Free May webinars for library staff
With so many options for online learning, it's great to be able to see all these webinars collected in one place. This list, provided by the Maine State Library, comes out every month and is regularly updated on the Free Training page, where you can also view the offerings by topic. This month's list covers over 60 webinars and four online conferences, covering 19 different topic areas, from advocacy to technology. Take some time to think through your learning priorities and pick those that can help you with focused learning to take the practical next steps to put your learning into action.
View and subscribe to the Maine State Library Continuing Education (CE) Calendar at: https://maine-msl.libguides.com/CECAL where events are now posted using the CE Category Color Key.
Do you have a free program that you would like us to consider for next month? Submit it by the 20th here: https://www.maine.gov/msl/libs/ce/ce_program_submission_form.shtml
Questions or Comments? Email us: [email protected]
View the list of offerings by topic on our Free Training page, and for additional training, check out the WebJunction Catalog, free and open to library staff and volunteers everywhere.
Online conferences
May 2: Open Books Open Minds (SLJ & LJ)
Experience dynamic and informative content in this day-long virtual conference brought to you by SLJ & LJ in partnership with NCTE. You’ll hear from the rockstars of reading and literacy from authors and teachers to librarians and other education and industry leaders. All of this talent and expertise is coming together to raise up the love of reading. NCTE’s contribution is a specific strand of content that shines the light on “Heart Hope and Humanity,” their theme for the year which will culminate with their annual convention in Boston this November. Tune in for a robust day of expert panels, keynotes, downloadable resources, thought-leadership presentations, product exhibits, and more — all designed to give you the strategies you need to support engaging reading environments. Attendees will gain insight into tools, practices, and initiatives that put books and reading front and center, elevating and celebrating the value and impact of this important collective work.
May 2: 2024 Depository Library Council Virtual Meeting
Join the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) and the Depository Library Council for our annual spring Virtual Meeting. During this free event: Participate in informative and interactive meetings of the Depository Library Council. Contribute to important discussions about free public access to U.S. Government information. Network with GPO staff and fellow depository librarians from across the Nation. Event highlights include: Welcoming greetings and remarks by GPO Director Hugh Halpern, Superintendent of Documents Scott Matheson, and DLC Chair Jen Kirk. An Open Forum where attendees can contribute thoughts and ideas to key issues being addressed by the DLC. Updates and discussion on the transition to a digital FDLP.
May 15: NextGen Virtual Summit: Powering Your Public Sector Career Forward (GovLoop)
We’re thrilled to have you join us at the upcoming NextGen Government Training Virtual Summit. Registration is free and open to everyone. We’re so looking forward to hosting a full day of professional development keynotes and breakout sessions. Stay tuned for schedule and speaker announcements!
May 23: School Library Journal Day of Dialog Spring 2024
Join us May 23rd for our School Library Journal Day of Dialog virtual event! Our day-long program of author panels, in-depth conversations, and keynote talks will leave you informed, inspired, and entertained. Come hear about the hottest forthcoming titles for children, tweens, and teens, from nonfiction and romance to picture books and graphic novels. You can also visit the virtual exhibit hall to network with leading publishers, enjoy intimate author chats, and download digital galleys and other free resources.
Webinars
May 1
The Secret to Loyal Supporters: Email Welcome Journeys (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
If your first question is, “What’s an email welcome journey?” then you’re in the right place! An email welcome journey is a series of messages sent to a supporter immediately after they take an action with you. Research shows that the window of time immediately following one of these actions is the absolute best time to contact someone. This is your chance to draw people into your story, validate their decision to take action with you, and turn them into loyal ambassadors for your brand. During this session, we’ll introduce you to the effectiveness of automated email welcome journeys and everything you need to know to set one up. We’ll share the best practices on when you should trigger emails and what content you should include to engage with your donors meaningfully, with some examples of successful welcome journeys from nonprofit organizations. You’ll leave this session with ideas, inspiration, and an outline for your first welcome journey.
Executive Directors Chat: Embracing Diversity and Cultural Differences (TechSoup)
Learn how to foster diversity and inclusion in your nonprofit, promoting belonging and cultural competence for a more connected team. Participants will learn how to foster an inclusive environment that appreciates and leverages cultural differences for a stronger, more connected team. Through practical advice and shared experiences, this session aims to enhance your organization's cultural competence and contribute to a more diverse nonprofit community.
Don't I Have the Right Not to Be Offended? Responding to Censorship in Fractious Times (Niche Academy)
The best defense against censorship is preparation, policies, and the ability to manage meaningful conversations with the community. Join Jamie LaRue to learn how the value of intellectual freedom came to be adopted by librarians and why it is so crucial now. Jamie will provide a checklist and brief discussion of essential policies and protocols.
