Free October webinars for library staff
It's a great time to put a learning opportunity on your calendar, and here are a lot of free choices. Whether you're looking to pick up some programming ideas, sharpen your technology skills, or gather tips on curating a digital collection, there's something here to support your growth. The list, provided by the Maine State Library, includes over 50 webinars.
View and subscribe to the Maine State Library Continuing Education (CE) Calendar here.
Do you have a free program that you would like us to consider for next month? Submit it by the 20th here.
Questions or Comments? Email us: [email protected]
October 1
Letters About Literature 2025 (Nebraska Library Commission)
The Nebraska Center for the Book is a statewide organization dedicated to the promotion of reading in all its forms. Its annual Nebraska Letters About Literature contest allows students in 4th through 12th grade to write to authors (living or deceased) about their favorite book or poem about how his or her book affected their lives. This session will provide helpful information for teachers and librarians interested in the competition. It will also cover the submission process and be an excellent opportunity to ask questions about the entire competition process. Teachers will be interested in this program that will help enhance and extend their classroom instruction.
The Science of Emotional Intelligence & Well-Being at Work (Training Magazine Network)
Explore the latest research and learn strategies to manage amygdala hijacks, self-regulate emotions, navigate difficult situations, build positive relationships, and flourish at work. EQ is consistently listed in “top 5 skills” lists, but as AI proliferates, EQ is even more important. Gain new ideas for EQ training that you can implement with leaders and employees. In this interactive session, you will: Discover the latest brain science research on EQ and well-being; Learn strategies for improving self-regulation, managing challenging situations, and flourishing at work
Design EQ training that delivers measurable results and a return on investment (ROI) for employee and organizational success.
Talking Teen Services – Understanding Teens: Intersectional Factors - part 1 of 3 (LibrariesLearn/CSL)
Understanding Teens is a 3-part Talking Teen Services series facilitated by members of the Teen Services team at Arapahoe Libraries in Colorado. All three sessions do go together but they can also be attended independently. Attendees do not have to be present at a previous session to benefit from the content of the next. Teens are important patrons in our libraries, with unique and evolving needs. In this series of webinars, we will share our approach in working towards welcoming, inclusive teen services by using staff training. Our goals with our staff training are to establish a base of empathy through better understanding of teens and their current experiences, and to offer practical strategies in working with youth. Each session will include working through a different part of the training. Our first session will be about intersectional factors that impact how teens show up in our libraries. We will think about how our own lenses might impact our responses, ways to plan and provide inclusive services, and practical strategies in supporting teens. See Oct 15 for part 2.
Addressing Research and Writing Challenges With the APA Style Manual (American Libraries/Booklist)
In this webinar, APA Style experts will discuss how librarians can use APA Style to tackle some of the challenges in supporting students with research and writing in the current social and technological environment. We will discuss our newest library offering, the APA Style Manual, which can provide APA Style guidance to all students throughout the academy, updates to our AI guidance, and best practices for supporting academic writing in a world with AI and misinformation.
How Social Media is Used as an Information Discovery Tool (Georgia Library Association)
Social media has transformed from spaces that simply connect and build communities online; to a means for keeping in touch with the day-to-day lives of friends, family, and peers; to now, being a platform where anyone can make a living, go viral, and discover information. Social media has become the preferred search engine of younger generations, enabling people to find answers to their questions and satisfy their curiosity online. This presentation will explore how people are engaging with Instagram and TikTok, not only as spaces to connect and build communities but also as an information discovery tool. Through the lens of real information discovery queries and diverse content examples, attendees will learn the importance of social media for librarianship and how showing up in these spaces with thoughtfully produced content can help libraries thrive.
Pre-Application Webinar for Round 4 of Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities (Programming Librarian)
Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities is open to libraries in the U.S. and U.S. territories that serve small or rural communities. Selected libraries will conduct community input-gathering sessions to identify existing accessibility resources, needs, and priorities. Libraries will be required to identify the primary audience they are hoping to reach and facilitate a community conversation with the impacted populations in order to guide improvement of the library’s services. Grant funds may be used to create services or improve library facilities based on the needs identified by the primary audience. In this one-hour webinar, attendees will: Get an intensive look at the application; Learn about the guidelines, requirements, and eligibility for the grant; Learn how to write a competitive narrative; Learn how to submit your application via our grants management platform; Have the opportunity to ask questions of ALA Public Programs Office staff.
Health Programming at your Library (NNLM)
Join us for ideas on how to create health programs for libraries and community/faith-based organizations in this 90-minute webinar. First, we’ll discuss the purpose of conducting health outreach programs for libraries and how to plan a program using a logic model. Then, we’ll brainstorm potential partnerships for health programming and outreach and learn how resources from the National Library of Medicine (NLM) and other reputable agencies introduce community members to health resources in fun and engaging ways. Finally, we’ll share examples of successful programs for children, teens, adults, and seniors using NLM and National Institutes of Health resources that will activate your interest in collaborating and engaging your community in health outreach programming.
October 2
Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group Winter 2026 Preview Event (Booklist)
RSVP now for the Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group Winter 2026 Preview Event, where they’ll preview upcoming picture books, middle grade, young adult, and adult titles during this free, one hour Booklist webinar! Stay tuned for our live special guests! Author Petra Lord will be in conversation about her young adult fantasy debut, QUEEN OF FACES and bestselling author Adib Khorram will introduce his next memorable novel ONE WORD, SIX LETTERS. We’ll also have guest appearances from talented creators Matt Phelan (BARTLEBY), Victoria Chang (EUREKA), and Elle Grenier (THIS WRETCHED BEAUTY: A DORIAN GRAY REMIX). Register now!
