MLA 2018 Education Sessions

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Spotlight Presentation: The Leader’s Role in Building Teams

Spotlight Presenter: Dr. Lee Meadows

Room: Gold

One of the biggest challenges for leaders is knowing how to work with limited resources while building the skills of their teams. A stronger reliance on utilizing the talents and energies of teams to take on the emerging tasks that come with organizational resource utilization. Leaders are expected know how to develop teams and deliver results that reflect a strong emphasis on service excellence. This presentation will focus on the essential skills leaders need to build effective and collaborative teams.

Lee Meadows is a graduate of Michigan State University having completed a Ph.D. in Higher Education and Management. His career portfolio includes having served an Area Director of University Housing Programs at Michigan State University, a supervisor of Human Resources at General Motors, a Senior Consultant for Change Management at EDS, a Management Change Consultant for A.T. Kearney, and a Manager of Training and Development for the Kellogg Foundation. He has been an active consultant for leadership development, management training and change management for several profit, non-profit and government agencies. He has authored several leadership columns for the Novi News and the Michigan Chronicle. He is a sought-after keynote speaker and conference presenter specializing in leadership, diversity and inclusion and management training. He has, also, been an active teacher of adult learners and is keenly aware of the challenges that come with being a full-time professional and a part-time student.

Budgeting Basics

Room: Amethyst

In this session we will discuss the annual library budget development from a practical perspective. Included will be relevant budget requirements, basis of accounting, a budget timeline, and the tools/resources to prepare an effective annual budget.

Alan Panter, Yeo & Yeo

Budgeting Basics 1.pdf
Budgeting Basics 2.pdf
Budgeting Basics 3.pdf

Trust and Giant Chickens: The Fundamental Attribution Error

Room: Bronze

Why do so many people who work in public libraries forget that our job is to work with the public? How does our inability to trust not only our patrons, but our colleagues get in the way of being able to inspire, engage and transform? What is getting in our way of providing the best possible service to our patrons? Hear the story of one person’s quest to slay a Giant Chicken and to transform unhealthy groups into trusting teams. Leaders will learn the best tactics to begin the process of becoming a healthy organization that values trust and exceptional customer service.

Kevin King, Kalamazoo Public Library

Transform Your Library With One Page

Room: Copper/Granite

This session focuses on how to develop an engaging and inspiring strategic plan that guides your library to increased usage and support. Transform your library into a strategically-focused learning organization by developing a simple and appealing one-page plan. Your one-page plan will connect to your library's operations and how you measure success. You'll learn about libraries using one-page plans for decision-making, community outreach, and fundraising. Your short plan will generate big results!

Amanda Standerfer, Fast Forward Libraries

Transform Your Library with One Page.pdf

Organizing the Organizers: Adding Dimension to Your Leadership With an Understanding of Organizational Theory

Room: Emerald

Join administrators from the University of Detroit Mercy for an introduction to organizational theory and its application to libraries. Using research-based literature, narratives of personal experience, and opportunities for small and large group interaction, the presenters will discuss what we know about organizations and how library administrators may use this knowledge in their own practice.

Jennifer Dean, University of Detroit Mercy; Megan Novell, University of Detroit Mercy

Organizing the Organizers Adding Dimension to Your Leadership with an Understanding of Organizational Theory.pdf

Beyond an Apple a Day: Providing Consumer Health Information at Your Library

Room: Pearl

This session will highlight the basics of providing consumer health information at your library, from conducting the health reference interview and planning your own health program, to free health resources from the National Library of Medicine and other trustworthy sources.

Sandra Swanson

Beyond an Apple a Day: Providing Consumer Health Information at Your Library.pdf

Special Needs Story-Time: A Best Practices Approach

Room: Silver

This interactive session has the power of three and we will provide you a “basic practices” approach to starting a story-time for families with special needs. Jen Taggart, Kathleen Alberga and Deborah Sobczak are three experienced librarians who have been successful in adapting story-time and utilizing their library's youth collection resources to create fun, sensory-filled programs for special needs patrons. Learn how we implemented our ideas to broaden our library's scope so it can become a reality at your library. Speakers will lend their learned practices and tips to create inclusive, interactive and multi-sensory programming for the special needs population in your community.

Kathleen Alberga, Novi Public Library; Deborah Sobczak, Canton Public Library; Jen Taggart, Bloomfield Township Public Library

Special Needs Story Time A Best Practices Approach 1.pdf
Special Needs Story Time A Best Practices Approach 2.pdf
Special Needs Story Time A Best Practices Approach 3.pdf
Special Needs Story Time A Best Practices Approach 4.pdf
Special Needs Story Time A Best Practices Approach 5.pdf
Special Needs Story Time A Best Practices Approach 6.pdf
Special Needs Story Time A Best Practices Approach 7.pdf

1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

Library Management: Problem Solving

Room: Amethyst

Problems and issues come up on the job all the time; some are easy to solve, some are not. And you don’t always know what you don’t know. Karen Knox, director of the Orion Township Public Library, and Cathy Russ, director of the Troy Public Library, help you identify appropriate methods to get to the heart of the problem, pinpoint reasonable options, and gather additional information to enable you to solve it effectively and efficiently. Their tried-and-true methodology can be applied across the board, from small concerns to large-looming issues.

