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Welcome to the 2024 joint conference for the Utah Library Association and Mountain Plains Library Association!
Wifi network ULA-MPLA 2024, password ULAMPLA24
Wednesday, May 8
 

7:30am MDT

Registration
Wednesday May 8, 2024 7:30am - 4:30pm MDT
Upper Mezzanine

8:30am MDT

Headshots from Career Services (8:30am-4pm)
Career Services is offering free headshots for resumes! There are times available during pre-conference day on Wednesday, May 8th. Please sign up for the time that works best for you! We will meet in the room by the registration desk. Plan for at least 15 minutes or up to 30. If you have any questions, please reach out to Becca at Becca.Lael@ParkCity.org. After you sign up, you will receive an email confirmation from Becca.

Sign up here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1NnWbCQSTRnLdbyQj-Lw-evxx1a8PQ4ijof-D1VlQGvo/edit?usp=sharing

Moderators
avatar for Becca Lael

Becca Lael

Park City Library

Wednesday May 8, 2024 8:30am - 4:00pm MDT
Upper Mezzanine

8:45am MDT

Quiet Space
A Quiet Space is available in Room 257 B for attendees who need space to de-stress and unwind.

Wednesday May 8, 2024 8:45am - 4:30pm MDT
257 B

9:00am MDT

Library Ethics: What Would You Do? (half day)
Librarians face ethical issues all the time. This session aims to create open discussion about library core values and ethics. Our session provides real life library ethical scenarios, followed by a discussion with experienced trainers, Patty Collins and Gail Santy. We will discuss sticky situations when personal ethics and professional ethics may collide. This is a highly interactive session; audience participation is encouraged. We will provide helpful resources and ample time for audience Q & A.

Speakers
avatar for Patty Collins

Patty Collins

CentralKansasLibrarySystem


Wednesday May 8, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm MDT
255 A

9:00am MDT

Reference Mapping: Introducing Front Line Support Staff to the Reference Interview (half day)
A library is a horde of treasure. But it is a treasure often hidden from those we serve. Join us as we explore the map of reference and learn techniques to teach supporting staff how to use the power of asking the right questions to help patrons find the treasure they seek.

Speakers
avatar for Mary Chapman

Mary Chapman

Humanities Reference & Instruction Specialist, Brigham Young University
avatar for Deanna Simonis

Deanna Simonis

Salt Lake County Library System



Wednesday May 8, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm MDT
255 D

9:00am MDT

Design Accessible Infographics to Market Your Library (full day)
Are you looking for creative ways to market your programs or enhance your event posters? Do your reports leave something to be desired? Do you want to take your presentations to the next level? If so, learn all this and more in our hands-on session on designing accessible infographics. For the hands-on portion of this session, you will need to bring a laptop or tablet and any materials (posters, flyers, reports, etc.) you would like to make accessible while still allowing for creativity.

There will be a break for lunch from 12pm-1:30pm.

Speakers
avatar for April K. Miller

April K. Miller

Access & Outreach Services Librarian, Southwestern Oklahoma State University
April K. Miller, Assistant Professor at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU), is the Access & Outreach Librarian and is also in charge of the Reference department. She holds a B.A. in Graphic Design from SWOSU and an M.L.I.S. from the University of Oklahoma. April has been... Read More →


Wednesday May 8, 2024 9:00am - 4:30pm MDT
258

9:00am MDT

New and Official RDA: A Sampling of the PCC Training Course (full day)
"Official" RDA is coming soon. Be prepared by sampling parts of the Program for Cooperative Cataloging's official training course. The intended audience is everyday catalogers, but policy makers at ULA libraries and anyone who is interested in where cataloging is headed are also welcome. Presenter Robert L. Maxwell is a NARDAC (North American RDA Committee) member, the North American representative to the RDA Steering Committee, and a member of the PCC task group that developed the training being presented today. We will be exploring the RDA Toolkit together, so please bring a laptop and your institution's RDA Toolkit username and password if you have one (free access will also be provided for the day if you don't have that information).

There will be a break for lunch from 12pm-1:30pm.

Speakers
avatar for Robert L. Maxwell

Robert L. Maxwell

Senior Librarian, Brigham Young University, Harold B. Lee Library


Wednesday May 8, 2024 9:00am - 4:30pm MDT
259

10:50am MDT

Morning Break
Wednesday May 8, 2024 10:50am - 11:00am MDT
Upper Mezzanine

11:00am MDT

FamilySearch Library Tour
This tour is an in-depth look at the resources the FamilySearch Library has to offer its guests. We will highlight special features on each of the five floors and answer any questions that you may have. The FamilySearch Library has 2.4 million rolls of microfilm, 1 million microfiche cards, over 600,000 books and serial publications, and over 17,000 maps. We have a new state-of-the-art media conversion center and a large family discovery center with giant touch-screen monitors where you can explore information in your family tree.

Space is limited to 15 attendees. Priority will be given to people who pre-registered during conference registration.

Meet in the FamilySearch Library lobby at 11am. The address is 35 N West Temple, one block north of the Salt Palace Convention Center.

Wednesday May 8, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
FamilySearch Library 35 N W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150

12:00pm MDT

Lunch On Your Own
Wednesday lunch is on your own. There are many food options within a short walk or TRAX ride of the Salt Palace. Here are a few suggestions:

Wednesday May 8, 2024 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Your Choice

1:30pm MDT

FamilySearch Library Tour
This tour is an in-depth look at the resources the FamilySearch Library has to offer its guests. We will highlight special features on each of the five floors and answer any questions that you may have. The FamilySearch Library has 2.4 million rolls of microfilm, 1 million microfiche cards, over 600,000 books and serial publications, and over 17,000 maps. We have a new state-of-the-art media conversion center and a large family discovery center with giant touch-screen monitors where you can explore information in your family tree.

Space is limited to 15 attendees. Priority will be given to people who pre-registered during conference registration.

Meet in the FamilySearch Library lobby at 11am. The address is 35 N West Temple, one block north of the Salt Palace Convention Center.

Wednesday May 8, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
FamilySearch Library 35 N W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150

1:30pm MDT

Empowering Your Staff: Creating a Scaffolded System for Developing Your In-House Leaders (half day)
Did you know you can develop leaders in your library through play? You will be on your feet as you participate in our 5 pirate-themed activities and games that focus on leadership. Loot these ideas to empower your own library crew.

Speakers
avatar for Eileen Wright

Eileen Wright

Library Director, Montana State University Billings Library
I have spent 23 years at MSU Billings Library, where I have been a Librarian/Archivist.  This past year I transitioned into the role of Library Director. Our presentation for this conference focuses on leadership.  Hence, I need to state that I am and will continue to be an adaptive... Read More →
avatar for Judi Boyce

Judi Boyce

Assistant Director, Sublette County Library


Wednesday May 8, 2024 1:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
255 D

1:30pm MDT

Brain-Building at the Library (half day)
Did you know 90% of brain development happens in the first 5 years of a baby’s life? Come learn about the latest research on brain development from Envision Utah, a non-profit organization empowering families, caregivers and communities.

Speakers
LM

Laurel Miller-Jones

Envision Utah, The Early Learning Project
The Early Learning Project at Envision Utah promotes nurturing interactions between adults and the children in their lives by providing free trainings, support, and materials on brain building, brain development, trauma informed teaching methods, and more! Through positive adult-child... Read More →
TA

Travis Allred

Envision Utah, The Early Learning Project
The Early Learning Project at Envision Utah promotes nurturing interactions between adults and the children in their lives by providing free trainings, support, and materials on brain building, brain development, trauma informed teaching methods, and more! Through positive adult-child... Read More →



Wednesday May 8, 2024 1:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
255 A

3:20pm MDT

Afternoon Break
Wednesday May 8, 2024 3:20pm - 3:30pm MDT
Upper Mezzanine

4:30pm MDT

MPLA Opening Board Meeting
Wednesday May 8, 2024 4:30pm - 5:30pm MDT
260 A

5:00pm MDT

Wednesday Evening Social: Dinner at Squatters
Join us for dinner at Squatter’s Brew Pub! Come and get to know colleagues from around the state and the mountain plains. (Food is not provided.)

Location: Squatters Pub Brewery, 147 W Broadway Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Time: 5:00-7:00pm (we will be meeting at the Salt Palace main entrance at 4:45pm to walk over together)

For more info or questions, please email maggie_marchant@byu.edu or edjohnson@slcolibrary.org.



Wednesday May 8, 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Squatters Pub Brewery 147 W Broadway, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA

9:30pm MDT

Hot Tub Roundtable
Dive into the camaraderie at the Hot Tub Roundtable—an informal gathering during the ULA/MPLA conference, where members and non-members can relax, network, and chat in the cozy ambiance of the MPLA President's suite. Despite the absence of a hot tub, we're bringing the spirit alive by filling the sink with warm water and floating our famous rubber duckies for a uniquely enjoyable experience.

Wednesday May 8, 2024 9:30pm - 11:00pm MDT
MPLA Presidential Suite, Marriott City Center Hotel, 15th Floor
 
Thursday, May 9
 

7:30am MDT

Early Morning Coffee Service
Sponsored by Counting Opinions


Thursday May 9, 2024 7:30am - 8:30am MDT
Upper Mezzanine

7:30am MDT

Registration
Thursday May 9, 2024 7:30am - 4:00pm MDT
Upper Mezzanine

8:00am MDT

MPLA Past Presidents Council
Thursday May 9, 2024 8:00am - 8:20am MDT
260 A

8:00am MDT

Silent Auction
Come join us for the annual ULA Silent Auction! Proceeds from the Silent Auction go directly into the ULA Scholarship Fund. Donations will be displayed in Exhibit Hall 2 beginning Thursday morning and the auction will conclude that same day at 5:30pm at the end of the Networking Social. Bidding and purchasing will be done online. See you there!

2024 ULA Silent Auction Site: https://auctria.events/2024_ULA_Silent_Auction 

Thursday May 9, 2024 8:00am - 5:30pm MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

8:15am MDT

Quiet Space
A Quiet Space is available in Room 257 B for attendees who need space to de-stress and unwind.

