CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR GEORGIA'S PUBLIC LIBRARY STAFF
Upcoming CE Events
Welcome to the Upcoming Events page, where we showcase Georgia's in-person and online continuing education opportunities sponsored by GPLS and associated organizations. These opportunities are tailored to meet the needs of our busy professionals, and most sessions are recorded and archived for later viewing.
Introduction
Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, learn new techniques, or explore new areas of interest, our continuing education offerings have something for everyone. Our experienced presenters are committed to helping you achieve your goals, and we provide a supportive and collaborative learning environment to ensure your success.
So why wait? Register to attend the listed events and start learning. We look forward to helping you achieve your full potential.
Communication Breakdowns: Tools for Working through Conflict in the Workplace
Time: Thursday, March 13, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Colorado State Library
Conflict and the breakdown of productive communication is inevitable in the workplace. In this session we’ll work together to prepare for the next communication breakdown by identifying how our organizations want us to resolve conflict, compare unhealthy and healthy conflict, and practice two conflict resolution tools (Crucial Conversations and Emotional Intelligence).
About the Presenters:
Andrea Kingsley is a youth librarian at the Aurora Public Library. Whether leading an engaging storytime or collaborating in the office, Andrea is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered to communicate effectively. Her commitment to connection and understanding extends beyond the library, making her a trusted advocate for children and colleagues alike.
Tessy Walker is a Branch Library Supervisor for the Hoffman Heights and Chambers Plaza Libraries in the Aurora Public Library system. She works with an amazing team that ensures our library spaces are welcoming, accessible, and provide opportunities for life-long learning for a diverse community. As a librarian and a supervisor, she has explored the role of communication in the workplace and strives to provide her peers and teams with the tools they need to successfully navigate the complex dynamics of a modern public library environment.
Are You Ready for Equity? Navigating Biases in Volunteer Engagement
Time: Thursday, March 13, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Volunteer Match
Explore the Identity Signs exercise with Jennifer Bennett, CVA and Faiza Venzant, CVA and learn how they have used this interactive tool to start and enhance dialogue around equity, access, diversity and inclusion. Discover the benefits of using this exercise in your organization to foster teamwork and critical thinking, while addressing potential challenges and sensitive topics. You'll also gain practical tips on facilitating the Identity Signs exercise effectively ensuring a safe and engaging experience for all participants.
Forecasting 101: How to Forecast Your Revenue & Achieve Fundraising Growth
Time: Thursday, March 13, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Bloomerang
Forecasting: it’s the first step of any plan for a nonprofit looking to achieve growth. In ‘Forecasting 101: How to Forecast your Revenue & Achieve Fundraising Growth,’ Sari McConnell (CRFE, MBA, and Founder of Donor Boom) will share how revenue forecasting leads to revenue growth and will teach you how to forecast with accuracy and ease.
Supporting Communities Impacted by Incarceration through Library Services
Time: Thursday, March 13, 2025, 3 pm Eastern (12 pm Pacific | 1 pm Mountain | 2 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
WebJunction
Explore how public libraries can support individuals and families impacted by incarceration.
Public libraries are often on the frontlines of serving communities impacted by incarceration, with many patrons facing the challenges of trauma, stigma, and reintegration. This webinar will explore how libraries can effectively support individuals and families affected by incarceration—whether through outreach to local jails or providing services to those re-entering society. Learn about successful initiatives, funding opportunities, and service models that address the lasting impacts of incarceration. Gain strategies and resources to enhance your library’s role in creating supportive, inclusive services and spaces to help build stronger, safer communities for all.
Presented by:
Chelsea Jordan-Makely, Library Director and Consultant, Griswold Memorial Library and Renewed Libraries, LLC
Sarah Hertel-Fernandez, Library Director, Belding Memorial Library
Aaron Blumberg, Librarian and Justice-Impacted Advocate and Consultant
Show the Value of What You Do
Time: Thursday, March 13, 2025, 3 pm Eastern (12 pm Pacific | 1 pm Mountain | 2 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Training Magazine Network
As we step into a new year, the importance of creating and showcasing value remains as critical as ever. In fact, the need may be even greater than in the past for your organization. Whether your focus is on learning innovation, AI integration, people analytics, or cultural transformation, it is important to deliver results that matter. How is this done? Showing value begins with answering the question "why" and ensuring there is alignment between the why and the activity in which the organization is investing. It also requires engaging team members and ensuring they have the knowledge and motivation to meet performance expectations.
