3-6 PM Storytime SchoolPresenter: Kari Ann St. Jean, Sponsored by Rainbow Books & Children’s Plus

3:00PM STORYTIME SCHOOL

Sunday, April 26

Registration & Continental BreakfastCoffee & Continental Breakfast served starting at 8AM.

8:00AM REGISTRATION

Monday, April 27

8:30AM EXHIBITS OPEN

Grand Opening Exhibit HallMarriott Ballroom

9:00AM KEYNOTE

9-5 PM Storytime SchoolPresenter: Kari Ann St. Jean, Sponsored by Rainbow Books & Children’s Plus

Storytime School will observe the same break and meal schedule as the rest of the conference.

Keynote Speaker: Lance WernerBetter Libraries and Stronger Communities through Kindness, Empathy and Love

Lance has served as Executive Director for Kent District Library since 2011. He received a juris doctorate degree from Michigan State University’s College of Law and his master’s degree in Library Science from Wayne State University (WSU). In 2018 he was chosen as Library Journal’s Librarian of the Year, and in years past he was the recipient of the Joey Rodger Leadership Award from the Urban Libraries Council, Librarian of the Year Award from the Michigan Library Association (MLA), the WSU Distinguished Alumni award, and Library Journal’s Mover and Shaker Award. Lance is currently involved in the ALA Policy Corps, WSU’s Capital Campaign, MLA’s Legislative Committee, and recently graduated from Michigan Political Leadership Course.

10:00AM COFFEE BREAK

Coffee BreakEnjoy coffee and whole fruit during this exclusive Exhibit Hall time.

Poster SessionsPoster Session Topics TBD

10:30AM BREAKOUT 1

To Fine, or not to Fine: that is the Question (Part 1)Presenters: Sam Cook, Systems Librarian for Public Services, Library Connection, Inc; Elizabeth Lane, Director, Bloomfield Library; and Rachel Gravel, Head of Borrowing and Technical Services, Simsbury Public Library

We will be discussing the many dynamics of fines and going fine free. A panel of CT Librarians, will be sharing with you their experiences with the elimination of overdue fines, and the collection of data around it.

Big Ideas, Local EngagementPresenters: Denise Merrill, Secretary of State; Scott Wands, CT Humanities; Terri Wilson, Avon Historical Society; Tina Panik, Avon Free Public Library

Secretary of State Denise Merrill will celebrate the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage and speak about the current state of voting rights. Scott Wands from CT Humanities will discuss the resources and funding they provide to communities. Tina Panik of the Avon Free Public Library and Terri Wilson of the Avon Historical Society will talk about taking big ideas and putting together the pieces to create meaningful local programming.

Using Coda.io to Improve Staff WorkflowsPresenter: Amanda L. Goodman, Darien Library

Learn how to make your spreadsheets and documents work harder by creating an “app” using Coda (https://coda.io/). In this session, Goodman will share how she created a new book groups’ workflow in an attractive and easy to use interface. The new system tracks inventory, reading history, current checkouts, and helps staff to make recommendations. The app also ties into notification systems via email and calendar integrations. Staff can make better decisions and track the use of the collection over time through built in visualizations

You Are the Hero You’ve Been Waiting For: How to Use Your Librarian Superpowers to Maximize Your Career PotentialPresenters: Sunnie Scarpa, Library Director, E.C. Scranton Memorial Library and Allison Murphy, Wallingford Public Library

Whether you have a clear vision of your career path, or you’re not sure where you’re headed, come join us as we share our ideas and experiences overcoming imposter syndrome, gaining confidence, and pro-actively working towards our career goals. Attendees will come away inspired to attain librarian greatness, with specific ideas for genuine networking, continuing education, negotiation skills, and further reading.

Drag Queens and Libraries PanelPresenters: Jennifer Billingsley, Head of Youth and Family Learning, Russell Library and Kristina Lareau, Ridgefield Library

Join Jennifer Billingsley (she/her), Director of Youth & Family Learning Department at Russell Library in Middletown and Kristina Lareau (she/her), Head of Children’s Services in Ridgefield as they moderate a panel with some of Connecticut’s premier Drag Queen performers including Kiki, Mia, Rory and Summer.

Resilient CommunitiesPresenter: Michele Klimczak, The Connection INC

Libraries are innovative places where community gathers. As trusted institutions, libraries have a vital part to play in creating and sustaining communities of health and resilience. This session will explain how improved awareness of mental health can equip citizens and library staff members with the knowledge and tools needed to recognize and safely manage the most common mental health conditions, whether in their own families, their jobs, or in the community. The role of libraries in creating safer communities and the importance of a trauma informed approach to working with people in crisis will be discussed.