Thursday May 9, 2024 8:15am - 4:10pm MDT
257 B

8:30am MDT

Presidents' Address & Keynote - Sara Jones
Speakers
avatar for Patrick Hoecherl

Patrick Hoecherl

Salt Lake City Public Library
avatar for Sara Jones

Sara Jones

Sara Jones is the President of InclusionPro® and a self-proclaimed bookworm. TED featured Sara’s honest and sometimes heartbreaking talk about the emotional complexity of international adoption at go.ted.com/sarajones. Sara volunteers for Adoptees for Justice to pass the Adoptee Citizenship Act. Sara is on Utah State Workforce Development Board, National Association of Corporate Directors Utah Chapter Board, and is a TEDxSaltLakeCity speaker coach. In 2007, Sara co-founded Women Tech Council (WTC) a national organization focusin... Read More →
AR

Amadee Ricketts

MPLA President, Cochise County Library


Thursday May 9, 2024 8:30am - 9:40am MDT
255 B/C

9:40am MDT

Morning Break & Exhibit Hall Opens
Thursday May 9, 2024 9:40am - 10:10am MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

9:40am MDT

Career Services Booth
Visit the Career Services Booth! We will be located in the Exhibit Hall and the booth will be staffed:
Thursday 9:40 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday 10:15 AM - 4:00 PM

  • Review open positions in Utah
  • Get feedback on CVs/resumés
  • Get career advice
  • Ask questions about interviewing strategies and best practices



Thursday May 9, 2024 9:40am - 4:00pm MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

9:40am MDT

Copyright Booth
Got copyright questions? Visit the Copyright “Librarian is IN” booth! The booth will be located across from the registration desk and will be staffed by members of ULA’s Copyright Education Round Table during the following times:
  • Thursday: 9:40am–12:00pm, 1:30pm–4:00pm
  • Friday: 10:15am–11:45am


Thursday May 9, 2024 9:40am - 4:00pm MDT
Upper Mezzanine

9:40am MDT

Poster Sessions
What Makes a Learned Person - Connecting Marketing Poster Art with UX
Charlene Brewer, Southern Utah University
It began with a challenge, "what makes a learned person?" As a librarian, challenge
accepted! But don't take my word for it, I use words of those more eloquent. A marketing
poster brings Southern Utah University's Gerald R. Sherratt Library to the students' pockets for ultimate UX with a parting challenge through the art.

Discovering Little Blue Books
Ashley Shaw, University of Utah Marriott Library
In 2022, the J. Willard Marriott Library’s Rare Books department received a large collection of “Little Blue Books”, an extensive series of pocket-sized pamphlet books produced by Haldeman-Julius during the first half of the 20th century. In the process of determining which ones to keep, a cataloger discovered that there were not only variants, but also peculiarities within the variants themselves. Research led to discovering the intricacies of these seemingly simple pamphlet books, and the cataloger was able to better describe the quirks of each item in catalog records and provide insight into mass printing practices of the time.

From Digital Preservation to Open Educational Repository: How a Photo Digitization Project Transformed into a Library-Developed Open Educational Repository
Bryan Hull, Carmin Smoot, Julia Curtis, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah
DERM (Dermatology Education Resources & Modules) is a collaborative effort between a university department of dermatology and an academic health sciences library to produce an open educational platform for the discipline of dermatology. The project began as an effort to digitize a collection of 14,000 Kodachrome slides depicting clinical presentations of dermatological conditions taken and donated by a former faculty member of the department. The project soon morphed into developing a custom-made platform to explore selections of the images using diagnoses, clinical features, and textbook references. This poster outlines the development process and presents outcomes of the project so far.

Between the Covers and in the Stacks: Understanding Artists’ Books in Special Collections
Emily Hernandez, University of Utah
This poster will introduce the audience to artists’ books with a selection of examples from the University of Utah’s collection. It will focus on how the particular terminology used to describe the items by makers necessitates expanded controlled vocabulary for catalogers and how University of Utah’s resource, Opening Artists’ Books, provides a connection between the two in order to aid discoverability and assist in student research.

Maintaining a Digital Library Collaboration: Lessons Learned from Sophie
Adam Griggs, Ben Peterson, Brigham Young University
The Sophie project is a collaboration between the Harold B. Lee Library and BYU’s German department, to acquire, preserve, transcribe, and digitize the works of female German authors. With hundreds of thousands of downloads, these publications provide researchers a glimpse into the life, times, struggles, and contributions of these early female authors through a variety of mediums and genres. The poster will demonstrate how students and staff adapted and integrated new systems to ready these documents for publication. We will also show how we continue to incorporate new methods and technologies into this collection to meet researchers’ needs.

Archival Education To-go: Creating Primary Source Education Kits at New Mexico State University Archives
Erin Wahl, David Irvin, New Mexico State University
In spring of 2023, I wrote and received a small grant to create primary source education kits at NMSU. These kits, processed as though they were a real collection, would contain facsimiles of portions of each of our collections (University Archives, Rio Grande Historical Collection and Political Collection), lesson plans for 1-12th grade and College level students, and links to online "expansion packs" all designed for checkout to the university and surrounding communities. These kits enable archivists to extend their education efforts beyond the building and time allotments of archivists and engage New Mexico's communities in primary sources in a new way. This poster will go over the purpose, process, and future of the new primary source education kits at New Mexico State University. Included on the poster will be an anatomy of a box and links to further resources.

Tenure Track Librarian Burnout Before and During COVID-19
Erin Wahl, New Mexico State University
From July-October 2021 we undertook a national survey of tenure-track librarians and archivists to see how burnout related specifically to the areas of support and workload was being affected by COVID-19. The results are currently being analyzed with the hopes of producing two scholarly articles; one on the quantitative and related data and another on some open-ended qualitative questions at the end of the survey. This poster will focus on the qualitative data gathered during the process, which asked librarians and archivists to consider what other factors may have contributed to their feelings of burnout during the pandemic. This information is important for the sustainability of the library profession across the country.

Crafts! Crafts! Crafts! All I hear, all day long, is how great crafts are...
Deanna Duffy, Las Cruces Public Libraries
When we’re kids in school we get recess, a special time set aside to turn our minds off and just play. Sadly, as we get older, recess goes away. Let’s bring it back! Why craft programs are important and how to make them great.

Speakers
avatar for Ashley Shaw

Ashley Shaw

Special Collections Cataloging Specialist, University of Utah
avatar for Erin Renee Wahl

Erin Renee Wahl

Assistant Professor/University Archivist, New Mexico State University


Thursday May 9, 2024 9:40am - 5:30pm MDT
Lower Mezzanine

10:10am MDT

Reducing Library Anxiety Through Playfulness
Academic libraries are often intimidating institutions, especially for first year and/or first-generation students. Incorporating creativity and playfulness can help alleviate library anxiety and reduce the barriers that prevent students from accessing the wealth of resources libraries offer. It can also improve students' creativity and increase feelings of belonging in the library and on campus. Through individual and coordinated efforts, the BYU Library has utilized a variety of activities to help students get to know and feel comfortable in the library. Whether its library-wide medieval themed events, coloring pages or Legos at reference desks, culturally inclusive library displays, or library participation in campus-wide events, feedback from students shows that these efforts are valuable and appreciated.

Speakers
JS

Jennifer Schill

Holds Supervisor, Brigham Young University


Thursday May 9, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
155 B

10:10am MDT

Library Architecture: Practical Solutions for Contemporary Problems
The societal role of libraries in modern times has diverged significantly from what is historically expected. Progress in technology and library philosophy has expanded the variety of services that can be offered. The resulting shift from collection to community-oriented methods is not without its problems. Solutions will be derived from an architectural perspective. They will be split into two categories: form and function. Explored concepts will include accessibility, lighting, perspective, wayfinding, floorplans, acoustics, and more. Examples will be utilized to show efficacious implementation of these ideas. Library services are being reimagined over time and so to must library architecture.

Speakers
avatar for Sameem Kanishka

Sameem Kanishka

Salt Lake County Library
Shelver with the Salt Lake County Library system. I speak excessively about architecture and robotics.



Thursday May 9, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
259

10:10am MDT

Reshaping Libraries: The Power of Branding and Voice
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. The story of the Elko, Lander, Eureka County Library District, offers a compelling roadmap for transformation. To mark their 100 year anniversary, they redefined their purpose, rebranded as “Mybrary”, and shifted from a passive organization to an outspoken and engaging community participant. One year later Mybrary is a blueprint of what’s possible when a library defines their unique brand, finds their voice, and uses it to engage, advocate, and build alliances.

Speakers
avatar for Corey Hayes

Corey Hayes

Co-owner, Get Back Here Dog
Corey is a partner at Get Back Here Dog, a strategic communications firm that works with libraries and private industry to align initiatives both internally and externally. A business strategist who has spent his career in the consulting space, Corey helps organizations find their... Read More →


Thursday May 9, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
155 A

10:10am MDT

They're Free, Now What?: Finding and Using Government Documents
Here are some tips and tricks on navigating and maximizing your use of Government Documents.

Speakers
avatar for Brian Wages

Brian Wages

History and Political Science Librarian, Brigham Young University



Thursday May 9, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
255 F

10:10am MDT

Beyond Late Fees: What a Stray Cat Taught Me About Library Service
When a library charges fees, denies service, or requires patrons to jump through hoops to gain access, who benefits? Certainly not the patrons that need library service the most. This presentation will discuss how one rural public library learned to take a hard look at what it really means to provide library service focused on empowering all community members through the eyes of a stray cat that adopted the library.

Speakers
avatar for Carrie Valdes

Carrie Valdes

Library Director, Grand County Public Library
I have been the Director of the Grand County Public Library in Moab, UT since 2007 although I have worked at the library for almost 24 years. I have a MLS from the University of North Texas and a Bachelor’s in Human Resources. I have lived in Utah all my life (except for a brief... Read More →



Thursday May 9, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
258

10:10am MDT

Filling the Gap: Creating Children's Programming That Meets Your Community's Needs
In the past two years, the Springville Public Library Children’s Department has implemented two ongoing children’s programs: our after-school Kid Zone and Homeschool Hub. These programs are highly successful ventures that have illuminated previously unmet programming needs in our community. In this session, we’ll discuss the benefits and challenges of developing new and innovative programs, assessing the programming needs within your community and how to meet them, and share program ideas that attendees can implement in their own branches.

Speakers

Thursday May 9, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
255 A

10:10am MDT

Process Art at the Library; or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Paint
Early learning experts tell us that process art—focusing on the experience of creating—is highly beneficial to young children. But in library spaces, we often emphasize crafts with specific steps and a particular end product. In this session, learn about the benefits of process art, see examples of successful process art programs, and develop a process art plan for your library—and do some art along the way. Let’s get messy!

