2024 Iowa Library Association Fall Conference: Full Schedule

10:00am CDT

Intersections: Where Cities and Their Libraries Meet

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:00am - 10:00am CDT

Intersections looks at 3 major areas where city governments and city libraries must meet in the middle of policy and practice when dealing with library buildings, budgets, and personnel.
The presenters will begin with a discussion of the library’s physical facility: library buildings are city property, covered under the city’s contents and liability insurance. Why then are so many library boards told that they are responsible for building maintenance and even capital improvements? The presenters will also touch on service hours and keys to the library.
(a) Through lecture and small group discussion, library staff and trustees will understand the need for compromise when representing the city library as a department within city government (b) Participants will be able to identify at least 3 areas of Iowa law that authorize cities to intervene in matters of library policy and practice (c) Participants will share their own experiences in maneuvering through these “intersections” in their own city-library environment

Speakers

Nancy Medema

Library Program Director (Retired), State Library of Iowa

Nancy Medema has a long history of working in Iowa libraries and is currently the Program Director for the Library Support Network at the State Library. She has played on trivia teams for over a decade and has organized the trivia events at the Leadership Institute and at ILA.

Bonnie McKewon

NW-District Consultant, State Library of Iowa

Bonnie McKewon is a consultant with the State Library of Iowa. She presents workshops and webinars on a wide variety of topics, from succession planning to policy development to inspiring tech savvy trustees. With an affinity for library board training, Bonnie has conducted board... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:00am - 10:00am CDT
Salon E

Preconferences

10:00am CDT

Going on a Treasure Hunt: Finding Free but Hidden Historical and Archival Gold

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:00am - 12:30pm CDT

Salon AB

Few libraries offer the wealth of historical information offered by Iowa’s largest university libraries - yet very few Iowa citizens will travel to these often distant and imposing campuses. Fortunately, there are many, many freely available online historical primary sources that could be used locally by Iowa residents and the librarians who serve them - IF - they can find them. Jaycie and Chris have plenty of ideas and plenty of experience on where to look and how to look, and they are eager to share.

Participating librarians will gain a deeper understanding of evolving digital archives and the treasures they offer. Participating librarians will learn why so many free resources are “hidden” from researchers using Google. Participating librarians will learn how to use specialized Google search strategies to help locate relevant digital archives. Participating librarians will be able to identify and search digital archives that offer freely available historical newspapers, magazines, and other sources. Participating librarians will learn strategies and skills for searching and browsing archival finding aids and sources.

Speakers

Jaycie Vos

Special Collections Coordinator and University Archivist, University of Northern Iowa

Jaycie Vos is the Special Collections Coordinator and University Archivist and associate professor at the University of Northern Iowa. There, she aims to document, preserve, and share university and regional history and other special and unique materials with the campus and broader... Read More →

Chris Neuhaus

Head of Learning and Outreach Unit, University of Norther Iowa

Chris Neuhaus, Head of the Learning and Outreach Unit at UNI, has served as the Rod Library instruction coordinator for seventeen years. Recent instructional highlights include the creation of the course Beyond Google, the ongoing partnership with the UNI Cornerstone Program... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:00am - 12:30pm CDT
Salon AB

Preconferences

10:00am CDT

Book Repair Using the Cover One Book Repair System

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:00am - 2:45pm CDT

Salon D

We will learn all about book repair using Cover One, a thermal machine. By the end of class the participants will successfully bind and repair books using our thermal machine and bind participants’ writing projects into books that can be taken home.
*Participants should bring 2-4 books from their collection in need of repair. We will repair as many as time permits*

Speakers

Pat Williams

Wednesday October 9, 2024 10:00am - 2:45pm CDT
Salon D

Preconferences

12:00pm CDT

ILA Board Meeting

Wednesday October 9, 2024 12:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

Salon C

Wednesday October 9, 2024 12:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Salon C

3:00pm CDT

Grand Opening of Exhibit Hall

Wednesday October 9, 2024 3:00pm - 6:00pm CDT

Exhibit Hall

Wednesday October 9, 2024 3:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Exhibit Hall

7:00pm CDT

Conference Reception

Wednesday October 9, 2024 7:00pm - 9:00pm CDT

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Thank you to the Polk County Library Association for their generous sponsorship of this event!