Dissecting First Amendment Audits Presenter: Sam Lee, Enfield Public Library

First Amendment Auditors visiting libraries. Why? Who are they? What are they trying to accomplish? Sam Lee will lead discussions and a threat assessment of these auditors.

To Fine, or not to Fine: that is the Question (Part 2)Presenters: Sam Cook, Systems Librarian for Public Services, Library Connection, Inc; Elizabeth Lane, Director, Bloomfield Library; and Rachel Gravel, Head of Borrowing and Technical Services, Simsbury Public Library

We will be discussing the many dynamics of fines and going fine free. A panel of CT Librarians, will be sharing with you their experiences with the elimination of overdue fines, and the collection of data around it.

It Starts with Us: Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in LibrariesPresenters: Representatives from Ferguson Library, Hartford Public Library, and Russell Library plus a moderator (tentatively Glenn Grube), Avon Public Library

What can we do to promote and foster equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in our libraries, our staff, our users, and the broader community? This panel discussion will look at what has been done at The Ferguson Library (Stamford), Hartford Public Library, and Russell Library (Middletown) to advance EDI in their institutions and their communities. (We also hope to include a link to some suggested pre-reads in the conference program.)

Book Tasting Program for AdultsPresenters: Carrie Tyszka and Laurie Finke, Berlin-Peck Memorial Library

The objective of a book tasting is to help patrons get a “taste” of books and genres that they wouldn’t typically choose or to simply help them find new titles to read. At a book tasting, patrons sample numerous books in various genres in a short period of time and come away with a wish list of titles. Berlin-Peck Memorial Library staff will discuss the planning, preparation, and lessons learned after hosting two book tasting events.

Children & Teen Book BuzzPresenters: Samantha Connell, New Canaan Public Library; Michele Kaminski, South Windsor Public Library; Allison Murphy, Wallingford Public Library; and Brittany Pearson, Westbrook Public Library

Find out about new and forthcoming titles for your library, and get advanced reader copies and marketing materials from some great publishers! Publishers will focus on books for children and teens.

How to Talk So Your Boss Will Listen: The Fine Art of Conversing with Your SupervisorPresenters: Barbara Cangiano; Sarah Morgan, Library Director, East Hartford Public Library; Sunnie Scarpa, Library Director, E.C. Scranton Memorial Library; Janet Flewelling, Head of

11:30AM BREAKOUT 2

Emerging & Creative Technologies, Wallingford Public Library

Are your conversations with your boss not getting the results you desire? A panel of library directors and managers will discuss best practices for effective and rewarding communication with your supervisor and offer examples of Q&A dos and don’ts in this interactive program.

Marketing Is Not a Dirty Word: Simple Strategies to Boost Circulation, Increase Attendance, and Build Community SupportPresenter: Amanda Stern, Connecticut Library Consortium

Those of us who work in libraries often take for granted that our communities know and appreciate all we have to offer. But anyone who has ever been asked, “Are libraries still relevant?” knows this is not the case. In lightning round format, CLC’s Amanda Stern will share strategies and key takeaways from the national Library Marketing and Communications Conference. Learn how to boost your marketing acumen, pitch programs and collections like a pro, and engage your community through meaningful partnership opportunities.

Self-Care to Support Staff and PatronsPresenters: Linda Tumbarello, Psychotherapist in Private

Linda’s self-care guidance positively aligns with Lance Warner’s keynote speech, “Better Libraries and Stronger Communities Through Kindness, Empathy and Love,” for it is through cultivating self-care and inner support that we are able to share kindness, empathy and love.

Linda offers an approach to self-care that is about being kind, accepting and compassionate towards yourself that is the heart of self-care. Practical tips will be offered to offset self-care challenges. Stress management can help staff be more empathetic and kind to patrons. Linda will share effective and fun 5 minute stress relievers that staff can use easily at work.

12:30PM LUNCH & SPEAKER

12:30 PM Buffet LunchBuffet style hot lunch set up outside Mystic Ballroom. (Vendor lunch at 11:30 in the Exhibit Hall.)

1:00 PM Lunch Speaker: Nancy PearlThe Pleasures and Perils of a Life of Reading

Nancy Pearl, author and host of the TV show, Book Lust, will discuss her forthcoming book, The Writer’s Library, a moving, joyful, and insightful collection of conversations with today’s living literary legends including Viet Thanh Nguyen, Michael Chabon, Louise Erdrich, T.C. Boyle, Richard Ford, and many others. The authors share the books that changed their lives, made them think, and brought them joy.