Speakers
avatar for Ellie Arnold

Ellie Arnold

Youth Services Librarian, Salt Lake County Library



Thursday May 9, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
255 E

10:10am MDT

Utah Kids Ready to Read 2.0 Relaunch Party
Join us as we celebrate the relaunch of Utah Kids Ready to Read! Our UKRTR 2.0 is a fresh, updated version, with a new logo, new website, new materials, and training opportunities. Our panelists will discuss the neuroscience of early literacy, share resources on The Science of Reading, and provide tips for incorporating the 5 practices and 6 skills into storytime to model to caregivers. We’ll also share our process of redesigning and relaunching Utah Kids Ready to Read.

Speakers
avatar for Joella Bagshaw

Joella Bagshaw

Children's Services Manager, Provo City Library
Joella is the Children’s Services Manager at the Provo City Library. She has been a librarian for 19 years. She has served on many different ALSC and YALSA Committees—including the Odyssey Award Committee for 2016 and the Excellence in Early Learning and Digital Media Award Committee... Read More →
RB

Rozanna Benally-Sagg

Utah Division of Indian Affairs
SC

Suzanne Christensen

Spanish Fork Library
KH

Kalvina Hanley

Utah State University
HH

Hannah Henrikson

Salt Lake City Library
avatar for Karen Liu

Karen Liu

Youth Services Coordinator, Utah State Library
Public and academic librarianship, international school librarianship, currently State Library Youth Services Coordinator
avatar for Rachel Lenahan

Rachel Lenahan

Training Coordinator, Utah State Library Division
HN

Heather Novotny

The McGillis School
avatar for Shannon Terry

Shannon Terry

Director, Minersville Library



Thursday May 9, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
155 D

11:10am MDT

A Vision for the Future of ULA: An Advocacy Perspective
Libraries in Utah and across the country are seeing a surge of book challenges and anti-access legislation, while organized groups are attacking publicly funded institutions and public servants. What do professional associations like ULA have to do to ensure libraries continue to survive and thrive well into the future? In this session, ULA Advocacy Co-Chairs will lay out a vision for the future of the Utah Library Association; how we can best support members, build public support, inoculate against future challenges, and ensure the long-term health, sustainability, and support of Utah libraries.

Speakers
avatar for Rebekah Cummings

Rebekah Cummings

Digital Matters Librarian, University of Utah
Marriott Library, University of Utah
avatar for Peter Bromberg

Peter Bromberg

Associate Director, EveryLibrary
As Associate Director of EveryLibrary, the first and only 501c4 doing political work in support of libraries, Peter provides direct consulting to libraries and library supporters on advocacy, ballot initiatives, and funding-focused campaigns. He also works nationally to provide support... Read More →



Thursday May 9, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
255 A

11:10am MDT

The Future of Libraries
Each of us has an inner futurist, and if we learn how to hone an Urgent Optimism mindset and how to use Natural Foresight tools, we can shape the future of libraries and our personal futures rather than simply accepting whatever future comes our way. The future does not have to be scary if you approach it with mental flexibility, realistic hope, and with all the future power you possess.

Speakers
avatar for Shelley O'Rourke

Shelley O'Rourke

school librarian, Montana Library Association
I am a soon to be retired school librarian. In retirement, I hope to continue advocating for libraries through the Montana Library Association. I have a second career planned as a novelist and book editor.



Thursday May 9, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
155 B

11:10am MDT

ULA 101 and Power Up Your Professional Development with MPLA
A how-to session for newer ULA Annual Conference attendees. Learn to navigate the exhibits, decipher the conference program, how ULA really works, and ways for to get involved. Did you know that MPLA offers professional development grants to its members? Whether you're an MPLA member or considering membership, join members of MPLA's Professional Development Committee to learn about funding for opportunities such as conferences, workshops, coursework, and more. Plus, we'll offer tips and tricks for finding professional development opportunities that are relevant to your learning needs.

Speakers
avatar for Shay Beezley (she/her)

Shay Beezley (she/her)

Assistant Director, Metadata & Cataloging, University of Central Oklahoma
Shay Beezley, Assistant Director of Metadata and Cataloging at University of Central Oklahoma's Chambers Library, leads a team of six catalogers and up to four student employees in providing accurate, effective and timely access to library resources. As someone that the DiSC assessment... Read More →
avatar for Maggie Marchant

Maggie Marchant

Economics, Finance & Data Librarian, Brigham Young University
I am the Economics, Finance, and Data Librarian at Brigham Young University.  I started my current role in the fall of 2021 and love the opportunity to work with and help students and faculty.  I also love getting to work and constantly learn with great colleagues at BYU and throughout... Read More →
avatar for Emily Johnson

Emily Johnson

Youth Services Librarian, Salt Lake County Library



Thursday May 9, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
258

11:10am MDT

Barbrarianship: Utilizing RPGs for Library Programming
Learn about some of the more popular tabletop RPGs and how to provide tabletop RPG programming that meets the needs of your audience (and your programming budget).

Speakers
avatar for Amber Swartz

Amber Swartz

Adult Services Librarian, Spanish Fork Library
I manage the wayfinding and communication design for the Spanish Fork Library, as well as reference/communication training for staff, adult print collections, and adult/all-ages programming. I've worked in a variety of library settings in various roles for more than 10 years, in addition... Read More →
HS

Hailey Stephenson

Teen Services Librarian, Spanish Fork Library



Thursday May 9, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
255 E

11:10am MDT

Curating Positive Representation through Children's Fairy Tales and Folklore from around the World
Children’s departments have the potential to support the dreams and development of young patrons through positive representation of as many groups as possible. A robust collection of international fairy tales and folklore is one avenue for ensuring this representation. Developing and maintaining such a collection comes with many opportunities and barriers. Amplifying voices of the marginalized must be a priority; however, instances of one group telling another’s stories can result in racism, colorism, misrepresentation, etc. This presentation’s principles to consider when purchasing and weeding (including specific books, myths and stories) will be an invaluable asset to librarians managing these collections.

Speakers


Thursday May 9, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
155 A

11:10am MDT

From Baptists to Buddhists: A Practical Approach to Missionary-Related Subject Heading Enhancement
An essential component of catalog maintenance includes ensuring adequate subject representation within records. However, for many catalogers, the idea of undertaking a catalog record enhancement project can feel intimidating. In this session, we will share our practical approach to revising hundreds of records with missionary-related subject headings representing a wide variety of religions and geographic subdivisions. We will discuss the challenges we faced and outline our step-by-step process, which can be applied by catalogers at any institution.

Speakers

Thursday May 9, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
255 F

11:10am MDT

Ranganathan Was on to Something: The Facets of Classification Schemes
Dr. S. R. Ranganathan proposed that an orderly arrangement of library materials would save time for the reader. Does Dewey still do that in today's libraries? Did it ever? Using examples from school and public libraries of all sizes and locales, we will trace the trend away from Dewey (and touch on why) to discover different options for arranging your library, from BISAC categories to custom-made genrefication schemes. This session may be best suited to library workers who have not had formal cataloging/classification courses, or for those who may have had one but are interested in how classification is evolving.

Speakers
avatar for Anna Szczepanski

Anna Szczepanski

Colleague on Call Consultant, Colorado Library Consortium (CLiC)
Anna Szczepanski has worked in public and school libraries in Colorado since 2000. As CLiC's Colleague on Call Consultant for the Western Slope, she helps rural library directors with anything from collection development to advocacy to training. Like any good librarian, she knows... Read More →



Thursday May 9, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
155 D

11:10am MDT

Teens Talking: Amplifying Young Adult’s Perspectives in Libraries
Teenagers are often left out of conversations about Youth Services in libraries. It's time to pass the microphone to teens. Learn the value of listening, partnering, and working with teens, from real teens. Given the right opportunities, teenagers can be valuable partners in the library world. Teens are capable of creating things that benefit libraries. Teens impact their community through library involvement, when their voices are uplifted into the conversation.

Speakers
avatar for Claire Doctorman

Claire Doctorman

Teen Librarian, Salt Lake City Library
Teen Librarian at the Anderson-Foothill Branch of the Salt Lake City Public Library.



Thursday May 9, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
259

12:00pm MDT

Lunch & Awards Presentation
Lunch and presentation of ULA and MPLA awards.

Thursday May 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

1:30pm MDT

Fostering Belonging Through Displays
Library displays have historically been used to highlight collection items. In recent years displays in the BYU library have been used by some in non-traditional ways to foster belonging and connection with patrons and faculty. For this session we will discuss our journey as we have curated some of these displays and the lessons we have learned in the process. Some of these applications include highlighting the lives and research of faculty and authors; allowing patrons to contribute to displays and have their input seen by others to create a dynamic display; hands-on interactive displays, and augmented reality.

Speakers
avatar for David Pixton

David Pixton

Engineering & Technology Librarian, Brigham Young University
JS

Jennifer Schill

Holds Supervisor, Brigham Young University
PR

Paul Robbins

Brigham Young University
TG

Teresa Gomez

Brigham Young University
DB

Dan Broadbent

Brigham Young University


Thursday May 9, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm MDT
259

1:30pm MDT

Empowering Librarians: Leveraging Data for Enhanced Patron Engagement
To effectively meet the needs of our communities, librarians must embrace data-informed decision-making practices. Data provides valuable insights into community needs, highlights areas of success, and enhances our confidence in decision-making processes. While delving into data analysis may seem daunting, getting started can be simpler than anticipated. This presentation will empower you to initiate and leverage data analysis to enhance patron engagement immediately.

Learning Outcomes:
Understand how to identify primary data sources crucial for informed decision-making.
Understand and apply essential Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor and assess library performance effectively.
Develop strategies to track and measure the impact of library initiatives on patron engagement.


Speakers
avatar for Ryan Patrick

Ryan Patrick

Counting Opinions
Your Library Data Solution. Counting Opinions provides data platforms to capture, manage and report library data easily. Create a data dashboard with your data, add other data sources or copy your data directly into your state survey. Stop by at MPLA and find out how we can solve... Read More →
avatar for Heidi Fendrick

Heidi Fendrick

State Data Coordinator, Utah State Library
With over a decade of experience in libraries, I've been an integral part of the Utah State Library team for more than five years. My passion lies in library data, Census and demographic data, and strategic planning. I am a member of the Public Library Association's Measurement, Evaluation... Read More →


Thursday May 9, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm MDT
255 A

1:30pm MDT

The Curious Case of the Vanishing Librarian: Leaving Our Politics, Religion, and Morals at the Door
In an increasingly politicized, polarized America, how can library professionals hold space for diverse perspectives, experiences, and needs? By leaving our personal politics, religions, and morals out of our work, we can virtually vanish in service of library communities and individual users. In this session, the presenter lays out principles for library work that foreground library users, and encourage library professionals to leave their own politics, religions, and morals at the door.