The Leadership Gap You Can't Afford: How to Make Decision-Making Training More Effective
Time: Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 1 pm Eastern (10 am Pacific | 11 am Mountain | 12 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Training Industry
Join us for this complimentary Training Industry webinar, sponsored by Enabling Empowerment. Your host, Christopher Seifert, author of “Enabling Empowerment,” will demonstrate how increasing complexity and uncertainty challenge the decision-making skills of even your most experienced leaders. He will show how teaching a decision-making framework equips leaders to overcome these challenges, aligns with your company’s strategic objectives and delivers measurable business impact.
Promising Picture Books
Time: Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Booklist
Picture books continue to be an important part of every well-rounded collection, and if you’re looking for additional titles to fill out your shelves, look no further than this free one-hour webinar! We’ll hear, representatives from Gnome Road Publications, W. W. Norton and Co. Charlesbridge and Phoenix International Publications as they share their latest most promising picture books. Join us Tuesday, March 18 at 2:00 pm. Sarah Hunter, Editor for Books for Youth and Graphic Novels, will moderate. Register now!
Time: Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
ASERL
Leadership in organizational development (OD) has become a central focus in library science. Originating in the 1940s, OD provides valuable insights into improving team and organizational performance. A key component of OD is organizational learning, which underscores the importance of fostering continuous learning within organizations.
In libraries, especially during times of rapid change and uncertainty, a key challenge arises: How can we create space for a culture of learning while navigating social changes both within and outside the organization? How can we equip staff with the skills to adapt and thrive amidst ongoing organizational change efforts? This session will explore the ‘what’ and the ‘how’ of organizational change, focusing on strategies to promote continuous learning and support staff development in dynamic environments.
Presenter Bio
Nikhat Ghouse is the Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility at the University of Pittsburgh. She is also an Organization Development Consultant through her firm, Jehan Consulting, specializing in change management, process consulting, strategic planning, leadership development, team building, coaching, and equity, diversity, and inclusion. With over 25 years of experience in professional library work and 10 years in organizational development, Nikhat leverages her expertise to help individuals and organizations grow and manage change. Nikhat holds a Master of Science in Organization Development (MSOD) from American University, a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from the University of Pittsburgh, and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Cleveland State University. Name pronunciation: https://namedrop.io/nikhatghouse
Introducing the Is Everyone Welcome Toolkit: Empowering Inclusive Volunteerism
Time: Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Volunteer Match
Join Faiza Venzant, CVA from the ADEVI Project, and Jennifer Bennett, CVA from VolunteerMatch for an exciting conversation as we unveil the groundbreaking Is Everyone Welcome Toolkit! Developed by a dedicated team of 25 Certified Volunteer Administrators (CVAs), this FREE resource is now available on VolunteerMatch's Learning Center. Whether you're aiming to diversify your volunteer base or integrate an equity lens into your volunteer management practices, this toolkit is designed specifically for Leaders of Volunteers.
Ask Me Anything: Program Evaluation
Time: Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Candid Learning
Join Faiza Venzant, CVA from the ADEVI Project, and Jennifer Bennett, CVA from VolunteerMatch for an exciting conversation as we unveil the groundbreaking Is Everyone Welcome Toolkit! Developed by a dedicated team of 25 Certified Volunteer Administrators (CVAs), this FREE resource is now available on VolunteerMatch's Learning Center. Whether you're aiming to diversify your volunteer base or integrate an equity lens into your volunteer management practices, this toolkit is designed specifically for Leaders of Volunteers.
Charting Change: Crafting a Dynamic Board of Directors
Time: Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 11 am Eastern (8 am Pacific | 9 am Mountain | 10 am Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Nonprofit Hub
Regardless of size, tenure, or mission, the cornerstone of organizational success for all nonprofits is strong board governance. From recruitment to evaluation (and a whole lot in-between), learn how to assess your current board’s needs, identify crucial gap areas, and implement strategies to build a better board through insightful discussions and practical examples. This session, designed for nonprofit leaders, board members, and anyone passionate about advancing the mission of their organization, will help chart a course towards building a high-performing, dynamic board of directors.
Civic Literacy Starts at Home
Time: Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Niche Academy
Libraries around the country host a lot of programs about civic education and civic engagement for their communities. However, we may not be focused on our own staff, boards, and leadership team’s civic literacy and skills. Your role as a community anchor institution means you need to be involved in the discussion and not just host.