Karen Knox, Orion Township Public Library; Cathleen Russ, Troy Public Library

Create Top-Shelf Collections: Using Data-Driven Shelving Analysis to Increase Circulation

Room: Bronze

Have you ever wondered what kind of impact using the bottom shelf really has? Or if it’s the kids or parents using your picture book collection? Data-driven shelving analysis is for you. This program will recount how the Oshtemo Branch of the Kalamazoo Public Library used data to answer these questions, change shelving practices, offer insights to a low-cost redesign, and, most importantly, increase circulation. Data can be useful, and math can be fun!

Kathryn Bergeron, Kalamazoo Public Library

Create Top-Shelf Collections Using Data-Driven Shelving Analysis to Increase Circulation.pdf

Posting Is Not Enough. Common Open Meetings Act Violations and How to Avoid Them

Room: Copper/Granite

More and more library boards are loosening up strict adherence to the Open Meetings Act (OMA). This game-styled session will review the top OMA mistakes and misconceptions, and will discuss strategies for remaining compliant. Participants will receive sample materials that can be shared with a board to call attention to, and promote OMA education and adherence.

Clare Membiela, Library of Michigan

What Exactly Is Narcan? A Library and Community's Response to the Opioid Crisis

Room: Emerald

The opioid epidemic in our country has already started to affect day to day operations in our libraries. More and more libraries, in both large and small communities, are training staff on how to detect a possible overdose, but also how to save a victim’s life. Hear expert information from a panel including a doctor, psychologist, and activist on how you can respond to the opioid crisis. This panel discussion will include facts, stats, and practical information for libraries to develop a plan.

Kevin King, Kalamazoo Public Library; Nancy King, COPE Network; Joyce Pines, Community Healing Center

Everyone on the Same Page: Partnering for Community and Economic Development

Room: Gold

Every library responds to the needs of its community, but how can we position ourselves to take an active role in the planning and development of the community we serve? Join us as we demonstrate how a coalition has been formed in Ferndale between the City, Library, Chamber of Commerce, DDA, Schools, and County in order to coordinate and promote organizational resources, both to support current businesses and residents as well as attract new growth. By getting in on the ground floor, the Library is now able to budget and allocate resources that will be ready when the future arrives.

Jenny Marr, Ferndale Area District Library; Jordan Twardy, City of Ferndale

Save the Data: From Beginning to End of a Library Program

Room: Pearl

We are going over the life cycle of a library program’s data. From the first spark of an idea, to the last time the program is ever mentioned, we will cover all the data you will encounter, which data you should be collecting, how to analyze the data you gather, and the stories you can tell.

Joe Hamlin, Library of Michigan; Kathy Kosinski, Library of Michigan

Save the Sata From Beginning to End of a Library Program.pdf

Coming Together to Support Young Learners and Families in Light of the Michigan’s Read by Grade Three Law

Room: Silver

With a specific focus on Michigan Department of Education’s Early Literacy Initiative and Michigan’s Read by Grade Three Law, this session will provide insight and resources to library staff. Learn how Every Child Ready to Read training and resources fit the initiatives and how MeL.org databases can be used in programming, for reference interactions, and for community outreach. Leave prepared to support reading readiness in your community.

Carrie Betts, Birmingham Public Schools; Noel Kelty, Michigan Department of Education; Cathy Lancaster, Library of Michigan

Coming Together to Support Young Learners and Families in Light of the Michigan's Read by Grade Three Law 1.pdf
Coming Together to Support Young Learners and Families in Light of the Michigan's Read by Grade Three Law 2.pdf
Coming Together to Support Young Learners and Families in Light of the Michigan's Read by Grade Three Law 3.pdf
Coming Together to Support Young Learners and Families in Light of the Michigan's Read by Grade Three Law 4.pdf

3:15 - 4:15 p.m.

If You Teach a Patron to Google: The Public Library Association and Digital Literacy

Room: Amethyst

The Pew Research Center report Libraries at the Crossroads suggests that the public wants libraries to teach digital literacy, and that library efforts can help the most vulnerable groups. According to the Pew report, 94% of respondents said libraries should “offer programs to teach people, including kids and senior citizens, how to use digital tools such as computers, smartphones and apps.” Hear two members of the Public Library Association’s newly formed Digital Literacy Committee discuss the variety of tools and programs library workers can use to give your patrons the skills they need to thrive in our digital world.