October 6
Guide to Becoming a Data-Powered Organization: Unlocking Your Organization’s Greatest Assets (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
With unprecedented changes in a dynamic technology environment, it is critical that we prepare to build and invest in the best resources at the right time to achieve the greatest outcomes. With a laser focus on return on investment (R.O.I.), we focus on leveraging your greatest assets to strengthen, grow, and sustain the mission and impact of your nonprofit organization.
Prevention and Intervention in Reading: When, Why, and How (edWeb)
How can we proactively reduce the need for reading intervention—and ensure it’s effective when needed? In this edWebinar, attendees will explore how preventive practices can be seamlessly integrated into existing reading curricula to reduce the number of students needing intervention. Dr. Wiley Blevins will also examine the key characteristics of interventions that are proven to accelerate student growth and why some approaches fail. Real-world district and classroom examples will be shared, along with corresponding data that highlights measurable outcomes and practical strategies. This edWebinar will be of interest to elementary teachers, school leaders, district leaders, reading specialists, Title I coordinators, MTSS/RTI coordinators, special education teachers, and before- and after-school program coordinators.
October 7
AI Made Simple: Practical Tools for Today’s Libraries (Clarivate|ProQuest)
AI seems to be everywhere these days—and it can feel overwhelming to keep up. Join David Lee King, Digital Services Director at Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library, for an engaging webinar that will make AI approachable and relevant for your work. In this session, you’ll learn: What AI really is (in plain language) and how you’re already using it in your daily life. The AI tools and apps on the horizon, including ones designed specifically for libraries. How to think about policies and guidelines for AI use in libraries—their strengths, weaknesses, and practical considerations. By the end, you’ll walk away with a clear understanding of the different types of AI, discover tools that can make your job easier, and gain insight into how your library can develop a thoughtful AI policy.
Creative Aging in Action: Practical Strategies for Libraries Webinar Series (Infopeople)
In today’s climate, demonstrating impact is more essential than ever. Creative aging programs offer a powerful, proven way for libraries to show how they enrich lives, strengthen communities, and merit sustained investment. Grounded in lessons from a three-year, IMLS-funded initiative, this three-part webinar series shares evidence-based strategies, evaluation insights, and compelling real-world stories from library leaders, older adult participants, and teaching artists. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to design, sustain, and expand creative aging programs that support lifelong learning, social connection, and improve the health and well-being of older adults. While these webinars are designed as a series, each one offers stand-alone value. You’re welcome to join one, two, or all three—whatever fits your role and schedule. Session one: Why Creative Aging? A Practical Guide for Libraries. Kick off the series with an essential guide to launching creative aging programs in your library. Discover how these programs support older adult health, brain wellness, and social connection—and why libraries are uniquely positioned to lead this work. This session will introduce the core elements of creative aging, share compelling demographic trends, and provide practical tips for getting started in your library, no matter your size or setting. See Oct 14 for part 2.
Designing a Menu of Behavior Intervention Options: Beyond Check-In, Check-Out (edWeb)
Check-In, Check-Out is the go-to behavior intervention for many schools—and for good reason. It works. But it’s not the only option, and many students need something more or something different. In this edLeader Panel, Trudy Bender and Dr. Brian Gaunt will expand your behavior toolbox with other proven interventions that meet a range of student needs. You’ll walk away with practical strategies that bring more members of your school community into the work of supporting students with behavior challenges. This edLeader Panel will be of interest to K-12 school leaders, district leaders, behavior specialists and interventionists, and school psychologists.
Fall in Love with Series Nonfiction (Booklist)
Looking for new and engaging Series Nonfiction for your young patrons? Then join us for this free one-hour webinar! Representatives from Capstone, The Child’s World, The Creative Company and Cheriton Children’s Books will be sharing all about their latest series nonfiction titles, that you’ll be sure to fall in love with. Julia Smith, Senior Editor for Books for Youth, will host. Register now!
Graphic Medicine in Public Libraries: Unique Challenges, Unique Opportunities (NNLM)
Join members of the Region 7 Graphic Medicine Community of Interest as they discuss how they use graphic medicine in their public libraries and with the communities they serve. The panel discussion will cover ideas for introducing graphic medicine to your library, collection development strategies, programming ideas and free resources to help your library and your community. This is a great opportunity to connect with other public librarians around graphic medicine and ask questions about what’s worked for them.
October 8
What’s Up Wednesday: AI Literacy for Librarians: Understanding and Teaching AI (Indiana State Library)
Equip library staff with foundational AI knowledge to support patrons. Cover AI fundamentals, common misconceptions, and practical applications, enabling librarians to educate and guide users effectively.
The Do's & Don'ts of D&D (Nebraska Library Commission)
Want to know more about Dungeons & Dragons and TTRPGs in general? Want to know of ways to integrate it into your library - and other ways of playing the game? Tune in and settle down for a sesh with Liz the Librarian to learn more! Presenter: Liz Hittle, Librarian & Dungeon Master.
Trust, Trickery and the Click: Defending Against Human Hacks (Nonprofit Hub)
This webinar explores how cybercriminals manipulate trust and human behavior —not just software— to breach organizations. With real-world examples and plain-language guidance, we’ll unpack how social engineering works, why nonprofits are often targeted, and what teams can do to spot and stop attacks before it’s too late.
Why IT Managers Need to Care About Website Security (Tech Impact)
Your nonprofit’s website is more than just a marketing tool; it’s a critical piece of your technology infrastructure that IT directors must prioritize. If your digital assets are not fully integrated into your infrastructure, data management policies, and security protocols, you’re not only inviting additional risks and vulnerabilities but also losing opportunities for efficiency across your organization. This webinar will explore how strategic web management impacts security, accessibility, data integration, and organizational effectiveness. Participants will walk away with an understanding of why this is important, where to focus, and how to approach incorporating web into your stack management.