Wednesday October 9, 2024 7:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden 909 Robert D. Ray Dr., Des Moines, IA 50309

7:00am CDT

Breakfast

Thursday October 10, 2024 7:00am - 8:20am CDT

Exhibit Hall

Sponsors

Biblionics

Thursday October 10, 2024 7:00am - 8:20am CDT
Exhibit Hall

8:30am CDT

Opening and Legislative Panel Discussion

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:55am CDT

Exhibit Hall

Delve into critical issues impacting libraries, community services, and support for communities. This is your chance to hear directly from the policymakers shaping our future and gain invaluable insights that will empower and inspire you. Don’t miss this pivotal conversation!

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:55am CDT
Exhibit Hall

General Session/Keynote

10:00am CDT

Exhibit Hall Break and Lightning Talks

Thursday October 10, 2024 10:00am - 10:55am CDT

Exhibit Hall

LIghtning talks:
Piecing together a Puzzle Exchange by Becca Draus and Jackie Tracey
Puzzling Fundraisers by Megan Harding
Cultivating a Community of Creative Writers by Jennifer Burek Pierce and Micah Bateman
Lure Reluctant Authors to Your Library by Ben Wolf

Speakers

Becca Draus

Children and Family Services Library Assistant, Marion Public Library

Becca Draus is a Children and Family Services Librarian at the Marion Public Library in Marion, Iowa. Before working at the library,Becca was an elementary school teacher for four years, before moving to Glasgow, Scotland to get her Masters of Information andLibrary Science at the... Read More →

Jackie Tracey

Marion Public Library

Jackie Tracey has worked at the Marion Public Library in Marion, Iowa since 2016. During her time at MPL, she has had the opportunity to do a little of everything, but currently she does Children and Family Service Programming, along with some Adult Programming. When not working... Read More →

Megan Harding

Director, Griswold Public Library

Megan Has worked at her hometown library for just over two years. After deciding it was time to move back to the Midwest in 2022, the director of the public library position became available. This was an exciting opportunity to move closer to family and take a job Megan had dreamed... Read More →

Jennifer B Pierce

University of Iowa

Micah Bateman

University of Iowa

Ben Wolf

Co-founder; Author, The Independent Literacy Foundation

Ben Wolf is an award-winning author of fantasy, sci-fi, horror, children's books, and more. When not writing, he plays video games and chokes his friends in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He is also the co-founder of the Independent Literacy Foundation, a nonprofit whose mission is to promote... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 10:00am - 10:55am CDT
Exhibit Hall

11:00am CDT

A Fireside Chat with Julie Finch

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Salon D

Settle in for a fireside chat featuring ILA President Julie Finch to hear about continuous efforts to promote community resilience that is led by libraries in an effort to create a sustainable environment for future generations.

Speakers

Alex Blend

Sustainability Coordinator, Sustainable Libraries Initiative

Alex Blend is the Sustainability Coordinator for the Sustainable Libraries Initiative and the Suffolk Cooperative Library System. Alex has been fortunate enough to be tasked to lead and develop the Sustainable Libraries Initiative (SLI) program. He is a motivated and dedicated professional... Read More →

Julie Finch

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Salon D

Concurrent Session 1

11:00am CDT

All Together Now: Scalable Programming for All Ages & Schedules

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Salon E

Learn how adult and youth services staff can work together to create scalable and engaging
intergenerational programming based on the feedback and schedules of library patrons.

Predicted learning outcomes:
➢ How to use patron feedback to design programs patrons actually want to participate in.
➢ How to capitalize on program ideas for multiple audiences.
➢ How to build program attendance and boost community connection through consistency and
continuity.

Speakers

Becky Maher-Jacobsen

Carnegie-Stout Public Library

Becky Maher-Jacobson (she/her) works in the Adult Services department with an emphasis onReaders’ Advisory at Carnegie-Stout Public Library in Dubuque, Iowa. She holds her Master’s inLibrary and Information Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and is a member ofthe... Read More →

Bailey Keimig-Gehrke

Carnegie-Stout Public Library

Bailey Keimig-Gehrke (she/her) is part of the youth services team at Carnegie-Stout PublicLibrary in Dubuque, Iowa where she enjoys leading toddler and baby storytimes, writing bookreviews for the local newspaper, and finding new ways to accidentally get paint on the library’scarpets... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Salon E

Concurrent Session 1

11:00am CDT

Become Interwoven By Doing What You Do Best

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Salon GH

Identify your library strengths, both inside and outside the library box, and use them to build strong partnerships and open doors to new ones!