Kevin King, Kalamazoo Public Library; Trish Burns, Bay County Library System

How to Land Your Next Job: Tips From an Insider

Room: Bronze

Have you interviewed time and again and NOT landed your dream job? Have you walked out of an interview convinced that you will get a call back but instead receive the dreaded "no thanks" email? Are you worried that maybe you picked the wrong career? Don't panic! Join me for a workshop loaded with practical tips on how to land your next, best job! Not only will you receive these golden tips, but you will also receive insight into the interviewers' thought processes and rationale.

Rebecca Higgerson, Brandon Township Public Library

How to Land Your Next Job Tips from an Insider.pdf

Oh, You’ve Got Trouble: Part 1: A Structure of Staff Support for Handling Difficult Patron Behaviors

Room: Copper/Granite

KDL will provide a guided tour of our three-tiered training structure which provides staff with the tools needed to set boundaries with patrons. Code 1 issues address everyday irritations (noise concerns, unattended children, emotional and technical dependence on staff). Code 2 issues deal with defensive patrons and unintentionally offensive behaviors (sexist, racist or homophobic remarks). Code 3 issues address intentionally hostile behaviors that may lead to the patron being asked to leave the library. Real-life examples will be shared and attendees will have an opportunity to role-play responses.

Angela Culp, Kent District Library; Liz Knapp, Kent District Library; Vanessa Walstra, Kent District Library

Oh, You've Got Trouble Part 1 A Structure of Staff Support for Handling Difficult Patron Behaviors 1.pdf
Oh, You've Got Trouble Part 1 A Structure of Staff Support for Handling Difficult Patron Behaviors 2.pdf
Oh, You've Got Trouble Part 1 A Structure of Staff Support for Handling Difficult Patron Behaviors 3.pdf

Library Preparedness in Planning a Renovation: Lessons in Change Management Strategies

Room: Emerald

As we embarked on a project to examine spaces that weren’t used quite the way there were intended, or underused, or had become passé, we had the opportunity to utilize the built-in flexibility of the existing infrastructure for adapting spaces. Change management practices guided development of communication plans, engagement strategies and collaboration amongst the staff and community. The results will be a living laboratory, a place to introduce new ideas, test the concepts, evaluate feedback and implement change. Users will learn how to manage change in a positive format with problem solving methods, while satisfying project goals

Geraldine Drake, Quinn Evans Architects; Jim Mumby, Quinn Evans Architects; Tera Moon, Bloomfield Township Public Library; Carol Mueller, Bloomfield Township Public Library

Intellectual Freedom 101

Room: Pearl

Examine and review challenges and cases of censorship in Michigan libraries submitted to the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom, discuss organized efforts to challenge resources, develop strategies to recognize and address challenges in your own library, and source tools to train staff, boards and communities in issues of intellectual freedom.

Elizabeth Madson, Chesterfield Township Library

Intellectual Freedom 101.pdf

Literacy, Puppets, and Little People, Oh My!

Room: Silver

A hands-on approach to the connections to be made in our storytime sessions between the books on our shelves, puppets, and families who attend our libraries. The plan is to make books and puppets accessible and fun for all.

Patricia Kjolhede, Tunes and Tales by Tricia

Literacy, Puppets, and Little People, Oh My!.pdf

3:15 - 4:45 p.m.

Spotlight Presentation: Mastering the Media: How to Effectively Tell Your Story

Spotlight Presenter: Brenda Viola

Room: Gold

In an era where municipal employees must be effective communicators to gain community support for important initiatives, being equipped with strategies to function effectively in this role are critical. The goal of this workshop is to empower Librarians with skills that will cause them to welcome media opportunities rather than fear them, and in doing so, help to put their municipality’s best foot forward. Important note: The following topics are applicable to media interviews as well as being effective at the podium of a government meeting or leading a staff meeting:

The Biggest Media Blunders and How to Avoid Them
The Power of the Sound Bite
The Secret to Eloquence
How to Conduct a Press Conference
Bridging Back to Your Talking Points: How to Be HEARD

The main objective is to bolster confidence for those not normally comfortable "tooting their own horn." Learning the keys to framing a message will pay off liberally and help librarians tell their story effectively.

Mastering the Media.pdf

4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Tackling the Future of Your Library – Ideas – Strategies – Solutions

Room: Amethyst

How will your library space TODAY work for you in the FUTURE? Think about your library. How does it look? Is it too loud or quiet? What is the experience your patrons are having today and what are the trends for libraries in the future? This presentation has it all to help guide you through a building project - information for change, fundraising tactics, measuring success, and adapting to new technology. Design industry panelists will present how to engage the community to support a project and how stakeholders can help influence a building project. Bring your library’s challenges and ideas!