In this webinar, EveryLibrary’s executive director, John Chrastka, will share insights into how effective libraries can understand and operationalize their own role in the "civic conversation".
Participants will learn strategies to build civic literacy within their organizations, develop actionable plans for engaging in civic discussions, and strengthen their role as active contributors to civic life. From budgeting and taxes to legislation and public policy, the library itself should be an active participant in shaping civic life.
If you're interested but not able to attend the live webinar, go ahead and register. We'll send a recording to all registrants after the fact.
Customer Service: Ten Basic and Essential Skills
Time: Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
PCI Webinars
Customer service skills generally consist of the knowledge, processes, expertise and the understanding that are needed to make customers as satisfied as possible. These skills are developed through several different avenues, including training, support and experience. There are generally two different types of these skills: people and technical.
Both types of skills are equally important and good customer service is the ability to combine a good balance of both skill sets to provide the best experience possible.
Join Andrew for this program as we examined his top ten basic and essential skills that every successful organization and employee focuses on with their customers.
Andrew Sanderbeck – Biography
Andrew Sanderbeck is a respected expert presenter and consultant on customer service and the customer experience, improving workplace communication and sharpening organizational management and leadership practices.
He believes that one of the fastest ways to win a customer’s loyalty and trust is to actively listen to them.
Please note: All PCI Webinars are recorded and will be available on the GPLS Learning Center within a week of the original airdate. Kindly refrain from contacting the host for a copy of the recording.
DK's Summer 2025 School & Library Preview
Time: Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Booklist
RSVP now for DK’s Summer 2025 School & Library Preview event on Wednesday, March 19 at 2 pm to get a glimpse at the publisher’s top children’s & adult title picks for the season. Discover DK’s brand-new fiction and nonfiction graphic novel series for kids: Jamie Smart’s Max and Chaffy and The Fact Finders; build out your collection of hi-lo decodables with more Phonic Books Bindups; embrace la dolce vita with The Italian Way; and eat your way through the USA with B. Dylan Hollis’s Baking across America!
Plus, hear from special guest Cornelia Funke—New York Times bestselling author of the Inkheart series—in an exclusive Q&A with Booklist’s Books for Youth and Graphic Novels editor Sarah Hunter, as they discuss The Green Kingdom, Funke’s new middle-grade book that follows 12-year-old Caspia on a botanical, riddle-solving summertime adventure through Brooklyn, New York, which teaches her that sometimes you can put down roots where you least expect it.
Why Hands-On STEM Labs Matter: The Science behind Active Learning
Time: Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
EdWeb
This edWebinar will explore the critical role of hands-on experiments in middle and high school science education and why they provide a superior learning experience compared to virtual simulations. We’ll demonstrate how lab videos can support teachers in preparing students for lab work, ensuring they grasp complex scientific concepts while actively engaging in experiments. Join us for this insightful session and learn how to maximize the impact of hands-on science labs! This edWebinar will be of interest to middle and high school science teachers, STEM educators, and curriculum coordinators looking for practical strategies to enhance hands-on learning in their classrooms.
Health Programming at Your Library
Time: Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
NNLM
Join us for ideas on how to create health programs for libraries and community/faith-based organizations in this 90-minute webinar. First, we’ll discuss purpose of conducting health outreach programs for libraries and how to plan a program using a logic model. Then, we’ll brainstorm potential partnerships for health programming and outreach and learn how resources from the National Library of Medicine (NLM) and other reputable agencies introduce community members to health resources in fun and engaging ways. Finally, we’ll share examples of successful programs for children, teens, adults, and seniors using NLM and National Institutes of Health resources that will activate your interest in collaborating and engaging your community in health outreach programming.
Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being for LIS Students: Navigating the Challenges of Graduate Studies
Time: Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 3 pm Eastern (12 pm Pacific | 1 pm Mountain | 2 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Colorado State Library
Master’s students in library and information science (LIS) programs face unique challenges that can affect their mental health and well-being, from academic pressures and financial stress to job uncertainty and balancing personal commitments. This session will explore the mental health struggles common among LIS students, including feelings of isolation, burnout, and vocational awe. We will discuss strategies for fostering resilience, building supportive networks, and promoting inclusivity within LIS programs. Participants will also learn how institutions and peers can better support student well-being, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable pathway into the profession.
