ArLA 2024 Annual Conference: Full Schedule

8:00am CDT

Bibliotherapy: Using Literature to Support Mental Health

Saturday October 5, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am CDT

Bibliotherapy involves using books in a structured reading program to address life challenges and mental health, guided by a facilitator to help readers connect with characters, experience catharsis, and gain insights. While typically used in clinical settings, it can also be applied in libraries and schools for non-clinical populations. Libraries are ideal for offering mental health support for patrons with everyday stressors.

The session will cover the applications of bibliotherapy, its impact on different age groups, and how librarians can facilitate mental health improvement using bibliotherapeutic principles. Librarians will learn about suitable books for various stressors, enhancing patron mental health with their expertise, and recognizing when to refer patrons to professional mental health providers.

Speakers

Mara Whiteside

Saturday October 5, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

Breakout Session

8:00am CDT

Library Impact on City Cyber Crisis: Strengthening Community Resilience

Saturday October 5, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

On June 8th, 2023, our city experienced a severe malware attack that disabled critical systems for 18 days. The library, with its separate computer and network resources, provided essential computing support during this crisis. In response, we thoroughly examined our security systems and developed a stronger security posture.

Join us to learn from our experience, including:

How the library quickly mobilized to assist the city with computing and network needs during the attack.
The role of libraries as emergency response centers, providing crucial community resources during crises.
Enhancing our cybersecurity using the NIST framework to improve our defenses.
Practical tips, best practices, and insights for other libraries to strengthen their cybersecurity and community protection efforts.

Speakers

Chris Moody

Director IT AV & Innovation, Fayetteville Public Library

Chris has worked in public libraries for 15 years. Prior to his library experience he spent many years working in academia. Chris' background in audio video production and IT has led him to experience the crossover of AV into IT. From Dante audio networking to the rise of streaming... Read More →

Saturday October 5, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

Breakout Session

8:00am CDT

The Role of and Importance Library: From Higher Education to School Libraries

Saturday October 5, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 201

In this session, we emphasize the importance of keeping libraries at the forefront in education and government, highlighting their essential role in community success. Participants will learn to:

Identify similarities and differences among various libraries.
Recognize the roles libraries play in all communities.
Discover ways to continue making a difference and fostering collaboration.

The session will provide strategies for building connections within the library community and beyond. This program aligns with the conference theme by offering a sense of individual value, renewal, and growth for all library professionals, regardless of their library type or position.

Speakers

Lavoris Martin

Saturday October 5, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 201

Breakout Session

10:00am CDT

AI in Academics: Articiface or Ingeniousness

Saturday October 5, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

Artificial intelligence (AI) transforms how libraries operate and serve our communities. This session, led by Leo S. Lo, Dean of the University of New Mexico Libraries and President of the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL), will explore the role of AI in academic libraries and the critical need for AI literacy among library professionals. Participants will gain insights from national surveys on AI literacy among library workers and learn about innovative upskilling programs like the GPT-4 Exploration Program.
The session will provide actionable strategies for integrating generative AI tools into library operations, enhancing staff competencies, and fostering ethical and responsible use of AI in the academic library setting. Attendees will leave equipped with knowledge and practical steps to become AI leaders in their institutions, unlocking the potential of AI to transform library services and contribute to workforce development initiatives.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the current landscape of AI literacy among academic library professionals.
- Identify key areas for AI training and professional development within libraries.
- Explore practical applications of generative AI tools to enhance library services.
- Gain strategies for ethical AI implementation in libraries, with a focus on privacy, accuracy, and human oversight.

Saturday October 5, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

Breakout Session

10:00am CDT

LGBTQ+ Arkansan History Makers

Saturday October 5, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

This program will address Arkansas LGBTQ+ history as featured on the CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas, with a focus on LGBTQ+ individuals connected to Arkansas.
Learning outcomes for attendees include:

Increased confidence in navigating and utilizing the Encyclopedia of Arkansas.
Greater familiarity and comfort with Arkansas LGBTQ+ history.
Opportunity to ask questions and address individual concerns during a Q&A session.

The program fits the conference theme by highlighting the importance of understanding the struggles and successes of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially in the context of current book-banning debates. This relevance underscores the role of LGBTQ+ communities within library staff, patrons, and challenged authors.