Speakers
avatar for Chris Younkin

Chris Younkin

Scholarly Communication Librarian, Southern Utah University
Chris Younkin is Scholarly Communication Librarian and Assistant Professor of Library and Information Science at Southern Utah University.


Thursday May 9, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm MDT
258

1:30pm MDT

Here Be Monsters: Reviewing and Maintaining Library Policies
Multiple public library directors will engage in thoughtful presentation and discussion about the needed, and sometimes difficult, hows and whys of maintaining and reviewing library policies and their place amongst laws, procedures, and practices. Tips, hints, and suggestions will be offered by the presenters and welcomed from those in attendance including, but not limited to amusing anecdotes, difficult legal and political conundrums, and positive outcomes.

Speakers
avatar for Josh Johnson

Josh Johnson

Director, Davis County Library
Josh Johnson is the Director of the Davis County Library in Utah and serves on the State Library Board since 2022 (currently Chair). He is passionate about data-driven future planning, collaborative decision-making, and creating learning organizations. He also enjoys time with family... Read More →
avatar for Carla Gordon

Carla Gordon

Director, Provo City Library
avatar for Shawn Bliss

Shawn Bliss

Director, Smithfield Public Library
I'm the director of the Smithfield Public Library, a wonderful small-town Carnegie library in Cache County, Utah. I lead an amazing team of 10 highly committed and creative library specialists, and I absolutely love going to work everyday. I previously worked for the Utah State Library... Read More →



Thursday May 9, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm MDT
155 B

1:30pm MDT

How Rio Rancho Stopped Book Banners in their Tracks—A Library Victory Story
In Spring 2023, the Rio Rancho Public Library faced an unexpected series of book challenges from community members backed by national right-wing extremist groups. City Management, the Governing Body, and the Community quickly pulled together to support the Library in defense of the Freedom to Read and the First Amendment, and enacted an official resolution in support of the Library’s policies and practices. This presentation will tell the story of how the book ban attempt unfolded; share the steps and actions taken by the Library and City in its defense; and offer suggestions on what other public libraries can do to combat these attacks in their own communities.

Speakers
avatar for Jason E. Shoup

Jason E. Shoup

Library Director, Rio Rancho Public Library



Thursday May 9, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm MDT
155 A

1:30pm MDT

Roles and Responsibilities: What Can Come from Clarifying and Agreeing to Expectations
Learn about an initiative at SLCPL to create a foundation of consistent understanding about the expectations of each Public Service role and what that was able to unlock for understanding our gaps in staffing, career advancement, and mentorship opportunities. What started as a way to ensure consistency across the organization turned into a tool to support future staffing requests not only with stories of impact but with hard data.

Speakers
DN

Daniel Neville-Rehbehn

Director of Customer Experience, Salt Lake City Public Library



Thursday May 9, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm MDT
255 E

1:30pm MDT

Expanding Ecological Literacy: Seed Libraries and Gardens at Your Public Library
There are many attributes of the Salt Lake City Public Library that exemplify socio-political equity and sustainability infrastructure. In this presentation we will explore the City Library’s commitment to these values by describing our system-wide seed-lending program as well as The Plot Community Garden, a lively green space where patrons and staff alike can share the wonder and practical reality of growing food. Seed libraries and gardens are essential community resources that have come to the forefront of conversations about climate change, community resilience and food justice. Learn what it takes to start your own seed library and community garden in addition to fostering a culture of ecological literacy at your library.


Thursday May 9, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm MDT
255 F

1:30pm MDT

Starting a Sensory Storytime at Your Library
Creating programs for individuals with sensory needs from scratch can seem daunting. The presenters will discuss their experiences starting and growing these programs at Springville and Spanish Fork Library, with tips for successful storytime activities, identifying community partners, and running a sensory storytime on a low budget.

Speakers
avatar for Kirsa Merrell

Kirsa Merrell

Children's Program Librarian, Spanish Fork Library
Storytime is my happy place! I oversee programs for ages 0-12 and all ages events, supervise a team of amazing program coordinators, and create content for marketing. I am passionate about helping caregivers/children connect and have meaningful experiences with each other. Earlier... Read More →



Thursday May 9, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm MDT
155 D

2:20pm MDT

Afternoon Break & Exhibit Hall
Thursday May 9, 2024 2:20pm - 2:50pm MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

2:50pm MDT

Beyond Eliminating Overdue Fines: Creating a Culture of Trust by Re-evaluating Patron Policies in Access Services
In libraries, we endeavor to promote a welcoming and inclusive experience. However, patron policies, such as overdue fines and restrictive lending rules, can often come up against this objective by creating economic or administrative barriers that can erode trust between staff and patrons. Access Services at Oklahoma State University Libraries has assessed and revised many of its policies to break down these barriers and build back trust. Examples of these changes include streamlining loan rules, creating longer grace periods, and revising lost item billing procedures. I will share what we have learned and our future plans.

Speakers
avatar for Whitney Hilley

Whitney Hilley

Head of Access Services, Oklahoma State University



Thursday May 9, 2024 2:50pm - 3:40pm MDT
255 A

2:50pm MDT

Adult Literacy in Utah: The Impact Your Library Can Have
Approximately 14% of Utah's adult population has low literacy skills and 22% has low numeracy skills. Project Read is one of the only nonprofits in Utah addressing adult literacy. Join a panel of Project Read staff, tutors, students, and librarians to find out more about adult literacy and how your library can help!

Speakers
avatar for Shauna Brown

Shauna Brown

Executive Director, Project Read
Shauna K. Brown is the executive director for Project Read, a nonprofit adult literacy program serving Utah County. She has over 16 years of experience in the fields adult literacy, grant writing, nonprofit administration, and training. Shauna has been the literacy trainer and training... Read More →
avatar for Carla Gordon

Carla Gordon

Director, Provo City Library
MM

Matt McLain

Associate Director of Community Engagement, Salt Lake County Library



Thursday May 9, 2024 2:50pm - 3:40pm MDT
155 A

2:50pm MDT

Community Partnerships
Discover how your library can join forces with your local health department to empower seniors against falls. Learn about the Weber County Library's partnership with the Weber-Morgan Health Department to offer free Tai Chi and "Stepping On" classes. Hear first-hand success stories and leave with actionable steps to duplicate this program in your community.

Speakers
avatar for Deborah Smith

Deborah Smith

Professional Business Manager, Weber County Library
In 2005, I graduated from iSchool at the University of Texas at Austin. Immediately, I was hired by the Weber County Library and moved to Ogden, Utah to work as a youth services librarian/assistant branch manager. I have worked at different locations with diverse a demographic, and... Read More →


Thursday May 9, 2024 2:50pm - 3:40pm MDT
155 D

2:50pm MDT

Free Websites for Family History Researchers
Brush up on some skills! A fun overview of free website sources to help your customer (or yourself!) search for ancestors. Offering reference skills, free website ideas, and general reference service help, you'll walk away feeling you can have a successful service interaction with limited knowledge!

Speakers
CB

Cherie Bush

FamilySearch
Booth(s)-221, 223, 225, 227, 320, 322, 324, 326 Provider of tools and resources for records preservation and online access.



Thursday May 9, 2024 2:50pm - 3:40pm MDT
255 F

2:50pm MDT

Libraries as Career Boosters: Helping Our Patrons Soar
How can libraries support the career and employment needs of patrons? Come learn from the experiences of librarians in both academic and public library settings! The presenters will share best practices for identifying patron needs and designing services to meet them, recommended affordable career research resources, and collaborating with organizations outside the library. Whether you work with students preparing for jobs, individuals returning to the workforce after time away, entrepreneurs and small business owners, or adults looking to switch careers, there are simple ways you can enhance library services to better support patrons.

Speakers
avatar for Maggie Marchant

Maggie Marchant

Economics, Finance & Data Librarian, Brigham Young University
I am the Economics, Finance, and Data Librarian at Brigham Young University.  I started my current role in the fall of 2021 and love the opportunity to work with and help students and faculty.  I also love getting to work and constantly learn with great colleagues at BYU and throughout... Read More →
avatar for Lee Whiting

Lee Whiting

Manager, Salt Lake County Library
Member of the Utah Health Literacy Coalition.  Interested in supporting CHIS Training.  Interested in topics of business librarianship and supporting small business/ entrepreneurial activities in public library settings. Chair-elect ULA Business Roundtable.
JT

Jessica Tuwun

Brigham Young University



Thursday May 9, 2024 2:50pm - 3:40pm MDT
259

2:50pm MDT

We are All Mockingbirds: Imposter Syndrome among Library Employees and How to Manage It
Many library employees (particularly those beginning their library careers) experience imposter syndrome, characterized by feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, and fear of being exposed as a fraud. In this session, we will explore what imposter syndrome is, share our own experiences with it, and learn how to manage it in ourselves and when speaking with others who are dealing with it.

Speakers
avatar for Alyssa Meldrum

Alyssa Meldrum

Library Search and Delivery Supervisor, Brigham Young University, Harold B. Lee Library
I supervise a team of ~18 student employees in searching for library materials for holds, ILL lending, and other various projects. I also oversee the Library Delivery Service, delivering ILLs and materials from our library to department offices on BYU campus. I'm excited to meet with... Read More →



Thursday May 9, 2024 2:50pm - 3:40pm MDT
155 B

2:50pm MDT

In-House Marketing
Are you new to program promotion? Does your library marketing need a facelift? With us you can learn how to better promote your programs, library resources, and more.

Speakers
MC

Michelle Clements

St. George Branch Library


Thursday May 9, 2024 2:50pm - 3:40pm MDT
255 E

2:50pm MDT

Programs On-Demand: Managing On-Demand Programs at a Public Library
Staff from the Provo City Library will discuss their experiences creating and managing on-demand programs (programs patrons schedule on their own time) like escape rooms, murder mystery games, and virtual reality sessions.