Summer Scares YA Panel
Time: Thursday, March 20, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Booklist
Feeling haunted by the specter of summer reading? Never fear; Summer Scares is back with new titles to give you a proper fright—but its free programing guide and library-loving authors ensure nothing but sweet dreams for any who bring this horror-soaked reading program into their libraries. Summer Scares is designed for libraries by the Horror Writers Association, in partnership with Booklist, Book Riot, iREAD, and NoveList, to promote the horror genre across all age groups.
For this year’s teen picks, YA author and 2025 Summer Scares Spokesperson Kendare Blake will moderate a discussion with Emma Berquist (Devils into Dust), Lamar Giles (The Getaway), and Kristen Simmons (Find Him Where You Left Him Dead). This free, one-hour webinar will take place on Thursday, March 20th at 2:00 pm ET. Register now!
The Human Side of Fundraising Webinar Series Session II: Donor Retention - from First Gift to Lifelong Support
Time: Thursday, March 20, 2025, 1 pm Eastern (10 am Pacific | 11 am Mountain | 12 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Blackbaud
If you’re in development, you have a passion for your organization’s mission. Sometimes in the hustle of daily operations, it’s easy to forget that behind every donation is a person who shares your vision for change. This series is designed to help you focus on what truly matters—creating meaningful relationships that drive impact, one interaction at a time. We'll cover how to avoid common retention pitfalls and how to use data to create personalized outreach that works. You’ll leave with practical tips and tools to help turn first-time donors into lifelong supporters.
Librarians as Health Care Guides: Tools for Supporting Your Community
Time: Thursay, March 20, 2025, 2:30 pm Eastern (11:30 am Pacific | 12:30 pm Mountain | 1:30 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
ALA eLearning
Health care is a complex landscape that many individuals struggle to navigate. Librarians are in a unique position to provide guidance and resources that empower their communities. This session will cover essential topics to help you become a more effective advocate for those in need. By attending, you will enhance your ability to connect patrons with critical information and resources that can improve their lives.
Note: This webinar lasts 90 minutes
Summer Scares Adult Panel
Time: Monday, March 24, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Booklist
Feeling haunted by the specter of summer reading? Never fear; Summer Scares is back with new titles to give you a proper fright—but its free programing guide and library-loving authors ensure nothing but sweet dreams for any who bring this horror-soaked reading program into their libraries. Summer Scares is designed for libraries by the Horror Writers Association, in partnership with Booklist, Book Riot, iREAD, and NoveList, to promote the horror genre across all age groups.
Becky Spratford, libraryland’s very own scream queen, picks the unhinged brains behind this year’s adult selections: Eric LaRocca (Things Have Gotten Worse Since We Last Spoke), James Han Mattson (Reprieve), and Caitlin Starling (The Luminous Dead). This free, one-hour webinar will take place on Monday, March 24th at 2:00 pm. Register now!
Devices to Support Wellness
Time: Monday, March 24, 2025, 3 pm Eastern (12 pm Pacific | 1 pm Mountain | 2 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
PACER Center
This workshop will explore devices from our lending library that are designed to support emotional wellness for teens and adults. Join us to learn more about tools that can calm the body’s reaction to stress with relaxation and sensory support.
The Future of Support for Girls and Women in STEM
Time: Monday, March 24, 2025, 3 pm Eastern (12 pm Pacific | 1 pm Mountain | 2 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
NGCP
Women continue to be underrepresented in the STEM workforce. Gender gaps in education pathways persist, limiting access, preparation, and career opportunities. Now, new barriers and changes to the current landscape have left girl-serving programs wondering what the future of support for girls and women in STEM will be. During this Women’s History Month, NGCP invites you to join the conversation around future directions for this work we are all passionate about. Moderated by NGCP’s Board Chair, Dr. Gabriela Gonzalez, this panel is comprised of experts at the intersection of STEM, equity, and policy. There will be time for audience questions and discussion. We will explore how to move forward in this policy landscape, the critical issues currently impacting girls and women in STEM, and strategies for engaging girls and women in STEM in the future.
Fostering Creativity on Your Team
Time: Monday, March 24, 2025, 4 pm Eastern (1 pm Pacific | 2 pm Mountain | 3 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
GovLoop
Successful teams usually share a few common traits: they’re goal-oriented, mission-focused, highly collaborative, and productive. Unfortunately, creativity, a core part of high-functioning teams, often gets overlooked. If your team doesn’t value a creative mindset, you’re also missing out on effective problem-solving, innovation, ideation and brainstorming. Join us to hear from a management expert about why creativity should be a focus on your team. Specifically, you’ll learn why creativity matters so much for teams, tools and strategies for helping your team stay creative, and how to encourage brainstorming and ideation on your team.