Speakers

J. Jobe

Editorial Asst & Programmer, CALS

#library #CALS #EOA #encyclopediaofarkansas #writing #CALSwritingcircle #reading #scifi

Saturday October 5, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

Breakout Session

10:00am CDT

Pads, Prom Dresses, and D&D: Building Community with Library Teens

Saturday October 5, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 201

This presentation uses stories of programming and service experiences to challenge librarians to consider the needs, interests, and place of teen patrons in library spaces.
Key points include:

Teens need and deserve a sense of community, which is difficult to quantify.
COVID-19 lockdowns, a lack of third places, and a trend towards virtual existence have created a void in the community fabric, especially affecting teens.
Libraries can fill this gap, providing a safe, inclusive space for teens to be themselves and build connections.
Libraries should rethink their services for teens, focusing on creating a welcoming environment with diverse, engaging activities, such as providing pads, prom dresses, and hosting D&D games.

Speakers

Bekah Smith

Teen Department Manager, North Little Rock Public Library System

Bekah (she/they) has been in libraries for ten years - everything from academic to private to school to (their favorite) public. Bekah's current role as manager of the Loft at Laman Library has been an absolute dream. Cultivating safe and affirming spaces for teens is exactly why... Read More →

Saturday October 5, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 201

Breakout Session

11:00am CDT

Beyond Storytime: Creating Readers through Early Literacy Programming

Saturday October 5, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

This presentation addresses how libraries can foster lifelong readers amid declining literacy rates and increasing reading difficulties. It emphasizes libraries' unique position to support literacy through low-pressure programming. Key strategies include:

Kindergarten readiness opportunities.
Whole-family literacy involvement.
Enhanced storytime practices.
Ready-made at-home resources.

The presentation, led by an educator-turned-librarian, provides simple programming tips, applicable ideologies, and easily duplicable resources suitable for libraries of all sizes. It aims to enhance current programs and expand offerings to empower families and create enthusiastic readers.

Speakers

Jill Wheeler

Children's Services Manager, North Little Rock Public Library: Laman Branch

I'm a lifelong library kid! After 10 years in public education, I found myself coming back to where my love of learning and literacy began- the library. My passion lies in equipping all backgrounds of patrons with the resources they need to engaging in learning in a way that sparks... Read More →

Saturday October 5, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

Breakout Session

11:00am CDT

Design Basics with Canva

Saturday October 5, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

This session focuses on creating marketing materials for libraries. Attendees will:

Learn the four principles of design.
Evaluate mock poster and social media designs.
Create a social media post promoting a library program using Canva.

The session is interactive and led by Kacy Earnest Spears, who holds a B.A. in Mass Communications and serves as the ArLA Marketing Chair.

Speakers

Kacy Earnest Spears

Reference Librarian, Springdale Public Library

Saturday October 5, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

Breakout Session

11:00am CDT

The Intersection of AI and Academics: A Panel Discusssion

Saturday October 5, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

Following ACRL President Leo Lo's exploration of artificial intelligence in academic libraries, Arkansas librarians from diverse academic institutions will discuss how generative AI has influenced their institutions. They will share insights on its practical applications, impact on their work, and policies for ethical use.
By the end of the panel discussion, participants will:

Identify effective uses of generative AI tools in library work.
Explore various perspectives on AI adoption.
Discuss policies to ensure ethical AI use in higher education.

This panel aligns with the conference theme, "The Next Chapter," by highlighting AI as a significant advancement in library and educational technologies.

Speakers

Britt Anne Murphy

Saturday October 5, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

Breakout Session

2:00pm CDT

Spice Up Your Life: Putting Play Back in Your Toolbox

Saturday October 5, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

This session explores the 8 types of adult play personalities, emphasizes the significance and advantages of play for adults, and discusses practical ways to integrate play into personal and professional library environments. The session involves hands-on activities, encourages active participation, and includes opportunities for interactive play experiences. It aims to support library staff in promoting health and wellness through engaging and enjoyable activities.

In March 2024, a similar presentation was held at the Pump Up the Joy event at the Garland County Library.

Speakers

Mary Spears Polk

Youth Services Manager, Faulkner County Library

I love talking about all things library; especially intellectual freedom and youth services! I came to libraries after a decades in early childhood education and community non-profits. I am also an art advocate! I am passionate about the arts being accessible and valued in our communities... Read More →

Saturday October 5, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

Breakout Session

2:00pm CDT

The Benefits of Animal Assisted Therapies

Saturday October 5, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

Dr. Catherine Swift, an experienced educator and therapy animal handler, will present on animal-assisted activities, highlighting their historical use and benefits in enhancing human well-being. Participants will:

Learn the historical context of animals aiding human development.
Understand the scientific basis for the positive effects of therapy animals on diverse populations.
Differentiate between therapy animals, emotional support animals, and service animals.
Explore how schools and libraries can integrate animals into mental health and literacy programming.

This session aims to advocate for incorporating animal companionship into future library environments, emphasizing the benefits they bring to patrons' lives.