Speakers

Matt Proctor

Director of Public Works, City of DeWitt

Matt was born to teacher parents in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. He is the oldest and only adopted of three kids. He joined the Iowa Army National Guard in high school for the experience, and so he could attend college. Matt graduated with a Construction Engineering degree from Iowa State... Read More →

Janette McMahon

Director, DeWitt Community Library

Janette has been a director in Iowa and Wyoming libraries for 30 years and is currently the director at the DeWitt Community Library. She is serving currently as the Clinton County Public Library Association and is a member of the Intellectual Freedom Committee. Janette is an avid... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Salon GH

Concurrent Session 1

11:00am CDT

FIRST Lego League Robotics Minicamp

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Salon C

This session will provide instruction and materials to create
a robotics camp based on FIRST LEGO League, targeting kids a a
ages 10-14, with the overall goal of spreading robotics and
STEM education across Iowa.
Attendees will end the session with enough information and
resources to be able to host robotics classes at their library.

Speakers

Abigail Good

Johnson Robotics Association

I am a high school senior at Johnston High school. This year will be my 6th year on the Disco Duckbots FTC( FIRST Tech Challenge)robotics team. The Disco Duckbots as a whole are entering their 7th year of competitions. Our team consists of 10 members grades 9-12.We strive to make... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Salon C

Concurrent Session 1

11:00am CDT

The Big Move

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Salon AB

We will share practical knowledge and advice when updating your library spaces. Learn tips on planning, preparing, and using your existing budget and staff creativity to move and change 3 different spaces in 3 months merging our Lyons Library Branch with our 1904 Carnegie Library. Clinton Public Library staff designed and moved the Youth Space, Local History & Genealogy, and Friends Bookstore, creating 2+ meeting spaces, joining all of our staff and services into the Main Library.

Speakers

Susan Mesecher

Director, Clinton Public Library

Kendra Evers

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Salon AB

Concurrent Session 1

12:00pm CDT

Lunch, Business Meeting, and Awards Ceremony

Thursday October 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:20pm CDT

Exhibit Hall

Thursday October 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:20pm CDT
Exhibit Hall

1:30pm CDT

Does it Have Spice: How Adult Readers are Changing Young Adult Literature

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Salon D

This session is intended as a discussion of the rise of New Adult Fiction and the impact of its emergence on existing Young Adult and Adult literature and leadership.

Speakers

Emma Stoffer

Reference & Technical Services Librarian, Musser Public Library

Emma Stoffer grew up in Waterloo and now lives in Muscatine, Iowa. Emma works at the Musser Public Library as a Reference and Technical Services Librarian, and has been there since February 2023. Prior to that, they worked in the Evansdale Public Library as an intern and later LIbrary... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon D

Concurrent Session 2

1:30pm CDT

Practical Solutions for Combating Burnout in Library Staff

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Salon C

This presentation explores practical strategies to prevent burnout in libraries by addressing workload management, autonomy, reward systems, community support, fairness, and value alignment based on Christina Maslach's six identified causes of burnout.

Speakers

Bobbi Newman

Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist,, University of Iowa

Bobbi Newman is a librarian, author, consultant, and international speaker. She is the author of Fostering Wellness in the Workplace: A Guide for Libraries, editor of the forthcoming A Manager’s Guide to Creating a Flourishing Workplace: Strategies for Fostering Wellness in ... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon C

Concurrent Session 2

1:30pm CDT

Read to GO! Going Places with Public and School Library Collaboration

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Salon AB

This session will chronicle a highly successful collaboration between Waverly's public and
school libraries and provide nuanced guidance on how to create a successful public/school
library collaboration by detailing the perspectives of both the public librarians and school
librarian involved.
Attendees of this session will feel equipped to make a strong connection with collaborators in
either a public or school library. Further, attendees will be able to learn from the lived
experiences of the librarians who coordinated this collaboration, including dealing with
administrative hurdles and complicated logistics. Attendees will also learn ways to measure
success in collaboration, including what were unintended positive outcomes of this
collaboration.

Speakers

Emily McClimon

Youth Services Librarian, Waverly Public Library

Emily McClimon has been at the Waverly Public Library for 13 years, previously as the TeenLibrarian for 9 years before her current position of Youth Services Librarian. She lovesinnovating on early literacy services and outreach services, and especially where they intersect.