May 2
Beyond Management: Coaching and Leading Your Team (Bloomerang)
You know the situation well. Your team is strapped thin, but the work isn’t slowing down. How do you keep your team motivated and in action without flipping them into a stage of burnout? This webinar is designed to equip leaders with the essential skills and mindset to foster a growth, collaboration, and continuous improvement culture. We plan to go beyond management how to’s and equip leaders to coach their teams to unlock their untapped potential, resulting in enhanced performance and job satisfaction.
Supercharging Summer Reading: Connecting with Your Community and Beyond (State Library of Oregon)
We will discuss how to: Engage with parents and caregivers in summer learning initiatives; Collaborate with local organizations for enriching summer learning opportunities; Strengthen relationships with public libraries and educational institutions for summer reading programs.
Support Young Children’s Language Learning and Pre-Literacy Skills with Music (edWeb)
We all know that children love music! While singing and dancing to music is enjoyable at any age, making music together with young children also helps develop a host of important skills, including language and literacy skills. During this interactive edWebinar, we’ll explore how and why the content and process of developmentally appropriate music activities naturally support young children’s language and literacy development. Attendees, regardless of their music background, will gain a deeper understanding of how to use music to holistically support important areas of language and literacy development, including print awareness and motivation, vocabulary development, narrative skills, letter knowledge, phonological awareness, and active listening skills. Special attention will also be paid toward exploring how music activity can support the language-learning needs of dual language learners. No music experience needed—just come ready to sing, dance, and have fun!
May 6
The Rise of Artificial Intelligence and Art: Taking a Look at Copyright Challenges for Libraries (ASERL)
The world of art is undergoing a revolution with the emergence of AI-generated creations. But who owns the copyright to these works – the person, the software developer, or someone else entirely? This critical question has implications for libraries, museums and other cultural heritage institutions. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on how copyright law interacts with AI art. We’ll explore how libraries can support the responsible use of AI in artistic creation, navigate the legal complexities of copyright ownership, and ensure the accessibility of these new forms of art for everyone.
May 7
Chilling Reads: Mysteries, Thrillers, and True Crime (Booklist)
Whether you are anxiously waiting for the next installment from your favorite sleuth or looking to fill your summer with terrifying thrillers, you can find it all during our Chilling Reads: Mysteries, Thrillers, and True Crime webinar on Discover new detectives and complex mysteries from Sourcebooks, Macmillan Library, Soho Press, and the Penguin Random House Library Marketing team. Moderated by Booklist’s senior editor for Adult Books, Annie Bostrom.
Introduction to Corporate Giving (Candid Learning)
Is your organization ready to seek corporate support? Corporate grantmakers are different from traditional foundations in many ways. This class provides a basic overview of: The different types of corporate giving. What motivates corporations to give. How to find potential corporate partners. Outcomes: Define different types of corporate philanthropy and their motivations. Learn how to find information about different types of corporate philanthropy.
May 8
A Case Study in Finding New Donors (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
This educational session will focus on teaching you how to create a donor portfolio full of new potential donors. Whether you have a list of donors that aren’t engaged, don’t have a donor list at all, or are purely seeking new donors to support your cause, this case study will walk you through the process of building an effective list so you can raise more money – faster, and easier. This real-life case study chronicles a project that was started without a 501(c)3, using a fiscal sponsor. The project had no history of individual or private foundation fundraising; all that existed was an outdated snail mail newsletter list that only included USPS addresses (no emails or phone numbers). We will show you how, using specific prospect research techniques and tools, a list was developed, and donors were engaged. This case study demonstrated the impressive results that can be achieved, even when there is initially very little to work with. Join us and learn how to use prospect research techniques to increase the impact of your organization’s mission.
Double Your Grants: 7 Donor Engagement Secrets for Funding Success (Blackbaud)
What’s one audience nonprofits (unintentionally) neglect when nurturing funders? Their existing donors. It may seem obvious, but your donor base can get you one step closer to building stronger relationships and achieving success with your grant seeking. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to get “in” with institutional funders and let existing donors be your bridge to securing new funding.
Exploring Social Justice Through Young Adult Books (Booklist)
Join Random House Children's Book authors Jumata Emill (WANDER IN THE DARK), Kim Johnson (THE COLOR OF A LIE), and LaDarrion Williams (BLOOD AT THE ROOT) in a discussion about their books that focus on social justice. During the discussion, the authors will delve into social issues such as inequity, inequality, and injustice - including gender inequality, poverty, racism, and LGBTQ+ issues - and explore how they can be portrayed through different genres. Moderated by Ronny Khuri, Senior Editor for Books for Youth at Booklist.