Start with the Address: Building Community Profiles with U.S. Census Data
Time: Tuesday, March 25, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
FDLP
This workshop will show attendees how to build a community profile using Census data. We will start by locating a business address and then retrieve information from data.census.gov to describe the surrounding area. The major geographic areas will be discussed, but the session will focus on finding data for the Census tracts that are located around that address. Attendees will then learn how to analyze the data with mapping, MS Excel, and Google Sheets. We will also apply the basic principles of effective data visualization.
NCompass Live: Creating Connection in Library Events
Time: Wednesday, March 26, 2025, 11 am Eastern (8 am Pacific | 9 am Mountain | 10 am Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Nebraska Library Commission
Our communities are facing divides and loss of community. From the Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation to the strong political divides we face, members of our communities are feeling separated from one another. In this session, we'll discuss how these divides are occurring, the ramifications of these social separations, and how libraries can provide a direct impact on these issues and the lives of our communities.
Please note that registration for this session closes Monday, March 24 in the evening.
Back to Basics: Reference Skills
Time: Wednesday, March 26, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
PCI Webinars
Are your reference skills ready for a refresh? Join us for a practical and engaging webinar designed for librarians and library staff who want to sharpen their foundational reference abilities.
This session will empower you with:
Effective Reference Interview Techniques: Discover strategies to better understand and meet patrons' needs.
Top Reliable Sources: Learn about free, trusted websites and databases for accurate and up-to-date information.
Specialized Resources: Explore new and enduring search tools, along with essential health and government information sources
Organization Tips: Develop a personalized reference library and implement effective strategies for tracking and managing your resources
Kira Smith ~ Biography
Kira Smith has been a dedicated Virtual Reference Specialist with Florida’s Ask A Librarian service for over 15 years. A recipient of multiple Exemplary Reference Awards, Kira is passionate about guiding people to the information they need. In addition to her work in virtual reference, she freelances as a research consultant for journalists, providing expert insights and fact-finding services. Kira also regularly hosts webinars, sharing her knowledge and experience in the fields of online reference and information literacy.
Her diverse background includes experience as an elementary school teacher and a certified childbirth educator, adding depth to her understanding of teaching and communication. With a love for technology, education, and travel, Kira continually seeks innovative ways to enhance learning experiences and connect with people around the world.
Please note: All PCI Webinars are recorded and will be available on the GPLS Learning Center within a week of the original airdate. Kindly refrain from contacting the host for a copy of the recording.
Random House Children’s Books Summer 2025 Preview
Time: Wednesday, March 26, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Booklist
Mark your calendars! Wednesday, March 26 at 2:00 pm is the Random House Children’s Books Summer 2025 Preview! Join the National Book Award winning author, Jeanne Birdsall, in conversation with Melanie Nolan, V.P. & Publisher of Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, as they discuss Jeanne’s latest book, The Library of Unruly Treasures, and the inspirations behind it. This 90-minute webinar will showcase exciting previews of titles set to release in Summer 2025, presented by the RHCB School & Library team. Best of all, it’s free and open to all curious bookworms—so don’t forget to register! Moderated by Booklist's Books for Youth senior editor Ronny Khuri.
Note: This webinar lasts 90 minutes
From Classified to Collections: How the National Security Archive Transforms Government Secrets into Research Resources
Time: Thursday, March 27, 2025, 11 am Eastern (8 am Pacific | 9am Mountain | 10 am Central)
Cost: Free
Description
ProQuest
Every academic librarian knows the challenge: researchers need authoritative primary sources they can trust completely. Join Tom Blanton, Director of the National Security Archive at George Washington University, as he opens the vault on declassified documents that transform how students and faculty understand history. See how these materials – from presidential decision memos to intelligence reports – provide the hard evidence researchers need to validate their work.