Introduction to the American Community Survey Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) Files (US Census)
In this webinar, we will dive into the American Community Survey Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) file. This webinar covers basics of the PUMS, key considerations when using the files, geographic availability, documentation, and how to access the files to create custom tabulations. We will share the powerful MDAT tool with a live demonstration.
Leading Through Disruption: How Public Libraries Adapt, Innovate, and Thrive (Library Journal)
In an era marked by rapid technological change, shifting geopolitical landscapes, and evolving community needs, public libraries are navigating unprecedented disruption. Yet, they continue to serve with resilience. Join Clarivate and Every Library for a thought-provoking webinar exploring the latest findings from the Pulse of the Library report—an in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities facing public libraries today. From budget constraints and digital transformation to community engagement and workforce development, this data-driven session will illuminate the realities libraries are confronting across the globe. Following the presentation, a panel of public librarians will share how their institutions are leading through disruption. Learn about best practices, the importance of strategic planning, and the creative solutions that are helping libraries thrive in uncertain times. Whether you're a library leader, staff member, or advocate, this session will equip you with insights and inspiration to help your library adapt and lead with confidence.
Meet FRED® (Federal Reserve Economic Data) from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis (FDLP)
Come learn about FRED, the free economic data aggregator from the St. Louis Fed. Attendees will get a live demonstration of the data search, visualization, and customization capabilities of the website. FRED is a trusted resource for anyone who’s interested in using data to make informed decisions.
Training That Works: A Simple Guide for Nonprofits (Niche Academy)
Training doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be purposeful. When staff or volunteers are left to “figure it out,” the results can be uneven at best. This session is for people who work for a nonprofit and need to train others but don’t have a background in instructional design. Join Margaret Helthaler to walk through a simple method to build effective training. You’ll learn how to focus on the outcomes that matter, check for understanding, and design sessions that help people succeed. We’ll also discuss ways to improve informal practices like shadowing, so your training feels more intentional—and less like guesswork. Whether you’re onboarding new team members or refreshing an old process, you’ll leave with practical steps to make training better.
What Makes a Proposal a Winner (GrantStation)
This summer, GrantStation hosted its biennial Winning Grant Proposal Competition. With more than 245 impressive entries, our judges narrowed the field down to just three finalists before selecting the winning proposal: Free Minds Book Club & Writing Workshop. The author of this outstanding proposal was Julia Mascioli, Deputy Director of Free Minds. Join Julia, along with our host Alice Ruhnke and our panel of esteemed judges, for an engaging conversation about what set this proposal apart. They’ll dive into the specifics of Julia’s submission, the time and effort behind it, and the qualities that made it rise above so many other strong entries. You’ll come away with practical insights into what makes a proposal truly stand out—and how you can apply those lessons to strengthen your own future submission
From Managing to Leading: How to Inspire, Unite, and Elevate Your Team (Follett)
What separates a manager from a true leader? In this inspiring session, Dr. Adam Larsen shares his journey from athletic director to district facilities leader, uncovering what it really means to lead with vision, humility, and courage. Drawing from real-world challenges – including unifying 42 campuses, building trust across teams, and transforming a culture once rooted in “management” – Dr. Larsen illustrates how leaders can move beyond simply checking boxes to truly lifting up the people around them. Through personal stories – ranging from school crises to lessons learned on the football field, this webinar will challenge you to rethink your leadership approach and equip you with strategies to build stronger, more inspired teams. Who Should Attend: School and district leaders, facilities managers, administrators, and anyone looking to grow as a leader and create lasting impact in their organization.
October 9
Innovative Teaching: Exploring Women’s Histories with Newly Digitized Primary Source Archives and Media (Clarivate|ProQuest)
This webinar invites educators, librarians, and scholars to explore new ways to teach women’s history with newly available archival and media content, including the digitized Irene Tinker Papers (1936–2004), primary source materials in Women and Social Movements in the U.S. Since 1600, and the digitized archive of Ms. magazine. This session highlights how expanded access to primary sources can help scholars and students deepen their understanding of women’s history. Presenters will show how these resources connect historical inquiry to ongoing conversations around social issues and media representation. Topics include New Deal activism, economic empowerment, international development, and decades of coverage of women’s issues. Attendees will gain practical strategies for integrating these sources into research, classroom teaching, and interdisciplinary projects, broadening how women’s legacies are taught and understood.
Blueprint for Community Change: Strategic Planning Made Easy (Alliance Research)
We initially started our consulting journey with the goal of working with libraries to improve the strategic planning process, encouraging library staff to be active participants in the planning process and re-focusing goals on community aspirations and needs. Taking an active role results in a plan that better reflects your local needs because you know your community best, builds capacity, skill and support from staff, and can lead to positive changes in the organization’s culture. We’ve drawn inspiration from the libraries we’ve worked with so far and this has motivated us to create a planning method that is feasible for any library that wants to take a leadership role in planning the future of their organization. Learn how your library can confidently chart its own path forward—no matter the size or budget.
Providing Mental Health Resources at Your Library (NNLM)
Responding to questions involving topics on mental health is challenging even for the most experienced librarian. In this 1-hour webinar, participants will explore several websites to respond to requests for mental health information at their libraries. Sites that we'll explore include: MedlinePlus, DailyMed, the National Institute of Mental Health, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). During the webinar, we'll cover: A few mental health stats and definitions; Tips for reference interactions; Reliable information resources; And lastly, we’ll look at some ideas for programs around mental health.
Appreciation & Recognition Workshop Series Kick Off (Idealist formerly Volunteer Match)
How well are your current appreciation and recognition strategies aligned with your organization’s values? Are all your volunteers being recognized in a way that is meaningful to them, or are some volunteers being left out? Join us as we kick off the Appreciation and Recognition series. Over the next few weeks we’ll explore different types of appreciation styles and how we can incorporate a variety of activities into our strategies. If you aren't able to attend all of the workshops in this series please register and you'll receive the recording and slides after the live session.
