2018 MLA Annual Conference: Full Schedule

9:10am CDT

Science Fiction is a Setting! (& Fantasy is too)

Start thinking about genre and reader's advisory in a new way with Science Fiction is a Setting! (& Fantasy is Too). We'll be getting past the magical elephant in the room to look at the elements that make a sci-fi/fantasy story appealing to a wide variety of readers.

Speakers

Allison Girres

Emily Kittelson

Librarian I - Cataloger, Rochester Public Library

I am a Cataloging Librarian who almost exclusively reads Science Fiction and Fantasy books.

SciFiFanSettingBookList pdf

SciFiSettingSlides pdf

Thursday October 11, 2018 9:10am - 10:00am CDT
Coborn

Challenge

10:30am CDT

Programming Outside the Lines

Attracting younger adults to visit the library requires pushing beyond the boundaries of typical library programming. From Nerf in the library to campfires in the park, we'll tell the story of how we built an exciting year round calendar of adult programming. By exploring new ideas and adding non-traditional programs to our schedule we've gone from 40 programs in 2011 to over 110 programs in 2017. Why should adults have all the fun? Many of our programs can be tailored to audiences of all ages. We'll share what worked, what didn't, and give you the tools to steal our ideas and color outside the lines.

Speakers

Amy Muchmore

Adult Services Librarian, Carnegie-Stout Public Library

Amy Muchmore earned her MLIS degree at the University of Denver and is an Adult Services Librarian at Carnegie-Stout Public Library in Dubuque, Iowa. Her daily tasks include Reference and Readers' Advisory Service, adult programming, collection development, and just a dash of marketing... Read More →

Sarah Smith

Adult Services Librarian, Carnegie - Stout Public Library

Sarah Smith is an adult services librarian at Carnegie-Stout Public Library in Dubuque, Iowa where her duties include Reference, Readers Advisory, and collection development for the adult comics and manga collections. She and her colleagues have created library programs for Doctor... Read More →

Programming Outside the Lines Handout docx

Programming Outside the Lines Slides pdf

Thursday October 11, 2018 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Weidner

Challenge

10:30am CDT

Understanding Our Past, Reframing Our Present: the History of Racism in Minnesota Libraries

Segregation was prevalent in Southern libraries, with separate and unequal facilities for white and black patrons, which continued until the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s. Less institutionalized but equally insidious prejudice existed in libraries in northern states, including Minnesota. The presenters will discuss their research into the racism that has been present throughout the history of libraries in the United States and Minnesota, challenging the concept of libraries as entirely neutral and benign organizations. Attendees will better understand the ways that past actions have forged our present and will be better placed to consider the implications of that history as we examine ways to move forward to collaboratively shape libraries into institutions that work towards justice and liberation.

Speakers

Heidi Anderson-Ferdinand

Violet Fox

Metadata & Cataloging Librarian, Northwestern University

Violet Fox is a cataloging & metadata librarian whose research interests include the intricacies of zine cataloging and the ethics of classification.

Emilie Hanson

Melissa Prescott

Reference & Instruction Librarian, St. Cloud State University

2018 10 11 UnderstandingOurPast MLA2018 pptx

Thursday October 11, 2018 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Bell/Alexander

Challenge

2:15pm CDT

Starting, Supporting and Sustaining a Homeless Advisory Group

In September 2017, staff at Hennepin County Library - Minneapolis Central formed the Advisory Group on Homelessness. The group, comprised of Minneapolis Central Library patrons who are currently or have recently been homeless, meets twice monthly to inform the Library on how to better meet the unique needs of these patrons. The group has been involved in transforming services at the library, including building a collection of resources; creating channels for communication between patrons, administration and security; and even increasing access to the Library on Sunday mornings. In this session, attendees will learn about the history of the group, its successes, its challenges and steps that they can take to support their own community of patrons experiencing homelessness.

Speakers

Kate Coleman

Chris Ruiz

Dillon Young

Thursday October 11, 2018 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Weidner

Challenge, Transform

2:15pm CDT

Thinking Critically about Library Management

Why are libraries managed the way they are? This session will introduce principles from "Critical Management Studies" in order to take a metaphorical step back and reexamine the "taken-for-granteds" in library management and workplaces. What historical and social trends influenced our current ways of operating? How does the language we use affect the way we work? For library managers, critical interrogation of workplace norms and practices can help move the needle on complex problems. Library workers are also included and welcomed more fully as partners in strategy and planning. After introducing participants to theories for thinking critically about our workplaces, I will share several activities through which all library staff can engage with these ideas, such as Critical Action Learning, Critical Reflective Practice, and Learning Communities. Participants will have time to practice one of these techniques in small groups, tackling representative library cases or real-life examples from their own libraries.