Trevor Krug

Waverly Public Library

Trevor Krug has been at Waverly Public Library for three years, first as a clerk and then in hiscurrent position of Teen Services Librarian since the summer of 2023. He is passionate aboutthe library's unique position as a community hub and loves actively pursuing collaborations withcommunity... Read More →

Lyndsi Luck

Media Specialist, Waverly-Shell Rock Schools

Lyndsi Luck is the 5-12th grade Media Specialists at Waverly Shell Rock School District, a momto 3 daughters, and just celebrated her 19th wedding anniversary. When she isn't helping kidsfall in love with reading, she is spending time with her family, most likely being creative inwhatever... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon AB

Concurrent Session 2

1:30pm CDT

Social Media is a Telephone, Not a Megaphone

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Salon F

Think of social media like a digital branch; open 24/7/365. It can be the basis for the reputation you build in your community — good or bad. This session will share how to build stronger community connections, how to plan for social media, and 4 tips for growing your social media presence.

Speakers

Liz Deets

Founder, Get Back Here Dog

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon F

Concurrent Session 2

1:30pm CDT

STEM? Yes, you can!

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Salon GH

Provide STEM Programming for any size library, no matter how small; and learn about the Governor’s STEM Council/Scale Up Awards
Attendees will identify how to use a full Scale Up kit in partnership with another organization. Attendees will identify how to incorporate pieces of a Scale Up kit for regular library programs. Attendees will understand the purpose and benefits of the Governor’s STEM Council and Scale Up Awards.

Speakers

Sue Petersen

Atlantic Public Library

Dawn Miller

Casey Wenstrand

Southwest Regional STEM Manager, Southwestern Community College

Casey Wenstrand is the Southwest Regional STEM Manager for the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council and located at Southwestern Community College Red Oak Center. Casey earned a Liberal Arts degree from Iowa State University and a Master’s Degree in Education Curriculum and Instruction... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon GH

Concurrent Session 2

1:30pm CDT

You are Not Alone: Leveraging Community Advocates for Children to Unite Against Book Bans

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Salon E

Participants will gain insights into the importance of opposing book bans, learn strategies for advocating against censorship, and explore successful case studies of communities defending intellectual freedom.

Speakers

Kenton Oliver

Tyler Hahn

Director, Cherokee Public Library

Tyler Hahn is the Library Director in Northwestern Iowa. He serves as the Midwest representative for the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL) board and is a member of the Iowa Governor's STEM Council, also being recognized as a "STEM Gem." Tyler was recently named one of... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon E

Concurrent Session 2

2:30pm CDT

Exhibit Hall Break and Lightning Talks

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT

Exhibit Hall

Lightning talks:
A Rebellion in Motion: Tech Connection & Multimedia Creation by Andrew Gehlsen
Connecting & Engaging 1st-Gen Students to the Library by Jenay Dougherty
AI Tools Smörgåsbord by Kate Garretson
Expand Your Indie Offerings by Ben Wolf
Books That Will Change Your Life by Dennis Cooper and Elizabeth Hoover de Galvez

Speakers

Ben Wolf

Co-founder; Author, The Independent Literacy Foundation

Jenay Dougherty

Undergraduate Engagement Librarian, University of Iowa

Kate Garretson

Instruction Librarian, Iowa State University

Kate has over ten years of experience in higher education and holds a master's degreein Information Science & Learning Technologies from the University of Missouri, as wellas a master’s degree in Linguistics from the University of Colorado. As an InstructionLibrarian at Iowa State... Read More →

Andrew Gehlsen

Media Librarian, DeWitt Community Library

Andrew worked at the University of Iowa Main Library as a circulation assistant while attending school. He held a fair amount of service jobs and other positions over years- those of which bored him, thrilled him, humbled his ego and emaciated his spirit. He returned to library work... Read More →

Dennis Cooper

Adult Services Librarian, Des Moines Public Library

Dennis is an adult services librarian at the Des Moines Public Library

Elizabeth Hoover de Galvez

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Exhibit Hall

4:00pm CDT

Private Sector Gems for Public Libraries

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT

Salon F

This session will explore how to use business strategies to secure partnerships that benefit the library and the community it serves. Attendees will learn the three core lessons of successful outreach in libraries, how to use the resources they possess to assist local business owners and budding entrepreneurs, and the benefits of forging connections within the community.

Speakers

Kellee Forkenbrock

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT
Salon F

Concurrent Session 3

4:00pm CDT

Promoting Community Ties Through Library Events and Services

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT

Salon GH

Learn how to develop library events and services that not only provide entertainment and education, but help foster connection among members of your community.