Zero Trust at the State and Local Level (GovLoop)
For the past 10 years, cybersecurity has been the top priority facing Chief Information Officers. Now, many state and local agencies are turning to zero trust to beef up their security architectures. Specifically, you’ll learn: The theory behind zero trust and how it can be used at the state and local level. Where governments are being successful with zero-trust methodologies. The biggest challenges still facing agencies as they look to secure their networks better.
Fundraising Basics: How to Prioritize Efforts to Maximize Success (Georgia Library Association)
Whether you’re new to fundraising or have an established program, have you evaluated which efforts will maximize your success? The Columbus Metropolitan Library Foundation has a 30 year fundraising history and its Director of Development has almost 20 years of fundraising experience in a variety of industries. In the past few years, they’ve tripled their donor base and almost doubled their average annual amount raised. Learn which efforts have the biggest return on investment (ROI) based upon library surveys, experience, and proven success. You’ll leave with a road map to success that you can manage, no matter your team’s size.
How to Defeat Fundraising’s Silent Enemy: Donor Attrition (Firespring)
Stop the revolving door! Keep supporters interested and engaged with your nonprofit and turn one-time givers into repeat donors with tips and insight from one of our most popular webinars. While statistics show that 7 out of 10 donors give only once, this doesn’t have to be your reality. Join Firespring’s founder, Jay Wilkinson, who’ll help you see how a 10% increase in donor retention will more than double the lifetime value of a donor and minimize your reliance on one-time givers. You’ll learn: How to create a powerful and engaging website that keeps donors interested. What we can learn from the annual Fundraising Effectiveness. Survey Report from AFP. Why donors leave and what to do about it. 6 key drivers that can double the lifetime value of your donors. Methods for creating repeat donors.
Women in K-12 Educational Leadership: “Leaning In” and Lessons Learned (edWed)
While the teaching profession is largely dominated by females, the educational leadership space does not mirror the same demographics. Why is this? Join us for a conversation with two experienced public education practitioners and school leaders whose service in the field and study at the higher education levels lend new perspectives and research that apply to the field and prospective recruitment and retention of female leaders. This edWebinar will cover a myriad of topics, from the theories behind these numbers to imposter syndrome, and complex considerations and proposed solutions for not only women in the field considering these fields, but to those who are supporting, hiring, or mentoring women in leadership roles. This is a conversation about career growth and empowerment, strategies for those aspiring to leadership roles, and organizational improvement tactics that can shape and cultivate a fair systems approach for women to succeed, lead, and impact others.
May 9
Misinformation Media Literacy: Learning Resources for Public Libraries (University of Washington Information School)
The University of Washington’s Center for an Informed Public (CIP) and WebJunction seek your input on the creation of a new online resource for community misinformation education designed especially for public libraries. If your public library is looking for learning aids to help people identify and navigate problematic information and improve their media literacy skills, we invite you to participate in this interactive 1-hour session. After providing an overview of the project’s purpose and resources, the project team will pose questions designed to gain your insights on organizing principles and terminology that can optimize the findability and usability of the material. Each participant will be offered a $50 gift card in recognition of their time and input.
Leveraging AI for Career Advancement in Nonprofits (CharityVillage)
Join us to explore innovative ways to unlock the potential of AI in propelling your career within the nonprofit sector. Learn how to utilize AI to enhance your soft skills, demonstrate a passion for organizational causes, position yourself as a standout candidate for advancement, and craft compelling communications to generate fresh ideas. Learning Objectives: Discover how to harness AI tools to emphasize soft skills, such as emotional intelligence and teamwork, crucial for nonprofit career advancement. Explore innovative methods to showcase a passion for your organization’s cause through AI-generated content and engagement strategies. Learn techniques for leveraging AI to raise your voice in meetings, implement innovative ideas, and take initiative in project management within nonprofit environments. Master the art of using AI to enhance administrative and reporting skills, making your contributions more impactful and noticeable to supervisors. Develop proactive approaches to career advancement for effective communication with supervisors and identify AI-driven professional growth opportunities beyond monetary benefits.
Getting Started with Girls Who Code webinar (Indiana State Library)
Girls Who Code wants to give you the tools and resources you need to develop inclusive computer science programming – no coding experience required. Join us to learn about our free Clubs program for 3rd-12th grade coders. We’ll introduce you to our three essential components for quality programming: (1) activities that teach coding and social-emotional development, (2) a culture of bravery where participants join a supportive community of peers and role models in tech, and (3) real-world application of coding for positive impact. Leave with step-by-step guidance for bringing new STEM initiatives to young people in your community!
Grant Funding with a Lean Team (Bloomerang)
Join us for an engaging session designed for small and mid-sized nonprofits. We will explore practical strategies and tips for maximizing your grant funding efforts with your organization’s existing resources. Whether you’re a solo grant writer or have a small staff or volunteer team, this webinar will provide valuable insights on securing funding efficiently and effectively. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your grant funding skills to impact your organization!