Speakers

Danya Leebaw

Director, Social Sciences Department, University of Minnesota Libraries

Danya Leebaw is the Social Sciences Director at the University of Minnesota Libraries. She spent ten years as a social sciences librarian at Carleton College, and prior to that was a business librarian at Emory University. Danya earned her MLIS from the University of Pittsburgh. Prior... Read More →

Thursday October 11, 2018 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Schilpin

Challenge

2:15pm CDT

Under the Radar: The Other Youth Book Awards Worth Watching

The Newbery, Caldecott, and Printz are long-standing youth book awards followed closely by youth literature enthusiasts. But what about the "other" awards that warrant attention: the Walter, AILA, Jane Addams, Morris, APALA, and others? Presenters will discuss lesser-known awards that recognize and promote diversity, social justice, and new voices in youth publishing. They will also share advice for those interested in serving on media award committees. Participants will be encouraged to share their favorite "under the radar" awards and best books lists for children and teens.

Speakers

Heidi Hammond

Associate Professor, St. Catherine University MLIS Program

After serving as a school librarian for 23 years, Heidi Hammond now coordinates the school library media specialist portion of the MLIS Program at St. Catherine University. She has served on several book award committees: the Randolph Caldecott Award for ALSC, the Margaret A. Edwards... Read More →

Gail Nordstrom

Public Library Consultant, Viking Library System

Gail Nordstrom is the Public Library Consultant for Viking Library System, based in Fergus Falls. She is passionate about great books for children and teens and has served on the Newbery, Caldecott, and Sibert Award Committees, administered by the Association for Library Service to... Read More →

Heather Palmer

Media Specialist, Edina Public Schools

I am a Media Specialist and former Chair of the Jane Addams Children's Book Award Committee. I am passionate about service-learning, peace education and technology.

Under the Radar Image png

Thursday October 11, 2018 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Fandel/Marsch

Challenge

3:35pm CDT

Journey to the National Medal

Two Minnesota libraries will share how they changed internally over the last several years to take risks and develop solutions to community problems and in turn, became winners of the National Medal from the Institute for Museum and Library Service (IMLS). Using both an academic library lens and a public library lens, the directors of each organization will share their best practices, successes, and even stumbling blocks that helped shape their organizations. Learn how they captured the impact they made to develop award-winning applications for the National Medal designation.

Speakers

Audrey Betcher

Director, Rochester Public Library

Wendy Pradt Lougee

University Librarian and Dean of Libraries and McKnight Presidential Professor, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Wendy Pradt Lougee is University Librarian and Dean of Libraries, and McKnight Presidential Professor at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. The University Libraries has been recognized with the 2017 National Medal for Museums and Libraries (IMLS) and the 2009 Excellence in Academic... Read More →

Lougee MLA 2018 pdf

MN Library Association conference National Medal pdf

Thursday October 11, 2018 3:35pm - 4:25pm CDT
Metzroth/Helgenson

Challenge, Transform

8:00am CDT

I Did It!!: The Tip-Meister Dishes on Effective Processes to Get to the Finish

Do you constantly feel behind on tasks, projects, initiatives, planning and, let's face it, ALL.THE.THINGS? Join a reformed procrastinator who listened to her mentors, got smarter and learned a ton, thus putting her on the zen path of accomplishment. We'll explore the concepts of task and project management, wise decision-making, creating buy-in with stakeholders, people-wrangling and task-conquering. All the secrets will be revealed and, with your input, more will be discovered. Leave the session feeling powerful in leaping obstacles and walls with a new-found power in finishing your to-do's and avoiding to-don'ts!

Speakers

Marge Loch-Wouters

Youth Services Consultant, Loch-Works Consulting

Recently retired after a 40-year career as a full-time public library youth services librarian/manager and 10 year career as an adjunct lecturer at University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate iSchool and Continuing Education Department , I currently work very part-time as a youth library... Read More →

I Did It!! pptx

Friday October 12, 2018 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Swisshelm

Challenge, Transform

8:00am CDT

Out-of-the-Box Book Clubs

Book clubs for children and teens can be tricky! The traditional all-read-the-same-book-and-discuss model doesn't always fly. During this session, you will hear from librarians from around the state who conduct nontraditional book clubs"”read aloud, theme-based, read together and more. They'll share what makes their programs successful as well as other hits and misses in the book club business. Plus, come with your own experiences and ideas to share during the "open mic" time!