Erin Jennings, krM Architecture; Kyle Keaffaber, krM Architecture; Kevin Montgomery, krM Architecture

Let Them Say Yes: Empowering Frontline Staff to Forgive (Large) Fines and Bills

Room: Bronze

Frontline staff are the first to talk with upset patrons over fines and bills. And yet they are frequently the last people who can forgive anything without seeking permission. But it shouldn't be. This program will show you how to not only embrace fine (and bill) forgiveness at your library, but also how to embrace allowing your frontline staff to take the lead in saying yes. Learn about how to do it, what to do about philosophical disagreements, and what to expect from the community and staff.

Steve Maesen, Kalamazoo Public Library

Let Them Say Yes! Empowering Frontline Staff to Forgive (Large) Fines and Bills.pdf

Oh, You’ve Got Trouble: Part 2: Dealing With Verbal and Sexual Harassment in the Library Setting

Room: Copper/Granite

KDL has developed a coded training structure to provide staff with the tools needed to set boundaries with patrons. Codes 1 and 2 were reviewed in the first “Trouble” session. In this session, KDL staff will take a deep dive into Code 3 issues, particularly verbal and sexual harassment in the library setting. We will investigate what verbal and sexual harassment look like in the library; the kinds of responses staff can (and should) give to this type of behavior; and the training framework needed to give staff practice in responding to these types of behaviors.

Angela Culp, Kent District Library; Liz Knapp, Kent District Library; Vanessa Walstra, Kent District Library

Oh, You've Got Trouble Part 2 Dealing With Verbal and Sexual Harassment in the Library Setting 1.pdf
Oh, You've Got Trouble Part 2 Dealing With Verbal and Sexual Harassment in the Library Setting 2.pdf
Oh, You've Got Trouble Part 2 Dealing With Verbal and Sexual Harassment in the Library Setting 3.pdf

Diversity: Creating Caring Communities through Knowledge, Inclusion, and Kindness

Room: Emerald

The idea that we can make a difference is often overwhelming in current times. A diverse panel of Michigan authors who focus on diversity in their work will discuss how to inspire collaboration in communities, share their experience in working with diverse populations, offer resources and ideas on starting programs in libraries that create caring communities through tolerance and kindness, and inspire all to establish communities that encourage, foster and promote diversity. We are a country of multiplicity. Only by joining together can we make a difference.

Kelly Baptist, SCBWI; Sonya Hollins, SCBWI; Lisa Rose, SCBWI; Claudia Whitsitt, SCBWI; Katie Mitchell, Saline District Library

Diversity Creating Caring Communities through Knowledge, Inclusion, and Kindness.pdf

Rethinking Library Agreements Without Contracting a Headache

Room: Pearl

Many Libraries are considering new contracts with municipalities, or, looking to review and renegotiate existing contracts. Many current agreements aren't keeping up with current costs of services, and, residents of library legal service areas are becoming resentful at providing library services to municipalities that can't or won't equally share the cost of the library. This session will review the legal basics of contracting and will explore creative options for contracts with municipalities.

Clare Membiela, Library of Michigan; Anne Seurynck, Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith

Literacy, Music, and Little People, Oh My!

Room: Silver

An interactive workshop that brings musical storybooks to the attention of children's librarians...books that are already on your bookshelves just waiting for you to sing them! Musical instruments, anyone?

Patricia Kjolhede, Tunes and Tales by Tricia

Literacy, Music, and Little People, Oh My!.pdf

Thursday, October 18, 2018

9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

User Experience Testing: Practical Applications and Lessons Learned

Room: Amethyst

Between 2015 and 2018, the MeL UX team engaged in three rounds of user testing. Our goal was to develop a better MeLCat and discovery service from the MeL.org homepage. We made improvements on our end and worked with the vendor at every step. Our story is multifold: the importance of reiterative testing, how to conduct a user experience evaluation, how to sell your results to management, and how to implement your findings in your own digital environment.

Sean Cwiek, Midwest Collaborative for Library Services; Sonya Schryer Norris, Library of Michigan

User Experience Testing Practical applications and lessons learned.pdf

Increased Grants for Michigan Libraries Through Grant Writing TEAMS

Room: Bronze

Last year Michigan foundations made over $1.6 BILLION in grants. Some of Michigan’s libraries are successful at getting these grants; most libraries are not. One reason is that grant proposals are often written by overworked library administrators who don’t have the time. So, what are successful libraries doing that others are not? They have developed a team--a Grant Writing Team. Team-based grant writing can: ---Reduce the amount of time required by everyone. ---Result in more grant applications and better grant applications, ---And ultimately, achieve increased grants success for Michigan’s libraries.

Edward Wollmann, Michigan Grants Funding, Inc.