Programming for Inclusion: Disability Outreach and Native Representation with Support from the Peggy Barber Tribute Grant (Programming Librarian)
Brookings Public Library (SD) and Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Library (MI) were two of the recipients of the Peggy Barber Tribute Grant, an annual grant of the American Library Association (ALA) that recognizes, promotes, and supports meaningful programs in libraries that have limited and/or no access to budgetary support for programming. Through the grant, the Brookings Public Library created the VisABILITY Initiative, which offered programming focused on disability outreach and education. The BPL began by offering accessible programming that encouraged community members with disabilities to engage with the Library. The educational phase, aimed toward Brookings residents as a whole, worked to bring awareness to disability issues and bring the voices of those with disabilities to the forefront. Through partnerships, events, and connections with area resources, this 2-year initiative set a precedent for disability programming and relations at the BPL. The Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Library, with support from the Peggy Barber Tribute Grant, presented the program Kna-dwen-mi-go (You Are Needed), at which Native women elected to non-tribal office shared their experiences and encouraged attendees to consider running for office themselves. By the end of the webinar, participants will be able to: Become confident in cultivating community partnerships and gathering input to build successful programming for underserved communities, especially those with disabilities. Come away with multiple disability-centered programming ideas. Feel more knowledgeable about Native representation in non-tribal elected office in the United States. Learn about resources available to support Native people running for non-tribal elected office in the United States.
Read On: Tools to Help You Prepare for and Respond to Book Challenges (Booklist)
According to data released by the American Library Association, there were 821 attempts to censor library books and materials in 2024 with a majority of these attempts originating from organized movements. Coupled with funding cuts, library workers are under tremendous pressure and in need of professional resources to help combat book challenges. Join ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom and Booklist for a free Banned Books Week workshop that will offer expert advice for library professionals about how to prepare for and respond to book challenges. Sponsored by Penguin Random House Library Marketing.
Rethinking Student Mental Health Support: The Power of Dual-Factor Screening (edWeb)
Student mental health concerns and behavioral challenges are on the rise, disrupting learning and well-being in schools. How can districts proactively address these issues? By adopting a risk and resilience framework! Students who have well-developed resilience factors are better positioned to navigate challenges and to mitigate and respond to risk factors. Attendees will walk away with sample classroom strategies and practices that are perfect for building students’ resilience skills and promoting student voice at the beginning of the school year. This edWebinar will be of interest to K-12 school leaders and district leaders.
October 13
Recurring Revenue, Real Impact: A Strategic Blueprint for Monthly Giving Success (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
Learn how to build and grow a sustainable monthly donor program that boosts predictable revenue and donor loyalty. This session covers key strategies for recruitment, retention, messaging, and technology. Whether you're starting fresh or refining your approach, you’ll walk away with actionable tips and real-world examples to strengthen your recurring giving program.
October 14
Creative Aging in Action: Practical Strategies for Libraries Webinar Series (Infopeople)
In today’s climate, demonstrating impact is more essential than ever. Creative aging programs offer a powerful, proven way for libraries to show how they enrich lives, strengthen communities, and merit sustained investment. Grounded in lessons from a three-year, IMLS-funded initiative, this three-part webinar series shares evidence-based strategies, evaluation insights, and compelling real-world stories from library leaders, older adult participants, and teaching artists. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to design, sustain, and expand creative aging programs that support lifelong learning, social connection, and improve the health and well-being of older adults. While these webinars are designed as a series, each one offers stand-alone value. You’re welcome to join one, two, or all three—whatever fits your role and schedule. Session two: Creative Aging in Rural and Small Libraries: Models & Solutions. Rural and small libraries face unique challenges—and opportunities—when offering creative aging programs. Through real-world case studies, learn how library staff adapted to limited resources, built community partnerships, and recruited participants. Gain strategies for overcoming barriers and making creative aging programs sustainable and meaningful in rural contexts. See Oct 21 for part 3.
Lower the Stress and Increase the Effectiveness of Your Social Media (WebJunction)
Social media can feel like running on a hamster wheel, always chasing what’s new and trendy for the maximum amount of engagement. But let’s take a step back and evaluate what we’re really accomplishing. Is there a way to simplify our relationship with social media while still accomplishing our goals? This webinar will focus on identifying what types of posts break through the algorithm and which ones are a time suck. Learn practical tips so that you can leave the stress behind and start having fun engaging with your community on social media.
Fundraising Alternatives for Cultural Institutions (Connecting to Collections)
With the funding landscape rapidly shifting and federal funding for sustainable collections management and art conservation under threat, what are some ways that collections caretakers can leverage existing resources and opportunities that are already out there to support their short and long term collections care plans? This lecture will highlight ways in which collection caretakers can utilize free/low cost resources currently available from the preservation field as well as key opportunities for collaboration to better understand, maintain, and advocate for their collections. Topics will include mutual aid, resource mobilization, and alternative fundraising models, such as crowdfunding and sponsorships.
Fall and Winter Picture Books (Booklist)
Unexpected adventures, insights into new worlds, informative biographies, gorgeous illustrations—it’s all here during Booklist’s Fall and Winter Picture Books webinar. Join us as representatives from Random House Children’s Books, Tundra Books, Blue Dot Kids Press, Astra Books for Young Readers, and Waxwing Books present upcoming titles perfect for your young readers. Registration is free—sign up now! Moderated by Booklist’s Books for Youth senior editor Ronny Khuri.
Toxic Talk: Identifying Harmful Workplace Communication Styles that are Destroying Morale and Trust (ASERL)
This webinar will dive into the toxic side of workplace communication by examining four prevalent styles—passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive, and assertive. Participants will learn to spot toxic communication patterns that damage trust, team morale, and productivity. Through group discussion and a quiz activity, attendees will discover which style is most common in their environment. The session wraps up with tools and resources designed to support positive change, build trust, and create stronger, more collaborative teams.