Speakers
avatar for Erika Hill

Erika Hill

Community Relations Manager, Provo City Library
I joined the Provo City Library in 2013. In my position I manage marketing, outreach, the Basement Creative Lab, and the Attic exhibition space. Mostly I do a lot of math to hang exhibits, answer many questions, and write great emails.  When not at the library I read, crochet, embroider... Read More →
avatar for Breanne Gilroy

Breanne Gilroy

Adult & Teen Services Manager, Provo City Library
I have been working at the Provo City Library since 2008, and I have been the library's Adult and Teen Services Manager since 2022.  I coordinate a lot of our library's On Demand programming, manage our databases and website, and love seeing what technology opportunities are on the... Read More →


Thursday May 9, 2024 2:50pm - 3:40pm MDT
258

3:50pm MDT

BYU's "Art in the Library" Program
Brigham Young University Library's “Art in the Library” program is unique and separate from its general exhibits program. This session will discuss the history of the program and its purpose, the benefits that it offers to BYU’s students, and potential future changes that may be made to expand and enhance it.


Thursday May 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm MDT
255 A

3:50pm MDT

Online, Offline, & On the Go: Increasing Access to Oral Histories Through Podcasting
This presentation features the Ascent Archive, a podcast of oral histories with rock climbers. In addition to the traditional practice of publishing the transcript and audio to the digital library, we published oral histories on multiple podcast streaming platforms. By publishing on podcast platforms, this project extends access to collections and meets user expectations for modern and mobile listening. The presentation will review the project's implementation, reception, and analytics. Do podcasting techniques expand collection access and add a new method of outreach for digital collections?

Speakers
avatar for Tallie Casucci

Tallie Casucci

University of Utah
RW

Rachel Wittmann

Digital Curation Librarian, University of Utah
Metadata | Digital Collections | Digital Exhibits



Thursday May 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm MDT
255 F

3:50pm MDT

360 History: Creating a Historical Campus Tour Using Thinglink
Take a campus tour without leaving your computer and maybe even learn something about its history. That is what an application called ThingLink has allowed the Archives of Oklahoma State University Libraries to do. Using 360 photos taken around OSU campus, ThingLink allows those images to be manipulated with embedded links that not only map the campus itself, but give historical context of buildings and important OSU figures using digitized archival material and information. Join OSU Archivist Benjamin Hedges as he shows off a personal project and how other institutions can use ThingLink or similar applications to build engagement with an institution and its archive.

Speakers

Thursday May 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm MDT
255 E

3:50pm MDT

Qualitative Analysis on a Budget: Improvising with Free Software
Four librarians from three different institutions engaged in a qualitative research project together. The group held 18 interviews, which were recorded in Zoom, transcribed based on the Zoom transcript, and then coded using free Google software. This session will describe the ups and downs of this qualitative analysis process, including the advantages and disadvantages of doing it on the cheap.

Speakers
avatar for Anne R. Diekema

Anne R. Diekema

Assoc. Professor/Dept. Chair, Southern Utah University
Anne Diekema is Department Chair of the Library & Information Science department at Southern Utah University's Sherratt Library. Anne teaches information literacy and library research skills and studies how to best prepare students for information problem solving in school, profession... Read More →
avatar for Brandon Patterson

Brandon Patterson

University of Utah, Eccles Health Sciences Library
avatar for Betsy Hopkins

Betsy Hopkins

Nursing Librarian, Brigham Young University
Betsy Hopkins is the Nursing Librarian at Brigham Young University. She is interested in the use of metrics in research evaluation and preparing students to succeed in today's complex information environment. She has curated exhibits on Florence Nightingale and early Utah women in... Read More →
avatar for Nena Schvaneveldt

Nena Schvaneveldt

Associate Librarian, University of Utah Eccles Health Sciences Library



Thursday May 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm MDT
258

3:50pm MDT

Your Patrons Are Multilingual — And So Are Scammers
No matter what language your patrons speak, scammers know it fluently. Fraud affects every community, and it’s not unusual for scammers to run their scams in the language we speak at home. In this presentation, we’ll share free FTC resources (available in a dozen languages) for you to distribute to your patrons — and talk about how your patrons can report scams and identity theft in their own language.

Speakers
AL

Ari Lazarus

Federal Trade Commission
The Federal Trade Commission is the nation’s consumer protection agency. The Division of Consumer and Business Education educates consumers about their rights and businesses about their responsibilities. Come by to chat about how we can partner with your library!



Thursday May 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm MDT
155 D

3:50pm MDT

Wingin' It in Storytime
Wingin' It is the name of the game in storytimes! We’ve all had those storytimes where we wonder if mercury is in retrograde, if the moon is full, or why you just got peed on. Come to this session, presented by improviser, musician, actor, and Park City Library’s Youth Services Librarian to get tips, tricks, and tools that will guarantee a successful storytime for you, the kids, and their caregivers.

Speakers
avatar for Katrina Kmak

Katrina Kmak

Youth Services Librarian, Park City Library
Connecting to children by being animated and using music is my jam. Performer at heart. ENFP.


Thursday May 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm MDT
155 A

3:50pm MDT

Stratified Approaches to Audiovisual Preservation
Best practices for video preservation are still in development, but in the last eight years there has been significant improvements. For small institutions, digital preservation of video still may still seem prohibitive. With limited storage space, we have come up with methods to allocate resources more responsibly. We have sought a way to meet the needs of video content preservation with flexibility to allow for targeted resource allocation. This presentation outlines the factors we have considered, our approaches, and some results.

Speakers
avatar for Ben Harry

Ben Harry

BYU
Curator of Audiovisual Materials and Media Arts History, Special Collections, Brigham Young University A media historian and audiovisual archivist, Ben Harry earned a master’s degree in Moving Image Archive Studies from UCLA in 2006. Ben has worked previously for the National Baseball... Read More →



Thursday May 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm MDT
155 B

3:50pm MDT

Planting the Future: Teen Scientists Doing NASA Research at the Library
Implementing NASA's Growing Beyond Earth program as a weekly STEAM program for the library. Getting teens to sign up and show up.

Speakers
avatar for Mel Lindsay

Mel Lindsay

Davis County Library System



Thursday May 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm MDT
259

4:20pm MDT

Networking Social
See old friends and meet new ones at the annual social. Network or lay low while we mingle and enjoy hors d'oeuvres!
Get your competitive side out and bid on silent auction items.
Proceeds benefit ULA's scholarship fund. The auction will end at 5:30pm sharp!

Thursday May 9, 2024 4:20pm - 5:30pm MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

6:00pm MDT

Trivia Night at Gracie's
The Salt Lake City Public Library invites ULA/MPLA Conference attendees to Trivia Night at Gracie's Gastropub, 326 South West Temple, from 6-8pm on Thursday evening. Trivia starts at 6:30pm, but please arrive at 6pm to check in. Food and drinks are available for purchase.

We welcome you to create your own team of four and register here. If you don't have a team, just enter your name and we will assign you to one. Seating is limited and reservations are first come, first served so build your team quickly!

If you'd like to walk over together, please meet at the West Temple Entrance at 5:45pm. If you have any questions, contact Donnie at dtidwell@slcpl.org.

Moderators
Thursday May 9, 2024 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Gracie's 326 South West Temple

7:30pm MDT

Ghost Tour
Join Wanda from the Salt Lake County Library and help Grimm Ghost Tours launch their debut tour for a night of Fun, Fear, Feedback, and Frightening Tales of Downtown Salt Lake City. Meet at the southeast corner of the Salt Palace (200 S and West Temple) at 7:30pm.

Speakers
avatar for Wanda Huffaker

Wanda Huffaker

Librarian, Salt Lake County Library
Intellectual Freedom, Privacy, Ethics, Core Values, ALA



Thursday May 9, 2024 7:30pm - 8:30pm MDT
Southeast corner of Salt Palace (200 S and West Temple)

9:30pm MDT

MPLA President's Reception
The MPLA President's Reception will be held in the Presidential Suite in the conference hotel. It's a great chance for MPLA members and those who are member-curious to meet in a relaxed location with snacks and beverages. MPLA veterans will be around to talk about the organization and answer questions or tell stories, so come with questions!

Thursday May 9, 2024 9:30pm - 11:00pm MDT
MPLA Presidential Suite, Marriott City Center Hotel, 15th Floor
 
Friday, May 10
 

7:30am MDT

ULA Past Presidents Breakfast
Past presidents of the Utah Library Association are invited to their annual conference breakfast.

Friday May 10, 2024 7:30am - 8:50am MDT
260 B

7:30am MDT

Early Morning Coffee Service
Friday May 10, 2024 7:30am - 9:00am MDT
Upper Mezzanine

7:30am MDT

Registration
Friday May 10, 2024 7:30am - 1:00pm MDT
Upper Mezzanine

8:00am MDT

MPLA Membership Meeting
Friday May 10, 2024 8:00am - 8:30am MDT
260 A

8:00am MDT

Assessment Roundtable (ASMTRT) Meeting
Moderators
avatar for Heidi Fendrick

Heidi Fendrick

State Data Coordinator, Utah State Library
With over a decade of experience in libraries, I've been an integral part of the Utah State Library team for more than five years. My passion lies in library data, Census and demographic data, and strategic planning. I am a member of the Public Library Association's Measurement, Evaluation... Read More →

Friday May 10, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
155 A

8:00am MDT

Library Administration & Management Roundtable (LAMART) Meeting
Moderators
avatar for Joella Bagshaw

Joella Bagshaw

Children's Services Manager, Provo City Library
Joella is the Children’s Services Manager at the Provo City Library. She has been a librarian for 19 years. She has served on many different ALSC and YALSA Committees—including the Odyssey Award Committee for 2016 and the Excellence in Early Learning and Digital Media Award Committee... Read More →

Friday May 10, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
155 A

8:00am MDT

Library Instruction Roundtable (LIRT) Meeting
Moderators
Friday May 10, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
155 A

8:00am MDT

Library Paraprofessional & Support Staff Roundtable (LPSSRT) Meeting
Moderators
avatar for Kara VanderLinden

Kara VanderLinden

Circulation Supervisor, Salt Lake County Library

Friday May 10, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
155 A

8:00am MDT

Reference and Adult Services Roundtable (RASTR) Meeting
Speakers
avatar for Deanna Simonis

Deanna Simonis

Salt Lake County Library System


Friday May 10, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
155 A

8:30am MDT

MPLA Closing Board Meeting
Friday May 10, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am MDT
260 A

8:45am MDT

Quiet Space
A Quiet Space is available in Room 257 B for attendees who need space to de-stress and unwind.

