Monday, April 29, 2024

Session 3: Breakouts 11:50 AM-12:40 PM

Mystic AD

Bringing Social Work into the Library

Presented by: Tierra C. Shannon, Wallingford Public Library

As communities’ source of information, a library would be incomplete without knowledge that can change patrons’ personal lives. Informed through a Social Work lens, this is an introductory conversation to explore how libraries might address social issues of the populations they serve. Each group faces specific issues that the library is uniquely equipped to handle within and with help.

Sponsored by: CLA Member Sponsored

Mystic BE

Does the Library Have Mein Kampf? Answering “Gotcha” Questions in the Age of Book Bans & EDI-Informed Collection Development

Presented by: Olivia Blake, Co-Chair, CLA Legislative Committee; Kate Byroade, Co-Chair, CLA Legislative Committee; Lindsay Delligan, Co-Chair, CLA Intellectual Freedom Committee; and Jocelyn Kennedy, The Farmington Libraries

There’s a book for everyone, and every book has its reader! That’s the goal. But with finite shelving space, how do we balance equity, diversity, & inclusion (EDI) with intellectual freedom? Join us for a discussion on official material challenges and unofficial “gotcha” questions, library responses, collection management policy & practice, EDI & intellectual freedom, and how these all connect.

Co-sponsored by: CLA Legislative Committee & CLA Intellectual Freedom Committee

Mystic CF

Advocacy Support: Because Even Libraries Need a Trusty Sidekick

Presented by: Maura Deedy, Local Librarian Consulting

This interactive session will guide you through a step-by-step process for formulating an effective advocacy plan using ALA’s Advocacy Action Plan Workbook. Gain hands-on skills in assembling powerful advocacy teams, defining clear goals, and creating persuasive messages. You’ll be empowered to implement actionable advocacy plans tailored to your local needs. Together, let's transform your aspirations into impactful actions!

Sponsored by: CLA Conference Committee

Conference Room 1

Office Administrative Networking

Presented by: Deirdre Thomas, Milford Public Library

We're a unique group and wear lots of hats! Join us and meet other administrative professionals. Share ideas, network, discuss challenges/solutions and compare hats!

Sponsored by: CLA Conference Committee

Conference Room 2

Spice it Up with Nutmeg:How You Can Get Involved and Promote Nutmeg Reading at Your Library

Presented by: Sara Bartelmo, West Hartford Public Library; Ashley Ewert, Berlin-Peck Memorial Library; and Anne Porier, Moses Y. Beach Elementary School

Join past and present steering and committee chairs to learn more about the criteria for selecting the Nutmeg Nominees each year and how you can get involved in the selection process. We will share upcoming changes to the award and how we promote Nutmeg Reading in our school and public libraries through book clubs, reading challenges and more!

Sponsored by: CLA Member

Conference Room 3

Building Inclusive Computer Science Programming for Young Learners

Presented by: Kenya Kirkman, Girls Who Code

Join Girls Who Code to learn how to build inclusive programs - equipping students with the confidence and skills they need to make a positive impact on their community and career. You’ll walk away with tangible tips & tools for how to incorporate coding and community-building activities that support social-emotional development and career exploration.

Sponsored by: CLA Conference Committee

Conference Room 5

Considering Your Career: Observations and Experiences From Two Career Journeys

Presented by: Allison Murphy, EC Scranton Memorial Library; Sunnie Scarpa, Wallingford Public Library

Considering a move into library management? Have you considered whether or not a Director job would be right for you? Join Library Directors Sunnie Scarpa and Allison Murphy as they share what they’ve learned from the trenches of the library world. Attendees will come away with stories and ideas that will help them assess their career path and prepare for what comes next.

Sponsored by: CLA Career Development Committee

Conference Room 6

Take Your Child to the Library Day: Family-Centric Advocacy

Presented by: Caitlin Augusta, Stratford Library; Amanda Stern, Connecticut Library Consortium

Take Your Child to the Library Day started as a grassroots celebration in Connecticut; now it’s a lively, bustling day for participating libraries throughout North America. Learn how this family-centric, customizable celebration can work as an advocacy and marketing opportunity for your library, regardless of staffing levels or programming budgets. Discover specific tips for creative publicity, increasing your library’s community presence, working with community partners, serving the underserved, and welcoming new families.

Sponsored by: CLA Member

Conference Room 7

Oops - Did I say That???!!! (Double Session)

Presented by: Denise Keyes Page, Ubuntu Storytellers I.D.E.A.L.

How do we enjoy the diversity of art while respecting our own and other cultures? Suddenly hesitant to tell stories not of your culture? Afraid of being “cancelled?” Do you tell stories or hire storytellers? This workshop is designed for you. Together we explore ways to authentically minimize “fear” and cultural “ouches” Bring stories with you to review.

Sponsored by: CLA Conference Committee