Unmasking Imposter Syndrome: Navigating Anxiety, Uncertainty, and Systemic Challenges in Librarianship (LibrariesLearn/CSL)
Join us in this enlightening session to uncover the hidden aspects of imposter syndrome, fostering a resilient and empowered community within the field of librarianship. Imposter Syndrome, a pervasive phenomenon, manifests in two distinct components: the internal struggle of anxiety and uncertainty, and the external challenge of confronting systemic issues within the librarian profession.
Whole-Person Leadership: A Strategic Framework for Team Clarity, Engagement, and Performance (Training Magazine Network)
Today’s evolving workplace demands more than productivity. It requires leadership that’s human, aligned, and sustainable. In this session, leadership strategist Kris Cala introduces the C.O.M.P.A.S.S. Framework, a whole-person leadership model designed to help HR leaders and managers reduce confusion, elevate engagement, and create culture-forward strategy. In this webinar, participants will learn how to: Identify early signs of misalignment and energy leaks within team dynamics; Use the C.O.M.P.A.S.S. Framework to realign communication, accountability, and performance; Apply whole-person leadership practices that support clarity, trust, and motivation; Implement a practical tool to enhance alignment during team check-ins or planning sessions. Ideal for: HR professionals, people managers, learning and development leaders, and organizational decision-makers navigating retention challenges, rising stress, and fast-moving change.
October 15
How to Help People Change (Training Magazine Network)
In this practical and engaging session, we’ll tease apart the two fundamental types of change. Until you understand why they're so different, you won't understand why your training programs fail to stick. You will learn: The difference between Easy Change and Hard Change, and how they’re more significant than anyone realizes; Why the tactics for Easy Change fail utterly when you’re up against Hard Change; The four levers to consider when helping people change. If you want your people to BE and DO differently, you won’t want to miss this session.
Leading Boldly Through Uncertainty: Act Different to Emerge Different (Training Industry)
In this webinar, FranklinCovey experts will share practical ways to rethink leadership habits and build teams that thrive through uncertainty. Learn how to: Adopt high-performing mindsets that enable proactivity, creativity and deep focus for yourself and your team. Build change-ready teams and empower first-level leaders to drive transformation, not just endure it. Reframe resilience by prioritizing well-being, smarter ways of working and skill development to close critical gaps.
Talking Teen Services – Understanding Teens: Biases and Stereotypes - part 2 of 3 (LibrariesLearn/CSL)
Understanding Teens is a 3-part Talking Teen Services series facilitated by members of the Teen Services team at Arapahoe Libraries in Colorado. All three sessions do go together but they can also be attended independently. Attendees do not have to be present at a previous session to benefit from the content of the next. Teens are important patrons in our libraries, with unique and evolving needs. In this series of webinars, we will share our approach in working towards welcoming, inclusive teen services by using staff training. Our goals with our staff training are to establish a base of empathy through better understanding of teens and their current experiences, and to offer practical strategies in working with youth. Each session will include working through a different part of the training. Our second session will explore biases and stereotypes, both about teens and library workers, and how they impact teen experiences in our libraries. We will cover some foundational information, activities that aid us in identifying biases we and teens might feel, and practical strategies in supporting teens. See Oct 29 for part 3.
Unemployment Insurance Employment Outcomes (UIEO): The Composition and Re-employment Dynamics of UI Claimants (US Census)
The U.S. Census Bureau and the Local Employment Dynamics (LED) Partnership in collaboration with the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) and the Labor Market Information (LMI) Institute, welcomes Lawrence Warren, David Wasser, and Caelan Wilkie-Rogers as they present, “Unemployment Insurance Employment Outcomes (UIEO): The Composition and Re-employment Dynamics of UI Claimants.” This project provides insights into when displaced workers return to jobs, which industries they enter, and how their earnings evolve. Join our webinar to learn how this innovative use of unemployment insurance claims and the Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics (LEHD) data can inform our understanding of the role of workers and employers in shaping re-employment outcomes and provide actionable insights to policy makers, researchers, and workforce professionals.
Advocacy 101: How Nonprofits Can Use Advocacy to Grow Their Power and Influence (GrantStation)
In today’s fast-changing political landscape, nonprofits have the power to shape policies and drive real change—but only if their voices are heard. Advocacy isn’t just for policy experts; it’s a crucial tool for any nonprofit looking to amplify its mission and make a lasting impact. During this webinar, Bethany Snyder will share actionable strategies to influence legislation, overcome barriers, and ensure your organization’s voice is heard. Whether you're seasoned or new to advocacy, this session will empower you to harness the power of grassroots mobilization and make a lasting impact for your community. Join us and become a change agent for your organization and the communities you serve! This session is for nonprofit leaders who want to leverage grassroots activism to create meaningful, long-term change in their communities.
Empowered Employees, Exceptional Service: The EX-CX Connection (GovLoop)
Employee experience (EX) and customer experience (CX) are deeply interconnected. When employees are supported, engaged, and empowered, they are better equipped to deliver high-quality services to constituents. Yet in the face of heavy workloads and competing priorities, this relationship is often overlooked. Join us to learn from EX and CX experts as they examine how improving internal experiences directly enhances public service delivery.
Acts of Science - Make Every Program Count This April (SciStarter)
Ready to bring real science to your community? Join us for an interactive webinar designed for event facilitators, educators, and library and museum staff looking to engage audiences through Acts of Science—real-world, accessible citizen and community science activities. We’ll unveil new program planning tools and resources that make it easy to host science experiences focused on weather, space, environmental monitoring, and public health. Whether you’re planning a one-time event or a full month of activities, this webinar will help you make your Acts of Science count this April—when communities across the country are activating citizen science in celebration of science and Earth Month. You’ll explore featured projects, get plug-and-play materials, and leave ready to lead meaningful science experiences that connect your audience to real research. What to expect: A tour of newly released facilitator tools Featured citizen science projects on weather, health, and the environment; Planning tips and adaptable activities for all ages Q&A with SciStarter program staff and fellow facilitators.