Digital Advocacy for Career Progression in Nonprofits
Time: Thursday, March 27, 2025, 1 pm Eastern (10 am Pacific | 11 am Mountain | 12 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Charity Village
In today’s fast-paced digital world, advocacy isn’t just for advancing organizational missions—it’s a powerful strategy for personal career growth. This webinar is designed specifically for professionals in the nonprofit sector, providing practical tools to build an effective online presence. Learn how to highlight your achievements, connect with mentors and peers, and expand your professional network. This session empowers you to align your career progression with the values and mission of the nonprofit world. Gain actionable insights into creating a professional digital presence that aligns with the needs and values of the nonprofit sector. Master strategies to engage with online communities, build credibility, and connect with mentors and like-minded professionals. Develop a step-by-step plan to showcase your achievements, advocate for career goals, and expand your opportunities in meaningful and authentic ways. This webinar will be of primary interest to nonprofit professionals, nonprofit job seekers, nonprofit leaders, and Board members.
Info2Go! Becoming a Dementia Friend
Time: Thursday, March 27, 2025, 1 pm Eastern (10 am Pacific | 11 am Mountain | 12 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Idaho Commission for Libraries
In the United States more than 6 million people are living with dementia, a term used to describe a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities. People with dementia can lead lives filled with connection, love, and growth if they have adequate support and a friendly community. It is likely that your library is already serving people with dementia in your community, and one thing you can do to serve them well is by learning about what dementia is, how it affects people, and how you can make a difference by becoming a Dementia Friend. A Dementia Friend is someone who chooses to learn about dementia and then turns that understanding into action. Dementia Friends Idaho is a part of a global movement that is changing the way people think, act, and talk about dementia in their communities.
Tell Great Nonprofit Stories, Ethically!
Time: Thursday, March 27, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific | 12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Volunteer Match
Join Carly Euler from MemoryFox in conversation with Jennifer Bennett, CVA as they discuss what it means to tell great nonprofit stories, ethically. Carly joins us to share key takeaways from MemoryFox's 2024 Ethical Storytelling Report and she and Jennifer will discuss how we can tell stories about the communities we serve without exploiting them.
Action-First Learning Using Digital Comics and Superheroes to Achieve Learning Success
Time: Thursday, March 27, 2025, 3 pm Eastern (12 pm Pacific | 1 pm Mountain | 2 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Training Magazine Network
Through real-world case studies and practical applications, you’ll see how organizations are using this innovative approach to teach critical concepts. Plus, gain actionable insights on designing your own interactive comic-based learning experiences that boost retention, motivation, and workplace application.
For Managers and Supervisors: Cultivating an Inclusive Workplace for Neurodivergent Staff
Time: Wednesday, April 2, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
PCI Webinars
Library managers and supervisors are responsible for creating a welcoming, supportive, and safe environment for the staff and teams they supervise. In this webinar, gain an understanding of the term neurodiversity and learn about the strengths of those who are neurodiverse.
Learn from real-life workplace scenarios and gain practical strategies and tools for supporting inclusion of the neurodivergent volunteers and employees in your organization.
Renee Grassi ~ Biography
Author, trainer, librarian, administrator, teacher, and accessibility consultant Renee Grassi is an advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in libraries, schools, and communities. As a neurodivergent librarian herself, Renee has worked in public libraries for over 17 years, developing award-winning library initiatives that welcome, support, and welcome disabled residents and their families and caregivers. Learn more at reneegrassi.com.
Please note: All PCI Webinars are recorded and will be available on the GPLS Learning Center within a week of the original airdate. Kindly refrain from contacting the host for a copy of the recording.
The First Amendment and Libraries
Time: Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Niche Academy
Join Matt Beckstrom to learn about developing and updating library policies and offering spaces and services with the First Amendment in mind.
The First Amendment affects how libraries operate in so many ways that understanding it has become a vital skill for librarians.
Join Matt Beckstrom for this webinar on developing and updating library policies and offering spaces and services with the First Amendment in mind.
Starting with the founding of the Bill of Rights, Matt will discuss many of the rulings and legal cases that have molded the way the First Amendment affects libraries.
If you're interested but not able to attend the live webinar, go ahead and register. We'll send a recording to all registrants after the fact.
Focusing on Focus Groups
Time: Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
PCI Webinars
Are you thinking about hosting focus groups? This session is designed to equip librarians and non-profit professionals with the essential skills to conduct effective focus groups. Delve into the intricacies of gathering qualitative data and harnessing valuable insights to inform strategic decision-making.
This session will explore best practices for designing, facilitating, and analyzing focus group discussions tailored specifically for the unique needs of libraries and non-profit organizations. Whether you’re seeking to enhance community engagement, refine program offerings, or evaluate user experiences, this webinar promises to provide actionable techniques and valuable guidance to maximize the impact of your organization’s initiatives.