Increased Grants for Michigan Libraries Through Grant Writing TEAMS.pdf

Planning an Adulting 101 Series: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating a Fun, Informative Program Your Patrons Will Actually Want to Attend

Room: Copper/Granite

This presentation will go through the steps of planning and executing our Adulting 101 program, over the course of a year at our small urban public library. Learn how to bolster program attendance with a fun, informative, trendy program for emerging adults (or those looking to brush up on life skills).

Darlene Hellenberg, Ferndale Area District Library; Michelle Williamson, Ferndale Area District Library

Planning an Adulting 101 Series A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating a Fun, Informative Program Your Patrons Will Actually Want to Attend 1.pdf
Planning an Adulting 101 Series A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating a Fun, Informative Program Your Patrons Will Actually Want to Attend 2.pdf
Planning an Adulting 101 Series A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating a Fun, Informative Program Your Patrons Will Actually Want to Attend 3.pdf

Everyone Wants to Borrow a Metal Detector: Creating a Library of Things

Room: Emerald

In 2016 Capital Area District Libraries dedicated $5,000 to explore starting a Library of Things. Two years later, the collection has more than doubled in size, expanded into programs and other non-traditional collections, and gives patrons new experiences every day. Learn how CADL’s collection started, how it has expanded, and the lessons learned.

Jessica Goodrich, Capital Area District Libraries; Jolee Hamlin, Capital Area District Libraries; Thais Rousseau, Capital Area District Libraries

Everyone Wants to Borrow a Metal Detector Creating a Library of Things 1.pdf
Everyone Wants to Borrow a Metal Detector Creating a Library of Things 2.pdf

Making the Best of a Bad (Board) Situation

Room: Gold

A library's board is its soul. When problems arise within a board, it can mean big problems for a library. When that problem is the relationship between the Board and the Director, the resulting fallout can affect every aspect of a library's operation. This session will discuss he most common causes of Board/Director strife and provide strategies for protecting the library and making the best of what is often a bad situation.

Clare Membiela, Library of Michigan; Anne Seurynck, Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith

When It Comes to Local, Libraries Are the Experts

Room: Pearl

When it comes to our local communities we are the experts. From our patrons who come in our doors, Friends Groups, Board Members and outreach into our communities, we are in constant contact and learning what our communities are about. So why don’t we harness this knowledge into our collections and our work? What if we took this knowledge and made our collections, our work, and our institutions more relevant than ever?

Tim Gleisner, Library of Michigan

Nurturing Creativity in “Wild Zugthings” (aka: Children)

Room: Silver

Creativity is a life skill that needs to be nurtured and honed for children to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills. Jeff Jantz, author and illustrator of Gruel Snarl Draws a Wild Zugthing shares strategies to encourage creativity in children and help them to express their imaginations. Practical tips for providing safe spaces for independent thinking.

Jeff Jantz, Jantzer Studios & Wayne State University C2 Pipeline

Nurturing Creativity in Wild Zugthings (aka Children) 1.pdf
Nurturing Creativity in Wild Zugthings (aka Children) 2.pdf
Nurturing Creativity in Wild Zugthings (aka Children) 3.pdf

10:45 - 11:45 a.m.

Accessible Websites and the US Dept of Education Office of Civil Rights: What to Do When the Feds Come Calling

Room: Amethyst

In 2017 the East Lansing Public Library received a letter from the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights informing us that the library’s website was under investigation for accessibility violations. When that letter arrived we were scared and confused and weren’t sure what our next step should be. In 2014, the Library of Michigan experienced the same thing. LM is now four years into the enforcement of the accessibility policies we agreed to. Learn from our experiences...

Lauren Douglass, East Lansing Public Library; Sonya Schryer Norris, Library of Michigan

Accessible Websites and the US Dept of Education Office of Civil Rights What to Do When The Feds Com e Calling.pdf

Design to Construction - Project Delivery Methods (Superpowers Optional!)

Room: Bronze

We design and build buildings – What’s your superpower?! Learn from industry experts, FTC&H, how to form your superhero team and make your library’s mission successful! Impacting the community using the right design and construction methods makes all the difference. Train with us to know the advantages and disadvantages of construction delivery methods and how they impact schedule, design, budget, your internal resources, and supplementing your experience. (Cape or fancy superhero tights optional!)

Cynthia Janes, Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber; Adam Nelson, Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber

Design to Construction - Project Delivery Methods (Superpowers optional!) 1.pdf
Design to Construction - Project Delivery Methods (Superpowers optional!) 2.pdf

We’re Popping up Everywhere!