Speakers

Nick Shimmin

Adult Services Librarian, North Liberty Library

Nick has been an Iowa librarian since 2007, serving as the director of the West Branch Public Library for over 15 years and adult services librarian at the North Liberty Library for a year and a half. Nick's focus throughout his career has been in libraries as a center for community... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT
Salon GH

Concurrent Session 3

4:00pm CDT

Reducing Barriers: A Roadmap to Making Your Library Accessible

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT

Salon E

Participants will learn how to self-assess the current physical and mental accessibility of their library, solicit feedback from community partners, and implement solutions to reduce barriers on a budget.

Speakers

Kate Thompson

Reference Librarian, West Des Moines Public Library

Kate Thompson is a reference librarian at the West Des Moines (IA) Public Library and disability advocate interested in expanding perspectives around neurological difference. She is a graduate of the Iowa Family Leadership Training Institute and a former member of the Olmstead Task... Read More →

Susan Greenwood

Executive Assistant to the Director, West Des Moines Public Library

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT
Salon E

Concurrent Session 3

4:00pm CDT

Setting Up a Seed Library

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT

Salon C

Marion Public Library and Carnegie-Stout Public Library will share about their different seed library set ups and give ideas and pointers on how to personalize and differentiate seed libraries according to a library's needs.

Speakers

Becca Draus

Children and Family Services Library Assistant, Marion Public Library

Maggie Turza

Library Aide, Carnegie-Stout Public Library

Maggie Turza is a part-time Library Aide at the Carnegie-Stout Public Library in Dubuque, Iowa. After attending an ILA session about Seed Libraries,she re-opened C-SPL's "Carnegie-Sprout" to overwhelming success.

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT
Salon C

Concurrent Session 3

4:00pm CDT

The Robots Are Coming! Intellectual Freedom in the Age of AI

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT

Salon D

Learn about the current state of AI in libraries and how it has an impact on intellectual freedom. Attendees will understand the basic terminology and function of various AI tools, be introduced to how AI is already being used in libraries and its impact on intellectual freedom, learn the benefits and drawbacks of implementing AI tools in respect to patron privacy and learn how to create a framework of how to approach the use of AI at your institution.

Speakers

Corissa Thompson

Teacher Librarian, Ankeny Schools

Corissa Thompson has a Masters in Education and certifications in Pre-K - 5 Classroom, K-8 Reading, and K-12 School Librarian. She has been a school librarian for 15 years and is currently working on her second Masters at the University of Iowa in Library and Information Science... Read More →

Janette McMahon

Director, DeWitt Community Library

Becky Maher-Jacobsen

Carnegie-Stout Public Library

Amanda Sand

Library Director, Dubuque County Library District

Amanda is the Library Director at the Dubuque County Library District with over a decade of experience working in all areas of public libraries. She has first-hand experience with intellectual freedom challenges and now offers direct support to library workers experiencing challenges... Read More →

Sponsors

ILA Intellectual Freedom Committee

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT
Salon D

Concurrent Session 3

4:00pm CDT

Unconference: Incorporating Alternative Formats in Your Library

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT

Salon AB

An unconference featuring brainstorming plus question and answer on how the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled can help libraries incorporate alternative formats into programming and services.
* Participants will gain an understanding of what alternative formats are and why they are important in a library setting. * Participants will learn about accessibility principles and guidelines related to alternative formats, including considerations for users with visual impairments, learning disabilities, and other accessibility needs. * Participants will learn about current programming and services offered at the Iowa Library for the Blind with alternative formats in mind.

Speakers

Leslie Heinzler

Iowa State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled and the Instructional Materials Center

Leslie Heinzler is the Special Services Librarian at the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled in Des Moines. She is passionate about providing books and other materials in alternative formats to patrons who are unable to read standard print.

Sarah Willeford

Denise Bean

Leland Smith

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:50pm CDT
Salon AB

Concurrent Session 3

5:00pm CDT

Dine-Arounds

Thursday October 10, 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm CDT

TBA

Thursday October 10, 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm CDT
TBA

7:00am CDT

Breakfast and Subdivision Meetings

Friday October 11, 2024 7:00am - 8:20am CDT

Exhibit Hall

Friday October 11, 2024 7:00am - 8:20am CDT
Exhibit Hall

8:30am CDT

Effective Governance and Leadership in Public Libraries: Roles and Responsibilities of Library Boards and Directors

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

Salon C

Explore perspectives on building and maintaining a unified, productive approach to library governance, policies, human resources management, and leadership- even in times of great challenge. Examples from small, midsized, and large libraries will be shared.
At the end of this session, participants will be able to :
1. Identify key components of effective library governance, including policy development, human resources management, and leadership strategies
2. Analyze and compare governance practices across libraries of different sizes
3. Articulate the importance of collaboration and communication between library directors and trustees in achieving shared goals.