Speakers

Deni Buendorf

Andrea Hermanson

Children’s Librarian, Ramsey County Library

Arielle Krohn

Amy Oelkers

Librarian, Anoka County Library

Amy Oelkers is the Teen Librarian at the Oakdale Library in Washington County. Her experience in planning programming for libraries, bookstores, and book festivals feeds her passion for working with kids and teens. She’s an audiophile currently serving on YALSA’s Amazing Audiobooks... Read More →

Mary Wetterlin

Out of the Box Book Club Presentation MLA 2018 pdf

Friday October 12, 2018 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Metzroth/Helgenson

Challenge

9:15am CDT

The role of libraries in Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences: Building Self Healing Communities

This presentation, based on the "Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences: Building Self Healing Communities" Curriculum Framework, is intended to create awareness and understanding about Adverse Childhood Experience (ACEs) and demonstrate how communities, specifically libraries, can help people build resiliency to Adverse Childhood Experiences as well as help reduce the number of ACEs children experience going forward. Libraries play a key role in helping to build resiliency through connections to others, the community, and resources. Libraries can also serve an essential role in facilitating the dissemination accurate information helping to build informed communities and supportive networks. Reworking the narrative can help reframe questions to be productive and not offending. Learn about local resources and organic partnerships that libraries can partner with to help build communities that foster resiliency.

Speakers

Gail Hedstrom

Library Director, Thorson Memorial Library

Gail Hedstrom: Director of Thorson Memorial Public Library in Elbow Lake, MN since 1995. I am a member of the Grant County Family Services Collaborator, and trained Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) presenter. My background is in communication and I have a strong interest in... Read More →

Deb Hengel

Administrator, Grant County Child & Youth Council & ECI

I am the Administrator for the Grant County Child & Youth Council and ECI. I have worked for this Family Services Collaborative and Early Childhood Initiative for over 25 years. These are inter-agency, multi-disciplinary groups that meet on a regular basis to promote collaboration... Read More →

MCCC Informational Flyer pdf

21 RWJ ACEs infographic pdf

20 CDC ACE Infographic pdf

22 PCAA prevention infographic pdf

Friday October 12, 2018 9:15am - 10:05am CDT
Bell/Alexander

Challenge, Collaborate

9:15am CDT

Use Your Words: Tips on Being an Articulate Advocate in Your Work and Community

Have you ever said, "She/he/they just don't get what I do!"? or wondered why peers or members of the public disregard you or are not understanding your plans, services or initiatives? Our ability to express ourselves about our work can have a positive effect in preventing common misunderstandings "“ and frustrations. The power to use words well helps you become a strong and articulate advocate. We'll explore some easy strategies to become more effective advocates not only within our work environment but also in our professional communities of practice and with our public in the communities we serve. By creating a stronger network of advocacy and understanding, we can more easily accomplish the important work we do in our libraries. Hands-on practice included!

Speakers

Marge Loch-Wouters

Youth Services Consultant, Loch-Works Consulting

Use Your Words Tips on Advocacy pptx

Friday October 12, 2018 9:15am - 10:05am CDT
Mitchell

Challenge, Transform

10:30am CDT

Libraries in Laundromats: Making Information and Services Accessible for Low-Income Families

What does the library do and why visit? What do computers do and why should I learn how to use them? While library programs are widely available, enrolling low-income individuals in these opportunities can be tricky. Some individuals lack exposure to library services while others believe these programs are inconvenient, too demanding, or irrelevant to their everyday concerns, e.g. paying rent, feeding a family. State Library Services (MN Department of Education) and Libraries Without Borders partnered to explore new ways to meet low-income families where they are and bring them the information and services they seek. We initiated Wash & Learn Minnesota to provide tailored educational programming inside laundromats while customers waited for their clothes to wash and dry. In this session, we will discuss strategies for outreach and share best practices on forming public-private partnerships (laundromat-library), curating content for informal spaces, integrating technology into outreach, and tracking impact.