1:30PM EXHIBIT HALL & BOOK SIGNING

1:30 PM Book Signing: Nancy PearlThe Writer’s LibraryMeet Nancy Pearl and receive a free, signed copy of The Writer’s Library, a collection of interviews with well-known authors, written with playwright Jeff Schwager, will be published by HarperOne in September 2020.

1:30 PM Exhibit Hall & Poster SessionsExhibit Hall exclusive time and poster sessions TBD.

2:00PM BREAKOUT 3

Stop Banning Black Books! Build a core African American collection (Part 1)Presenters: Diane Brown, Branch Manager, New Haven Public Library-Stetson Branch; and Phillip Modeen, Children’s Librarian

We know librarians work within limited budgets and must be selective in making purchases, but don’t let this and other biases be used to justify why your library collection is lacking in a diverse collection for your community library. Come hear Diane Brown and Phillip Modeen discuss practical tips and strategies you should be implementing at your libraries to be more inclusive in your collections.

Engaging Across Generations of Library Users: Designing for Learners of all Ages (Part 1)Presenters: Whit Iglehart, TSKP Studio; Bridget Quinn-Carey, HPL; TBD, Welles-Turner Memorial Library

From spaces designed for play-based learning of Birth-to-5 and their caregivers; to reading, study and after-school spaces for elementary/pre-teens; to technology-rich study and Makerspaces for teens, public and school library programs and spaces must continually adapt to best serve and engage each successive generation of learner. This includes college-age and adult spaces for individual and group study, as well. Given funding limitations, expansive additions often not feasible, existing spaces must be re-imagined. We will discuss opportunities to reclaim space, programmatic needs, challenges and approaches for each age group, with case studies from urban (Hartford) to suburban (Glastonbury).

Courageous Community Conversations through a Community Reads ProgramPresenters: Elaine Tai-Lauria, Executive Director, Wilton Library Association and Fran Kompar, Director of Digital Learning, Wilton Public Schools

Prompted by the disturbing re-appearance of signs of intolerance, anti-Semitic symbols, and hateful graffiti across the nation, Wilton Library in partnership with Wilton Public Schools took the leadership role in bringing the lessons learned from WW2 and the Holocaust to life to their community in a comprehensive way. Wilton Reads 2019 took the community on a knowledge journey and courageous community conversations which culminated with a presentation by Heather Morris, author of the New York Times best seller The Tattooist of Auschwitz.

The American Reading Crisis - What Every Librarian Needs To Know To Be Part of the Solution (Part 1)Presenter: Caroline Wilcox Ugurlu, PhD, Letters are Characters

More than 60% of American 4th graders are not reaching literacy benchmarks. More than 100 million American adults can only read at basic level. We need to start community conversations about reading to understand why beginning with a discussion about why reading is so important. Together we can make a course correction. During this double session, Caroline Wilcox Ugurlu, Ph.D., will unpack the things that we all need to know about reading for ourselves and for the children of our communities. She will provide a full description and demonstration of programs that can be added to library offerings to help ensure that children and adults read to their highest potential. Libraries are a critical part of the solution to the American reading crisis.

IGNITE: Sparking STEM curiosity and growing girl leaders (even for the technologically-challenged)Presenters: Marisa Hicking, Teen Librarian and Jessica Noble, Technology & Technical Services Manager, Avon Free Public Library

Are your teens looking for STEAM-based programming? Does STEAM intimidate you? Find out how Marisa Hicking and Jess Noble crafted a program series at Avon Library tailored to girls’ learning styles. In the span of one each program, a girl grows from a student to a leader on a new STEAM topic. Unlike sequential programs like Girls Who Code, whether a first-timer or a repeat participant, everyone starts fresh with the opportunity to be curious and explore. Walk away with reusable, affordable program

ideas that you can customize for your community.

Disability SensitivityPresenter: Melissa Marshall, Coordinator of the CT Cross Disability Lifespan Alliance, CT State Library

Melissa will provide disability awareness and etiquette training, so that library employees and patrons with disabilities will always feel welcome.