Indie Press Showcase (Booklist)
Great books come from publishing houses of all sizes, and we are thrilled to spotlight upcoming adult titles. Join us to hear from author Robert Wintner and learn about new thrillers, memoirs, literary fiction, and more from CamCat Books and ECW Press that are must-haves for your bookshelves. Moderated by Booklist’s Adult Books editor Donna Seaman.
Top 3 Challenges and Opportunities in Government Grant Management (GovLoop)
Government agencies face unique challenges in securing and managing grants, which are vital for fostering sustainable development, delivering services, and improving community outcomes. While many funding opportunities are available, they introduce a set of administrative burdens when it comes to management and compliance. Specifically, you’ll learn: Where the biggest pitfalls exist in the grants process including areas like compliance, IT and personnel. How successful organizations have transformed their grants process to be much more streamlined and modern. Actionable steps your teams can take to improve your grant management process.
May 10
Special Projects in Reparative and Inclusive Description (DPLA)
In this final workshop of the series, presenters will share how they approached description projects for special collections at their universities. Projects include: reparative description for Nazi publications identified in the collection, expanding access to electronic agricultural extension reports through non-English language subject headings, and applying content statements and strategies for graphic images/thumbnails.
May 13
How OCPS Brought Digital Reading to Their Large Urban District (edWeb)
If the eighth-largest school district in the U.S. can do it, so can you! Attend this edLeader Panel with educators from Orange County Public Schools (FL) to learn how their diverse district—which includes 200+ schools and 170+ languages spoken—rolled out ebooks and audiobooks to the entire school community. You’ll hear from Director of Instructional Technology and Library Media Allison Kibbey about how this 1:1 district, which supplies over 188,667 devices to students, got started with a digital reading platform in February 2021. From there, Digital Learning and Library Media Program Specialist Margie Wells will take you through her keys to effective rollout and implementation of digital books, from using curation tools creatively to spark reading engagement, to cost-effectively managing your collection, to promoting your ebooks and audiobooks so that they’re always on your students’ minds. Plus, you’ll discover how digital books make reading more accessible to students, with unique features and formats to draw in even struggling and reluctant readers. The end result? Over 120% checkout growth over the last two years!
Introduction to Data Equity (RIPL)
This webinar will get you up to speed on the core issues facing the equitable and ethical use of quantitative data and provide you with a clear picture of the challenging landscape of turning complex human questions into numbers and then back into meaning (without totally screwing people over in the process!). Participants will be given a summary document with key concepts and talking points, which many people find extremely useful in discussing data equity with colleagues, clients, bosses, boards, and policymakers.
How to Get Buy-In for Your CX Efforts (GovLoop)
In order for customer experience (CX) efforts to be successful, they need support and buy-in from all levels of your organization. From the individual contributor all the way up to leadership, without an agency-wide commitment to CX, your programs are bound to fail. On this month’s CX Community of Practice virtual networking event, we will speak with experts about how to garner support from your peers and leadership for CX efforts. You’ll learn how to: Create a culture of “customer experience is everyone’s job” at your organization. Communicate CX priorities across the agency. Work directly with colleagues and leadership teams to get initiatives off the ground.
May 14
Drive Thru Data: Using NLM APIs to Access Information Fast (NNLM)
The National Library of Medicine (NLM) provides millions of people access to health information via its portfolio of products and services. But some people may need to access NLM’s resources in special ways, to help support new and innovative projects. Application programming interfaces (APIs) can help you access NLM’s data more quickly and efficiently, especially when integrated into a program or script. This webinar is aimed at librarians and other information professionals who are familiar with NLM’s products and services, but want to explore NLM data in new ways. Students with all levels of technical expertise are welcome, regardless of whether you’ve never heard of APIs before, you’re a new API user who needs a little help, or are an API expert looking for more information about NLM’s API offerings. As long as you’re interested in finding new and improved ways of interacting with NLM’s resources, this webinar is for you!
May 15
Be a Silo-Buster: The Keys to Increasing Collaboration in Your Organization (Blackbaud)
Silos: the dreaded word that can be the biggest threat to your organization's success. Silos often form naturally, but it’s up to leaders in the organization to break down barriers when needed and open pathways to collaboration, increased productivity, and ultimately, better organizational outcomes. Join fellow social impact leaders to hear about how to eliminate silos and increase cooperation between departments and across organizations.