Speakers

Elsworth Carman

Director, Iowa City Public Library

Elsworth Carman has served as the Director of the Iowa City Public Library since January 2019. He previously served in libraries in Washington, D.C., Oak Park, IL, Ocean County, NJ, and Marion, IA. Carman has a career-long passion for reducing barriers to access in public libraries... Read More →

Robin Paetzold

Trustee, Iowa City Public Library

Robin Paetzold has been an Iowa City Public Library trustee since 2010 and is currently the co-chair of the ILA Trustees Subdivision.

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Salon C

Concurrent Session 4

8:30am CDT

Reducing Bias in the Library Catalog: Moving the "Othered" Histories to the 900s

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

Salon D

This session will explain bias in cataloging and outline how we at Des Moines Public Library reclassified “othered” histories (from the 300s) to the 900s.

Speakers

Abbi Jensen

Cataloging Librarian, Des Moines Public Library

Abbi Jensen is the Cataloging Librarian at Des Moines Public Library. She started her library career in 2013, working as head page at West Des Moines Public Library. In 2017, she graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee with her MLIS, concentrating in cataloging and... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Salon D

Concurrent Session 4

8:30am CDT

Starting Off on the Right Foot = Long Term Success

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

Salon GH

This session will help new directors with simple first steps that will lead to success when starting a new director position.

Speakers

Janette McMahon

Director, DeWitt Community Library

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Salon GH

Concurrent Session 4

8:30am CDT

The Complete Project Management Caboodle (*Not* a Toolbox)

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

Salon E

This session will cover the basics of project management (you’re probably already doing a lot of them), some practical tools for GTD® (that’s "getting things done" for the David Allen-uninitiated), and why Caboodles are infinitely better than toolboxes (sparkles, duh).

Speakers

Samantha Bouwers

Consultant for Continuing Education, State Library of Iowa

Samantha Bouwers is the consultant for Continuing Education at the State Library. Contact her with all your questions about CE, the Endorsement Program, IA Learns, or with other professional development questions. She got her Master's in Library and Information Science from the University... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Salon E

Concurrent Session 4

8:30am CDT

The Sleuths of Silence: Libraries' Contributions to Resolving Historic Cold Cases

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT

Salon AB

Participants will learn to how to effectively utilize library resources and archival materials to investigate historic cases in their communities, while understanding the associated ethical challenges and exploring successful case studies.

Speakers

Tyler Hahn

Director, Cherokee Public Library

Sarah Enright

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Salon AB

Concurrent Session 4

9:30am CDT

Become a Dementia Friend

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT

Salon GH

Learn about dementia and identify ways to be a support to those living with dementia. Participants will learn how to describe dementia and the most common type, understand 5 key messages about dementia, and learn how to effectively communicate with a person living with dementia.

Speakers

Michell Klinker-Feld

Assistant Library Director, Bondurant Community Library

Michell has been involved in the Bondurant Community Library for over 25 years. She began by serving as a member of the Library Board of Trustees for almost 20 years. She then began working at the library as the Adult Services Librarian. Soon, she also took on the role of the Youth... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
Salon GH

Concurrent Session 5

9:30am CDT

Empowering Staff to Turn Your Conduct Policy into Reality

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT

Salon F

Conduct policies do not always come with instructions; learn how our small library created a behavioral assessment scale and expanded it into helpful training for staff of all perspectives. Session attendees will receive an editable training outline, understand how to adapt the document to fit their library, and be able to create a plan to implement staff training on patron behavioral assessment and conduct policy interpretation.

Speakers

Jacy West

Adult Services Librarian, Indianola Public Library

Jacy has been the Adult Services Librarian at the Indianola Public Library for 1 year and has worked in libraries for 5 years.

Jody Ross

Technical services librarian, Indianola Public Library

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
Salon F

Concurrent Session 5

9:30am CDT

Frozen in Place: The Context and Consequences of Anti-DEI Board of Regents and Senate Filings in State Academic Libraries

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT

Salon AB

This presentation will review the Board of Regents recommendations and Senate File 2435 which limit DEI spending; examine the impact this has in State-funded academic libraries; and explore how this will shape librarian work going forward, including discussion of recent state legislation impacting Board of Regents institutions in Iowa, the Chilling effect, and means of navigating anti-DEI legislation.