Drastic times call for drastic measures: Intentionality, outreach, and library leadership in times of financial crisisPresenters: Kristina Edwards, Acquisitions Librarian and Kristin D’Amato, Head of Acquisitions/Serials Dept, Elihu Burritt Library CCSU

Each year libraries nationwide contend with flat or shrinking budgets while supporting evolving curricula and faculty research. After years of flat or reduced budgets, librarians at CCSU decided to break the vicious cycle of reactionary cancellations. The goal: to realign spending with fiscal reality; the measure: a 25 percent cut to each academic department’s resources over a two-year period. The necessity for reductions has created opportunities for focused outreach, education, and advocacy; more intentional and creative collection assessment; deeper and more thoughtful collaborations with teaching faculty. This presentation will provide an overview of CCSU’s reduction process, including where we are today and the lessons we learned throughout the journey.

3:00PM SNACK BREAK

Snack BreakBeverages and snacks in the Exhibit Hall. Sponsored by EBSCO.

Poster SessionsPoster Session Topics TBD

3:30PM BREAKOUT 4

Stop Banning Black Books! Build a core African American collection (Part 2)Presenters: Diane Brown, Branch Manager, New Haven Public Library-Stetson Branch; and Phillip Modeen, Children’s Librarian

We know librarians work within limited budgets and must be selective in making purchases, but don’t let this and other biases be used to justify why your library collection is lacking in a diverse collection for your community library. Come hear Diane Brown and Phillip Modeen discuss practical tips and strategies you should be implementing at your libraries to be more inclusive in your collections.

Engaging Across Generations of Library Users: Designing for Learners of all Ages (Part 2)Presenters: Whit Iglehart, TSKP Studio; Bridget Quinn-Carey, HPL; TBD, Glastonbury Library

From spaces designed for play-based learning of Birth-to-5 and their caregivers; to reading, study and after-school spaces for elementary/pre-teens; to technology-rich study and Makerspaces for teens, public and school library programs and spaces must continually adapt to best serve and engage each successive generation of learner. This includes college-age and adult spaces for individual and group study, as well. Given funding limitations, expansive additions often not feasible, existing spaces must be re-imagined. We will discuss opportunities to reclaim space, programmatic needs, challenges and approaches for each age group, with case studies from urban (Hartford) to suburban (Glastonbury).

YA SmackdownPresenters: Anna Downing, Farmington Public Libraries and Marisa Hicking, Avon Free Public Library

A grassroots meet-up and idea generation tool for anyone providing library services to teens. Topics and questions are passed around to all attendees to gather a variety of answers and insights. Similar in style to Guerrilla Storytime.

The American Reading Crisis - What Every Librarian Needs To Know To Be Part of the Solution (Part 2)Presenter: Caroline Wilcox Ugurlu, PhD, Letters are Characters

More than 60% of American 4th graders are not reaching literacy benchmarks. More than 100 million American adults can only read at basic level. We need to start community conversations about reading to understand why beginning with a discussion about why reading is so important. Together we can make a course correction. During this double session, Caroline Wilcox Ugurlu, Ph.D., will unpack the things that we all need to know about reading for ourselves and for the children of our communities. She will provide a full description and demonstration of programs that can be added to library offerings to help ensure that children and adults read to their highest potential. Libraries are a critical part of the solution to the American reading crisis.

Moving More in LibrariesPresenters: Christy Billings, Information Services and Adult Learning, Russell Library; Tara Borden, Assistant Director, East Lyme; Laura Larsen, Children’s Librarian, Russell Library Certified Zumba instructor; Heidi Sacchitella, Youth Services Librarian, Prosser Public Library

Panel discussion from four library staff members who created programs to help patrons move in libraries. Tara Borden will speak about creating an 8-week Couch to 5K Program. Zumba combines Latin rhythms, dance moves and core work. Laura Larsen will explain how to become a Zumba instructor. Christy Billings will talk about creating two programs where book discussions and the outdoors came together as a natural fit; Book Talk With a Walk, and Book Yak with a Kayak. Heidi Sacchitella will speak about the process of Line Dancing in libraries. Come learn how to help your patrons move more in libraries!

Cultivating Connections with Bilingual Families in our CommunitiesPresenter: Dr. Marissa E. Ferraro, Assistant Professor of Curriculum and Learning, SCSU

Given the rise of culturally and linguistically diverse children in Connecticut’s communities, this presentation will share ways in which librarians can effectively support bi-literacy development. Specifically, how can librarians offer guidance to families of emergent bilingual children who are developing literacies in languages other than English? What implications do bi-literate children have for librarians in terms of selecting texts for our current and future collections? How can we engage in conversations around issues of social justice through the texts we read? It is imperative that we find ways to engage all children and families in cultivating meaningful literacy practices.

