to organize data, create simple calculations, or build your first spreadsheet, this session is the perfect starting point.
Learning Objectives
Recorded 2/27/25
Have you thought about using Excel, yet just aren’t comfortable where to start? Then this beginner-friendly webinar is designed to help you unlock the potential of this powerful tool. Whether you're looking to organize data, create simple calculations, or build your first spreadsheet, this session is the perfect starting point.
Learning Objectives
Nick Tanzi is the Assistant Director of the South Huntington Public Library. He is an internationally recognized library technology consultant and the author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and the coauthor of the Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). Nick is a past column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library," and his work on the intersection of libraries and technology has been featured in publications including Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Nick Tanzi is the Assistant Director of the South Huntington Public Library. He is an internationally recognized library technology consultant and the author of the books Making the Most of Digital Collections Through Training and Outreach (2016) and the coauthor of the Best Technologies for Public Libraries: Policies, Programs, and Services (2020). Nick is a past column editor for Public Library Magazine’s “The Wired Library," and his work on the intersection of libraries and technology has been featured in publications including Computers in Libraries, Library Journal, and Marketing Library Services.
Kim DeNero-Ackroyd has been the Deputy Director of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for 13 years. In this role, she supervises eight public service managers directly, as well as leads all public service activities. She currently serves on as the chair of ALA’s Committee on Organization, is a member of PLA’s Continuing Education Advisory Group and is on the OLC Board of Directors. Prior to her current role, she has twice been a branch manager, in addition to other supervisory positions. In all of her positions, effective time management has been one of the critical components of success. She is passionate about helping to develop future and current library leaders.Being intentional and inclusive in the design of your library’s communications, in both physical and digital library spaces, can support and enrich your library’s accessibility, diversity, and equity. The graphics, language, or format selected for communications provide an opportunity to create more welcoming spaces which reflect and represent your community’s diversity, including—but not limited to—race, gender, or neurodiversity. Explore the importance of inclusion and representation in design and take a fresh look at how your library’s signage, marketing materials, and online communication can contribute to a sense of belonging for all.
Learning Objectives:
Presenter:
Mollie Peuler is the Elearning librarian at Appalachian State University. In this role, Mollie works to curate, design, and assess online learning objects and tools that support the flexible teaching and learning of information literacy concepts. Her research interests include instructional design, design justice, and inclusive design. Mollie received her MLIS from Florida State University and a Master of Education in Training and Development from North Carolina State University.
Recorded 6/12/25
Being intentional and inclusive in the design of your library’s communications, in both physical and digital library spaces, can support and enrich your library’s accessibility, diversity, and equity. The graphics, language, or format selected for communications provide an opportunity to create more welcoming spaces which reflect and represent your community’s diversity, including—but not limited to—race, gender, or neurodiversity. Explore the importance of inclusion and representation in design and take a fresh look at how your library’s signage, marketing materials, and online communication can contribute to a sense of belonging for all.
Learning Objectives:
Presenter:
Mollie Peuler is the Elearning librarian at Appalachian State University. In this role, Mollie works to curate, design, and assess online learning objects and tools that support the flexible teaching and learning of information literacy concepts. Her research interests include instructional design, design justice, and inclusive design. Mollie received her MLIS from Florida State University and a Master of Education in Training and Development from North Carolina State University.
Modeled off the Chicago-area Adult Reading Round Table, the Guided Reading Round Table (GRRT) will lead library staff through an in-depth genre study. Over the course of a year, we will explore historical fiction, with a specific focus on the biographical, fantasy, literary, mystery, and romance subgenres. This antepenultimate session will explore historical romance through guided discussions to identify popular authors, titles, tropes, & trends. A reading list & questions will be supplied; while it is not required, it is recommended to read through some of the titles and questions. The GRRT is dedicated to the development of readers’ advisory skills and the promotion of reading for pleasure.
Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitators:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitators:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.Ed Slusarski, President of Regarding Your Systems, LLC (Cyber Consulting Company) - He graduated college with a triple major in Accounting, Finance, and Management and a minor in Computer Science. He started his business career in public accounting, serving very diverse set of clienteles. In his career, he continued to focus on becoming an integrated consulting expert as he progressed through various industries - manufacturing, financial, retail, and mining - which were US and internationally based companies. He continued to refine his skills by: 1) obtaining his MBA/MSMIS degree from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management; and 2) conducting research, analysis, and studies in the business, operational, and IT fields with the culmination of certifications in key IT security and governance, risk management, and business management fields. He continues to learn and adapt to the ever-changing business/IT environment by obtaining training and seeking certifications in his areas of study and interest (Dark Web, Artificial Intelligence, IoT devices, quantum computing). While his consulting practice does address large companies (Eaton, Timken Steel, Hyster Yale), he strives to help the medium to small businesses the most.