Dr. Curtis Rogers ~ Biography
Dr. Curtis Rogers is a library consultant who has worked in the library and information science field for over 35 years. He has worked at the Union (SC) Carnegie Library, and the Charleston County (SC) Public Library, and retired as the Communications Director of the South Carolina State Library. He has also taught courses at the University of South Carolina School of Library and Information Science. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Geography, a Master of Library and Information Science, and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of South Carolina. In 2008, he was President of the South Carolina Library Association.
Please note: All PCI Webinars are recorded and will be available on the GPLS Learning Center within a week of the original airdate. Kindly refrain from contacting the host for a copy of the recording.
Andragogy: Understanding Adult Learners
Time: Wednesday, April 16, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Niche Academy
Tap into learners’ intrinsic motivation and prior knowledge
Laura Saunders and Melissa Wong discuss adult learning theories and share strategies for tapping into learners’ intrinsic motivation and prior knowledge.
Most learning theories and the instructional design practices derived from them are based on our understanding of how children learn. Adult learners come to instruction with more extensive and varied experiences and social roles, which impact their needs and should influence our instruction.
Join Laura Saunders and Melissa Wong for this webinar on andragogy. They will discuss the theory of andragogy, or adult learning, including constructivist and humanist approaches to teaching adults, along with strategies for tapping into their intrinsic motivation and building on prior knowledge.
If you're interested but not able to attend the live webinar, go ahead and register. We'll send a recording to all registrants after the fact.
Enhancing Your Energy and Enthusiasm
Time: Wednesday, April 16, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
PCI Webinars
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to live each day enthusiastically and energetically? Your fatigue, which is telling you something, can stem from your food choices, mindset, sleep cycle, decision making, thinking patterns, movement, grief, lack of purpose, or worry.
There are simple steps you can take to bring enthusiasm and energy back to each day!
As a result of this program, attendees will:
Discover 3 things each that drain and replenish your energy and enthusiasm
Create a roadmap to maximizing your energy
Describe how your physical, mental, and emotional well-being affect your energy and enthusiasm
Laura Greco – Biography
Laura Greco, RN, MEd is a certified wellness coach and speaker who facilitates learning and changing habits. She helps professionals eliminate burnout, manage stress, create life balance, and rekindle their sense of purpose and joy.
Self-care (body, mind, and spirit) is the basis for well-being and we all have the capacity to make positive lifestyle changes are two of her foundational beliefs. She is the author of Wellness Made Simple. For more information, please visit her website www.YouBloomWellness.com.
Please note: All PCI Webinars are recorded and will be available on the GPLS Learning Center within a week of the original airdate. Kindly refrain from contacting the host for a copy of the recording.
Disciplinary Differences: Generative AI in the Research and Publication Process
Time: Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Niche Academy
Learn how GenAI has changed academic publishing
Evan Allgood shares how GenAI has impacted different academic disciplines and changed the publishing process.
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has exploded onto the scene, leaving librarians scrambling to keep up with the latest news and use cases. Some academic disciplines have incorporated GenAI quickly, and others have written it off altogether, creating inconsistencies across the academic landscape. Understanding disciplinary differences in GenAI use and how these differences impact publication is a critical step in contextualizing and understanding recent sources.
In this webinar, assistant managing editor of Library Trends, Evan Allgood, will provide an overview of how GenAI has impacted different academic disciplines, a deep dive into how GenAI has changed the publishing process, and a set of resources to help your patrons understand this ever-changing landscape.
If you're interested but not able to attend the live webinar, go ahead and register. We'll send a recording to all registrants after the fact.
Managing Difficult Employee Behaviors
Time: Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
PCI Webinars
Effectively managing challenging employee behaviors requires a balance of strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and strategic problem-solving. This program will provide you with practical tools and techniques to address difficult situations while fostering open dialogue and a respectful workplace culture.
Whether you’re managing resistance to feedback, addressing negativity, or resolving team conflicts, this workshop will empower you to confidently lead with effective communication and proven strategies for success.
Key points covered:
Identify underlying causes of challenging behaviors
Strengthen communication skills to navigate tough conversations with clarity and empathy
Apply conflict resolution techniques to build collaboration and trust
Develop actionable plans to prevent and manage recurring issues
Dr. Stevie Munz ~ Biography
Dr. Stevie M. Munz, Ph.D. is an award-winning teacher and researcher with 10+ years of experience in the communication field. She has led hundreds of discussion forums, presentations, trainings, and workshops. As a communication expert, she is passionate about developing your communication power skills!