October 16
Adapting Training to Meet Diverse Learning Needs (Training Industry)
In this panel discussion, learning and development (L&D) leaders will share how they’re rethinking the design and delivery of training to reflect the realities of today’s workforce. From building flexible content to incorporating a wider range of voices and learning formats, panelists will explore how to create training that engages, respects and supports every learner. Attendees will walk away with practical strategies for: Designing programs that support a wide range of styles, abilities and backgrounds; Adapting content and delivery methods to meet learners where they are; Using personalization to boost engagement and retention; Building an inclusive learning culture that promotes equity and access.
Leading to Retain: Servant Leadership Strategies for K–12 School Leaders (Blackbaud)
In today’s educational climate, retaining high-quality teachers is more critical—and more challenging—than ever. Blackbaud K–12 welcomes Dr. Dennis Chapman, Head of School at The Village School of Naples for this thought leadership webinar, inspired by his dissertation on servant leadership and teacher retention in independent schools. Dr. Chapman will explain “the TVS experience,” anchored in leadership that fosters a culture of trust, support, and empowerment. Join us for actionable insights into how servant leadership can transform school environments, improve teacher satisfaction, and strengthen institutional stability. This webinar is open to all attendees, customers and non-customers alike; however, it was designed specifically for K–12 school leaders, including heads of school, principals, assistant principals, division heads, and aspiring administrators in private and independent schools.
Future-Proof Your Fundraising with Scenario Thinking (Bloomerang)
Uncertainty is inevitable—but it doesn’t have to catch you off guard. Discover how to apply scenario thinking to stress‑test your fundraising plans, plot no‑regrets moves, and prepare for potential futures with confidence. Leave with actionable frameworks and tools to help your development team navigate any climate.
October 20
Getting Started with AI in Teams: 3 Things Every Nonprofit Needs to Know (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
AI is everywhere in 2025, but most nonprofits are still unsure where to begin. This session is designed for those who want clarity, confidence, and practical tools they can bring back to their teams. Together, we will cover three essentials every nonprofit should know: Foundations, what AI can (and cannot) do for nonprofits right now; Ethics, how to use AI responsibly, avoiding risks to trust and equity; and Practical Prompts, simple, hands-on examples with ChatGPT that can save your team time and support your mission-driven work. In addition to these practical takeaways, you will also hear key insights from the AI Equity Project, highlighting how nonprofits across North America are approaching AI. Their lessons and strategies will give you concrete ideas you can adapt to your own organization, helping you make thoughtful and effective use of AI in service of your mission.
Syracuse University Librarians, Faculty, and Publisher: Collaborating for Tomorrow with Path to Open (Library Journal)
How can libraries, faculty, and publishers work together to make open access books sustainable? Syracuse University was among the first to adopt JSTOR’s Path to Open pilot program—developed in partnership with the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS), University of Michigan Press, and The University of North Carolina Press—to advance equitable access and impact across the scholarly community. Syracuse participates at every level: through its press, library, and faculty authors. This session will share how the Syracuse University campus community is thriving with Path to Open. Join us to learn how Syracuse is partnering with JSTOR to expand access, support authors, and strengthen bibliodiversity. Discover how this collaborative model helps smaller presses thrive, gives faculty greater reach for their scholarship, and makes hundreds of high-quality titles available worldwide. You’ll also hear program updates—including the program’s first 100 titles flipping to open access and the upcoming 2026 title selections—and learn how your library can get involved in Path to Open.
October 21
Creative Aging in Action: Practical Strategies for Libraries Webinar Series (Infopeople)
In today’s climate, demonstrating impact is more essential than ever. Creative aging programs offer a powerful, proven way for libraries to show how they enrich lives, strengthen communities, and merit sustained investment. Grounded in lessons from a three-year, IMLS-funded initiative, this three-part webinar series shares evidence-based strategies, evaluation insights, and compelling real-world stories from library leaders, older adult participants, and teaching artists. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to design, sustain, and expand creative aging programs that support lifelong learning, social connection, and improve the health and well-being of older adults. While these webinars are designed as a series, each one offers stand-alone value. You’re welcome to join one, two, or all three—whatever fits your role and schedule. Session three: Building Buy-In: Gaining Support for Creative Aging at Local and State Levels. How can libraries build support and secure resources for creative aging programs within their communities and states? Learn strategies to engage stakeholders, align with current funding priorities, and communicate program impact. This session will help library leaders, administrators, and advocates understand how to position creative aging as an essential service for older adults.
Effective, Sustainable, and Practical Library Assessment (ASERL)
Library assessment, like many library operations, is at an inflection point not unlike many other library services. The introduction of AI is influencing library assessment much like it is influencing other parts of the operations of an academic library. Therefore, more than any other time in the past, it is important to be aware of Socrates’ 7 critical thinking rules while we are ensuring effective, sustainable, and practical library assessment tools, services, and community forums. The introduction of AI has challenged our thinking about library assessment. So, what do we need to pay attention to? The presenter will discuss how design thinking and Socrates’ 7 Critical Thinking Rules may interact to give us solid evidence for shaping future steps.
Finding Your Voice: Content that Stands Out of the Crowd (CharityHowTo)
Is every newsletter a struggle against the blank page? Does your copy sound like it was written by a robot? Do your fundraising emails seem boring, even to you? Join us for a 45-minute FREE Nonprofit Webinar, where we will show you step-by-step how to identify and highlight what makes your organization unique and how to communicate that to your audience. In summary, help the reader understand that you are the expert specifically for this webinar, you will show them what to do step-by-step and they will be able to utilize what they have learned immediately post webinar.