Ed Slusarski, President of Regarding Your Systems, LLC (Cyber Consulting Company) - He graduated college with a triple major in Accounting, Finance, and Management and a minor in Computer Science. He started his business career in public accounting, serving very diverse set of clienteles. In his career, he continued to focus on becoming an integrated consulting expert as he progressed through various industries - manufacturing, financial, retail, and mining - which were US and internationally based companies. He continued to refine his skills by: 1) obtaining his MBA/MSMIS degree from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management; and 2) conducting research, analysis, and studies in the business, operational, and IT fields with the culmination of certifications in key IT security and governance, risk management, and business management fields. He continues to learn and adapt to the ever-changing business/IT environment by obtaining training and seeking certifications in his areas of study and interest (Dark Web, Artificial Intelligence, IoT devices, quantum computing). While his consulting practice does address large companies (Eaton, Timken Steel, Hyster Yale), he strives to help the medium to small businesses the most.
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 Hillary Brown.
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.
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 Yvette Wasko.
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.
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.
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 Jill Grunenwald.
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.Ed Slusarski, President of Regarding Your Systems, LLC (Cyber Consulting Company) - He graduated college with a triple major in Accounting, Finance, and Management and a minor in Computer Science. He started his business career in public accounting, serving very diverse set of clienteles. In his career, he continued to focus on becoming an integrated consulting expert as he progressed through various industries - manufacturing, financial, retail, and mining - which were US and internationally based companies. He continued to refine his skills by: 1) obtaining his MBA/MSMIS degree from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management; and 2) conducting research, analysis, and studies in the business, operational, and IT fields with the culmination of certifications in key IT security and governance, risk management, and business management fields. He continues to learn and adapt to the ever-changing business/IT environment by obtaining training and seeking certifications in his areas of study and interest (Dark Web, Artificial Intelligence, IoT devices, quantum computing). While his consulting practice does address large companies (Eaton, Timken Steel, Hyster Yale), he strives to help the medium to small businesses the most.
Ed Slusarski, President of Regarding Your Systems, LLC (Cyber Consulting Company) - He graduated college with a triple major in Accounting, Finance, and Management and a minor in Computer Science. He started his business career in public accounting, serving very diverse set of clienteles. In his career, he continued to focus on becoming an integrated consulting expert as he progressed through various industries - manufacturing, financial, retail, and mining - which were US and internationally based companies. He continued to refine his skills by: 1) obtaining his MBA/MSMIS degree from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management; and 2) conducting research, analysis, and studies in the business, operational, and IT fields with the culmination of certifications in key IT security and governance, risk management, and business management fields. He continues to learn and adapt to the ever-changing business/IT environment by obtaining training and seeking certifications in his areas of study and interest (Dark Web, Artificial Intelligence, IoT devices, quantum computing). While his consulting practice does address large companies (Eaton, Timken Steel, Hyster Yale), he strives to help the medium to small businesses the most.
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.
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.
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 Hillary Brown.
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.
LGBTQ+ Cultural Competence Training is designed to foster safer, more inclusive communities for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. This training equips participants with the knowledge and tools to recognize and address bias, understand current terminology, and engage in respectful and informed conversations around gender and sexuality. Upon completion, participants are invited to display a Safe Space Ally sign in their workspace—demonstrating visible support for the LGBTQ+ community and a commitment to inclusion.
Ken Ditlevson is a dedicated trainer and facilitator specializing in LGBTQ+ education and advocacy. He served as the inaugural Director of Kent State University’s LGBTQ+ Center, a position he held for nearly 11 years. In this role, Ken led numerous initiatives to support LGBTQ+ students, staff, and faculty, building a more inclusive campus environment.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.
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.
Do your work days feel like a blur? Between patron demands, programming pressures, and shifting priorities, it’s easy to fall into survival mode. This one-hour introductory webinar will offer practical strategies to help you reconnect with what you love about library work. We’ll explore how to manage time and tasks, navigate workplace conflict, and rediscover purpose in your daily routine—so you can thrive, not just get through the day.
Learning Objectives:
Recorded 10/30/25
Do your work days feel like a blur? Between patron demands, programming pressures, and shifting priorities, it’s easy to fall into survival mode. This one-hour introductory webinar will offer practical strategies to help you reconnect with what you love about library work. We’ll explore how to manage time and tasks, navigate workplace conflict, and rediscover purpose in your daily routine—so you can thrive, not just get through the day.