Speakers

Madde Hoberg

Library Annex Assistant, University of Iowa Libraries

Madde Hoberg (she/they) is the Library Annex Assistant at the University of Iowa. She received her MLIS from the University of Wisconsin-Madison iSchool in 2021. She is invested in social justice in libraries and commits her time to several groups and councils at the University of... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
Salon AB

Concurrent Session 5

9:30am CDT

Music + Literacy in Your Library

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT

Salon E

Explore resources, techniques, and the important relationships between literacy development and musical concepts. No music reading ability required!
Session participants will:
1. Define the pedagogical relationship between music learning and literacy development, providing concrete examples.
2. Identify the criteria necessary for selection of age appropriate musical materials for ages PK-10 years
3. Describe foundational practices for vocal health in children
4. Apply seven ways to teach a song in library programming for children

Speakers

Dr. Lucy Santos-Green

Director, The University of Iowa

Dr. Lucy Santos Green is Director of the School of Library and Information Science at the University of Iowa. A former school librarian and classroom teacher, her research and work is centered on inclusive librarianship and instructional partnerships between librarians and classroom... Read More →

Dr. Brad Green

Johnson STEAM Academy Magnet School

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
Salon E

Concurrent Session 5

9:30am CDT

Public Libraries: Catalysts for Civic Renewal

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT

Salon C

Cities and libraries have opportunities to raise the level of community engagement for the people they serve. By collaborating across departments, we build cohesion and foster belonging for everyone. From city hall to fire to police, come learn with us about how working together creates a resilient and stronger community.

Speakers

Bill Carroll

Director, Marion Public Library

Bill Carroll is the library director for the Marion Public Library and has worked in public libraries for 12 years. Prior to Marion, he served at the Carnegie-Stout Public Library in Dubuque. Carroll holds a Master of Public Administration from Upper Iowa University, Fayette, IA... Read More →

Jennie Garner

Director, North Liberty Library

Sam Helmick

Community and Access Services Coordinator, Iowa City Public Library

Sam Helmick is the Community and Access Services Coordinator for the Iowa City Public Library in Iowa, an Executive Board Member for the American Library Association, and the Iowa President-Elect to the Iowa Library Association. Their work in public services focuses on the intersections... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
Salon C

Concurrent Session 5

9:30am CDT

The Book(is)Mobile on Channel 5

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT

Salon D

How we built our own Library TV Channel from the ground up! This is a novel way of expanding outreach and programming potential.

Speakers

Robert Fiedler

Director, Musser Public Library

Chad Yocom

Channel 5

Chad Yocom is a seasoned media professional with a rich background in broadcasting and community engagement. Graduating from Western Illinois University's School of Broadcasting in 1996, Chad has dedicated his career to the world of media and communications.Since the inception of... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
Salon D

Concurrent Session 5

10:30am CDT

Best Practices for Hiring

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Salon E

In this session learn from two seasoned library directors on how to establish an equitable hiring process to ensure you are getting the best possible candidates for your open positions.
Learn the elements of an equitable hiring process, develop an understanding of the common biases associated with hiring employees, and be able to identify common pitfalls when interviewing and establishing practices to avoid them.

Speakers

David Eckert

Director, Waterloo Public Library

David Eckert has been working in the field of librarianship for more than twenty-five years including serving as an academic reference librarian, bilingual school librarian, and as a youth services librarian. In the last fifteen years, he has held more administrative roles including... Read More →

Antonia Krupicka-Smith

Director, Council Bluffs Public Library

Antonia is the director at the Council Bluffs Public Library. She has over 15 years experience working in libraries with a background in psychology and serving the community through the trauma-informed lens. She loves to cook and be outside. Antonia is currently reading whatever book... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Salon E

Concurrent Session 6

10:30am CDT

Business Librarian: It's Not as Scary as You Think

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Salon F

Most library professionals do not have a background in business and we dread being asked questions about it. But business does not have to be scary! In this session, you will learn what the Davenport Public Library has done to reach out to the business community. You will also walk away with a better understanding of how you can help people in your community with their business questions.
Topics that will be covered are business databases, reaching out to members of the business community, starting a website and/or a libguide, and selecting business books.

Speakers

Rachel Rugg

Community Engagement and Learning Librarian, Davenport Public Library

Rachel Rugg has worked for the Davenport Public Library in the Information Services Department since 2014. Previously, she worked at Mid-Continent Public Library, Kirkwood Community College in Iowa City and the State Historical Society of Iowa.