Acts of Science: Connected Info Session (SciStarter)
Join us each month to prepare for the April event series "Acts of Science: Connected," 4 hybrid events, featuring 4 different projects. Each month, we will host a meet up with one of the projects scheduled to be featured in April. For the first 30 minutes, you will learn about the project and how to participate in it. This will be an opportunity to ask the project leader questions and test out participation. For the last 30 minutes, we will provide facilitation support for the corresponding April event. We will discuss how to embed the SciStarter hosted project-specific watch party into your in-person event at the library/community space. These will include access to leaderboards, ways to personalize the community call to action, and promotional tools.
October 22
"They asked you for WHAT?!" Helping Your Patrons Outsmart Scammers and Avoid Fraud (Programming Librarian)
Americans lost an astounding $5 billion to investment-related scams in 2024, according to the US Federal Trade Commission. Chances are high that people in your community are falling prey to these schemes. Your library can help! In this free webinar, learn how you can protect your library patrons by raising awareness about scams, educating people about fraud prevention techniques, and building connections with trustworthy financial professionals. You will leave this webinar with expert-vetted, timely program ideas that you can implement right away.
Leading the Charge: Navigating Change in Edtech Leadership (Follett)
Educational technology is evolving faster than ever, and leadership can’t afford to simply keep up – it must set the pace. This webinar introduces a guiding mantra, “If we were to start over, would we start like this?”, as a framework for evaluating systems, driving innovation, and leading purposeful change. Participants will explore how to balance building on proven strengths with embracing transformative shifts, and how collaborative leadership, across departments, teams, and communities, creates sustainable impact. From streamlining district-wide platforms to designing equity-focused technology plans to evaluating budgets for return on investment, this session highlights practical strategies for leading with vision, adaptability, and resilience.
Working Well with Your Team: How to Manage Your Staff (Niche Academy)
Having a team that works for and with you—not against you or parallel to you—is critically important regardless of the size of your nonprofit staff. In order to love your work, you need to be able to work well together to balance productivity and camaraderie. Join Emma Kieran to learn how to support your staff! This training includes an overview of best practices when managing staff as well as how to promote a culture in which coaching, communication, and feedback are the cornerstones.
October 23
Building Accessible LibGuides: A Panel on Policies, Workflows, and the ADA Update (Library Accessibility Alliance)
As libraries prepare for the upcoming ADA law update, accessibility is more urgent—and more achievable—than ever. Remediating existing LibGuides for accessibility and updating internal LibGuide workflows are an essential part of ensuring compliance with the updated ADA regulations. Join the Library Accessibility Alliance (LAA) on Thursday, October 23rd at 11am EST for Building Accessible LibGuides: A Panel on Policies, Workflows, and the ADA Update. This webinar focuses on the implementation of accessible LibGuides in light of the upcoming ADA law update. This Q&A-style panel brings together library professionals who are actively working to make their LibGuides ADA compliant by the April 26, 2026 deadline. Panelists will share real-world strategies, workflows, and tools they use to ensure accessibility, as well as the challenges they’ve faced and the successes they’ve achieved.
Creative Writing Workshops for Library Kids: From New York, NY to Norwalk, IA (ALA eLearning)
This is a free, member-exclusive webinar available to ALSC and YALSA members. In a world where children are often denied opportunities to use their voices, libraries can be the best possible space for them to express themselves—and how better to express oneself than through creative writing? In conversation with youth creative writing education nonprofit Cosmic Writers, librarians Joy Hariprasad from the NYPL and Catherine Shook from the Norwalk Easter Public Library will share their best practices for developing writing programming for their young patrons. The webinar will guide participants through the process of setting up creative writing programs for their libraries, from determining program structure to designing curriculum. Participants will be able to assess their population and determine the creative writing workshop structure(s) and genre(s) that will best suit their needs.
Appreciation & Recognition Series: Designing New Events (Idealist formerly Volunteer Match)
How can you design and start to incorporate new recognition and appreciation strategies and events? In this session we’ll explore new ideas for events and activities that utilize different Appreciation Styles and tiers on the Recognition Pyramid. We'll also consider who else in your organization should be participating in these activities. We’ll also discuss what to do if your long-term volunteers are invested in anniversary or milestone awards. Please plan on attending or watching the recording of the Kick Off before attending this session.
Achieving Work-Life Balance: Is “Severance” the Answer? (Training Magazine Network)
This one-hour webinar highlights strategies beyond radical “severance” and routine time management, moving toward integration and alignment based on flexible habits, energy hacks, and boundary-setting—all secrets to thriving, not just surviving. This seminar will focus on: How to redefine work-life balance; How to understand energy drains and gains; How to rely on your capabilities and capitalize on your strengths; How to set boundaries and engage in self-care.
October 27
Strategy-Culture Connection: How Culture Powers Strategic Change (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
Given the increasing level of change we face, it's not viable to treat strategy as purely a logical chain of events. To manage the change, strategy should be the results of shared beliefs to take operational bets. This highlights the importance of aligning strategies with culture to guide leadership behaviors and employee expectations. By doing so, we ensure our culture motivates the right habits, norms and rituals to execute change successfully.
Using Chrome tools to support diverse readers (PACER Center)
Learn how to make reading more accessible and engaging with Chrome! Join us for this workshop to learn about a variety of tools available on Chromebooks and within the Chrome browser that support and enhance reading. We will explore built-in Chromebook accessibility features and browser extensions designed to assist with visual customization, literacy skill development, and reading with text-to-speech. These tools can benefit users of all ages and abilities, especially students with dyslexia, ADHD, low vision, slower cognitive processing, or reading comprehension difficulties.