Learning Objectives:
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.
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.
Amy B. Shannon, President, Pinnacle Leadership Solutions, LLC, and a Partner in Your Partner in HR has specialized in Organizational Development, Human Resources and Training for over 25 years. For the past 13 years, Amy has been an Organizational Development consultant working with clients in manufacturing, service, financial and healthcare industries. Most recently, Amy served as the Executive Director II/Vice President of Corporate College where she built robust leadership training curriculum to serve her clients. Amy also holds certifications with numerous nationally known training vendors. She is a regular speaker at national conferences such as The Corporate University Week at the Disney Institute. She is a seasoned speaker for the HR Star Conference Cleveland. As a result of her high ratings, she has also been a key speaker at the HR Star Atlanta and received the Gold Medal Award three years in a row for best session speaker. Amy was a recipient of the 2015 HR Awards presented by ERC & CSHRM.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.
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 Hillary Brown.
Modeled off the Chicago-area Adult Reading Round Table, the Guided Reading Round Table (GRRT) will lead library staff through an in-depth genre study. Over the course of a year, we will explore historical fiction, with a specific focus on the biographical, fantasy, literary, mystery, and romance subgenres. This penultimate session will explore historical literary fiction through guided discussions to identify popular authors, titles, tropes, & trends. A reading list & questions will be supplied; while it is not required, it is recommended to read through some of the titles and questions. The GRRT is dedicated to the development of readers’ advisory skills and the promotion of reading for pleasure.
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 Hilllary Brown.
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.
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 Hillary Brown.
Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitators:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Recorded 12/16/25
Join us for a session to have your Excel questions answered. Here is an opportunity to share tips and ask questions about Excel. Do you want to learn more about quickly navigating in Excel? Excel formula basics? Using automatic color coding to create a printable work schedule based on staff availability? Summarize data you’ve exported from another system like your ILS? Power Query basics? You may email questions and files ahead of time to Melissa Lattanzi or just join us on Zoom for the conversation. Keep in mind when sharing your files to protect the innocent.
Facilitators:
Scott Trimmer currently serves as the Director of the Learning Commons at Cuyahoga Community College’s Eastern Campus, where he has been since 2014. Scott enjoys helping people use technology to meaningfully improve their lives. His staff jokes that there’s very little Scott doesn’t try to organize in a spreadsheet. While serving for more than ten years as the go-to person to answer Excel questions at a 1000+ employee University, he picked up a number of Excel tips and tricks. In recent years, Scott has developed or assisted in the creation of variety of Excel tools to facilitate administrative tasks and dashboards, simplifying workflows and making data available to less tech-savvy folks in the organization.
With a degree in Computer Science and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, Scott has effectively used Excel to enhance data accessibility in a manner that benefits his organizations.
Melissa Lattanzi, Continuing Education Coordinator, NEO-RLS
Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.
Paula Miller has served as Director/Administrator in four states –Baltimore County Public Library and Eastern Shore Regional Library (both MD), Pikes Peak Library District (CO), Westlake Porter Public Library (OH), and Dover Public Library (DE). Most recently, she molded BCPL’s role as a community hub and instrument of democracy, and she oversaw the development and opening of award-winning and state-of-the-art Library 21c in Colorado Springs. Enamored by libraries since her first shelving job at age 16 at Kent Free Library, she believes our public libraries are critical community resources that bring people together and that serve as bridges to opportunities in individuals’ lives. She is focused on identifying new and emerging needs, roles, and connections that keep our libraries relevant and effective.
Becky Potter is a Library Experience Supervisor at Central Library at Calgary Public Library. Her role focuses on supporting staff with safety and security, community partnerships and library services for vulnerable Calgarians. Previous roles at Calgary Public Library include Adult Literacy and Learning Advocate focusing on community partnerships and community outreach and Program Coordinator delivering programs to community partners serving the vulnerable sector. Becky has worked on community Initiatives including, Financial Futures Collaborative (FFC), Calgary Poverty Reduction Initiative (CPRI) and the Safe Communities Opportunity Resource Center (SCORCe).
Becky Potter is a Library Experience Supervisor at Central Library at Calgary Public Library. Her role focuses on supporting staff with safety and security, community partnerships and library services for vulnerable Calgarians. Previous roles at Calgary Public Library include Adult Literacy and Learning Advocate focusing on community partnerships and community outreach and Program Coordinator delivering programs to community partners serving the vulnerable sector. Becky has worked on community Initiatives including, Financial Futures Collaborative (FFC), Calgary Poverty Reduction Initiative (CPRI) and the Safe Communities Opportunity Resource Center (SCORCe). 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.