Connecting with Local Government Officials - How Libraries Add Value (Montana State Library)
Join Tracy Cook, MSL Lead Consulting Librarian, and Dr. Gregory Gilpin, Montana State University Economist to learn about an economist's view of how libraries add value to their communities. This session will be divided into a 30-minute introduction and then 30-minutes of applied learning in breakout rooms. This is the second in a series of webinars focused on connecting with local government officials.
Conflict Management and De-escalation (Niche Academy)
When given the appropriate knowledge and skills, we are all capable of making informed, effective, and safe choices when facing customer conflict and violence. As part of that approach, join Suzanne Powell to discuss how we can create a shift in how we view and respond to these situations to enhance our safety and reduce employee stress. Suzanne will cover: The Continuum of Customer Conflict; How Communication Choices Determine Risk; Management of Behaviors VS Reactionary Efforts to Control; Zero Tolerance and Employee Safety; Contributing Factors to Customer Violence; Managing our Own Behaviors; Assertive Communication; Safely Gaining Customer Co-operation.
Navigating Nonprofit Governance: Crafting Effective Board Agendas (CharityHowTo)
Join us for this insightful FREE webinar on Navigating Nonprofit Governance: Crafting Effective Board Agendas. In just 45 minutes, you'll gain valuable knowledge and tools to revolutionize your board meetings and drive your nonprofit towards its goals. During This Nonprofit Webinar You Will Learn: How to Design an Effective Agenda: Learn practical tips for crafting agendas that keep your meetings focused and productive. How to Engage Your Board in Meeting Planning: Discover strategies to involve your board members in the planning process, ensuring their active participation and commitment. How to Avoid Ineffective Meeting Time Suckers: Identify common pitfalls that drain productivity in board meetings and learn how to sidestep them effectively. How to Use a Consent Agenda: Understand the power of consent agendas and how they can streamline routine business, freeing up time for more meaningful discussions.
Addressing Body Shape and Size Stigma in Libraries: Getting Started (Infopeople)
As library workers, we recognize the significance of creating environments that embrace diversity and prioritize the well-being of all patrons and staff. In this webinar we will be starting the conversation around how body shape and size stigma affect our society. We will be focusing on libraries, and how we can create services, spaces, and workplaces that better support people of diverse body shapes and sizes. We will describe the significance of weight stigma, its historical context, and its intersection with other identities, offering insights into the barriers it creates. Together we will discuss individual and organizational strategies to combat body shape and size stigma and support all library users and workers. By fostering awareness and implementing actionable steps, we aim to cultivate environments where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to access library resources and services without fear of judgment or discrimination. Join us as we initiate this essential conversation and take meaningful steps towards creating equitable and inclusive libraries for all.
May 16
Planning, measuring, and sharing your program’s impact (Candid Learning)
How do you tell the story of your program’s effectiveness to your stakeholders, funders, and the world at large? Join co-hosts Candid and Charlotte Mecklenburg Library for an overview of the best ways to envision your program’s outcomes; to track your organizational impact; and to use a free tool - the Common Results Catalog - to ensure that the results you are measuring compare with those of your peers across the country. This free program will also highlight the best ways to share this data in your Candid Nonprofit Profile.
Unlocking Insights with Generative AI: How to Enhance Research Efficiency in the Library (Choice-ACRL)
As Generative AI tools gain prominence, librarians play a pivotal role in assessing their impact. Elsevier introduces Scopus AI, a solution designed for the academic community. Join our webinar to explore how Scopus AI empowers interdisciplinary collaboration, demystifies emerging fields, identifies research partners, and uncovers promising areas for exploration. Gain practical insights into transparency, reliability, accuracy, and relevance of results.
Information to Support Research from the National Agricultural Library (FDLP)
The webinar will present an overview of freely-available research tools and collections provided by the NAL to support a wide range of disciplines and research types from STEM and the sciences, to food and culture, to history and art. Attendees will increase their awareness of NAL tools and collections that connect users to information on food, agriculture, and the related sciences.
Discover the Keys to Enhancing Literacy Programs Within Your District (Follett Community)
Unlock the potential of libraries to significantly elevate reading proficiency and the passion for literature across your district. Dr. Daria's groundbreaking Strong Library, Strong Schools Initiative has transformed libraries into vibrant hubs of learning and engagement, fostering an enriching environment for students to thrive in literacy. Key Takeaways: Insightful Strategies: Discover how Dr. Daria activated a dedicated team of librarians to forge stronger connections with students and foster a deep-seated love for reading. Community Centric Libraries: Learn how the library’s metamorphosis into the heart of the school has positively impacted literacy rates and student academic performance. Innovative Approach to Literacy: This initiative reflects an innovative model that can be replicated to boost literacy rates and overall student success within your own educational system.