Everyone is welcome here. Safety and Security at your Library- A DiscussionPresenters: Madhu Bajaj Gupta and Thomas Kramer, Public Library of New London

Keeping libraries free and open to all, as well as maintaining safe spaces for our communities are both fundamental tenets for public librarians. However, these two priorities are sometimes at odds, forcing us to strike a balance between open door policies for our community members and ensuring our patrons are safe. Join us for a discussion to share ideas, challenges, and success stories related to optimizing library security and patron freedom.

5:00PM YA AWARDS RECEPTION & MINI GOLF HAPPY HOUR

YA Awards Reception & Mini Golf Happy HourEnjoy a complimentary drink and appetizers to celebrate the winner of a new YA Award. We hope you’ll stay for a fun round of mini-golf. Your 9-hole course around the Exhibit Hall will cost $10 to play and will help fundraise for future CLA initiatives. Sponsored by Apple Books, Mobile Mini Golf and the Nutmeg Book Award Committee.

Registration & Continental BreakfastCoffee & Continental Breakfast served starting at 8AM.

8:00AM REGISTRATION

Tuesday, April 28

9:00AM CLA MEETING & AWARDS

9-5 PM Storytime SchoolPresenter: Kari Ann St. Jean, Sponsored by Rainbow Books & Children’s Plus

Storytime School will observe the same break and meal schedule as the rest of the conference.

CLA ANNUAL MEETING & AWARDSJoin us for the CLA Annual Meeting followed by the awards ceremony.

10:00AM KEYNOTE

Keynote Speaker: Rebekkah Smith AldrichWhat the World Needs Now Sponsored by FLAG (Fairfield County Library Administrators Group)

Rebekkah Smith Aldrich (MLS, LEED AP) is the Executive Director of the Mid-Hudson Library System. Rebekkah currently serves as the co-chair of the American Library Association’s (ALA) Special Task Force on Sustainability, as an advisory board member for the ALA Center for the Future of Libraries, and is the co-founder of both the ALA Sustainability Round Table and the New York Library Association’s Sustainability Initiative. A frequent international speaker on the topic of libraries and sustainability, Rebekkah is the author of Sustainable Thinking: Ensuring Your Library’s Future in an Uncertain World and Resilience, part of the Library Futures Series from ALA Editions. Learn more about Rebekkah at http://SustainableLibraries.org

11:00AM COFFEE BREAK

Coffee BreakEnjoy coffee and whole fruit during this exclusive Exhibit Hall time.

11:30AM BREAKOUT 1

Learning-Unlearning-Relearning Through Strategic Foresight: A CSL/KEDGE Futures School PartnershipPresenter: Dawn La Valle, CT State Library

Building on the CT State Library’s successful EXCITE Transformation for Libraries LB21 grant project CSL is partnering with The Kedge Futures School (TFS) to offer Learning-Unlearning-Relearning Through Strategic Foresight. Kedge will facilitate two 3-day, flagship program, TFS with a library-specific focal issue, futures mindset and toolkit, resulting in the development of adaptable individuals with diverse strategic mindsets who are able to connect and capitalize on their changing business environment. Ultimately, they will learn a strategic framework that enables them to continuously learn-unlearn-relearn to lead discussion and action in the transformation of libraries. Join us to learn more about this opportunity

Libraries are Ideal Memory Cafe HostsPresenters: Elizabeth Chubet and Katy O’Leary, Southington Public Library

Memory Cafe are gatherings designed to promote social connections for people living with dementia and their care partner. Libraries are a wonderful community Cafe host. Events are typically 90-minutes once or twice monthly for conversation, a bite to eat and an activity. Southington Library is the first library in Connecticut to receive the Dementia Friendly designation and the first library in Connecticut to offer a Memory Cafe. Hear from a couple who regularly attends, Southington Library’s Adult Program Director and LiveWell Dementia Specialists Community Development Director, the Dementia Friendly community initiative lead.

Professional is an Adjective, Not a Noun! Career Success Strategies for Support StaffPresenter: Beth Crowley, Director, Chesire Public Library

Whether you hope to advance in your library career or excel in your current position, there are strategies you can use to ensure you stand out as a high-performing employee. Beth Crowley started her library career 21 years ago as a library aide eventually moving up the ladder to become a library director. Having worked in both support staff and supervisory positions, Beth will share her practical insights and tips on how you can be seen as a professional regardless of your specific job title or duties. Covering effective communication styles, understanding the importance of Emotional Intelligence, and ways to increase your knowledge and skill base, this session is aimed at employees in support staff or non-supervisory roles who want to maximize their performance at work.