Room: Copper/Granite

Join the Fowlerville District Library pop-up staff as we show you how we have created a successful pop-up library program. We will share how we were able to pop-up in our public schools and other community areas to promote our library services outside the walls of our library. We will also present on how we have grown this program over the last four years and have increased what we offer our patrons.
Natalya Anton, Fowlerville District Library; Beth Lowe, Fowlerville District Library

Programs, Grants, and Capacity-Building: Michigan Humanities Opportunities for Your Library

Room: Emerald

Curious about the ways your library can receive funds for programming? Ready to host traveling exhibits or take part in a statewide reading program? Michigan Humanities staff will share highlights of programs and grants that are available now to Michigan libraries. Through grants and collaborative programs offered across the state, Michigan Humanities provides opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of the past, the tools for stronger analysis of the present, and a more informed vision for the future.

Featured program and grant opportunities will include:

Great Michigan Read: A biennial statewide book club focused on a literary selection written by a Michigan author and/or set in our state that explores humanities themes
Museum on Main Street: Smithsonian traveling exhibitions for communities with a population under 20,000
Prime Time Family Reading Time: A family reading and discussion program for children 6-10 and their families
Arts & Humanities Touring Grants: A one-stop resource for organizations looking to hold public arts and culture events. Reimbursement of 40 percent (up to $3,000) of the performer’s fee and travel is available.
Humanities Grants: Up to $15,000 in grant funding for a variety of public humanities programming
Quick Grants: Up to $750 to Michigan-based nonprofit organizations in support of public humanities programs

Jennifer Rupp, Michigan Humanities Program Officer

Executive Exchange

Room: Gold

An unconference in a conference. Any dean, director, upper management or aspiring leader is encouraged to attend.

Advancing Health Literacy: A Crucial Role for Public Librarians

Room: Pearl

It is estimated that low health literacy affects 36% of the adult U.S. population, and low numeracy affects an even larger proportion. Learn how low health literacy and numeracy impact healthcare, health status and health outcomes and what public librarians can do to improve health literacy in their communities. You will also learn about Michigan Medicine’s free website “Care Guides from Your Clinician”, that includes plain language, authoritative patient-education materials on many difficult-to-find topics, rare conditions and state-of-the-art therapies. This resource is particularly helpful for public librarians in Michigan because the collection has a Michigan focus.

Ruti Volk, Michigan Medicine

Advancing Health Literacy A Crucial Role for Public Librarians 1.pdf Advancing Health Literacy A Crucial Role for Public Librarians 2.pdf

Prime Time Family Reading Program

Room: Silver

The primary objectives of the Prime Time methodology are humanities-focused content, quality children’s literature, open-ended questioning techniques, and collective learning combined to help families better comprehend what they read, better enjoy the reading experience, and read more as a result of the program. Prime Time sets the stage for a lifetime of learning. In the discussion during a Prime Time session, a trained storyteller and scholar go beyond yes/no questions and the usually who what when where, to promote critical thinking and questioning skills. The program shows the participants how literature can enrich their lives and provides resources for the family to use once the program has concluded. It also increases library usage.

Lisa Boyd, Canton Public Library; Bethany Bruns, Farmington Community Library; James Nelson, Michigan Humanities Council

Prime Time Family Reading Program.pdf

3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Spotlight Presentation: Personal Image Re-Boot: Credibility and Competence Made Visible

Spotlight Presenter: Patty Buccellato

Room: Gold

You’re broadcasting continual statements with your appearance, some of them unwittingly. What’s the message your patrons perceive? Engaged…. Informed…. Motivated? (Or bored, apathetic, and disorganized?) As a professional, your personal appearance, a.k.a. your Visual Brand, is the first statement you make in interactions with patrons and others. Communicating visually is not a choice. Don’t let your image form by default; learn the tools to create yours with intent and purpose!

Personal Image Reboot Credibility and Competence Made Visible.pdf

MiTracking - Michigan Environmental Public Health Tracking

Room: Amethyst

This presentation will describe the Tracking Network, demonstrate how data can be accessed and displayed with the portal’s new features, and shown examples of ways to use data provided by the portal. The presentation will highlight collaborations and public health actions.

Jamie Florida, MDHHS

MiTracking - Michigan Environmental Public Health Tracking.pdf

An LIS Student, a Liaison Librarian, and a University Sesquicentennial Walk Into a Bar…Named Wikipedia

Room: Bronze

The Wayne State University Libraries and the School of Information Sciences partnered to host a Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon during our Sesquicentennial celebration. A conversation between one ambitious library student and an enthusiastic subject librarian transformed into a cross-departmental, educational experience. The event, held in the UGL’s Collaboration Commons and virtually, included live video reference from the University Archives. Objectives included teaching editing basics and library resource use. Assessment of the event indicate a positive contribution to Wikipedia and significant traffic increase to digital collections. The collaborative and malleable nature of Edit-a-Thons inspired ideas for future programs including a Wiki Wednesday club.

Rachael Clark, Wayne State University; Jodi Coalter, Wayne State University; Krysta Vincent, Wayne State University

An LIS Student, a Liaison Librarian, and a University Sesquicentennial Walk into a Bar named Wikipedia.pdf

Problem Patrons: Are You up to the Challenge of Challenging Patrons?

