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Preconference Workshops | Wednesday, September 17

Preconference workshops are priced separately from general conference registration, and are available for in-person conference attendees only:

Additional preconference workshops are still being finalized! Check back soon for new additions.

Attendees who are already registered for the conference and need to add-on preconference workshops can do so with this form.

Preconference ONLY Registration

For attendees who still need to be registered for the conference, you may include preconference registrations with conference registration using the general conference registration form.

All Day Workshop | 8:30 AM-12:30 PM & 2:00-5:00 PM

Libraries 101

Are you new to your position in libraries or library leadership and find yourself overwhelmed and without a clear guidebook for how to do the job? Join us for a crash course in the fundamentals of leading and running a small and rural library taught by experts in the field. In this all-day workshop, you’ll get practical training in HR, policies, budgeting, advocacy, and more. This Preconference Workshop was envisioned by the ARSL Board of Directors. Stay tuned for more detailed information on the curriculum and a list of presenters.

Morning Workshops | 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Building Bridges: Constructive Dialogue in Small Library Communities

In today's landscape, navigating difficult conversations is crucial, especially given the unique realities of rural and small libraries. In this workshop, participants will learn essential skills for planning and facilitating constructive dialogues on potentially polarizing topics. Through practical exercises and comprehensive materials, participants will learn to structure productive conversations, frame topics, and facilitate dialogue. They will practice developing conversation questions and group agreements, as well as addressing issues that may arise in the moment. Participants will leave the session with the skills and resources necessary to effectively organize and facilitate various gatherings such as board and public meetings, programs, and events. They will also gain strategies for managing controversial, contentious, or challenging conversations.

Courtney Breese, Director Emeritus, National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation

Keiva Hummel, Executive Director, National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation

Tyler Hahn, Director, Cherokee Public Library

Samantha Oakley and/or Kaileen McGourty from the ALA Public Programs Office

Data Storytelling: Using Data to Share Your Library's Story

Do you find yourself wishing you had a better grasp of data and reporting? You are already collecting a lot of data. But, how do you use it to drive change for your library? Whether it's publicity, applying for grants or justifying a budget increase, this program will help you bring your data to life! Data storytelling is the art of blending data, visualizations, and a narrative into a document for change. This interactive session will blend practical, easy-to-implement tips and tricks with hands-on planning and practice. We’ll walk through the seven steps to effective data storytelling using real examples from your libraries. You will come away with resources to put your data to work.

Sara Richter, Library Technician II, Lonsdale Public Library

Afternoon Workshops | 2:00-5:00 PM

Ditch Strategic Plans, Create Useful Strategies

Is the thought of creating a strategic plan overwhelming because the process is time-consuming, expensive, and pulls you away from your daily work? Or is your last strategic plan rotting in a drawer because things changed and the plan no longer applies? Learn to strategize instead. In just a few hours, with the right framework, you can draft and implement a strategy for any aspect of your library. You’ll learn why traditional strategic planning fails in our current environment, what components are needed for a successful strategy, and how to implement and iterate so your strategy stays useful for years. You’ll practice drafting a strategy for your library or department, examining your own assumptions and biases to strategize successfully, and using futurist thinking to imagine and plan for multiple outcomes. Leave with the knowledge and materials needed to immediately create useful strategies for your library.

Amie Pilla, Library CEO, Berthoud Community Library District

Health Reference Express

Attendees of this session will learn how to ethically and confidently respond to health-related questions in the library setting. Through three engaging lessons and interactive activities, participants will explore ethical guidelines from library associations, learn five essential steps of a health reference interview, and gain practical tips for protecting patrons’ health privacy and confidentiality. They will also build foundational knowledge to respond to common health topics such as drugs, cancer, and diabetes. Participants will leave with take-home tools and strategies they can immediately apply, ensuring they feel prepared to support their communities with accurate and ethical health information.

Jamia Williams, Assistant Librarian, NNLM Training Office

Jessi Van Der Volgen, Assistant Director, NNLM Training Office

Meet Me at the Library: Building Trust & Fostering Connection

What role might our libraries play in shaping a more inclusive, resilient, and engaged community? Join us for a dynamic workshop, tailored to inspire and empower librarians who are passionate about strengthening their communities. Instructors will lead attendees through innovative strategies, compelling case studies, hands-on activities, and actionable tools,this workshop will explore how to build trust and balance with staff and community, enhance civic engagement, foster inclusivity, and design spaces that reflect your community’s unique needs. Dive into meaningful conversations about how libraries can lead the way in shaping the future of democracy and community connection—because the work you do is vital to building a thriving, equitable society. This workshop is an opportunity to connect with peers, gain fresh insights, and leave inspired to amplify the impact of your work. Come ready to share, learn, and envision bold new possibilities for your library and your community. Let’s reimagine what libraries can achieve—together.

Shamichael Hallman, Director of Civic Engagement and Economic Opportunity, Urban Library Council
Jennie Garner, Library Director, North Liberty Library