Speakers

Dr. Catherine Swift

Britt Anne Murphy

Saturday October 5, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

Breakout Session

3:00pm CDT

Repurposing Your Book Jackets

Saturday October 5, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

This session challenges the misconception that libraries are solely for reading and borrowing books by showcasing their innovation and community outreach. It focuses on repurposing book jackets to engage patrons through a Book Jacket Program. Participants will learn how to prepare, host, and guide patrons through this interactive activity, which promotes creativity and mindfulness. The session highlights the versatility of these programs, suitable for all ages, and emphasizes their potential to foster connections with diverse reading options.

Speakers

Sherry Eskridge

Arkansas State University

Erika James

Student Assistant Specialist, Arkansas State University

Co-presenter /Co-worker is Sherry Eskridge

Saturday October 5, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

Breakout Session

3:00pm CDT

Seed Library and Green Space Partnerships

Saturday October 5, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

The Seed Library program has experienced significant growth over the past 5 years, serving as a platform to educate our community on gardening, sustainable living, and environmental topics. Our outreach initiatives include partnering with other organizations to establish "green spaces" or park gardens featuring signage about the Seed Library and participation guidelines.

In this session, we will discuss:

The establishment and evolution of the Seed Library program.
How programs and events are tailored around the Seed Library.
Utilizing community feedback to develop new opportunities.
The creation and role of the Green Space Committee.
Partnerships that have led to the development of 4 Park Gardens and a straw bale community garden.

We aim to empower and educate our community on environmental stewardship through seeds, demonstrating the library's unique role in community engagement and sustainability efforts.

Speakers

Kari Lapp

Community Engagement Manager, Saline County Library

Kari Lapp is the Public Relations Manager for the Saline County Library in Benton, Arkansas. Her main focus is ensuring community partnerships and outreach efforts are pursued while spreading a positive view of the library. She has a Bachelor’s degree from Arkansas State University... Read More →

Bella Holloway

Outreach Coordinator, Saline County Library

Saturday October 5, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

Breakout Session

9:00am CDT

Library Survival Guide: Tips for the New Supervisor

Sunday October 6, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

This session offers insights from 31 years of experience in public libraries, addressing the transition from initial perceptions of quiet reading spaces to the complex reality of library work involving paperwork, policies, procedures, and politics.

Participants will learn practical tips and techniques to navigate daily challenges, develop strategies for survival, and gain actionable takeaways to enhance their daily work. The session encourages evaluation of library practices and challenges, aiming to support professional growth and preparedness for the future in library careers.

Speakers

Judy Calhoun

Regional Director, Southeast Arkansas Regional Library

I have been working in public libraries for 30 years. I am very passionate about helping rural and small libraries thrive. I love to travel and especially love visiting other libraries.

Sunday October 6, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

Breakout Session

9:00am CDT

Programming for Adults: Fun, Cheap, or Free

Sunday October 6, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

This session challenges the misconception that public libraries prioritize children's and teen programming over adults. It addresses budget constraints and the need for strategic planning to offer adult programs at accessible times. Attendees will gain:

A toolbox of low-to-no-cost programming ideas for adults.
Strategies for timing and outreach to promote adult programs effectively.
An open discussion on the importance and breadth of adult programming in libraries. The session aims to empower libraries to cater effectively to adult patrons' need for connection and affordable entertainment.

Speakers

Kacy Earnest Spears

Reference Librarian, Springdale Public Library

Sunday October 6, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

Breakout Session

9:00am CDT

State Book Award Standouts

Sunday October 6, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

This session highlights the value of state book awards as a lesser-known yet valuable resource for librarians in collection development and readers' advisory. These awards often recognize a diverse range of titles and authors, including beloved books overlooked by more prestigious awards. The awards are typically chosen by young readers themselves, fostering excitement around reading and engaging young patrons in the voting process.
Attendees will:

Learn about various state book awards across the country and how they are administered.
Gain insights into the history, significance, and current status of Arkansas's own book awards.
Receive recommendations for award-winning titles and strategies to support state book awards in their libraries.

The session aims to equip librarians with knowledge and tools to promote state book awards effectively, enhancing their libraries' collections and fostering a love of reading among young audiences.

Speakers

Allie Stevens

Director, Calhoun County Library

Sunday October 6, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

Breakout Session

10:00am CDT

"You Need Me to Do What?" Starting Off Your New Professional Chapter with a Bang

Sunday October 6, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

In this presentation, Amanda Hayes shares her experience managing the rollout of book lockers at four branches of the Central Arkansas Library System. Starting on the same day she began her role as System Holds Manager, Amanda navigated the challenges of learning new technology, troubleshooting issues, and documenting procedures for both staff and patrons. She discusses her strategies for success in handling large projects while still adjusting to a new position.
Participants will:

Learn mental approaches for tackling unfamiliar tasks and managing large projects effectively.
Understand the process of writing comprehensive service manuals from scratch.
Gain insights into key considerations and questions to ask when evaluating the implementation of book lockers in their library systems.