Speakers

Adam Echelman

Benton Fellow and Consultant, Benton Institute for Broadband and Society

The former Executive Director of Libraries Without Borders US, Adam is a researcher, writer, and consultant on issues of digital equity. He is currently a fellow with the Benton Institute for Broadband and Society, where he covers untold stories of adults who struggle with issues... Read More →

Jen Nelson

State Librarian, Minnesota Department of Education

State Librarian

MLA Wash & Learn Presentation 9.25.18 (3) pptx

Friday October 12, 2018 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Mitchell

Challenge, Collaborate

10:30am CDT

Smash that Wall! A dialogue with two disabled library workers

Join two disabled library workers in a discussion of how to make libraries accessible for both professionals and patrons. Learn how disability accommodations for workers can affect your library, how to reduce stigma in the workplace, and how universal access can make your library a more welcoming place to disabled people on both sides of the service desk. Possibilities for several mental and physical disabilities will be covered, including autism, mental illness, use of mobility devices, and assistive technology. Join us for a lively discussion and learn how you can take the lead to combat ableism and smash that wall! Sponsored/presented by DORT.

Speakers

Daniel Ostroot

Katherine Whitney

Tech Services Aide, Great River Regional Library (St. Cloud)

Friday October 12, 2018 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Fandel/Marsch

Challenge, Collaborate

10:30am CDT

What’s New in State Library Services?

State Library Services is always looking for ways to better serve libraries in Minnesota. Join us for a conversation about some of our recent and upcoming initiatives and let us know what your needs are.

Speakers

Jen Nelson

State Librarian, Minnesota Department of Education

State Librarian

Friday October 12, 2018 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Swisshelm

Challenge, Create & Play

2:15pm CDT

Data Driven Storytelling (Part 1 of 2)

Practical applications for using data to tell your library's unique story abound: describing community need, demonstrating impact, tracking results, and harnessing learning-driven evaluation for program improvement and subsequent course corrections. In addition, today's funders increasingly require a data-driven case for support that demonstrates programmatic impact and proves that your library's interventions lead to lasting change. This workshop will introduce data and evaluation methodologies that can be used to manage program activities and highlight the link between your programs and their success. The Rochester Public Library will present a whole-program based logic model for business planning and evaluation and show how it is being used to drive bottom line success for their organization.

Speakers

Audrey Betcher

Director, Rochester Public Library

Nicole MartinRogers

senior research manager, Wilder

Nicole has been with Wilder Research since 2001. She provides research and evaluation services to a wide range of programs and organizations. She designs and consults on program evaluations and population-based survey research projects, specializing in culturally-based methods as... Read More →

Data Driven Storytelling pdf

Friday October 12, 2018 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Whitney

Challenge, Transform

2:15pm CDT

Stop Sex-Trafficking

Come and respond to the ever-growing issue of sex-trafficking and sexual exploitation. Learn how to be a circle of protection and be empowered with the tools to respond wherever you are whether as librarians or every day citizens. Presentation will cover: a local and global scope of trafficking, the profile of a victim, signs of trafficking, common lures, internet and social media connection, cultural and grooming influences, intervention introduction, prevention methods and ways to join the fight. A resource guide will be made available for further research purposes and a visual reminder of presentation tips. Be a safe space for the youth around you and stop sex-trafficking!

Speakers

Emily Shore

Anti-trafficking Author/Speaker, Women At Risk, Int/Clean Teen Publishing

Emily Shore is a mother of two girls, a Women At Risk, International Prevention speaker, and MN author partnered with Clean Teen Publishing for her up and coming anti-trafficking dystopia, The Aviary. She has a B.A. in Creative Writing from Metro State University and has worked alongside... Read More →

Handouts docx

Friday October 12, 2018 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
First American/Thielman

Challenge, enge

2:15pm CDT

Together in the Wilderness: A Teen Services Sharing Session

Working with teens in the library can be messy, uncomfortable, or unpredictable. Lean into the mess! In this session, we'll advocate for a wholehearted approach to teen services, based on courage, compassion, and vulnerability. Come together with your fellow teen librarians to get peer help with the challenges you face, and share your own successes and strategies in this facilitated discussion. Leave with some new professional connections, a new approach to teen services, and concrete ideas to take back to your library.

Speakers

Julia Carlis

MLA President Elect, Dakota County Library

As Branch Manager for Dakota County Library at Pleasant Hill in Hastings, Julia works with her team, the library system, and partner organizations to provide responsive and engaging services, programs, and experiences to everyone in the community. Previously, she was Youth Programming... Read More →