HESTL EdCON 2025

HESTL EdCON is a statewide conference designed to elevate library services and instruction for K-12 youth, uniting school library professionals, their public library collaborators, and advocates for strong school libraries. Session topics focus on student-centered practice and reflect the five essential areas of the Colorado Department of Education’s Highly Effective Schools Through Libraries (HESTL) program: Planning, Leadership, Instruction, Management and Environment.

Build your network of support by connecting with librarians across the state.

• Get inspired by keynote speakers Hena Khan and Gabrielle Mace.
• Immerse yourself in a day of professional learning.

Thanks to our generous sponsors, registration is FREE again this year!

Registration is required.

Sessions include:

• Keynote with award-winning children’s book author Hena Khan
• Keynote with Gabrielle Mace, international speaker and implementation leader of the Just Read whole-school literacy initiative
• The Importance of Monsters: How Engaging in the Horror Genre Sparks Adolescent Bravery
• Focus on the Spark: Creating Interactive Lessons
• Connecting Literacy & STEM in Libraries
• Demystifying Grants: Finding Grant Money for Your School Library
• Make Your Students the Stars of the Library: Practical Ways to Increase Engagement
• Data-Informed Library Advocacy
• AI in Action: Elevating School Libraries to New Heights
• Mini-Programs: Finding Your Blank Spaces
• Book Care and Repair