Supporting Healthy Communities: Public Library Responses to the Opioid Crisis (WebJunction)
The opioid crisis continues to rage unabated in our communities and worsened in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. Public libraries have a critical opportunity to support the information needs of patrons dealing with and impacted by substance misuse. Related programming and services are deeply connected to addressing health equity, and they help libraries link community members to critical information that can improve their lives and the lives of loved ones. WebJunction has released the “Opioid Crisis Support Kit for Public Libraries” to help library staff assess their strengths and capacity, identify key local partners with whom to collaborate or coordinate, and plan and implement programming and services that contribute to addressing the opioid crisis. Join this webinar to learn how libraries have found success and purpose with the Support Kit and gain insights to empower your community toward healthier outcomes.
Getting More Books in More Hands (Demco)
Join Demco Book Doctor Kimberly Young as she discusses the goal of every library: getting more books in more hands. This webinar will explore different ways to make this happen for you and your team. Learn: The importance of weeding your collection to make your library easier for users to navigate and enjoy. How to better understand community demographics through collection usage. How to ShelfSpark your library: using collection merchandising and wayfinding solutions to boost circulation.
May 17
Idea Lab Balancing Tech in Summer Reading (Libraries for Digital Equity)
In these fun, low-pressure virtual labs, a speaker will offer a 10 minute “micro-training” and then a 15 minute brainstorming session. Join in!
May 20
Combining Creativity, Civic Mindedness, and Belonging to Motivate Children to Read and Learn (edWeb)
On her website for Hairiette of Harlem, Tanya Wright includes a quote from Albert Einstein, “Creativity is intelligence having fun.” In this edWebinar, we are going to discuss creativity, what’s needed to spark creativity in learners, and why it matters beyond school, at the workplace, and in society at large. We’re also going to showcase concepts from Tanya‘s Hairiette of Harlem, a story-driven literacy system about the misadventures of an impatient seven-year-old girl named Hairiette. Besides creativity, a 21st-century and much-valued skill, we’ll touch on the importance of motivation and engagement in literacy development. We’ll elevate the role of belongingness, which can work against stereotype threat and “otherness” to create safe spaces where each student can meet their potential. Attendees will walk away with: A sneak peek at the Hairiette of Harlem film. Understanding of the importance of motivation and engagement in literacy programs. Recognition of the role another key 21st-century skill, civic mindedness, plays in learning and literacy development. Understanding of how research supports these concepts and where to find strategies teachers can use. A feeling of fun and joy for Hairiette and her friends!
The Reality of VR: Librarian Involvement in Virtual Reality Projects (ASERL)
As an instruction librarian in a makerspace and later as science liaison librarian at both large and small universities, the author has participated in various virtual reality projects for education, including doing workshops and class-related instruction on virtual reality and creating 360 video tours, creating an asynchronous virtual reality paper prototyping assignment, and participating in a faculty AR/VR working group and helping create a virtual chemistry lab. There are ways for librarians to be involved in virtual reality for education at all levels, whether your only experience is with Google Cardboard or you are an expert at creating 360 videos or virtual reality scenes. In this session, participants will learn some basic uses of virtual reality in instruction, identify various ways that librarians can participate in instruction using virtual reality, and identify some basic tools and software for using and creating virtual reality. In the interactive portions, they will have an opportunity to share their own experiences, ideas and questions with each other and try some basic tools.
Less Winging It, More Strategy: How to Be a Strategic Leader (GovLoop)
What are some common obstacles preventing you from being a strategic leader? Often, overpacked schedules, changing priorities, and poor time management can eat away at opportunities for strategic thinking. However, supervisors or managers who don’t have a strategy in place for team performance and productivity can be perceived as disorganized or ineffective. So, how can you be more strategic? You’ll learn: The core elements of a strategic leader. How to shift from a tactical to a strategic thinker. How to document and communicate your plans.
May 21
Research Integrity and AI: Navigating Challenges and Leveraging Potential (Choice-ACRL)
As AI continues to impact higher education, it brings forth new challenges and opportunities in maintaining academic integrity. Research integrity plays a pivotal role in maintaining the quality of research and its subsequent publication. Its significance resonates not only with the research community but also with publishers. Libraries, as indispensable partners, play a crucial role in upholding rigorous standards within scholarly endeavors. They serve as guides through the intricate landscape of AI adoption, ensuring its ethical application, and fostering a research ecosystem that places integrity at the forefront.
Telling Your Story: Simple Steps to Build Your Nonprofit's Brand (TechSoup)
Find out how to share your nonprofit's story effectively. Learn easy ways to create a recognizable brand and amplify your impact. Key takeaways: Importance of storytelling and branding for nonprofit visibility; basic branding principles and techniques for nonprofits; strategies for building a strong and consistent brand identity with limited resources.