Ris Labib, Collection Development Manager at Portage County District Library, believes in the power of a good book. She has been talking with others about books -- in a professional and personal capacity -- since middle school and was even on NPR! One of the (many) books she is currently reading "Alchemised" by Senlinyu.
Amber Salmon has 22 years of experience in public libraries and is currently an adult services librarian in the Business, Government, and Science Division at the Akron-Summit County Public Library. She co-leads specialty book clubs and her favorite read of 2025 was “The Favorites” by Layne Fargo.
Ris Labib, Collection Development Manager at Portage County District Library, believes in the power of a good book. She has been talking with others about books -- in a professional and personal capacity -- since middle school and was even on NPR! One of the (many) books she is currently reading "Alchemised" by Senlinyu.
Amber Salmon has 22 years of experience in public libraries and is currently an adult services librarian in the Business, Government, and Science Division at the Akron-Summit County Public Library. She co-leads specialty book clubs and her favorite read of 2025 was “The Favorites” by Layne Fargo.
Sidney Gao, Interim Director of Digital Initiatives, Digital Collections Manager, University of Cincinnati Libraries
Sean Crowe, Digital Projects Librarian, University of Cincinnati Libraries
Sidney Gao, Interim Director of Digital Initiatives, Digital Collections Manager, University of Cincinnati Libraries
Sean Crowe, Digital Projects Librarian, University of Cincinnati Libraries
Modeled off the Chicago-area Adult Reading Round Table, the Guided Reading Round Table (GRRT) will lead library staff through an in-depth genre study. Over the course of a year, we will explore historical fiction, with a specific focus on the biographical, fantasy, literary, mystery, and romance subgenres. This final session will explore historical fantasy through guided discussions to identify popular authors, titles, tropes, & trends. A reading list & questions will be supplied; while it is not required, it is recommended to read through some of the titles and questions. The GRRT is dedicated to the development of readers’ advisory skills and the promotion of reading for pleasure.
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 Ragan Snead.
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:
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:
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.
Recorded 2/10/26Join 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 Yvette Wasko.
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.
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 Jill Grunenwald.
The term “neurodiversity” refers to the infinite variation in brain functioning that leads to differences in thinking, attention, memory, and communication. Some neurodivergent individuals have differences in executive functioning skills like time management, and as a result, need different support and accommodations in the workplace. In this presentation, learn about time management from a neurodivergent lens. Whether you are neurodivergent or you are a supervisor to someone who is, this webinar will provide concrete strategies to support time management in the workplace.
Learning Objectives: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.
As teachers and librarians, you’re on the front lines of introducing AI to students. But with headlines warning about AI’s massive energy demands, how do you balance the need for AI literacy with decisions about acting sustainably?
This webinar cuts through the confusion to help you make informed choices about sustainability in your classrooms, libraries, and communities.
We’ll examine independent estimates of AI’s energy and water use and put them in context in ways that are easy to understand.
We’ll include an introduction to how data centers work and what they are used for. We’ll clarify what we know and what’s still uncertain about AI’s carbon footprint (both in the present and in future projections).
We’ll compare individual AI use to other digital activities, and we’ll also look at global use of data centers with statistics from the International Energy Agency.
Did you know that AI technologies are also being used to mitigate climate change? We’ll look at some of the many innovations underway related to greener data centers, hardware, and chips. And we’ll look at how AI is being used in projects that map deforestation, improve recycling, clean up the ocean, innovate new materials for greener buildings, and more.
You’ll come away with some practical tips for answering questions from students, and some simple advocacy steps to use in your communities.
Nicole Hennig is an expert in instructional design, user experience, and emerging technologies. She is currently an e-learning developer and AI education specialist at the University of Arizona Libraries.
Previously, she worked for the MIT Libraries as head of the user experience department. In her 14 years of experience at MIT, she won awards for innovation and worked to keep academics up to date with the best new technologies.
She is the author of several books, including Keeping Up with Emerging Technologies, Apps for Librarians, and Privacy & Security Online.
Librarians who take her courses are applying what they’ve learned in their communities. See their testimonials.
To stay current with the latest developments in AI, sign up for her email newsletter, Generative AI News, and follow her on Bluesky or Mastodon, where she posts daily about libraries, artificial intelligence, and other technologies.
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:
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.
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 Ragan Snead.
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.
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.
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 Hilllary Brown.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.