Friday May 10, 2024 8:45am - 4:20pm MDT
257 B

9:00am MDT

Keynote - Emily Drabinski & Welcome MPLA
Speakers
avatar for Emily Drabinski

Emily Drabinski

Emily Drabinski is Associate Professor at the Queens College, CUNY School of Library and Information Studies and President of the American Library Association. She is series editor of Gender and Sexuality in Information Studies, a book series from Library Juice Press/Litwin Books... Read More →


Friday May 10, 2024 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
255 B/C

10:15am MDT

Morning Break & Exhibit Hall
Friday May 10, 2024 10:15am - 10:45am MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

10:15am MDT

Copyright Booth
Got copyright questions? Visit the Copyright “Librarian is IN” booth! The booth will be located across from the registration desk and will be staffed by members of ULA’s Copyright Education Round Table during the following times: 
  • Thursday: 9:40am–12:00pm, 1:30pm–4:00pm
  • Friday: 10:15am–11:45am


Friday May 10, 2024 10:15am - 11:45am MDT
Upper Mezzanine

10:15am MDT

Poster Sessions
What Makes a Learned Person - Connecting Marketing Poster Art with UX
Charlene Brewer, Southern Utah University
It began with a challenge, "what makes a learned person?" As a librarian, challenge
accepted! But don't take my word for it, I use words of those more eloquent. A marketing
poster brings Southern Utah University's Gerald R. Sherratt Library to the students' pockets for ultimate UX with a parting challenge through the art.

Discovering Little Blue Books
Ashley Shaw, University of Utah Marriott Library
In 2022, the J. Willard Marriott Library’s Rare Books department received a large collection of “Little Blue Books”, an extensive series of pocket-sized pamphlet books produced by Haldeman-Julius during the first half of the 20th century. In the process of determining which ones to keep, a cataloger discovered that there were not only variants, but also peculiarities within the variants themselves. Research led to discovering the intricacies of these seemingly simple pamphlet books, and the cataloger was able to better describe the quirks of each item in catalog records and provide insight into mass printing practices of the time.

From Digital Preservation to Open Educational Repository: How a Photo Digitization Project Transformed into a Library-Developed Open Educational Repository
Bryan Hull, Carmin Smoot, Julia Curtis, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah
DERM (Dermatology Education Resources & Modules) is a collaborative effort between a university department of dermatology and an academic health sciences library to produce an open educational platform for the discipline of dermatology. The project began as an effort to digitize a collection of 14,000 Kodachrome slides depicting clinical presentations of dermatological conditions taken and donated by a former faculty member of the department. The project soon morphed into developing a custom-made platform to explore selections of the images using diagnoses, clinical features, and textbook references. This poster outlines the development process and presents outcomes of the project so far.

Between the Covers and in the Stacks: Understanding Artists’ Books in Special Collections
Emily Hernandez, University of Utah
This poster will introduce the audience to artists’ books with a selection of examples from the University of Utah’s collection. It will focus on how the particular terminology used to describe the items by makers necessitates expanded controlled vocabulary for catalogers and how University of Utah’s resource, Opening Artists’ Books, provides a connection between the two in order to aid discoverability and assist in student research.

Maintaining a Digital Library Collaboration: Lessons Learned from Sophie
Adam Griggs, Ben Peterson, Brigham Young University
The Sophie project is a collaboration between the Harold B. Lee Library and BYU’s German department, to acquire, preserve, transcribe, and digitize the works of female German authors. With hundreds of thousands of downloads, these publications provide researchers a glimpse into the life, times, struggles, and contributions of these early female authors through a variety of mediums and genres. The poster will demonstrate how students and staff adapted and integrated new systems to ready these documents for publication. We will also show how we continue to incorporate new methods and technologies into this collection to meet researchers’ needs.

Archival Education To-go: Creating Primary Source Education Kits at New Mexico State University Archives
Erin Wahl, David Irvin, New Mexico State University
In spring of 2023, I wrote and received a small grant to create primary source education kits at NMSU. These kits, processed as though they were a real collection, would contain facsimiles of portions of each of our collections (University Archives, Rio Grande Historical Collection and Political Collection), lesson plans for 1-12th grade and College level students, and links to online "expansion packs" all designed for checkout to the university and surrounding communities. These kits enable archivists to extend their education efforts beyond the building and time allotments of archivists and engage New Mexico's communities in primary sources in a new way. This poster will go over the purpose, process, and future of the new primary source education kits at New Mexico State University. Included on the poster will be an anatomy of a box and links to further resources.

Tenure Track Librarian Burnout Before and During COVID-19
Erin Wahl, New Mexico State University
From July-October 2021 we undertook a national survey of tenure-track librarians and archivists to see how burnout related specifically to the areas of support and workload was being affected by COVID-19. The results are currently being analyzed with the hopes of producing two scholarly articles; one on the quantitative and related data and another on some open-ended qualitative questions at the end of the survey. This poster will focus on the qualitative data gathered during the process, which asked librarians and archivists to consider what other factors may have contributed to their feelings of burnout during the pandemic. This information is important for the sustainability of the library profession across the country.

Crafts! Crafts! Crafts! All I hear, all day long, is how great crafts are...
Deanna Duffy, Las Cruces Public Libraries
When we’re kids in school we get recess, a special time set aside to turn our minds off and just play. Sadly, as we get older, recess goes away. Let’s bring it back! Why craft programs are important and how to make them great.

Speakers
avatar for Erin Renee Wahl

Erin Renee Wahl

Assistant Professor/University Archivist, New Mexico State University
avatar for Ashley Shaw

Ashley Shaw

Special Collections Cataloging Specialist, University of Utah


Friday May 10, 2024 10:15am - 2:30pm MDT
Lower Mezzanine

10:15am MDT

Career Services Booth
Visit the Career Services Booth! We will be located in the Exhibit Hall and the booth will be staffed:
Thursday 9:40 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday 10:15 AM - 4:00 PM

  • Review open positions in Utah
  • Get feedback on CVs/resumés
  • Get career advice
  • Ask questions about interviewing strategies and best practices



Friday May 10, 2024 10:15am - 4:00pm MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

10:30am MDT

Sy Montgomery Book Sales & Signing
The Kings English bookshop will be selling books in the exhibit hall from 10:30am-2:30pm for author Sy Montgomery. Book signings will be available from 1:30-2:30pm at the Virco booth.

Speakers
avatar for Sy Montgomery

Sy Montgomery

Researching articles, films, and her 31 books for adults and children, nationally bestselling author Sy Montgomery has been chased by an angry silverback gorilla in Rwanda, hunted by a tiger in India, and swum with piranhas, electric eels and pink dolphins in the Amazon. Her work... Read More →


Friday May 10, 2024 10:30am - 2:30pm MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

10:45am MDT

Collaboration that Counts: Embedding ACRL Framework for Effective Information Literacy Instruction
Learn about an instruction librarian and a freshman writing instructor’s collaborative work over the course of three semesters and the results of their research. While there is obvious overlap between the ACRL Framework and the WPA (Council of Writing Program Administration) for first-year students standards, first-year writing teachers and instruction librarians continue to teach in isolation, the librarian relegated to a small, often one-shot lesson. Discover how a librarian and writing instructor, frustrated by this disconnect, collaborated to develop a rubric, lesson plans, and a unit assignment that integrates both standards for a more holistic approach to information literacy instruction.

Speakers
BM

Brittany Maloy

First-Year Experiences, Brigham Young University Library
AK

Ana Katz

PhD Student, University of Utah


Friday May 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:35am MDT
259

10:45am MDT

The Power of Relationship Building
Working at the reference desk at the main branch of the Salt Lake Community College Library has given us a unique perspective on interacting with library patrons. SLCC is the most diverse school in the state, and the only community college. As such, our patron base is a mixture of students, community members, staff and faculty. Many of our students are non-traditional in age, college attendance, part-time students, working parents. Attendees will learn about how working with this unique group has informed our practice, the research supporting relationship building, strategies for transforming transactions into relationships, and how building those relationships can improve library services and patron satisfaction while also fostering successful outcomes such as student retention and ongoing library use.

Speakers
LB

Lizanell Boman

Specialist III, Salt Lake Community College


Friday May 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:35am MDT
255 D

10:45am MDT

Candid Conversations About Censorship
Censorship is a hot topic for libraries. To navigate this environment, it helps to fully understand the context and application of reading. In this presentation we will explore the cognitive and emotional impacts of reading. Using educational and psychological lenses we will explore how texts relate and integrate with the readiness and development of readers. Applying these ideas helps us to facilitate the growth of intentional and critical readers. Understanding this background will help librarians speak up and support their collections while at the same time offering empathy for the stance of members of the community.

Speakers
avatar for Rachel Wadham

Rachel Wadham

Education Librarian, Brigham Young University


Friday May 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:35am MDT
255 A

10:45am MDT

What Perplexity AI Can Do for You!
Perplexity A.I. is a game-changer! Its creator describes it as an “answer engine” not a search engine. What’s the difference? Answer engines give you an answer to a query, along with links to the sources that informed the answer AND provide an opportunity to ask follow up questions! What else sets it apart from well-known search engines? NO ADS! If you are curious but wary of AI, Perplexity A.I. is a great way to dip your toe into the pool.

Speakers
avatar for Shelley O'Rourke

Shelley O'Rourke

school librarian, Montana Library Association
I am a soon to be retired school librarian. In retirement, I hope to continue advocating for libraries through the Montana Library Association. I have a second career planned as a novelist and book editor.



Friday May 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:35am MDT
155 D

10:45am MDT

Beginning Ukulele for Storytime
Including music in storytime can help children with language processing and communication. Using a live instrument, like a ukulele, can increase engagement and decrease potential copyright or technological issues with recorded music. In this presentation, we will teach the basics of playing the ukulele, a few chords that are common in storytime songs, and some simple and familiar songs. Please bring your own ukulele if you have one, but there will also several available on site to use.