The presentation also explores the growing popularity and success of CALS's book locker service, offering valuable lessons and practical tips for librarians facing similar project challenges.

Speakers

Amanda Hayes

System Holds Manager, Central Arkansas Library System

Amanda has worked for the Central Arkansas Library System since 2016, starting as a book-sale volunteer and then taking a path that led from page to Audiovisual Specialist to System Holds Manager. Along with various library topics (especially displays and reader's advisory), her interests... Read More →

Sunday October 6, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

Breakout Session

10:00am CDT

Bringing It Home

Sunday October 6, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 201

In this session, attendees will discover strategies to effectively implement ideas from conferences into their libraries. The presenter addresses common challenges such as feeling overwhelmed or doubting one's abilities after returning from a conference. Participants will learn how to adapt conference ideas to fit their library's needs, including:

Modifying ideas to suit specific patron bases.
Asking pertinent questions of presenters to clarify implementation steps.
Proposing ideas to administrative staff with confidence.
Evaluating program success and learning from the experience.

The session features multiple examples of successful programs brought back to both public and academic libraries, aiming to inspire and empower attendees to translate conference inspiration into actionable improvements for their libraries.

Speakers

Taylor Vanlandingham

Sunday October 6, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 201

Breakout Session

10:00am CDT

Scripting Connectivity: Crafting the Next Chapter of Libraries Through Unity and Education

Sunday October 6, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

This session explores how a library transformed into a vital hub for students, particularly during the renovation of their student union which displaced usual meeting spots. This transition led to increased library visits, prompting initiatives to promote learning resources and community activities.

To engage students, the library introduced fun events like karaoke, line dancing, and paint and sip sessions on Fridays, gathering valuable feedback in the process. Emphasizing the importance of student involvement, collaboration was necessary to understand preferences for technological tools and conveniences. Student feedback resulted in additions such as the Glow Forge Machine, a one-button studio, and a TruTouch board, alongside practical improvements like enhanced charging stations and expanded fiction collections.

The presentation highlights the challenges and successes in creating a dynamic, student-focused library. Attendees will gain insights into showcasing library resources creatively for increased user engagement, developing adaptive skills to navigate changes, and implementing effective methods to gather and utilize student feedback. The session aims to equip library professionals with strategies to better serve their communities by responding to evolving needs.

Speakers

Zina Conley

Technical Librarian

Sunday October 6, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

Breakout Session

11:00am CDT

How Artificial Intelligence Impacts Academic Libraries and Library Outcome of Information Literacy

Sunday October 6, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

This session will discuss vital information concerning artificial intelligence and its impact on the academic landscape when teaching information literacy skills.

Speakers

Shenise McGhee

Librarian/Professor, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Shenise McGhee, Librarian/Professor at the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff. Her research interests include intellectual freedom, open education resources, assessment, marketing, information literacy instruction, and digital librarianship. Shenise has been in academic librarianship... Read More →

Sunday October 6, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 205

Breakout Session

11:00am CDT

Picture Books to Philosophy: Turning the Pages from Elementary School to Academic Library

Sunday October 6, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

This session explores the similarities between programming in elementary school, academic, and public libraries, highlighting shared elements despite their different settings. It discusses how programming ideas can be adapted across these library types, offering methods for modification to suit each environment. Attendees will gain practical ideas and strategies to implement engaging programming in their respective libraries, enhancing their ability to plan and execute activities that cater to diverse audiences.

Speakers

Becca Hern

Reference Services & Liaison Librarian, John Brown University

Hi! I am the reference librarian at John Brown University in Arkansas. My liaison area is the Colleges of Education and Behavioral & Social Sciences. I have been at the university for 3 years. Before that, I was an elementary school librarian and teacher. It was a big jump but I soon... Read More →

Sunday October 6, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 202

Breakout Session

11:00am CDT

The K-16 Continuum: Working Together for College Readiness

Sunday October 6, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT

Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

In this session, librarians from several academic institutions will discuss ways academic and school librarians can collaborate for college readiness.

The discussion will include the overlap in education standards, points of connection to address together, and possible communities of practice to develop in the future.

Speakers

Karen Haggard

Retired School and Academic Librarian

Karen has recently retired after working In public, school, and academic libraries. She now lives in Ft. Smith, Arkansas.

Sunday October 6, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Hot Springs Convention Ctr. -Room 209

Breakout Session