Sensory Story Time at the Public Library: How To BeginPresenters: Maria Cotto, Wallingford Public Library, and Barbara Wells, Greenville Public Library, RI

Learn practical approaches for implementing a Sensory Story Time at your public library, focusing on resources and step-by-step methods and strategies to prepare for the sensory story time. This session will also outline how to prepare sensory activities that will engage children who seek sensory input. Maria Cotto was named Librarian of the Year by REFORMA in 2019. She and Barbara Wells co-chair the RI Librarians Sensory Support Group.

Graphic Design 101: How to Take Your Marketing, Signage, and Branding to the Next LevelPresenter: Leah Farrell, Farmington Libraries

Whether you’re creating program flyers, posting to Facebook, or creating a display, your goal is to engage and excite your patrons with all the library has to offer. We will show you that anyone can create great design by covering principles of graphic and information design like color, font, and spacing, as well as some free and inexpensive tools to help your vision come to life!

Five (or 6 or 7...) Big Changes that Every Library Can Make for SuccessPresenter: Maxine Bleiweis, Maxine Bleiweis & Associates

You don’t have to wait for a budget increase or a new building to make a big impact on service to your community. Leave this program with ideas and action plans to have a big impact without straining your budget or hiring new staff.

Your Town Needs a New or Renovated Library - What Cements its Success?Presenters: Mary T. Tzambazakis, Chief Administrative Officer, Hartford Public Library; Jeff Donofrio, Managing Partner, Ciulla & Donofrio; David Stein, AIA, Principal, Silver/Petrucelli & Associates; Jeffrey Anderson, Director of Procurement, Downes Construction Company; Diana Colcord, Moderator, Downes Construction Company

Your capital expenditure is rooted in public interest and funding. Positioning the project from start to finish, by engaging the right building committee, legal and purchasing expertise, and design and construction support is key to keeping the project on budget and schedule. We will discuss project organization, legal and purchasing requirements, balancing project need within a reasonable budget, the Town’s responsibilities during both design and construction phases, and monitoring of the Town’s

12:30PM LUNCH

12:30 PM Buffet LunchBuffet style lunch set up outside Mystic Ballroom. (Vendor lunch at 11:30 in the Exhibit Hall.)

1:30PM BREAKOUT 2

Improving the Health, Safety and Wellbeing of LGBTQ+ CommunitiesPresenter: Margot Malachowski, National Network of Libraries of Medicine, New England Region

LGBTQ+ individuals face barriers in accessing healthcare as a result of discrimination, misunderstanding, and fear. Consequently, many LGBTQ+ individuals do not regularly access appropriate and timely care. Our goal is to create welcoming, safe and informed spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to reliably access the information and the care that they need. This session explores the health information needs of the LGBTQ+ community and the benefits of LGBTQ+ focused cultural competency/humility. We will identify electronic, print, and other resources for building quality LGBTQ+ health information collections and reference materials. We will discuss ideas for outreach strategies to the LGBTQ+ community.

Making a Plan for Your Plan: Putting Your Strategic Plan into ActionPresenter: Christine Michaud, Director, Durham Public Library

You worked hard to create a strategic plan for your library. Now what? The aim of a strategic plan is to set broad management priorities and direction for all aspects of library operations. But complex plans often leave library management struggling to turn strategic goals into action. Not anymore! In this workshop, participants will learn how to use their strategic plan to create specific, measurable, achievable goals for all levels of staff. Library Director, Christine Michaud will share tools and templates you can use to activate your strategic plan.

Guerrilla Storytime & Beyond: Sharing Ideas for Creating Successful Children’s ProgramsPresenters: Michele Kaminski, South Windsor Public Library; and Catherine Potter, East Hartford Public Library

Are you looking to add some flair to your storytime? Do you want to offer your patrons a new program, but not sure where to start? Join us as we share some program successes and demonstrate introducing and transitioning between program activities, as well as how to incorporate a variety of props including flannels, puppets, shakers and a parachute. Then share your own favorite songs, activities, and tips with your colleagues!

Brews and Clues: partnering with local breweries for pub triviaPresenters: Amanda Gilbertie; Tara Carvalho, Danbury Public Library

In November of 2018, the Danbury Library partnered with Charter Oak Brewing, a brewery in Danbury to offer a monthly trivia night. These nights attract an average of 50+ participants each month, provide an opportunity to reach out to a younger demographic, and are a ton of fun! Learn how we established our partnership, how we keep trivia fresh and engaging, and how you can do the same!