Room: Copper/Granite

Do you have challenging patrons? Are your policies correctly drafted to address patron behavior? This session will focus on the policies libraries should have to address patron issues. We will discuss common problems, suspension periods and other issues involving problem patrons

Anne Seurynck, Foster Swift Collins & Smith

Reframing Ordinary Into Extraordinary: Starting With Why Instead of How or What

Room: Emerald

Electrify Your Winter started with a simple request, how to make patrons aware of our e-resources. It turned into a 3-month initiative to make winter better for the people of Canton. Learn how this innovative program came to be and the hear stories of how it created happiness in the community.

Laura Fawcett, Canton Public Library; Laurie Golden, Canton Public Library

Positive Approaches for Embracing Change

Room: Pearl

Change is inevitable, yet one of the most difficult things to accept. Understanding the stages of change and reactions associated with those stages will assist us, our colleagues, and the public we serve, to embrace change and not dread it. The presentation includes change management principles, understanding generational differences, various modes of communication, and simple exercises to help with the many emotions involved with change. DALNET needed to learn how to embrace change when we migrated to a new Library Services Platform. These tips will assist with the acceptance of change and motivate all involved to reach successful outcomes.

Cathy Wolford, DALNET

Positive Approaches for Embracing Change.pdf

Retirement Myth Busting

Room: Silver

This informative session will dispel myths about your library’s ability to provide retirement plans and offer an overview of plans and resources available to you. Learn strategies for managing pension and other post-employment benefits (OPEB) unfunded liabilities, ways to maximize plan flexibility and adequacy, and best practices your retirement service provider should be following.

Tara Tyler, Municipal Employees' Retirement System of Michigan

Retirement Myth Busting.pdf

Friday, October 19, 2018

9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Spotlight Presentation: Help! Where’s My Desk?: Barrier-Free Service To Customers

Spotlight Presenter: Maxine Bleiweis

Room: Gold

Getting closer to the customer can be tantamount to being naked on the library floor. While we won’t go THAT far, we’ll explore how to rethink our service delivery and, at the same time, ask ourselves why people aren’t using our library to its fullest. We’ll explore barriers to service from big desks and computer screens to rules and practices that make the library work better for staff than the customer. Come away with a to-do list that you can implement immediately upon return to your library plus much to consider for longer term practices.

When Librarians Ask the Questions: Trivia Programming in Public Libraries

Room: Amethyst

"This library program offers multi-generational appeal, on or off-site, at little cost, and reflects the mission of your institution - What is, Library Trivia?" For library professionals in search of a program to engage all patrons including those aged 25 and up. We will share our secrets to question-creation and logistics so that you too can run a successful trivia program from inside your library or at a comfortable community space. Attendees will be encouraged to take part in a mini-trivia session.

Kricket Hoekstra, Rochester Hills Public Library; Jessica Parij, Rochester Hills Public Library; Daniel Patton, Canton Public Library

When Librarians Ask the Questions Trivia Programming in Public Libraries.pdf

Collaborating to Unlock Our Libraries' Treasures: How Our Consortium is Using DSpace

Room: Bronze

A few years ago, DALNET began offering the DSpace content management system for use to its members. Now ten diverse types of libraries have taken advantage of the service and are in various stages of implementation and use of the system. Some members are using the system to highlight their historical/special collections and make them accessible to the public, while others use it as an institutional repository. Institutions collaborate on training and are using the system in interesting ways. Come find out how our libraries are managing and showcasing their collections with this tool.

Kristy Eklund, Detroit Area Library Network - DALNET; Steven K. Bowers, DALNET

Collaborating to Unlock our Libraries' Treasures How our consortium is using DSpace 1.pdf
Collaborating to Unlock our Libraries' Treasures How our consortium is using DSpace 2.pdf

Project BRIDGE: Reaching Out to Seniors and Patrons Impacted by Alzheimer's

Room: Copper/Granite

Project BRIDGE is a five-part program focused on increasing resources for our older adult population. Four of the five programs are focused on those in the diverse stages of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. The focus of programming is to increase quality of life for those afflicted by dementia as well as providing caregivers with tools to connect with their loved ones. A variety of resources will be presented to provide services to seniors in your community.

Danielle Leithauser, Jackson District Library

Getting the Most Out of Your MeL EBSCO Resources

Room: Emerald

In this interactive session we will review some advanced tools applicable to nearly all EBSCO interfaces and databases, including Advanced Search tips and tricks, search and table of contents alerts, using the My EBSCOhost folder, searching with subject headings, and more. If there is anything you’ve been wondering about with the new resources, there will be plenty of time for questions. Please ask!