Please note: All PCI Webinars are recorded and will be available on the GPLS Learning Center within a week of the original airdate. Kindly refrain from contacting the host for a copy of the recording.
Start Your Community's Journey to Information Literacy
Time: Wednesday, April 30, 2025, 10 am Eastern (7 am Pacific |8 am Mountain | 9 am Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Indiana State Library
In 2024 the Institute of Museum and Library Services launched a new website to provide resources to teach about the different types of literacy there are including information literacy, digital literacy, financial literacy, health literacy, and science literacy. The website includes programming resources to help develop skills in using and understanding information in a quickly changing world. In addition, the website includes training resources specifically for professionals, funding opportunities to promote information literacy, ready-made lesson plans, evaluation tools, and more. Please join us for a look at what can be accomplished using the materials available on the website.
Trauma-Informed Libraries - What are they, why do they matter, and how do we become one?
Time: Wednesday, April 30, 2025, 2 pm Eastern (11 am Pacific |12 pm Mountain | 1 pm Central)
Cost: Free
Description
PCI Webinars
Trauma-Informed Libraries has become a buzz word in the field and seemingly everywhere, but what exactly does it mean? In this webinar, we will take deep dive into providing easy to digest explanations of what it means to be trauma-informed, why does it matter, and simple, actionable steps that professionals working in libraries can take to implement at their libraries from small scale to large scale.
Trauma and traumatic events impact approximately 90% of adults in the United States. And according to the large-scale study conducted in the late 1990s by the CDC and Kaiser Permanente, traumatic events that occur in childhood otherwise known as Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) impacted 64% of the study participants and that those traumatic events in childhood later impacted health outcomes for adults.
Trauma is ubiquitous, so what do we do about it? Join Bea and find out.
As a result of this program, attendees will:
Understand key definitions as it pertains to both trauma and trauma-informed practices.
Understand the importance of cultivating a trauma-informed philosophy at your organization and as part of your work style.
Learn how to implement strategies at your organization.
Bea Forkan ~ Biography
Bea Forkan is a writer and librarian based outside of Chicago. She holds a certification in ACEs through the ACE Interface company and has worked with youth and family services in the public library sector for 13 years. She has a special interest in providing services and collections that serve new parents and babies and is committed to providing services that reach marginalized populations. Outside of library work, she also runs an adventure travel company, Vacation Writing, that offers international writing retreats.
Please note: All PCI Webinars are recorded and will be available on the GPLS Learning Center within a week of the original airdate. Kindly refrain from contacting the host for a copy of the recording.
What’s Up Wednesday – Small Adjustments for Big Change
Time: Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 10 am Eastern (7 am Pacific | 8 am Mountain | 9 am Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Indiana State Library
Hear about the programs that have influenced one library’s community, including diversifying collections, creating spaces for different age groups, implementing food security programs, getting outside of library walls, implementing 24-hour book pickup, and offering take-home crafts, all on a small budget in a small building. You’ll look at how some of the programs were planned and work together as a team to share successful programs and identify other ways to make big changes with small adjustments.
What’s Up Wednesday – Invisible Faces
Time: Wednesday, June 11, 2025, 10 am Eastern (7 am Pacific | 8 am Mountain | 9 am Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Indiana State Library
This webinar will cover the definition of human trafficking and its forms, the risks, the language, unacknowledged victims, identification and myths.
What’s Up Wednesday – A Trauma Informed Care for Grieving Families
Time: Wednesday, June 25, 2025, 10 am Eastern (7 am Pacific | 8 am Mountain | 9 am Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Indiana State Library
Objectives of this webinar are to learn how grief affects children at different developmental stages. The Do’s and Don’ts of trauma informed responses. And how to best support grieving youth and families.
Tearing Down Barriers to Accessibility: The Road to Becoming A Certified Autism Center and Looking Ahead
Time: Wednesday, July 9, 2025, 10 am Eastern (7 am Pacific | 8 am Mountain | 9 am Central)
Cost: Free
Description
Indiana State Library
The Fort Ben Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library was given the opportunity to become a Certified Autism Center through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) in 2023 when the branch first opened. Branch Manager, Shelby Peak, and Children's Librarian, Sarah Tadsen, both disability advocates in their community, will share Fort Ben's story of pursuing accreditation and the impact this process has had on the branch staff, the local community, and the entire IndyPL system.
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