Take Your Child to the Library Day Turns 10! What’s New and What’s Next?Presenter: Jennifer Keohane, Connecticut Library Consortium

February 6, 2021 marks the 10-year anniversary of Take Your Child to the Library Day, an international celebration that began as a grassroots effort by two Connecticut librarians. Join the TYCLD working committee in this session to explore event and program ideas from libraries nationwide, discover free tools you can use to promote your events, and share tips and tricks about how you can leverage this turnkey marketing opportunity to attract new users, build stronger connections with community

partners, increase community awareness of library services, and have fun at the same time! Let’s build buzz surrounding TYCLD’s tenth anniversary!

Meet Author Amity GaigePresenter: Amity Gaige, Author

Meet acclaimed Connecticut author Amity Gaige, whose new novel, The Sea Wife, launches April 28th. Fans of Meg Wolitzer, Lionel Shriver, Kate Atkinson, and Jennifer Egan will be enthralled by this smart, sophisticated literary page-turner about a young family who escape suburbia for a year-long sailing trip that upends all of their lives. Book signing to follow.

2:30PM BREAKOUT 3

Interdepartmental Public Library Themes Stonewall 50: Celebrating Pride in Our CommunityPresenters: Jennifer Laseman, Tamara Lyhne, Claudia Silk, Philip Bahr, Fairfield Public Library

In July 2019, Fairfield Public Library created our first year-long interdepartmental theme, Stonewall 50: Celebrating Pride in Our Community. Come hear about our step-by-step process for creating a large-scale interdepartmental programming series from deciding on a programming theme and administering surveys to ascertain community needs to executing the programs themselves. We will discuss the benefits of Children’s, Teens, and Adult Services working together to provide the community with a series of programs and collection development on issues for the entire community. We also plan to reference additional interdepartmental programs we have premiered within the past year.

Lockdown Your Digital Life (Part 1)Presenters: Amy VanDeVelde, The Oasis Institute

Use of the internet is a necessity for digital late adopters. Teaching device and software use is one thing. Teaching them online safely is another. Oasis Connections offered its first online safety class in 2004 and pioneered mobile phone training in 2008. The program offers the Cybercrime Fighters series of courses designed specifically FOR late adopters. This session will acquaint participants with the sort of technology lingo, and concepts that often alienate people who are digital late adopters, and lead them through an interactive event framework that can then be replicated in their own community.

Equity 101 (Part 1)Presenters: Jamal Jimerson and Esther Jean-Marie, Thought Partner Solutions, Hartford Public Library

This highly interactive training provides a comprehensive introduction to diversity, equity and inclusion work (DEI). This workshop will provide a foundation for deeper engagement and ongoing learning related to diversity and social justice. It will help everyone recognize where they are in their personal journey toward cultural competence and how they can move forward to be a part of the larger systemic work that is happening across organizations and communities. Thought Partner Solutions offers a variety of tools and teaching methods including graphic facilitation, visual imagery, theoretical models, and small group dialogue interaction, to create a dynamic space that supports all types of learners.

Switched-Up Summer Reading ProgramsPresenters: Cheryl Capitani, Manager of Family Services, New Canaan Library; Samantha Connell, Teen Services Librarian, New Canaan Library; Stephanie Prato, Head of Children’s Services, Simsbury Public Library; Myla Perrelli, Children’s Librarian, Guilford Free Library; Mary Beth Rassulo, Assistant Director/Head of Youth Services, Easton Public Library

Wondering how to enhance your Summer Reading Program? Join us as we share how three different programs tapped into what makes our libraries, our communities, and our readers unique. With a focus on community engagement, we’ll share how creating your own themes and software can put your library at the heart of it all for whole-family and individual reading/life-long learning. Switching up Summer Reading Programs has lead to unprecedented success and engagement for us and it can for you too! We’ll also have ample time for Q&A, because we want to hear from you as well.

The Public Library Annual Report: Why do we collect all this data, and what can you do with it?Presenters: Maria Bernier, Ct State Library

Maria Bernier, State Data Coordinator, will give an overview of the 2019 Annual Report and Statistical Profile and explain how Connecticut’s data fits into the national picture. She will also show how you can use the data to tell your own library’s story and how to mine the data in response to specific questions. If you have questions, concerns, or feedback about the Annual Report, please attend.