Page-Turning Picture Books (Booklist)
Summer is just around the corner, and with the new season there are always fresh and riveting new picture books for young readers! Join us to find out about some phenomenal new picture books soon to hit your shelves! We’ll hear representatives from Tundra Books, Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, Hachette Book Group, and Albatros as they present their upcoming titles!
Social Media 102 (Firespring)
So you’ve finally adopted social media as a legit way to connect with your target audiences, but now you want to use it to stand out from the crowd. In our Social Media 101 webinar, we covered the Big 3 (Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn) and walked through social media tools. Now it’s time to learn a few advanced social media tips and tricks, elevate your social media presence through micro strategies and activate your advocates. Join us to learn how to: Use social media to connect with constituents. Monitor conversations to stay ahead of the curve. Get people to advocate on your behalf. Navigate social media advertising and understand when to use it.
May 22
10-Step Budgeting Process (Propel Nonprofits)
You will walk away from this webinar with a proven 10-step budgeting process that will engage staff and the board to ensure that your budget reflects your organization’s mission, strategic plan, and programmatic priorities.
Info2Go! Introducing “Visions of America: All Stories, All People, All Places” from PBS Books (Idaho Commission for Libraries)
As we approach the semiquincentennial (250th) anniversary of America’s independence, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and PBS Books are working together to produce “Visions of America: All Stories, All People, All Places,” a digital-first series of videos and virtual conversations that explores our post-pandemic nation with a renewed interest in the places, people, and stories that have contributed to the America we live in today. Mandi Harris from PBS Books will be presenting on how libraries can use the videos and free, turnkey resources such as booklists and discussion guides to hold a variety of programs.
Keeping Your Information Safe with Centralized Security Services (TechSoup)
We’ve all heard about devastating cyberattacks, and nonprofits are not immune. In fact, small to medium-sized nonprofit organizations are specifically susceptible due to their lack of cybersecurity policies and staff training. The good news is that there are lots of things you can do to protect your organization, even if you’re not a security expert. In this session, you will gain a basic understanding of how cyberattacks happen and how to prevent them.
Grantseeking Solo: Secure Awards with Limited Staff (GrantStation)
As an executive director, you’re not only the leader of the organization but also an active participant in its various functions. As a development director, your responsibilities likely encompass much more than just proposal writing. As a program director, you are busy running the programs in addition to securing additional funds to sustain the programs. Maximizing your grant success while balancing your other responsibilities is essential to the success of your nonprofit. During this webinar, GrantStation President Alice Ruhnke will share practical strategies to generate additional funding requests for nonprofit organizations with limited staff. You’ll learn how to: streamline the proposal writing process to maximize your efficiency and effectiveness; use the talents and strengths of your stakeholders to support your efforts; increase efficiencies through artificial intelligence tools and time-saving techniques; and form strategic partnerships to bolster your grantseeking endeavors, leveraging external resources and expertise. You’ll leave ready to unlock new funding possibilities for your nonprofit and transform the way you approach grantseeking.
Personal Librarians: Building Relationships Across Campus (Niche Academy)
Asking for help at university libraries can be intimidating for many students; this presentation will highlight the uniquely supportive role of Personal Librarians to address this and provide undergraduates with welcoming points of connection. Princeton's Personal Librarian Program launched in 2017 after a similar program at Yale inspired library staff to bring this outreach model to their campus. Building on Yale’s model, librarians at Princeton found original ways to tailor the program to respond to the needs of their students and library colleagues. Join Audrey Welber as she talks through the details of implementation, discusses pitfalls encountered along the way, and shared strategies that led to enthusiastic program participation by Princeton’s undergraduates. Audrey will also share recent refinements and expansions to this initiative, including a subprogram supporting student athletes (at the request of the Academic-Athletic Affairs department), wildly successful "anti-procrastination" events, and a pilot effort focused on the needs of first-generation and low-income students.
Cardholder signup policies: Access in practice (WebJunction)
In 2023, BPL launched a research project to collect and study cardholder signup policies from public libraries across the nation. The project aims to identify the range of policies and procedures which govern cardholder access as well as the rationale used for establishing these policies. Research findings have been summarized in a report made available to the library field beginning spring 2024. Join us for a discussion about the inspiration for this study, how the research was conducted, and key findings and takeaways using data from more than 1,800 public libraries across the United States.
May 23
Introduction to proposal writing (Candid Learning)
Are you new to proposal writing or want a quick refresher? If so, you don't want to miss one of our most popular classes! This class will provide you with an overview of how to write a standard project proposal to a foundation. It will include: The basic elements of a proposal. The "do's" and "don'ts" of writing and submitting a proposal. How to follow up whether the answer is yes or no.