Speakers
avatar for Kirsa Merrell

Kirsa Merrell

Children's Program Librarian, Spanish Fork Library
Storytime is my happy place! I oversee programs for ages 0-12 and all ages events, supervise a team of amazing program coordinators, and create content for marketing. I am passionate about helping caregivers/children connect and have meaningful experiences with each other. Earlier... Read More →
avatar for Anna Millett

Anna Millett

Program Coordinator, Spanish Fork Library
Anna is originally from Mesa, Arizona from a family of nine. She misses them and the sunlight. She has worked for the last year or so at the Spanish Fork Library planning and running programs for young children and families. She currently runs the Music and Movement storytime, and... Read More →



Friday May 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:35am MDT
255 E

10:45am MDT

Buzzing About the Beehives
Learn about the mission of the Children's Literature Association of Utah (CLAU), the process behind the Beehive Awards (Utah's only children's choice award), what we look for in a nominee, and ways to use the nominees in a public, or school library setting.

Speakers
avatar for Virginia Pine

Virginia Pine

Librarian / President, Salt Lake County Library / CLAU
Librarian by day, mother of two, artist & crafter whenever she can squeeze it in; Virginia has been involved with CLAU for 12 years, and has chaired many of the committees. Her favorite part is reading all the nominees to her daughters. This is her first year as President. She has... Read More →



Friday May 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:35am MDT
258

10:45am MDT

STEAM Programming for Youth
Learn how to implement a variety of STEAM programming for youth of all ages, from toddlers to teens. Simple experiments and activities using materials in your kitchen all the way to coding and robotics.

Speakers

Friday May 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:35am MDT
155 A

10:45am MDT

What to Do with Older Teens and New Adults
Older teens and new adults don't often want to attend "Teen" activities because they are aimed at a younger demographic, but they don't quite fit in at the "Adult" events, either. So how do you make them feel seen and welcome in the library? By creating programs specifically for them! From Jackbox games to book clubs; trivia nights to database workshops aimed at making the dreaded essays easier, come discover fun new ideas for your New Adults.

Speakers
avatar for Sarah Hall

Sarah Hall

Reference & Teen Librarian, Washington County Library System
Cosplayer and reformed sewing machine serial killer, Sarah's secret identity for the past twenty plus years has been a Teen and Reference Librarian at the Hurricane Branch of the Washington County Library System.  She has created, staffed, and been a guest at conventions, run book... Read More →



Friday May 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:35am MDT
255 F

11:45am MDT

Lunch & Author Sy Montgomery
Lunch with a reading from author Sy Montgomery. Book signings will be available from 1:30-2:30pm at the Virco booth.

Speakers
avatar for Sy Montgomery

Sy Montgomery

Researching articles, films, and her 31 books for adults and children, nationally bestselling author Sy Montgomery has been chased by an angry silverback gorilla in Rwanda, hunted by a tiger in India, and swum with piranhas, electric eels and pink dolphins in the Amazon. Her work... Read More →


Friday May 10, 2024 11:45am - 1:15pm MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

1:15pm MDT

Focusing on the "Can": Framing Your Messaging for Patron Empowerment
Learn how to apply strategic communication principles during periods of change to bridge communication gaps, empower patrons and staff, and manage change positively.

Speakers
avatar for Amber Swartz

Amber Swartz

Adult Services Librarian, Spanish Fork Library
I manage the wayfinding and communication design for the Spanish Fork Library, as well as reference/communication training for staff, adult print collections, and adult/all-ages programming. I've worked in a variety of library settings in various roles for more than 10 years, in addition... Read More →



Friday May 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
259

1:15pm MDT

Meeting the Misinformation Moment: Library Interventions in an Era of Supercharged Artificial Intelligence
Never have we seen a technological intervention with as much promise and peril as artificial intelligence. In one breath, we extol the potential of A.I. to cure cancer and optimize efficiencies. In the next, we wonder if this godlike technology will displace labor, exacerbate bias, increase surveillance, escalate polarization, and ultimately lead to civilizational collapse. Truly, when it comes to A.I., we are all just winging it. This presentation focuses on how supercharged A.I. affects two pressing information challenges, misinformation and censorship, and aims to start a conversation about our profession’s role in addressing these information challenges.

Speakers
avatar for Rebekah Cummings

Rebekah Cummings

Digital Matters Librarian, University of Utah
Marriott Library, University of Utah


Friday May 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
255 D

1:15pm MDT

Reviewing, Rewriting and Respecting Reconsideration Interactions
Salt Lake County made a paradigm shift when they decided to rewrite their narrative to respect every patron and their rights in the reconsideration process. Rather than Intellectual Freedom Fighters, they would become Intellectual Freedom Navigators and protect the Freedom of Speech, while enabling the process of petitioning the government. Learn about their pivot from defending banned books, to a kinder and gentler library.

Speakers
avatar for Wanda Huffaker

Wanda Huffaker

Librarian, Salt Lake County Library
Intellectual Freedom, Privacy, Ethics, Core Values, ALA


Friday May 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
255 A

1:15pm MDT

Numbers That Say Something: Choosing Effective Performance Metrics
Establishing useful metrics for libraries is not as simple as the oft-repeated ‘measure what matters’ seems to suggest. Useful metrics must balance alignment, objectivity, measurability, and ease of communication. Further, libraries often operate under additional burdens, such as limited data availability and reliance on manual reporting. Mission statements can help anchor and direct a library, but their high degree of abstraction makes measuring success around them difficult. However, there are key attributes of these statements that can help libraries identify the metrics to measure - and guide them toward - success.

Speakers


Friday May 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
258

1:15pm MDT

The Wellness Project: Addressing our Staff's Wellbeing Head to Toe
The Wellness Committee supports and empowers City Library staff to enhance all aspects of their well-being. We provide access to resources, opportunities to learn, and activities that encourage staff to engage in all dimensions of Wellness and promote an inclusive and equitable work environment. Learn about the programs and initiatives the committee has undertaken in the last year to support their staff through burnout and the everyday stressors of library work.

Speakers

Friday May 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
155 D

1:15pm MDT

Tough Conversations in Library Management
Sooner or later every library manager will have a tough conversation with a staff member. Perhaps the conversation will clarify expectations or address unacceptable behavior. Library managers need to have tools to help them navigate through these tough conversations. In this session, learn communication skills that will help managers have confidence as they head into those potentially anxious one-on-ones with staff members.

Speakers
avatar for Joella Bagshaw

Joella Bagshaw

Children's Services Manager, Provo City Library
Joella is the Children’s Services Manager at the Provo City Library. She has been a librarian for 19 years. She has served on many different ALSC and YALSA Committees—including the Odyssey Award Committee for 2016 and the Excellence in Early Learning and Digital Media Award Committee... Read More →



Friday May 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
255 E

1:15pm MDT

Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers: Library Services for Our Youngest Patrons
This session will educate librarians on how to support parents and their babies toddlers and preschoolers at the library. Ideas will be shared in how the library environment can be more welcoming for parents and their young children. We will look at materials provided for parents to check out such as baby book bags and preschool play packs. We will look at early literacy programming in the library. While most libraries provide a preschool story time, we will look at a Baby & Me and a Toddler Time class to better meet the needs of these younger children.

Speakers
avatar for Lora Smith

Lora Smith

Director, Richmond Public Library
I have been the Richmond Library Director since September 2016 and love creating an environment for staff and patrons to thrive. I have a passion for early literacy and the highlight of my day is usually teaching a program or interacting with a child. I love to swim, hike, travel... Read More →



Friday May 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
255 F

1:15pm MDT

Inclusive Metadata: What It Is, Isn’t, and Other Things Catalogers Want You to Know
Whether it’s called “critical cataloging,” “inclusive metadata,” or “metadata justice,” discussion centering around conscientious application of metadata has been at the forefront of many catalogers’ and archivists’ minds as we contend with outdated descriptive practices and consider how offensive or outdated terminology may affect our users. But what if you’re not in the trenches with catalogers and metadata specialists and want to know what you can do to advance the cause of inclusive metadata? This presentation will cover what catalogers mean when we talk about these topics, examples of work being done to advance this cause, and how you can help!

Speakers
avatar for Shay Beezley (she/her)

Shay Beezley (she/her)

Assistant Director, Metadata & Cataloging, University of Central Oklahoma
Shay Beezley, Assistant Director of Metadata and Cataloging at University of Central Oklahoma's Chambers Library, leads a team of six catalogers and up to four student employees in providing accurate, effective and timely access to library resources. As someone that the DiSC assessment... Read More →



Friday May 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
155 A

2:05pm MDT

Afternoon Break
Friday May 10, 2024 2:05pm - 2:30pm MDT
Exhibit Hall 2

2:30pm MDT

Understanding the Value of "Grey Literature" - A Case Study with Indigenous Resources
Grey literature is the term used to describe scholarly information produced outside of traditional publishing and distribution channels, including government and technical reports, white papers, conference papers, and theses and dissertations. Grey literature can be a valuable source of information, especially regarding topics and populations which are currently under-represented in the traditional scholarly literature. This session uses indigenous subjects as a case study to explore how to find numerous examples of grey literature.


Friday May 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
259

2:30pm MDT

It's a Three-Winged Circus! Collaborating Across Town Yields Efficiencies, Programming Opportunities, and Expanded Notions of How Best to Meet Patron Needs
Trusted relationships allow for informal, fluid, nimble, responsive, collaborative work. When librarians in a medium-sized city collaborate to better support their shared patrons, great things happen! While academic and public library missions and means are different, their ultimate goals are often compatible; pursuing them collaboratively can be rewarding, cost-effective, even fun! Learn about the positive and negative outcomes of nearly ten years of neighborly collaboration and partnership in northern Colorado, and the innovative assessment methods developed to sustain these relationships.

Speakers
avatar for Annie Epperson

Annie Epperson

Teaching 'n Learning Librarian, University of Northern Colorado
Professional interests: Programming, Assessment, Community Engagement, Higher Education, Adapting to Change, Mentoring. Personal interests: bees, beer, gardens, food, remote locations, social justice, and sleep.
avatar for Elena Rosenfeld

Elena Rosenfeld

Community Engagement & Strategies Manager, High Plains Library District
My focus is to help us keep us discovering new ways the Library can help our community members grow and thrive. This means looking to partner with organizations that might be ones that we never considered before as well as supporting new ways of making services and programs available... Read More →
avatar for Carol Satersmoen

Carol Satersmoen

Librarian, Aims Community College



Friday May 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
258

2:30pm MDT

The Traumatized Librarian: Psychological Injury within the LIS Profession
There are expectations that have infiltrated our work as information professionals that can emotionally and morally hurt us. Our discussion session will identify, critically examine, and provide some advice for the psychological injuries and trauma associated with the librarian profession. This includes confrontations with disruptive patrons, compassion fatigue from helping patrons in crisis, politically motivated attacks, racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, etc. Our session hopes to create safety to discuss this aspect of our work, provide advice on how we can heal, and find comfort in knowing we are not alone.