From Soaps to Shibori: A Year of “Make & Takes”Presenters: Rebecca Harlow-Beetham, Case Memorial Library

Kickstart your creativity with 12 months of high quality craft workshop ideas. Learn tips and tricks to teach successful (and fun!) hands-on craft workshops for adults where your patrons can relax, learn a new skill, and go home with something theyíre proud of.

A Crash Course in Open AccessPresenters: Danielle S. Apfelbaum, Farmingdale State College

Although open access publishing has been around for years, misconceptions about what ìopenî is and what it means for authors and users alike continue to persist. This session aims to demystify this multifaceted concept by introducing key terms and discussing the pros, cons, and future of the open access movement. By the end of this session, attendees will be able to describe and distinguish between common varieties of open access (e.g., green, gold, etc.), identify and decipher the popular Creative Commons open licenses (e.g., CC-BY, CC-BY-NC, etc.), and describe the current and potential impact of these aspects of OA on their patrons and stakeholders.

3:30PM SNACK BREAK & CLOSING EXHIBITS

Snack BreakBeverages and snacks in the Exhibit Hall. Closing Ceremony for Exhibit Hall.

Poster SessionsPoster Session Topics TBD

4:00PM BREAKOUT 4

Libraries that Sparkle—Connecticut Gems all around youPresenters: Stephen Cauffman, Connecticut State Library Consultant

This is the fourth year of Connecticut Gems. Come to this session and hear about the following three libraries and their unique collections: Archives and Special Collections, UConn Library, Dodd Research Center, Storrs Connecticut Clearinghouse Library, Wheeler Clinic, Plainville Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center Library

Lockdown Your Digital Life (Part 2)Presenters: Amy VanDeVelde, The Oasis Institute

Use of the internet is a necessity for digital late adopters. Teaching device and software use is one thing. Teaching them online safely is another. Oasis Connections offered its first online safety class in 2004 and pioneered mobile phone training in 2008. The program offers the Cybercrime Fighters series of courses designed specifically FOR late adopters. This session will acquaint participants with the sort of technology lingo, and concepts that often alienate people who are digital late adopters, and lead them through an interactive event framework that can then be replicated in their own community.

Equity 101 (Part 2)Presenters: Jamal Jimerson and Esther Jean-Marie, Thought Partner Solutions, Hartford Public Library

This highly interactive training provides a comprehensive introduction to diversity, equity and inclusion work (DEI). This workshop will provide a foundation for deeper engagement and ongoing learning related to diversity and social justice. It will help everyone recognize where they are in their personal journey toward cultural competence and how they can move forward to be a part of the larger systemic work that is happening across organizations and communities. Thought Partner Solutions offers a variety of tools and teaching methods including graphic facilitation, visual imagery, theoretical models, and small group dialogue interaction, to create a dynamic space that supports all types of learners.

Digital Storytelling with PechaKuchaPresenters: Linda Marchisio, Stamford High School Library Learning Commons

Reach Into the community by inviting people to tell their own true stories using the digital storytelling of PechaKucha which means the sound of conversation. Presenters share 20 compelling images shown for 20 seconds each as they share their story for a total of 6:40 minutes. People can share life events, research results, artistic creations, and many other topics building community while using digital storytelling. This is an introduction to PechaKucha. https://www.pechakucha.com/

Building a Star TeamPresenters: Deb Hoadley, Sandown Public Library, NH

Everyone wants to be a star and be a successful organization. Creating a team culture and working together is important in all libraries. We will discuss how to empower your staff using their strengths to build a successful, “star” team. We will review leadership principles based on the book, Strengths-Based Leadership: Great Leaders, Teams, and Why People Follow by Barry Conchie and Tom Rath. Come find out how you and your staff can shine!

Chill Out: Applying the principles of mindfulness, meditation, and yoga to children’s programmingPresenters: Ericka Bajrami, Children’s Department, Farmington Public Library

Young children and tweens deal with all sorts of stresses on a daily basis. We will discuss how to bring principles of mindfulness, meditation, and yoga to our programming to create relaxing (and very well-received) experiences. Examples of classes focused on this theme, as well as small elements that can be incorporated into other programs, will show you how just how easy this is to do!

Census Data--Easier Than Ever at data.census.govPresenters: Ana Maria Garcia, Data Dissemination Specialist, US Census Bureau

The U.S. Census Bureau has completely transformed their data website. Learn how easy it is to find the information you and your patrons need at data.census.gov.