May 28
Share Knowledge, Ideas, Learning, and Library Solutions! (Nebraska Library Commission)
Get together virtually with librarians to Share Knowledge, Ideas, Learning, and Library Solutions! You are welcome to join any or all of the meetings for networking and discussions. Research has shown that networking with fellow librarians is beneficial professional development that improves professional practice, promotes shared leadership, and helps people remain in the profession.
CSL in Session: Bienvenidos: Creating Welcome for Hispanohablantes and Latines at Your Library (Colorado State Library)
In the 2020 Census, over 22% of Coloradans self-identified as Hispanic or Latino. In some of our communities, the population is more than double (and not always where you think!). As state population trends shifts and the demographics of our communities change, libraries look to how we can create welcoming spaces that leverage our existing missions and service models to serve those new community members. “Bienvenidos” offers insights from state and local demographic sources to discover who makes up the community we serve. It also features best practices built from bilingual and self-identified Latine library staff and librarians in our libraries. In the end, participants can use these insights to establish best practices for welcoming visitors to our libraries regardless of linguistic and cultural barriers.
Orientation to the Constitution Annotated (FDLP)
The Constitution of the United States of America: Analysis and Interpretation (Constitution Annotated) provides summaries of U.S. Constitutional provisions and the leading U.S. Supreme Court decisions and historical practices that have interpreted them. This orientation is designed to give a basic overview of the features and navigation of the Constitution Annotated website.
Overcoming the Overhead Myth: Budgeting for an Effective Website, Marketing & Growth (Firespring)
When it comes to running your organization, most nonprofits feel pressured to do as much as possible with as little as possible. Donors still scrutinize nonprofits, wondering what percentage of their gift actually goes toward the “cause.” Today, it’s crucial to invest in your organization so you can continue to operate and support your mission. Join us in this webinar and discover: What is the overhead myth and why does it matter? The impact of underinvestment. How to address concerns with donors. What marketing efforts provide the best ROI to help you move the needle. How to improve the budgeting process at your nonprofit.
May 29
How to Cultivate and Manage Donors Remotely (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
Major gift fundraising strategies changed dramatically after the pandemic. Instead of a 3-hour commitment, traveling to and from an in-person meeting over coffee; you can now qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward your donors in a series of half-hour virtual meetings. In this workshop, you will get an insider's perspective on how to turn a spreadsheet of prospects into real philanthropic revenue.
Creating an Inclusive Workplace (Blackbaud)
Workplace diversity is steadily increasing as organizations strive to hire people from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. But simply hiring a diverse team isn't enough; leaders need to ensure that they are building inclusive environments for their teams as well. Our knowledgeable sector experts, who have built workplace trainings used at over 1,200+ purpose-oriented companies, will reveal actionable insights into how you can foster a culture of inclusivity at your organization.
The NIH Data Management and Sharing Policy for non-data librarians (NNLM)
The NIH Data Management and Sharing (DMS) Policy went into effect early last year. That means that the policy that so many medical data librarians have been talking about is finally in place and affecting researchers. Any organization that receives research grant funds from the National Institutes of Health will need to add a new “Data Management and Sharing Plan” to grant proposals, and then follow that plan. Libraries are being mentioned by many organizations as the place to find expertise and support for this new data policy. Libraries do not need a data expert or an institutional repository to get started with supporting NIH grants with this new policy. Reference interviewing skills and a basic knowledge of the NIH DMS Plan format can be combined to walk researchers through the basics. In this session, librarians who are new to the NIH DMS Policy will learn the essentials: what is the NIH DMS policy, who is affected, and how do researchers incorporate it into an NIH grant application. Participants will learn the six sections of a DMS Plan, with tips for the reference interview and advice on what is still being developed at the NIH. Participants will also learn about the essential role of data repositories in the new Policy. This will lead to practicing how to search the NLM’s “NIH-Supported Data Sharing Resources” list of select key data repositories, in order to be ready to advise researchers how to address the issue of where to preserve and share their data. If you have heard of the new NIH Data Management and Sharing Policy but are unsure what it is, yet still may want to inform researchers how to apply it, then this session is for you! Move from “we don’t do that” to “I can help with the basics” if you are asked about library support for NIH-funded researchers.
How to Get Your Board to Fundraise (Productive Fundraising)
Join fundraising master trainer, Chad Barger, CFRE, ACNP for a workshop focused on equipping and motivating your board members to be great fundraisers. You’ll learn how to help them get over their fear of fundraising and develop the fundraising habit. Accountability and follow through will also be discussed. The session includes tools and samples that you can use to start building a fundraising culture within your board.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) App Series: Text-based AAC Apps (PACER)
This workshop will explore a sampling of text-based augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) apps for Apple and Android devices to help individuals with communication needs and strong literacy skills communicate more efficiently.