Speakers
avatar for Donna Baluchi

Donna Baluchi

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Librarian, University of Utah
Donna Baluchi (she/they) is the inaugural Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Librarian at Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah, until her position is outlawed July 1, 2024. Donna is passionate about health disparities, data privacy, and zines (and is an organizer... Read More →
avatar for Lorelei Rutledge

Lorelei Rutledge

Associate Librarian, University of Utah
I am an Associate Librarian at the J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah. I am a liaison to the David Eccles School of Business, the Center for Disability & Access, and Disability Studies.



Friday May 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
155 A

2:30pm MDT

Unlocking Staff Potential: Best Practices in Library Staff Management
One of the main jobs of a manager is to manage staff—including helping the staff and thus the library achieve their potential. In this session, a panel of library managers from around Utah will answer questions and discuss various aspects of managing staff—from accountability and annual evaluations to building team relationships and handling staffing issues. Join us as we discuss the ins and outs of managing library staff.

Speakers
avatar for Davie Bird

Davie Bird

RASRT Chair, Salt Lake County Library
Library ManagerRuth Vine Tyler Library, Salt Lake County Library Services
avatar for Daniel Mauchley

Daniel Mauchley

Library Director, Duchesne County Library; Utah Library Association
ULA Bylaws & Past Presidents Committees Chair
avatar for Carla Gordon

Carla Gordon

Director, Provo City Library
avatar for Joella Bagshaw

Joella Bagshaw

Children's Services Manager, Provo City Library
Joella is the Children’s Services Manager at the Provo City Library. She has been a librarian for 19 years. She has served on many different ALSC and YALSA Committees—including the Odyssey Award Committee for 2016 and the Excellence in Early Learning and Digital Media Award Committee... Read More →
avatar for Kerry Burnham

Kerry Burnham

Director, Salem City Library



Friday May 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
255 E

2:30pm MDT

Coding in the Library
Coding is quickly becoming an essential skill in our society. Come learn how your library can help teach that skill to kids, teenagers, and adults alike.

Speakers

Friday May 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
255 A

2:30pm MDT

Going with the Flow: Adapting Strategies for Reaching Rural Audiences in the Four Corners Region
We are Water is a collaborative project that brings a traveling exhibit and interactive STEM programs to rural and tribal communities in the Four Corners Region, engaging community members in conversations about their personal and community connections to local water topics. The success of the project hinges on relationships with, and support systems for, library staff who host the We are Water exhibition at their rural and tribal libraries. Join STAR Net as we outline our process for collaborating with diverse communities and our ever-evolving reflections on how to strengthen partnerships to provide inclusive and engaging STEM learning experiences in libraries.

Speakers
avatar for Claire Ratcliffe Adams

Claire Ratcliffe Adams

Education Associate, Space Science Institute


Friday May 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
155 D

2:30pm MDT

Just Winging Our First Diversity Audit, And You Can Too
The Park City Library held its first diversity audit this year through Baker and Taylor’s collectionHQ to efficiently harness our library’s data analytics. We’ll discuss why we chose collectionHQ, the categories that were assessed, what the data showed us, how we compared data to census numbers, and what recommendations our purchasers received.

Speakers
avatar for Becca Lael

Becca Lael

Park City Library
avatar for Daniel Thurston

Daniel Thurston

Senior Librarian, Park City Library



Friday May 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
255 D

2:30pm MDT

Public Library Lightning Round
Multiple presenters will share 5-7 high presentations of interesting topics in public librarianship.

Speakers

Friday May 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
255 F

3:30pm MDT

A Tribal Libraries Committee: Support for Indigenous C
Supporting all library users can be a complex endeavor, especially when communities from different backgrounds need to be represented in collections and programming. Join this session to hear from the Chair of the Oklahoma Library Association (OLA)’s Committee for Tribal Libraries, Archives, and Museums about their work of supporting Indigenous communities in Oklahoma and the information professionals that serve them—and maybe take some ideas that might work for your own community!

Speakers
avatar for Katherine Witzig

Katherine Witzig

Library Administrative Assistant, Oklahoma City University
Katherine Witzig (she/they) is devoted to libraries as an institution that honors histories and supports communities and their goals as they grow and change. As a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and the 2SLGBTQ+ and disability communities, she seeks to use her personal experience... Read More →



Friday May 10, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
155 D

3:30pm MDT

D.I.Y. Library Escape Rooms
Learn how to create an escape room! These complex puzzle games are great at attracting teens and adults to your library! Executing a Do-It-Yourself escape room can be daunting, but it is very possible, and can save your library a lot of money. The Librarians at Duchesne County Library: Roosevelt Branch have managed to put on escape rooms within the limitations of their budget and small facility. Come get some resources and share in the discussion of how you can overcome similar limitations to build an escape room!

Speakers
avatar for Sami Merrell

Sami Merrell

Associate Librarian, Duchesne County Library



Friday May 10, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
258

3:30pm MDT

Debrief and Decompress: A Guided Session to Document Your Conference Insights and Tasks
Too often we leave conferences full of ideas and come back to work on Monday full of work to catch up on. We tell ourselves we’ll get back to our conference notes but it usually doesn’t happen. Use this time to review those takeaways and identify where they will be relevant. This session will walk participants through a series of exercises to identify what they took away from the conference and how they might implement those ideas in the future.

Speakers
avatar for Matt Armstrong

Matt Armstrong

Online Learning Supervisor, Brigham Young University


Friday May 10, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
255 D

3:30pm MDT

How to Run a Successful Tradeshow
Struggling to get vendors interested in your tradeshow? Struggling to get attendees interested in more than just vendor swag? Come and see how you can bring the two together to fulfill the mission of your event. Dana Belcher and Gloria Farmer will share their 16 years of experience in tradeshows - what works, what doesn't work, and how to make the conference experience exceptional for both vendors and attendees.

Speakers
avatar for Dana Belcher

Dana Belcher

Library Director, East Central University
Dana Belcher, Oklahoma Library Association President and Director of East Central University's Linscheid Library, leads a team of 5 librarians and 5 support staff. She, along with co-chair Gloria Farmer, has run the OLA tradeshow since 2007.
avatar for Gloria Farmer

Gloria Farmer

Technical Services Coordinator, Eastern Oklahoma Library System



Friday May 10, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
155 A

3:30pm MDT

Resources to Understand the Conflict in the Middle East: A Librarian’s Guide
The recent conflict between Israel and Gaza/Palestine has been headlining the news. This has brought the Middle East to the forefront of people's minds. As such, many people want to develop a deeper understanding of the Middle East and its conflicts. This session will discuss a variety of print and of online resources, including academic journals, that will help both librarians and readers understand the historical background, existing religious and ethical conflicts, as well as socio-economic conditions that have been identified as root causes of those conflicts. These resources can be utilized to expand academic, public, and special library resources about the Middle East.

Speakers
avatar for Safi Safiullah

Safi Safiullah

Manager, Salt Lake City Public Library
Chair, International Relations Roundtable (IRRT), ALA, 2022-2023
avatar for Lindsay Pruett

Lindsay Pruett

Student, University of Washington
Lindsay Pruett graduated from the University of Utah with an Honors Bachelor of Art's in History in 2024. She will be starting a Master's of Library and Information Science at University of Washington in Fall 2024.



Friday May 10, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
255 E

3:30pm MDT

The Business of Ebooks & Audiobooks: Libraries, Authors, Publishers, and Platforms
Libraries are struggling with digital content and fair pricing, availability, and access. This panel will present a balanced view of ebook, audiobook, and magazine purchasing and distribution from the point of view of OverDrive (the vendor), the Beehive Library Consortium (a large consortium administered by the Utah State Library), and a member library in the Consortium (Davis County Library, an Advantage Library). Join us for a discussion on our challenges, solutions, and successes.

Speakers
avatar for Josh Johnson

Josh Johnson

Director, Davis County Library
Josh Johnson is the Director of the Davis County Library in Utah and serves on the State Library Board since 2022 (currently Chair). He is passionate about data-driven future planning, collaborative decision-making, and creating learning organizations. He also enjoys time with family... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Everett

Stephanie Everett

Account Manager I, OverDrive
OverDrive is a mission-based company that stands with libraries. Named a Certified B Corp in 2017, OverDrive empowers libraries by expanding ‘access for all’ to an industry-leading catalog of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines and streaming media. More than 22,000 libraries worldwide... Read More →
DC

Darci Card

Utah State Library



Friday May 10, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
255 F

3:30pm MDT

Mentoring as a Key Part of a Succession Planning Program
Mentoring is a vital component of succession planning. It helps you find and train new leaders, and create a pool of potential successors through relationships with leaders and experts within your organization. Salt Lake County Library System launched a training program in 2022 for our employees who wanted to explore the role of Assistant Manager. We will highlight how mentoring has been essential to the success of the program.

Speakers
avatar for Maggie Mills

Maggie Mills

Library Manager, Salt Lake County Library


Friday May 10, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
255 A

3:30pm MDT

How to Circulate Weird Stuff Like Telescopes and Projectors!
Join Provo City Librarians as they discuss how they have navigated circulating non-traditional materials like telescopes, a bike repair kit, hot spots and more! We’ll talk about how we chose what to select in our collection, options for how to reserve and circulate these materials, and parameters for circulation length and fines for specialty items.

Speakers
avatar for Joella Bagshaw

Joella Bagshaw

Children's Services Manager, Provo City Library
Joella is the Children’s Services Manager at the Provo City Library. She has been a librarian for 19 years. She has served on many different ALSC and YALSA Committees—including the Odyssey Award Committee for 2016 and the Excellence in Early Learning and Digital Media Award Committee... Read More →
avatar for Breanne Gilroy

Breanne Gilroy

Adult & Teen Services Manager, Provo City Library
I have been working at the Provo City Library since 2008, and I have been the library's Adult and Teen Services Manager since 2022.  I coordinate a lot of our library's On Demand programming, manage our databases and website, and love seeing what technology opportunities are on the... Read More →
avatar for Ann-Marie Marchant

Ann-Marie Marchant

Support Services Manager, Provo City Library



Friday May 10, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
259
 
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