Joe Ceterski, EBSCO

Getting the Most Out of Your MeL EBSCO Resources 1.pdf
Getting the Most Out of Your MeL EBSCO Resources 2.pdf
Getting the Most Out of Your MeL EBSCO Resources 3.pdf
Getting the Most Out of Your MeL EBSCO Resources 4.pdf
Getting the Most Out of Your MeL EBSCO Resources 5.pdf

From Beer to Books: Creating a Series of Programs to Connect Library Patrons With the Library and Local Creators

Room: Pearl

In 2013, the City of Grand Rapids was named Beer City USA as the Kent District Library was revamping adult programming. These converged into an innovative new program series called KDaLe. By focusing on KDaLe, we will discuss concepts that can be applied to any type of adult programming including creating program series to help focus your efforts, developing interactive and collaborative learning, focusing on local interests, and creating partnerships within your community.

Joshua Bernstein, Kent District Library; Kip Odell, Kent District Library

From Beer to Books Creating a Series of Programs to Connect Library Patrons with the Library and Local Creators.pdf

MI Library Harwood Case Studies

Room: Silver

Following the lead of the American Library Association, Michigan libraries have been training in the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation’s framework since 2015. With years of practicing this community engagement tool, stories are beginning to emerge of Michigan libraries who have excelled in the practice and are making real, positive impacts in their communities. Beyond the impacts these libraries are changing how their communities perceive and interact with the library. Join us for case studies and a conversation with Michigan libraries who have Turned Outward, engaged their communities, and are expanding the role of libraries.

Amanda McLaren, Benzonia Public Library; Julie Meredith, Clarkston Independence District Library; Erin Schmandt, Caro Area District Library; David Votta, MCLS

10:15 - 11:15 a.m.

Librarian Competencies: How to Stay Relevant in Changing Times

Room: Amethyst

Keep up or get left behind! This informal session will discuss librarian competencies and offer innovative ideas to meet our changing landscape head-on. What do librarian skills look like today? What skills will be needed in the future? We will take a candid look at how frontline librarians can stay relevant and take their career to the next level.

Holly Hibner, Plymouth District Library; Mary Kelly, Plymouth District Library

Librarian Competencies How to Stay Relevant in Changing Times.pdf

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Why Good Research Matters to Library Professionals

Room: Bronze

Karen Downing (M.I.L.S., Ph.D.), Education Librarian at the University of Michigan will lead a conversation about engaging in, and thoughtfully consuming information science research. Participants will learn how to translate their experiences into research projects, how theory and creativity intersect with professional practice, and will begin to set priorities for their own practice-based research agendas.

Karen Downing, University of Michigan Hatcher Graduate Library

From Library Followers to Library Fans: Using Social Media to Show Your Library’s Personality

Room: Copper/Granite

Engage, Endear and Attract: Accentuate the vitality of your library to your regular patrons and gain new ones by bringing personality, prestige, relevance and humor to your library’s social media efforts.

Kelly Bennett, Ferndale Public Library; Jeff Milo, Ferndale Public Library

From Library Followers to Library Fans Using Social Media to Show Your Library's Personality 1.pdf
From Library Followers to Library Fans Using Social Media to Show Your Library's Personality 2.pdf

Mental Health in Libraries

Room: Emerald

1 in 5 Americans has a mental illness, but many are reluctant to seek help or might not know where to turn for care. Unlike physical conditions, symptoms of mental health and substance use problems can be difficult to detect. For non-clinicians, it can be hard to know when and how to step in. As a result, this session will give library professionals the tools to identify when someone might be struggling with mental health or substance use problem and how to connect them with appropriate support and resources when necessary. Libraries function as protective factors to reduce mental health concerns, see how library work is important to the mental health of the community.

Shantalea Johns, Wayne State University; Monique Oldfield, Wayne State University

Mental Health in Libraries.pdf

Interest Group Meetup

Room: Gold

MLA Interest Groups: if you are looking to connect with your Interest Group members or want to get more information about starting or joining a group, plan to meetup at this session.

The NeverEnding Story: Onboarding for Retention of Frontline Staff

Room: Pearl

If you know the stress of trying to fill a job and get the new team member up and running quickly this is the session for you. Research shows that onboarding is a key to retention and productivity. We’ll talk about how we streamlined our frontline customer service onboarding and the tools we use to keep everyone on the same page and continuously learning.

Chris Bulin, ITHAKA

The NeverEnding Story Onboarding for Retention of Frontline Staff.pdf

Makerspace Design Workshop

Room: Silver

This program is an interactive workshop where participants will program and layout a makerspace of their own design. Presentation will begin with examples of different types of makerspaces from libraries around the country, then each participant will create a program statement for their makerspace with a programming tool provided, and layout the program in scale cutout elements on a floor plan that represents the space available for the makerspace. Participants can bring an actual floor plan or dimensions from their library to use as the basis for the workshop.

Seth Penchansky, Daniels and Zermack Architects