Monday, April 27, 2026
Session 7: Breakouts
4:00-4:50 PM
Session 7: Breakouts
4:00-4:50 PM
Hotel Block Booking Discount Available ONLY until March 30 at 4:00 PM.
Presenter: Jeremy K. Farrell from Jeremy K. Farrell, Autism Advocate
This presentation focuses on developing tools for healthy understandings of, and interactions with, neurodivergent individuals. It covers language and terminology, accessibility efforts, strategies for specific situations, and many personal and professional stories. It’s for anyone who wants to make their spaces more accessible and welcoming to neurodivergent employees and patrons.
Sponsor: CLA ADA Committee
Presenter: Jamie McCusker
Separate fact from hype on AI with Jamie McCusker. McCusker is an AI researcher with years of experience. Analyze the limitations, reliability, practical and critical uses of AI. What does responsible use of AI look like? Where does information literacy fit in?
Sponsor: CLA Intellectual Freedom Committee
Presenter: Maria Bernier, Avery Point Campus Library Director, UConn
Learn the basics of developing a project idea, the importance of talking with your target audience, where to look for grant opportunities, and how to write a compelling application that includes data and anecdotes.
Sponsor: CLA Development Committee
Presenter: Noel Sander, Adult Services Librarian
Discover how the Ferguson Library Harry Bennett Branch’s Local Author Series elevates writers and builds community connections through author talks. Learn how this initiative offers local writers a platform to share their work, engage with others, and create inclusive spaces beyond traditional publishing.
Sponsor: CLA Member
Presenter: Ariela McCaffrey, CT State Three Rivers
Using a trauma-informed framework, we will discuss ways to help student workers develop empathy and self-awareness and build a workplace culture of collaboration and inclusion. In this workshop, participants will use case studies, sample documents and discussion to develop a student employment program that teaches emotional intelligence skills for professional and personal growth.
Sponsor: CLA Member
Presenters: Erin Dummeyer, Director, Mark Twain Library and Allison Murphy, Library Director, E. C. Scranton Memorial Library
Learn how three association libraries not fully funded by their town governments created a collaborative development program with their board and volunteers to ensure the future of their organizations for decades to come.
Sponsor: CLA Member
Presenters: Jennifer Rummel, Cragin Memorial Library; Crystal Patenaude, AudioFile Magazine reviewer; Caitlin Augusta, Stratford Library
Whether you read romance or just want to recommend it, there are so many authors and subgenres to keep track of! This presentation will suggest appealing romance favorites and author readalikes to match every reader’s taste in a casual style with lots of time to talk books. There will be a sweet treat prize drawing at the end.
Sponsor: CLA Member
Presenter: Aubrey Bond, Rachel Hora, and Margaret Khan
Learn how the Booth & Dimock Library refreshed their outreach by implementing a library rewards program, doubled participation in Library Card Sign-Up Month through creative community engagement, and utilized low-cost/high-excitement initiatives and strong rapport building to boost visibility, strengthen partnership, and turn every outreach opportunity into a meaningful connection.
Sponsor: CLA Member