October 28
Ask. Discover. Cite. How Academic AI is Redefining Discovery (Library Journal)
Join us for an illuminating session on Primo Research Assistant (RA), the AI-powered research companion developed by Ex Libris (part of Clarivate). This intelligent tool allows users to ask questions in natural language and receive a composed answer based on trusted academic content, highlighting the most relevant sources, while also suggesting related questions to guide further exploration - perfect for today’s students’ discovery needs. Listen to Michael Gonzalez, University Librarian, University of Technology Sydney and Sue Stevens, Head of Library Systems, Cardiff University who will showcase how the Primo RA enables their users to explore trusted library materials through intuitive conversation. Whether you're a librarian, researcher or product enthusiast, this webinar will equip you with everything you need to harness the power of Academic AI for richer, more efficient discovery.
Life Skills, Collaboration, and STEAM Connections Beyond the Classroom (edWeb)
Preparing students for the future requires more than strong academic foundations, it means equipping them with the skills to collaborate, problem solve, and adapt in a rapidly changing world. In this interactive edWebinar, educators will explore how to bring learning to life through real-world connections that extend beyond the classroom walls. This edWebinar will be of interest to middle school teachers, librarians, school leaders, and education technology leaders.
Ask Me Anything: Navigating the Federal Grant Landscape (Candid Learning)
Join us as we navigate ongoing federal grants changes and related impacts on the grants profession and the grants process. We are fortunate to have the co-chairs of the Grant Professionals Association’s National Governmental Advocacy Committee, Allison Huber and Dianna Pell, facilitating this timely discussion. This session will provide clarity and actionable insights to help grant professionals address the challenges posed by federal policies and executive orders, departmental changes, and canceled funding and how to better navigate their futures.
10 Things Every Library Friend or Trustee Should Know (WebJunction)
Library Friends and Trustees fall into two camps: 1) Those who have served on a nonprofit board 2) Those who have not. But – nonprofit board experience is not the same as library board experience, especially one that is a governmental entity! Members who do not adequately understand their roles are more likely to venture into areas that are not their responsibility. Join us for a fast-paced and informative session that is sure to surprise you!
October 29
Talking Teen Services – Understanding Teens: Building Positive Relationships - part 3 of 3 (LibrariesLearn/CSL)
Understanding Teens is a 3-part Talking Teen Services series facilitated by members of the Teen Services team at Arapahoe Libraries in Colorado. All three sessions do go together but they can also be attended independently. Attendees do not have to be present at a previous session to benefit from the content of the next. Teens are important patrons in our libraries, with unique and evolving needs. In this series of webinars, we will share our approach in working towards welcoming, inclusive teen services by using staff training. Our goals with our staff training are to establish a base of empathy through better understanding of teens and their current experiences, and to offer practical strategies in working with youth. Each session will include working through a different part of the training. In our third session, we will consider how to build and model positive relationships as a tool to inspire positive behavior. We will work through identifying our personal positive relationships, and ways to use our experiences in supporting our teen patrons.
Transforming Business Models (Propel Nonprofits)
Learn the four core components of a nonprofit business model – revenue mix, understanding the cost of programs, infrastructure, and capital structure – and explore how all these components connect to mission and your organization’s financial health.
Beyond Retention: Mechanisms to Support Librarian Job and Career Success and Longevity (ASERL)
A recent IMLS funded grant project investigated the factors that impact librarians’ retention in the library and information science (LIS) field. Through a nation-wide survey and the completion of 30 semi-structured interviews, the project found that while retention to the field was a concern for many participants, the more salient concern was retention within their current jobs. This session will highlight the factors identified as most impactful for retaining librarians both in their positions and in the field, as well as the contextual factors that supported resiliency. The presenters will engage participants in conversation around how individuals and organizations can respond to these factors and work collaboratively to better support librarian job and career retention.
Figuring Out Fair Use (Niche Academy)
Fair use. It sounds so straightforward, and yet many find applying it to their use of copyrighted material to be anything but straightforward. Patrons, when they ask, typically are searching for an easy, definitive answer as to whether their use of a particular item in a particular situation is "ok." Librarians are hesitant to give these "pat" answers either because they aren't confident in their own interpretation, or they (rightfully so) want to avoid the impression of giving legal advice. With these conflicting desires in place, how can librarians go about assisting their patrons in making wise fair use decisions? Sara Wolf will give librarians strategies and recommendations for guiding patrons and colleagues through the process of making wise fair use decisions and explain the foundations on which those decisions are made.
Tarot for Well-Being (Infopeople)
For a traditionally quiet space, libraries are becoming busier with patrons needing a variety of services, programs, and assistance. Library staff report feeling overwhelmed and disoriented. Perhaps the tarot can help center you in a mindful way in times of chaos as a way to focus on well-being and practice self-care. This session will be fun, interactive, engaging, and show attendees several ways and resources to use the tarot to find focus, calm, and purpose in a frenetic workplace. This webinar will be of interest to Library staff looking for alternative mindfulness practices. Learners at all levels are welcome, with or without prior experience or knowledge.
October 30
Curriculum Shifts and Library Strategy: Insights from Emerging Higher Ed Trends (Clarivate|ProQuest)
As higher education institutions expand academic offerings to reflect evolving career paths and research frontiers, libraries must stay ahead of curriculum trends to remain essential partners in learning and discovery. This session, grounded in insights from Hanover Research’s ongoing research and experience with higher education institutions, explores how libraries can advance collections, embrace digital transformation, and align services with evolving institutional priorities. Learn how expert curation and data-driven strategies can position your library to support emerging degrees and shape the future of academia.
How to Have More Productive Conversations with Donors (Productive Fundraising)
Join fundraising master trainer, Chad Barger, ACFRE, ACNP, for a session focused on improving the conversations that we have with our donors. We’ll cover practical tips that you can immediately implement to improve your donor interactions and, in the process, Chad will walk you step by step through how he has successfully engaged donors throughout his 25+ year fundraising career.