Shelving with Dewey: Self-paced course updated
Invite new staff or volunteers to become a top-notch Dewey shelver. In the recently updated course, Shelving with Dewey, learners new to the Dewey Decimal Classification system learn the fundamentals of subject-based classification, how to read call numbers and, most importantly, how to accurately shelve books based on those call numbers. Few tasks in the library are more vital for shelf maintenance and patron access.
Not only is this course an opportunity to learn more about the Dewey classification system, it’s also designed to provide online training that will help new staff members and volunteers become productive as quickly as... Read more
WebJunction wrap-up: 2024 highlights and top picks
We’re celebrating another year of learning, collaboration, and innovation with public library staff at the heart of everything we do. Throughout the year, we focused on our mission to provide free and practical professional development, foster vibrant peer learning, and support libraries in addressing today’s challenges. Whether you’re exploring our new offerings or revisiting community favorites, we hope these resources energize and inspire your work in 2025.
Friends of the Library: Tools and resources
A Friends of the Library group can provide great assistance to libraries—often in the form of fundraising, advocacy, or reaching underserved groups. These resources can help you as you think about starting a Friends group, revitalizing one, or boosting their effectiveness.
A go-to spot for resources and training to support Friends groups is ALA’s United for Libraries. Several state libraries and associations have training videos and resources available online. While much of this content is generalizable, specific state regulations and resources should be consulted.
Leading with compassion at the Charles County Public Library
At the Charles County Public Library (CCPL) in Maryland, staff started looking at the opioid crisis through a lens of understanding and empathy to serve their community. Karen Wilson, the Peer Outreach Coordinator at CCPL, shared that learning about opioid use disorder, its history, and current trends opened her eyes to the pains of addiction, and a hurting community. This exploration expanded her horizons and added passion and drive to the development of her library’s opioid response.
As one of the beta testers for WebJunction’s Opioid Crisis Support Kit for Public Libraries, Wilson shared the following when asked what she... Read more
Free January webinars for library staff
There's no time like the new year for learning! Whether you've got a list of resolutions, or tackling a new project, you're sure to benefit by attending some of the webinars on this month's list. Or perhaps there are topics you'd like your trustees or volunteers to explore. Be sure to share these free learning opportunities with your staff and friends, and encourage them to take on some new skills and understanding in 2025. The list, provided by the Maine State Library, includes over 40 webinars and an online conference, covering 14 different topic areas.
View and subscribe to the... Read more
WebJunction highlights
Transforming School Library Practice
Navigating Civil Legal Issues of Natural Disasters (course series)
Researching low morale in libraries
Public Health Crisis Management Playbook
Digital Collections Stewardship (course series)
Weed 'em and reap: Getting your collection from awful to awesome (webinar)
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Upcoming webinars
30 January 2025
Building community connections by hiring for cultural knowledge
Learn how the Cultural Liaison Library Assistant program builds community connections by hiring for cultural knowledge and creating a team that reflects a diverse library community.
06 February 2025
Empowering teens: Enhancing information literacy through games and interactive programming
Learn fun ways to help teens boost information literacy, featuring escape room games and social media tools, developed with public libraries.
26 February 2025
Turn strategy into action with Theory of Change
Learn how to use Theory of Change to align your library's vision, drive strategy, and support flexible, collaborative implementation.
04 March 2025
Embracing neurodiversity: Cultivating an inclusive workplace for neurodivergent staff
Learn about neurodiversity and discover strategies for fostering an inclusive workplace that embraces the strengths of neurodivergent staff.