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Salon F

Concurrent Session 6

10:30am CDT

Community Connections for Mental Health: A Toolkit for Mental Health Information and Programming Partnerships

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Salon D

This presentation introduces a toolkit designed to foster community partnerships in providing mental health information and programming. It will cover the toolkit's potential benefits, key components, and practical application.
Presenters will describe the toolkit's key concepts, principles, and components and demonstrate how to apply them effectively in community settings. Evaluate the significance of community partnerships in managing mental health information and programming and utilize the toolkit to plan and implement these partnerships.

Speakers

Bobbi Newman

Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist,, University of Iowa

Gina Schlesselman-Tarango

Science Librarian & Associate Professor, Kistle Science Library, Grinnell College

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Salon D

Concurrent Session 6

10:30am CDT

How Can We Better Display Historical Photos Online?

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Salon GH

Our small team of academics and software engineers at the University of Northern Iowa have been asking how to better display historical photos online for the past decade. We have emerged with a new public platform--Fortepan US, located at https://fortpean.us--that beautifully displays historical photos according to place, time, and theme. We now have an instance for every state, and we developed the prototype featuring family collections and historical photos from Iowa (Fortepan IA--fortepan.us/ia).

Our panel presentation will bring together three library and archive professionals to discuss our experiences with Fortpepan IA. We invite you to discover this gorgeous (free) public portal with timeline, grid, and map view capabilities, crowd-sourced tagging, powerful search, a new digital exhibit tool options, and a sneak preview of the 360ºTour software (coming soon). Join us to learn how you can be part of this quiet but powerful public photo portal movement.

Speakers

Lindsay Nieland

University of Northern Iowa

Dr. Bettina Fabos

Director, Fortepan IA

Bettina Fabos is co-founder and Director of the Fortepan US [fortepan.us] cooperative photo history portal and its first prototype, Fortepan IA, a public photo archive of everyday Iowa life. She is also creative director of the award-winning interactive timeline project, Proud and... Read More →

Olivia Waller

Library Assistant, University of Northern Iowa

Lindsey Kuhlman

Paige Hibbs

University of Northern Iowa

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Salon GH

Concurrent Session 6

10:30am CDT

Reshaping Libraries: The Power of Branding and Voice Strengthening Your Libraries Position by Breaking Convention

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Salon C

More than ever, the traditional roles of libraries are being challenged. To navigate these attacks it’s critical for libraries to build preference and reestablish alliances within their communities.
This presentation will include: what does it mean to 'stand for something'?; the first steps to building a stronger internal culture; and how to strengthen community relationships.

Speakers

Liz Deets

Founder, Get Back Here Dog

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Salon C

Concurrent Session 6

10:30am CDT

Sensory Storytime: How Community Partnerships can build a successful Program

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Salon AB

Learn how to start a sensory storytime by utilizing the resources and professionals in your community to engage a diverse population of youth and their families!
At the end of this session you will be able to identify potential community partners for your library’s sensory storytime. Recognize that many diverse families are hesitant to attend library storytimes. Replicate a framework and structure for your storytime. Determine the level of support needed for your sensory activities.

Speakers

Emerson Taylor

Children's Librarian & Youth Services Supervisor, Musser Public Library

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Salon AB

Concurrent Session 6

11:30am CDT

Lunch and Closing Keynote: "The Power of Persuasion: Marketing Your Library in a Changing World"

Friday October 11, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT

Exhibit Hall

In today's dynamic library landscape, change is constant. Budget constraints, book challenges, and even potential closures pose real threats. However, thriving libraries share a common thread: a robust marketing and advocacy strategy.
Many librarians, however, struggle with the idea of "selling" or "promoting" their services. Perhaps you envision aggressive sales tactics, or maybe you simply long for stakeholders to intuitively grasp the library's value. Here's the truth: relying solely on data or expertise isn't enough to win hearts and minds. We need to go beyond our core responsibilities and harness the power of influence and persuasion.
This presentation will delve into the fascinating science behind personal influence, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to effectively promote your library without feeling like a salesperson. Learn how to overcome discomfort with marketing and advocacy, and discover data-driven strategies to secure funding, resources, and dedicated advocates who will consistently fight for your library's success.

Speakers

Elaina Norlin

Professional Development DEI Coordinator, Association of Southeastern Research Libraries

Elaina Norlin is the Professional Development Coordinator for the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries. She is an accomplished teacher, technology and leadership development trainer, and writer with extensive leadership experience and a flair for public relations, organizational... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT
Exhibit Hall

General Session/Keynote

1:00pm CDT

Subdivision Meetings

Friday October 11, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

TBA

Friday October 11, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA