Seeing the Unseen; Raising the Visibility of Equity Work
2024-09-25 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Denver)
This session will examine how we can design makerspaces with equity in mind. We’ll share the results of a photo survey conducted at the ideaLABs at Denver Public Library and Clubhouse Network community centers, which revealed how decisions big and small, from the layout of a room to the labels on a container, can affect our ability to engage patrons in a makerspace setting equitably. We will share our photo survey method and invite you to capture and share your own photos.
Session archive
Session slides (with resources) (PDF)
About the presenters
Celeste Moreno designs, facilitates, and studies creative learning and making experiences for learners of all ages. She is a member of the Creative Communities group at the University of Colorado, Boulder and works as a Creative Technologist at the Boulder Public Library makerspaces.

Ashley Kazyaka is the Program Administrator for Denver Public Library’s all-ages ideaLAB makerspaces. They are a founding member of the Colorado Association of Library’s Maker Interest Group, and have experience designing, improving, and evaluating public library makerspaces. They are a crafter, tinkerer, and have a lifelong affliction of “how hard could it possibly be?”

Connecting Students to Authors: How to Host Author Talks
2024-09-30 16:00 - 17:00
Join Becky Brent, Teresa Mulholland, and Suzi Tonini to learn strategies for planning inspiring and motivating author visits! BookBreak Partnerships Manager Becky Brent and Academy District 20 Teacher Librarian Teresa Mulholland will provide an overview of BookBreak, a new approach to providing access to author talks. Developed by the Library Speakers Consortium, BookBreak creates virtual author events each month to livestream into individual classrooms and school libraries, all of which are recorded and available on-demand throughout the school year. CSL School Library Consultant Suzi Tonini will share resources for planning in-person author visits and connecting with Colorado authors and illustrators.
Session archive
Session transcript
About the presenters
Becky Brent is a Partnerships Manager with BookBreak. She is a mother of three, and her PTA Board membership led her to pursuing a master’s degree in Elementary Education. Becky has over a decade of educational work experience in Louisville, KY, which includes many years as a second-grade classroom teacher and collaboratively developing the BookBreak program. As a community advocate and organizer for local young author programs and children’s book clubs, she is passionate about supporting and empowering people of all ages on their lifelong learning journey. She works with schools and districts across the country in 48 states and globally, helping to create a culture of avid readers to bring confidence and inspiration to all students.
Teresa Mulholland is a Teacher Librarian, IB Coordinator, and Digital Learning Coach at Ranch Creek Elementary with over 20 years of experience teaching in Academy District 20. She taught for years in intermediate classrooms and worked on the planning team for Ranch Creek before transitioning to supporting and enriching instruction in the library while working on her second master’s degree. Along with her husband and three children, all current D20 students, she loves living in the mountains of Colorado. She can be found running on a trail, curled up with a good book, or planning her family’s next travel adventure.

Everyday Library Evaluations: Part 1 – Ethics
2024-10-15 11:00 - 12:00
We are delighted to announce a three-part CSL in Session series, Everyday Evaluations, presented by the Colorado State Library’s Library Research Service!
We’ve all been asked to evaluate a piece of our work at some point! In this three-part series, we will share strategies to collect and communicate actionable data ethically and efficiently.
Part 1 – Ethics
In this session we will lay the groundwork for responsible research in libraries by covering ethical (and not so ethical) uses for data. This will include a discussion on library law and tips for vetting the vendors that libraries work with to ensure their practices are in line with the library’s standards. Then, we will wrap up with an activity showing how even anonymized data can be re-identified if certain details are shared carelessly!

Part 1 – Ethics – Archive | Slides
Part 2 – Collection – Archive | Slides
Part 3 – Analysis and Visualization – Archive | Slides
Series Handout

About the presenters
Amy is a Research Analyst at Library Research Service. Her background is in public librarianship, in particular children’s services. She loves the way data can help tell moving stories and make changes in peoples’ lives.

Dana is a Data Coordinator and Web Developer at LRS. She has been a math and technology teacher and worked in two small public libraries. Dana likes the way data adds facts to the “feels”.
Charissa is the Director of Library Research Service at the Colorado State Library. She has worked in academic libraries as a systems, metadata, and electronic resources librarian. She keeps people at the center of her work in data and is interested in the work that libraries do and how it supports individuals and their communities.

Sara is the Research Assistant for the Library Research Service. She collaborates on a variety of research projects at the Colorado State Library for libraries across Colorado and writes informative blog posts on all aspects of evaluation. She enjoys making data accessible to wider audiences.

Balancing Act: Navigating Mental Health as Parental Caregivers in the Library Profession
2024-10-16 13:00 - 14:00
Join us for our third Mental Health & Wellness panel, Balancing Act: Navigating Mental Health as Parental Caregivers in the Library Profession, on Wednesday October 16, 2024 at 1 PM MT.
Session archive

Navigating parenthood, caregiving responsibilities, and mental health within the library profession presents a myriad of challenges for library workers. Juggling professional obligations with familial duties can take a toll on mental well-being, impacting not only the individuals themselves but also the quality of service they provide to library patrons.

This panel discussion delves into the lived experiences of individuals experiencing parenthood, caregiving responsibilities, and mental health within the library profession. For library employees who are parents or caregivers, the struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance is real.

In this panel discussion, library workers will have the opportunity to share their personal experiences and insights, highlighting the unique struggles they face in balancing their professional and familial roles while prioritizing their mental well-being. By sharing strategies for self-care, seeking support, and fostering resilience, participants will gain valuable perspectives and practical tips for navigating these challenges. Ultimately, by shedding light on the realities of navigating mental health within the context of parenthood, caregiving, and the library profession, this panel aims to promote understanding, empathy, and support for library workers who are grappling with these issues.

View additional archived and upcoming Mental Health & Wellness panels.

About the panelists

Ellwood Colahan (he/him) is Music & Performing Arts Reference Librarian at University of Denver. He is active in Music Library Association, College Music Society, and Guitar Foundation of America. His work has been published in Music Reference Services Quarterly, Soundboard Scholar, and College Music Symposium. He was formerly a Peace Corps volunteer in Guinea, where he worked in public health and community development. His research interests include classroom pedagogy, data sonification, early fretted instrument tablatures, and issues in contemporary Balinese music.

Ashley Fahey has worked in libraries for 20 years, starting in high school as a library aide during study hall. Over my career, I’ve worked in academic, school, and public libraries in a variety of positions-from volunteer to supervisor. I earned my MLIS in 2010 from Kent State University with a concentration in reference and library instruction. I slowly found myself loving public libraries and especially serving youth and their families. Youth librarianship has been my career focus now for the past 8 years. I’ve been with Douglas County Libraries for 8 years (in August).

Johanna Tuttle Smith (she/her) is the Teen Services Division Manager at Loveland Public Library where she manages a small but mighty team serving youth 6th-12th grade. Johanna has been in libraries for over a decade and worked at Campbell County Public Library in Wyoming as a young adult specialist, circulation specialist, and a reference specialist before landing her dream job in Loveland, CO. Johanna is the mother of two children, one of whom was a library baby, and stepmother to four more with another little one on the way in two days. Her experience as a single parent managing full-time work while going back to school for a bachelor’s degree, blending families with a new partner, and as someone who is passionate about serving teenagers (at work and home) helped her make the decision to volunteer for this panel.

Lauren Wilder attended Metro State University and has worked for Jeffco Library for eight years. She loves helping patrons and learning new things.

Alejandro Marquez (he/him), is a Science and Engineering Librarian at University of Denver Libraries. He also served in the Peace Corps in El Salvador where he worked as a Municipal Development volunteer. His research interests include library employee mental health and well-being.

Talking Teen Services: The Importance of Monsters - How Engaging in the Horror Genre Sparks Adolescent Bravery
2024-10-21 11:00 - 12:00
Session archive
Session Slides (PPT)
Resources
“I want a scary book!” How many times have we heard that statement from our upper elementary and middle school students? Despite the constant desire for more scary books, finding ones that are geared specifically to grades 3-8 can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task. Making sure we have books that allow our students to not only read something exciting and engaging, but learn something about themselves and the world, is one of the most rewarding parts of being a librarian. In this session we will look at the place horror holds in our collective experience, why our middle grade kids need and deserve to have a variety of titles at their fingertips, and have the opportunity to look at some amazing middle grade horror books that have come out in the last few years.
Learning outcomes from this presentation are:

Attendees will be able to explore and understand the importance of adding exciting and engaging middle grade horror titles to their collection.
Attendees will be able to explore the needs of their student population and evaluate current collections to identify what moves should be made with their collection development specifically as it relates to the horror genre.
Attendees will be able to recognize barriers that may arise during the collection development process and prepare to meet those needs.

About About Kit Elstad (they/them)
“Life is a daring adventure, or nothing at all” I’ve spent my career looking for adventure in the everyday, even in small things. As a school librarian for the past 12 years I’ve had the distinct pleasure of bringing moments of excitement and engagement into my students lives, helping them delve deeper into their personal interests and make connections to their classwork, and, perhaps my favorite part of being a librarian, helping them find the joy in a good story. I am currently the Library Media Specialist at Bennett Elementary in the Poudre School District, and prior to that I was a middle school librarian for the Syracuse City School District in NY where I was also an Adventures Education Coordinator for the Expeditionary Learning Middle School.

The Best Professional Learning You’ve Ever Led!
2024-10-22 16:00 - 17:00
Presenter Mollie Amundson will explore a variety of techniques and tools to captivate adult learners and promote reflective practice. Participants will leave with a toolbox of ideas for engaging adult learners at a variety of entry points, fostering meaningful dialogue, and empowering colleagues to embrace change, innovation, and deep thinking.

Session archive
Session Slides
Transcript
Program Evaluation
Continuing Ed Application

About the presenter
Mollie Amundson is a District Librarian in Weld RE-4 School District (Windsor/Severance, Colorado). In her current role, she supports two elementary school libraries, develops districtwide library systems and facilitates professional learning opportunities for library staff, teachers, and leaders. Mollie has nearly 17 years of experience as a classroom teacher, school librarian, public library outreach assistant, and district-level coordinator.

Everyday Library Evaluations: Part 2 – Collection
2024-10-29 11:00 - 12:00
We are delighted to announce a three-part CSL in Session series, Everyday Evaluations, presented by the Colorado State Library’s Library Research Service!
We’ve all been asked to evaluate a piece of our work at some point! In this three-part series, we will share strategies to collect and communicate actionable data ethically and efficiently.
In this session we will dive into the world of data collection. Using real-world examples, we’ll go over project goals, accessible collection, types of data that you choose or need to collect and navigating sticky data collection situations.

Part 1 – Ethics – Archive | Slides
Part 2 – Collection – Archive | Slides
Part 3 – Analysis and Visualization – Archive | Slides
Series Handout

Resources:

Accessible Survey Design
Pouncing on Prejudice: Mitigating Assumptions and Bias in Research
Ready to meet your (data) match? Introducing number data and story data
Planting Seeds for Success-FULL Focus Groups
A Trauma-Informed Lens: Communities, Libraries, and Research

About the presenters
Amy is a Research Analyst at Library Research Service. Her background is in public librarianship, in particular children’s services. She loves the way data can help tell moving stories and make changes in peoples’ lives.

Dana is a Data Coordinator and Web Developer at LRS. She has been a math and technology teacher and worked in two small public libraries. Dana likes the way data adds facts to the “feels”.
Charissa is the Director of Library Research Service at the Colorado State Library. She has worked in academic libraries as a systems, metadata, and electronic resources librarian. She keeps people at the center of her work in data and is interested in the work that libraries do and how it supports individuals and their communities.

Sara is the Research Assistant for the Library Research Service. She collaborates on a variety of research projects at the Colorado State Library for libraries across Colorado and writes informative blog posts on all aspects of evaluation. She enjoys making data accessible to wider audiences.

Everyday Library Evaluations: Part 3 – Analysis and Visualization
2024-11-12 11:00 - 12:00
We are delighted to announce a three-part CSL in Session series, Everyday Evaluations, presented by the Colorado State Library’s Library Research Service!
We’ve all been asked to evaluate a piece of our work at some point! In this three-part series, we will share strategies to collect and communicate actionable data ethically and efficiently.
In this third session, we will discuss best practices for data analysis and visualization. Then, we’ll walk participants through cleaning data, creating visualizations, and analyzing the patterns and new information that are revealed.

Part 1 – Ethics – Archive | Slides
Part 2 – Collection – Archive | Slides
Part 3 – Analysis and Visualization – Archive | Slides
Series Handout

About the presenters
Amy is a Research Analyst at Library Research Service. Her background is in public librarianship, in particular children’s services. She loves the way data can help tell moving stories and make changes in peoples’ lives.

Dana is a Data Coordinator and Web Developer at LRS. She has been a math and technology teacher and worked in two small public libraries. Dana likes the way data adds facts to the “feels”.
Charissa is the Director of Library Research Service at the Colorado State Library. She has worked in academic libraries as a systems, metadata, and electronic resources librarian. She keeps people at the center of her work in data and is interested in the work that libraries do and how it supports individuals and their communities.

Sara is the Research Assistant for the Library Research Service. She collaborates on a variety of research projects at the Colorado State Library for libraries across Colorado and writes informative blog posts on all aspects of evaluation. She enjoys making data accessible to wider audiences.

PHPR Collaborative and Libraries - Like French Fries and Frosty's (Strange? You mean GREAT!)
2024-11-14 12:00 - 13:00
Description: Join us for this informative and fun webinar highlighting the value of multi-sector collaboration, education and relationship building. If the pandemic taught us anything, none of us can do community health by ourselves. From being a catalyst for social connection, being in motion both inside and out, or creating 3rd space we’ve got a ton of resources, energy and expertise to share when it comes to engaging community members, supporting our professionals and being advocates for community health.
Session archive
About the presenter
Jo Burns (CTRS) is known for her work bringing together professionals from parks, recreation, public health and built environment. She is the co-founder of the Colorado Public Health/Parks & Recreation Collaborative. Jo is a skillful connector with experience in community, camp, professional association and higher ed parks & recreation settings. Jo’s superpower is creating unique multi-sector education opportunities with the goal of improving community health. With numerous public speaking engagements, and critically acclaimed workshops, Jo is a recognized expert in parks and public health arenas. She really enjoys bringing people together to cultivate health in our organizations and communities. Given the opportunity, Jo would rather hit a trail covered in dirt or snow rather than sit in front of her computer. And she always rolls up her reusable grocery bags when she gets back from the store.

How Wide is Your Window: A Thoughtful Approach to EDI Family Programming
2024-11-19 12:00 - 13:30
In a polarized world, how do we work across bridges and mend our bruised hearts? Here is one thoughtful approach from the High Plains Library District.
Please join us to discuss Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in family programming as seen through the High Plains Library District’s (HPLD) first family book club, Widening the Window (WtW). In partnership with Greeley-Evans School District Six, High Plains Library District’s Outreach department has successfully hosted an EDI book club series since 2021. The WtW book club ideology is based on creating intentional and authentic programming that speaks to and honors the uniqueness of community members in Greeley, Colorado. Intending to hold space for courageous conversations among intergenerational community members, the WtW cohort aims to discuss racialized trauma while exploring various healing techniques accessible to all family members.
Session archive
Handouts

Slides (ppt)
High Plains Library District Land Acknowledgement (doc)
Delpit’s Issues of Power (doc)
Accountability Storytime Planner (doc)
Widening the Window Grant Proposal (PDF) – Includes storytime templates

Session Outcomes:

Participants will understand the invaluable role outreach partnerships play and learn how to incorporate community partners.
Participants will briefly review 2021 and 2022 EDI-themed storytime planners, as well as 2024’s themes of humility, accountability, and gratitude.
Participants will understand how to request grant funding and incorporate goals, outputs, and outcomes in alignment with the organization’s strategic plan.

About the presenters
Carolyn Valencia (she/hers) works as an Outreach Librarian for the High Plains Library District (HPLD) focusing on early literacy. She identifies as Spanish and Native American. Earning her MLIS in 2019 from Emporia State University and a Bachelor of Arts from Santa Clara University in 1998, Carolyn shares her passion for the arts and multiliteracies (primarily physical and self-literacy) with her diverse community members in Greeley, Colorado. She received the 2020 Rising Star Award from the Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy (CLEL), in which she was recognized as a new librarian demonstrating exceptional work in early literacy and a rising star who inspires others to do outstanding early literacy work. The Hispanic Women of Weld County honored her with the Educator’s Award in 2021. Carolyn strives to provide diverse and inclusive programming to her community. In 2021, she partnered with Greeley-Evans School District 6 to offer HPLD’s first family book club, Widening the Window (WtW). Currently, in its third year, WtW is a 3-month EDI series dedicated to witnessing, hearing, holding, and healing racialized trauma. Honored with each new sunrise and sunset, Carolyn celebrates all walks of life and dances in her kitchen with her daughter.
Bridget Parker (she/her) is currently an outreach and children’s librarian with the High Plains Library District. She has earned a BA in English from the University of Northern Colorado and an MLIS from Emporia State University. She worked for several years as a K-8 Arts school librarian in Greeley, CO before transitioning to public library service. She is passionate about building community, enjoying nature, and becoming a kinder human being.

Nate Fairchild (he/him) is an educator passionate about fostering literacy and a love of reading in his students. He currently teaches 8th-grade Language Arts and History in Greeley Evans District 6, where he has inspired young minds for over 15 years. Nate’s diverse background includes a BA in Religion, an MA in Leadership, and experience teaching all levels of literacy. He found his way to teaching through an alternative program and also holds a principal license. He believes libraries play a crucial role in empowering students and is excited to continue exploring how schools and community libraries can collaborate to serve their communities. When not in the classroom, Nate champions equity as his school’s equity team coordinator and consults with other organizations on building inclusive learning environments.
Veronica Lucero is the Assistant Principal at Billie Martinez and is a facilitator for UnboundEd, an educational organization focused on equity. She has presented at national conferences, including Free Minds, Free People, Standards Institute, and National Science Teaching Association Conference, and has also participated in MAST-EL, a program that focuses on providing math, science and technology education to students learning English. Veronica is passionate about collaborating with educators across the country to develop cultural proficiency, focus on the impact of race in education, and support parent engagement. She is one of the facilitators for the Widening the Window program in partnership with High Plains Library District where they facilitate community discussions about racial healing. The work Veronica does is rooted in the importance of creating an educational environment that engages students who have been historically pushed to the margins, to honor and celebrate different ways of being and knowing, and to create equitable outcomes for all students.

Leading from Within: Cultivating Managerial Self-Care for Resilient Organizations
2024-11-20 13:00 - 14:00
Mid-level library managers are often caught between the upper management’s expectations and the frontline staff’s needs. Balancing budgets, meeting deadlines, and handling personnel issues can lead to high levels of stress, which can take a toll on their mental health. The focus on employee well-being often takes a backseat to operational needs. When managers prioritize operational needs over employee well-being, it can contribute to a toxic workplace culture.
However, prioritizing mental health is crucial not only for the individual manager’s success but also for fostering a healthy workplace culture. In many cases, there’s a lack of support for mid-level managers in terms of mental health resources and training. They may feel isolated in their roles, without peers or supervisors who understand the unique challenges they face.
This discussion panel will explore the unique challenges faced by mid-level library managers in maintaining their own mental health while also supporting the well-being of their team members.
Session archive
Resources

Stress Tested: Compassion Fatigue is taking a toll among librarians
Panel on Moral Injury
Creating Caring Institutions: Politics, Plurality, and Purpose. Ethics and Social Welfare
Promoting Wellbeing in the Workplace
Mental Health Colorado
Mental Health First Aid
You aren’t lazy. You just need to slow down – article about the book Laziness Does not Exist

View additional archived and upcoming Mental Health & Wellness panels.
About the panelists
Tara Bannon Williamson is a Branch Supervisor at the Park Hill Branch of the Denver Public Library and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Denver with the MLIS program. Tara’s current pursuits include intentional community building through deliberative dialogue and civic engagement and locating Denver’s best nachos.

After more than a decade in library administration, Jayne Blodgett has returned to the faculty as a Collections/Discovery librarian at the University of Northern Colorado. Her research interests include space utilization, student outreach, and compassion fatigue/burnout in library workers. In her free time, Jayne enjoys reading, hiking, and trying out new recipes.
Rick Medrano (he/him) is the Outreach Manager for the High Plains Library District in Weld County, CO. He has been in libraries since 2010 and has held a variety of roles from page to board member. Through his work, Rick strives to ensure that library services are accessible to all members of the community, despite physical, social, or economic barriers.

Kristi Roque is the Manager of the Rawlings Library and Customer Experience for the Pueblo City County Library District. She has a background in human services and has spent time working in public health and as an Executive Director of a non-profit. Kristi values a restorative approach to library code of conduct behaviors especially as they pertain to youth.

Bridget Farrell is the Coordinator of Library Instruction and Reference Services at the
University of Denver Libraries. Her research focuses on mentorship of librarians and
graduate student as well as the scholarship of teaching and learning in library
instruction.

Alejandro Marquez (he/him), is a Science and Engineering Librarian at University of Denver Libraries. He also served in the Peace Corps in El Salvador where he worked as a Municipal Development volunteer. His research interests include library employee mental health and well-being.

Book Madness: Engaging Schools, Teachers, and the Community
2024-12-02 16:00 - 17:00
Are you familiar with NCAA Basketball March Madness and want to find a creative way to engage students, classroom teachers, parent volunteers, and community members in reading? Then Book Madness may be for you! Learn how to choose your Sweet Sixteen, plan your brackets, recruit a team of readers, and execute a successful Book Madness program. In just three short weeks you will have kids and adults asking for more!
Webinar recording link
Additional resources:

Presentation slide deck
Google Drive folder of all Book Madness resources
March Book Madness (virtual program)

About the presenters:
Chris Newell currently serves as the director of Public Services for Grand County Library District and has been in the position since November 2020. Having worked as a Teacher Librarian in Iowa, she also has first-hand experience working with children ages PreK – Grade 6 in the elementary school library setting. She enjoys a little friendly competition and loves to awaken her inner thespian, so Book Madness is right up her alley.
Emily Pedersen is a former middle school teacher and currently serves as branch manager at both the Kremmling and Hot Sulphur Springs Libraries. She has years of outreach experience to the schools in her community and works hard to cultivate relationships with students, teachers, administrators, parents, and community members. She is an avid Storytime facilitator and Growing Readers Together advocate and brings her knowledge and love of picture books to the team!

Bridging the Divide: A Panel Discussion on Library Workers Loneliness
2024-12-18 13:00 - 14:00
The consequences of loneliness among library workers extend beyond individual well-being to organizational effectiveness. Research has shown that lonely employees are less engaged, less productive, and more likely to leave their jobs. In the context of libraries, where staffing shortages and budget constraints are already significant challenges, addressing loneliness is not just a matter of employee satisfaction but also of organizational sustainability. Recent studies have shed light on the alarming prevalence of loneliness in the workplace, affecting up to 70% of employees globally. Within library settings, this issue poses unique challenges, as staff often grapple with a sense of isolation both professionally and personally.
This panel discussion delves into the root causes and far-reaching consequences of loneliness among library workers. By examining strategies to foster inclusivity and support within library environments, attendees will gain practical insights to cultivate a more connected and resilient workforce.
Session archive
Resources

Americans unhappy with family, social or financial life are more likely to say they feel lonely
Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation
The Impact of Workplace Loneliness
The Epidemic of Loneliness: The Library User Health Crisis
Suggested strategies for teams and individuals (doc)

View additional archived and upcoming Mental Health & Wellness panels.
About the panelists
Marie Bayer/she/her is currently the Adult Services Librarian for the Lakewood location of the Jefferson County Public Library. Although, I assist patrons of all ages on a daily basis, my focus is to support library associates with all things related to serving adults in our library: assisting patron in technology and other information needs, planning and facilitating programs for adults of all ages (my passion being older adults). In my roles at CAL, I am co-chair of the CAL Adult Services Interest Group and a member of the Intellectual Freedom Committee.

Claudeth Castellanos is the Spanish Services Librarian at the Loveland Public Library since March, 2017. She provides a variety of programs including Baby and Bilingual Storytime for children 0-5 years old. She also has the opportunity to do library outreach to meet informational and recreational needs and interests for adults and youth of all ages. When she is not working, she enjoys reading, running, and traveling with her family.
Rachel Hanson (she/her) is the Human Resources Director at Mesa County Libraries in Grand Junction. During her twenty-five years at MCL she has worked in a wide variety of positions and departments. Her passion for effective and healthy communication, organizational culture, and professional development eventually led her to human resources. Regardless of her current title, she will always be a librarian.
Kara Lucas Is an Outreach Librarian at Front Range Community College – Westminster. She realizes the importance of programs and events as a way of facilitating student engagement. She especially enjoys the research and teaching aspects of librarianship. Kara formerly worked in a public library system and has experience serving patrons from different demographics. She also has an advanced degree in philosophy.

Beth Garboczi (she/her), is the Library Customer Service/Circulation Supervisor at Aurora Central Library in Aurora, CO. Before transitioning to Aurora, Beth was a Librarian with Douglas County Libraries for four years (specializing in working with older adults and teaching basic technology to patrons). She has held many part-time and volunteer positions at public libraries both in Colorado and Maryland from the age of twelve. Beth is passionate about Intellectual Freedom, access, and supporting mental health in library staff.
Alejandro Marquez (he/him), is a Science and Engineering Librarian at University of Denver Libraries. He also served in the Peace Corps in El Salvador where he worked as a Municipal Development volunteer. His research interests include library employee mental health and well-being.

Colorado Family Affordability Tax Credit Info Session
2025-01-09 13:00 - 14:00
When families have the resources they need, parents and children thrive. Colorado’s new Family Affordability Tax Credit will deliver up to $3,200 per child to eligible low-income families in 2025. You can support family financial well-being and better health outcomes by helping more families know about tax credits and where to find free and secure tax help. Join this free session led by Isabel Dickson from Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to learn how to quickly and simply refer families to tax information, as well as common concerns families have about engaging with the tax system. This webinar is great for library professionals that work with children and families and/or offer reference tax support.
Learn more about the Family Affordability Tax Credit at https://tax.colorado.gov/income-tax-topics-family-affordability-tax-credit
Session archive
Additional resources:

Presentation slides
Get ahead Colorado partner-toolkit
CSL Tax resources for libraries
My Friend Ben flyer
English Coloring Sheet Flyer
Spanish Coloring Sheet Flyer

RA for All: Flip the Script and Think Like a Reader
2025-01-15 14:00 - 15:30
Readers Advisory belongs in every library, no matter its budget. The implementation of this vital service is the responsibility of every staff member– from pages to directors, from those behind the scenes to the ones on the front lines. This program will remove the mystery behind providing great RA service. Using her “Ten Rules of Basic RA Service” as a guide, Becky Spratford will use your own love of your favorite books to show you how to help any patron find their next great read. It’s not as hard as you think. But more importantly, you will learn why a staff that can harness the power of sharing a great read will become a stronger team and improve service to all patrons, especially the hardest to reach ones.
This 90-minute workshop is the first in the “Readers Advisory Workshop Series” for Colorado library professionals.
Session archive
Others in the series

Booktalk Your Way to the Friendliest Library in Town
Demystifying Genre

About the Presenter
Becky Spratford [MLIS] is a Readers’ Advisor in Illinois specializing in serving patrons ages 13 and up. She trains library staff all over the world on how to match books with readers through the local public library. She runs the critically acclaimed RA training blog RA for All. She is under contract to provide content for EBSCO’s NoveList database and writes reviews for Booklist and a horror review column for Library Journal. Becky is a 23 year locally elected Library Trustee [still serving], a former Board member for the Reaching Across Illinois Library System, and currently on the Executive Board of the Illinois Library Association. Known for her work with horror readers, Becky is the author of The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Horror, Third Edition [ALA Editions, 2021] and the forthcoming Why I Love Horror and You Should Too [Saga Press, Sept 2025]. She is on the Shirley Jackson Award Advisory Board and is a proud member of the Horror Writers Association, currently serves as the Association’s Secretary and Co-Chair of their Library Committee. You can follow Becky on X @RAforAll.
RA for All’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement: RA for All’s programs are crafted and delivered with the understanding that increasing the collection, discovery, and circulation

Adventures in Library Partnerships
2025-01-29 12:00 - 13:00
Join Beth Warren, Manager of Strategic Partnerships for the Denver Public Library, to learn why partnerships are beneficial to libraries, and how you can apply partnership principles to your work. The session will cover the building blocks of successful partnership development, creating a partnership framework, practical tips for finding mission-aligned partners in your community, and managing those partnerships effectively. Participants will then “choose our adventure” in partnership land- using Denver Public Library’s partnership examples to demonstrate different models for success in your own library and community.
Session archive
Session slides (PPT)
Partnership Guides or References

Denver Public Library’s Partnership Guide
Healthy Eating & Active Living Partnership Guide

ALA Resources

School-Library Partnership Toolkit
Young Adult Library Services Association Strategic partnership guide
Partnering for Stronger programming toolkit

Let’s Move In Libraries- UNC Greensboro School of Education

I Partner With My Public Library Awards

About the presenter:
Beth Warren is the Manager of Strategic Partnerships for the Denver Public Library, working with internal and external stakeholders to connect community needs and responsive actions. Beth believes that listening to the community she serves is the most important part of her work, and what makes the Denver Public Library and its staff trusted and respected in the community. She has been involved in partnership development for more than 15 years, with experience in the corporate, nonprofit and government arenas, has successfully completed the Downtown Denver Leadership Program and the Colorado Business Committee for the Arts Leadership Arts Program, and is the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Colorado Photographic Arts Center. Beth has presented at professional annual conferences including: Colorado Association of Libraries, Colorado Municipal League, Grant Professionals Association, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Lead the Way Community Engagement Conference. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and lives with her husband Brandon, son Everett and rescue dogs Raleigh and Ranger in Denver, Colorado.

Alzheimer's, Dementia, and Brain Health - What Everyone Should Know
2025-01-30 12:00 - 13:30
This ninety-minute session will cover:

Alzheimer’s/Dementia Facts and Figures
Dementia Risk Factors
Types of Dementia
Dementia Warning Signs
Why Early Detection Matters
Evaluating Memory and Cognition
Treatments for Alzheimer’s
Dementia Caregiving Challenges
Brain Health – Dementia Risk Reducers

Session archive.
After the main presentation (60 minutes), a robust discussion and Q&A section will follow during which participants can ask about topics covered in the presentation and how libraries may engage with partners like Alzheimer’s Association for free public education sessions, digital and print public awareness materials, and educator training to support our public community members.
About the Presenters
JJ Jordan from Dementia Friendly Denver/ America and Kelly Ostroff from the Alzheimer’s Association are both members of the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Action Coalition from Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
Note: Webinars, information, and education on brain health and Alzheimer’s and related dementias are being planned and are scheduled through Colorado State Library throughout the year. Keep an eye out on Libnet, Colorado Virtual Library, the Libraries Learn calendar for updates. If you have questions about this topic please contact Cristy Moran, Adult Library Services Senior Consultant at the Colorado State Library at moran_c@cde.state.co.us

Cultivating Empathy, Trust, and Optimism: Strategies for Motivating Demotivated Library Teams
2025-02-13 13:00 - 14:00
Library workers often face challenges in achieving organizational growth when the team is demotivated. This can lead to stagnation in services, outdated practices, and limited resources for patrons.
Demotivated teams can have a detrimental effect on the well-being of library workers. Low morale, stress, and burnout are common issues faced by those working in such environments. This impacts their mental health and overall job satisfaction. Cultivating a culture of empathy, trust, and optimism is crucial for library workers. When they feel understood, supported, and optimistic about their work environment, they are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their roles. In this panel discussion, we delve into motivating a demotivated team within a library setting.
We address the challenges that hinder organizational growth and employee well-being, focusing on strategies for cultivating a culture of empathy, trust, and optimism among staff towards their managers and leaders. By exploring real-world experiences and best practices, this session offers valuable insights and actionable steps for library employees to reinvigorate their teams and foster a more positive and productive work environment.
Session archive
About the panelists:
Meghan Connolly (she/her), is the Access Services Librarian at the University of Denver. She received her MLIS from the University of Denver. Her research interests include Accessibility and User Experience in libraries.

Celine is the Library Manager for the North Boulder Library with the Boulder Public Library District. Celine has worked with BPLD for nearly seven years in Outreach and as a Branch Librarian. She is passionate about connecting with community and building strong and motivated teams. Outside of work you can find Celine somewhere in the mountains, or playing with her cat, Mr. Beans.

Kate Crowe (she/her) is an Associate Professor and Curator of Special Collections and Archives at the University of Denver, where she oversees archives acquisition, processing, teaching with archives, exhibits, and outreach. As Curator, Kate has developed teaching partnerships with faculty and instruction librarians across disciplines, using archival collections to support critical information literacy-based instruction.

Liz Houtz, (she/her) is an Assistant Supervisor for the Sheridan Public Library part of Arapahoe Library District. She has been in public libraries for several years and has experience in adult reference, staff training, and adult programming. She has been a Chair for the Colorado Library Association for their LGBTQ+ Interest Group and was a member of the Mentor Interest Group. Her passions include intellectual freedom, learning about DEI practices, and helping patrons find what they need.
Karl Pettitt is the Coordinator of Cataloging and Metadata Services at the University of Denver. In addition, he serves as an adjunct instructor in the University of Denver MLIS program. Previous research has looked at the education of librarians and assessment strategies for cataloging departments. His most recent research has focused on reparative cataloging and classification practices including the historical precedence of these practices.

Shannon Tharp (she/her) is Resource Sharing and Collection Strategy Librarian at the University of Washington Libraries. Prior to beginning work at UW, Shannon was Collections & Content Management Librarian at the University of Denver Libraries for seven years. In addition to her work as a librarian, Shannon is a poet and essayist who’s interested in the ways that poems and libraries function similarly as sites of inquiry and spaces to inhabit. She’s also interested in the history of small press publishing in the
United States and the correspondences between and among libraries, archives, and poetry.

Strategies for Success for Neurodiverse Librarians
2025-02-18 12:00 - 13:00
This session is designed to encourage neurodiverse librarians/library workers and management to help themselves, co-workers and employees reduce the stigmas around neurodiversity. The presenter will share strategies developed from firsthand experience, as well as techniques from neurodiverse library staff. The aim of this session is to empower neurodiverse staff to find practical ways to thrive in a professional setting. Come prepared to share your questions, thoughts, and strategies.
Session archive
Session slides (PPT)
Resources

Workplace Strategies (Word)
Neurodiversity video shared during the session
Job Accommodation Network
All Access Inclusion Network (AAIN)

Authors

K. C. Davis
Dani Donovan
Jessica McCabe

About the presenter
Enas Saleh is a neurodiverse librarian that works with the Denver Public Library. She earned her MLIS from The University of Denver and a B.A. in Political Science at Metro State University. Enas has a deep love for learning and enjoys spending time in nature. She lives with her daughter and cat and is always looking for new ways to improve herself and community.

Design Thinking in the Library: Everything, Everywhere, All at Once
2025-02-18 16:00 - 17:00
Learn how to promote critical thinking and teach design thinking in the library! Presenters will share all the steps and strategies for teaching a cardboard arcade unit that fosters school-wide collaboration, interdisciplinary learning, and huge amounts of fun.
Session archive
About the presenters:
Kim Butler has been a Teacher Librarian for 16 years and is currently teaching in a half time position at Creekside Elementary in BVSD and half time at Fairview High School. She was a recipient of the Highly Effective School Library designation for Birch Elementary and is now working towards the complete credentials for Creekside. She enjoys incorporating STEAM traits into her instruction within the school’s library programming.
Rae Ciciora is the District Library Coordinator for BVSD. She acts as a consultant for 46 school libraries and as an advocate for teacher librarians with district leadership. She maintains the libraries’ union catalog, the library management system, and the district digital library. Rae loves connecting school librarians with the larger library world, whether it be through public library partnerships or sparking ideas from resources across multiple disciplines.

Booktalk Your Way to the Friendliest Library in Town
2025-02-19 14:00 - 15:00
Booktalking is at the heart of what we do with patrons at the public library. Whether we are sharing books informally at the services desk, presenting a prepared list of books, or posting information online, talking about books is something we do each and every day. It is a core service, but it is also hard to do. Or is it? It is not, especially if you focus less on tallying transactions and move toward an environment of cultivating conversations. Join experienced Readers’ Advisor Becky Spratford as she shares the secret behind deepening patron engagement, creating relationships, and increasing circulation, all by simply rediscovering the power and joy that comes from sharing a good read.
This 90-minute workshop is the second in the “Readers Advisory Workshop Series” for Colorado library professionals.
Session archive
Others in the series

RA for All: Flip the Script and Think Like a Reader
Demystifying Genre

All registrants will be provided links to recordings of each session regardless of their ability to attend.
About the presenter
Becky Spratford [MLIS] is a Readers’ Advisor in Illinois specializing in serving patrons ages 13 and up. She trains library staff all over the world on how to match books with readers through the local public library. She runs the critically acclaimed RA training blog RA for All. She is under contract to provide content for EBSCO’s NoveList database and writes reviews for Booklist and a horror review column for Library Journal. Becky is a 23 year locally elected Library Trustee [still serving], a former Board member for the Reaching Across Illinois Library System, and currently on the Executive Board of the Illinois Library Association. Known for her work with horror readers, Becky is the author of The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Horror, Third Edition [ALA Editions, 2021] and the forthcoming Why I Love Horror and You Should Too [Saga Press, Sept 2025]. She is on the Shirley Jackson Award Advisory Board and is a proud member of the Horror Writers Association, currently serves as the Association’s Secretary and Co-Chair of their Library Committee. You can follow Becky on X @RAforAll.
RA for All’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement:RA for All’s programs are crafted and delivered with the understanding that increasing the collection, discovery, and circulation of titles written by marginalized voices in all public libraries is not a trend. It is a requirement. By contracting with RA for All, library organizations must take the position that libraries are not neutral, and understand that the goal is to become an anti-racist library, an organization that does the work to begin actively breaking down the walls of the systemic oppression of marginalized view points, walls which have been built over centuries but cannot be allowed to stand any longer. This work is not easy and will be uncomfortable at times, but getting comfortable with being uncomfortable is part of this process. RA for All is committed to helping you craft an actionable plan to begin this important journey.

Talking Teen Services: Working with Teen Volunteers Panel
2025-02-25 11:00 - 12:15
Interested in launching or improving your teen volunteer programs? Join us for a panel discussion about working with teen volunteers in public libraries. Panelists from three very different Colorado libraries will share their experiences, why they created teen volunteer programs at their libraries, strategies for managing the program, and the integration of workforce skill development into their programs.
This panel discussion is part of the Colorado State Library’s Talking Teen Services series and will be recorded. The 75 minute program and will include time for you to ask the panelists your own questions towards the end of the discussion.
Session archive
Mesa County Resources

2024 Training Checklist: Summer Reading Volunteers
Customer Service 101

North Branch Volunteer Tasks (Word)
About the panelists
Caroline McIntyre is the Assistant Manager in charge of daily operations at the Eaton Public Library. She has a background in Youth and Outreach Services, but her true passion lies in promoting literacy at all ages. Caroline holds a B.A. in History and Environmental Studies from Indiana University and an M.L.I.S. from San Jose State University. In her free time, she rock climbs, skis, hikes, and spoils her golden retriever rotten. She’s also a writer and avid reader who enjoys all things fantasy and western, especially when they’re both happening at the same time.
Andrea Hamilton has been working in libraries in some shape, way, or form for 15 years, and the last 4 have been as the Teen Services Librarian at Mesa County Libraries in Grand Junction, CO. A former library teen volunteer myself, she loves getting to help create an environment where teens can grow and learn, or just simply be for a bit. Andrea also serve as one of the resident Dungeon Masters and chief puppet coordinator in conjunction with my Youth Services coworkers. She loves getting to work in a field where she can be silly and creative, and my greatest library win is when she can get a teen to forget to be quite so serious and grown up for a little bit and just enjoy being a kid for a little while longer.
Christina Chambers grew up in the library districts of the Colorado Front Range – from High Plains, to Poudre River, to JeffCo, and Denver Public. She graduated from Metropolitan State University in Denver with a Bachelors of English with the goal of “someday” working at a library. A few years later, in 2021, Christina was hired as a Library Teen Programming Technician for the Summit County North Branch. Even though there were very few programs due to COVID-19, and none for teens at the time, she built and established teen leadership groups, a tween book club, and other fun teen programs. Recently, Christina has taken the position of Branch Manager for the South Branch Library in Breckenridge. When not working or reading, Christina can be found hiking around the mountains with her dog, Duke, making different soups, or traveling.

Talking Teen Services: Empowering Teens through Meaningful Service
2025-03-06 13:30 - 14:30
How can you build a teen volunteer program at your library that engages youth in intentional ways and helps them build confidence and skills? In this webinar, we’ll share how our mid-sized, suburban library manages teen volunteers across departments, with the like-minded goal of making opportunities teen-centered and meaningful. We’ll cover logistics such as the application process, training, and retention. Throughout the session, we’ll invite you to share experiences from your own library.
This webinar is part of the State Library’s quarterly Talking Teen Services series.
Session archive
Session slides (PPT)
Resources (Word)
About the presenters:
Lindsay Huth began her library career in the suburbs of Chicago and is currently the Children’s Librarian at the Louisville Public Library in Colorado. She has spent many of her 20 years in public libraries specializing in early childhood services. In her current role, Lindsay coordinates teen and adult library volunteers, serves on the library’s Welcome All committee, and mentors storytime staff. On weekends you can find her camping with her dog and a good book.

Jessica Schwartz is the Teen Services Librarian at the Louisville Public Library in Louisville, CO. She has nearly 15 years of experience working with teens in libraries. Jessica has served on several ALSC and YALSA committees, including the Children’s Literature Legacy Award, Notable Children’s Recordings, and Best Fiction for Young Adults. Currently she is a member of ALSC’s Programs and Services Recognition committee. In her spare time you’ll find her listening to audiobooks, reading Tarot cards, watching GBBO with her husband, or pretending to be a race car with her son.

Communication Breakdowns: Tools for Working Through Conflict in the Workplace
2025-03-13 12:00 - 13:00
Conflict and the breakdown of productive communication is inevitable in the workplace. In this session we’ll work together to prepare for the next communication breakdown by identifying how our organizations want us to resolve conflict, compare unhealthy and healthy conflict, and practice two conflict resolution tools (Crucial Conversations and Emotional Intelligence).
Session archive
Session slides (PPT)
About the presenters
Andrea Kingsley is a youth librarian at the Aurora Public Library. Whether leading an engaging storytime or collaborating in the office, Andrea is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered to communicate effectively. Her commitment to connection and understanding extends beyond the library, making her a trusted advocate for children and colleagues alike.

Tessy Walker is a Branch Library Supervisor for the Hoffman Heights and Chambers Plaza Libraries in the Aurora Public Library system. She works with an amazing team that ensures our library spaces are welcoming, accessible, and provide opportunities for life-long learning for a diverse community. As a librarian and a supervisor, she has explored the role of communication in the workplace and strives to provide her peers and teams with the tools they need to successfully navigate the complex dynamics of a modern public library environment.

Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being for LIS Students: Navigating the Challenges of Graduate Studies
2025-03-19 13:00 - 14:00
Master’s students in library and information science (LIS) programs face unique challenges that can affect their mental health and well-being, from academic pressures and financial stress to job uncertainty and balancing personal commitments. This session will explore the mental health struggles common among LIS students, including feelings of isolation, burnout, and vocational awe. We will discuss strategies for fostering resilience, building supportive networks, and promoting inclusivity within LIS programs. Participants will also learn how institutions and peers can better support student well-being, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable pathway into the profession.
Session archive
About the panelists:
Jacque Composanto (she/her) is a Collection Development Librarian at Auraria Library. She collects resources in the humanities for the three schools on Auraria Campus: the University of Colorado Denver, the Metropolitan State University of Denver, and the Community College of Denver. Jacque is passionate about student engagement and learning.

Cate Johnson (she/her) is the Art Librarian for the Dallas Public Library system. She connects
patrons to the wider art community of Dallas-Fort Worth by curating shows, teaching
workshops, maintaining public art studios, and general library duties. She spends her
time looking into historical craft techniques and advocating for access to the arts.
Phoebe Lett (She/Her) is the Library Technician: E-Resource Purchasing Specialist at the University of Denver. She has worked in academic and public libraries. She also has 10 years of outdoor education experience, including working at the Denver Zoo. She will graduate this spring with her Masters of Library and Information Science degree and is passionate about the accessibility of resources and intellectual freedom.

Martín Martinez (he/him) is a Public Services Specialist at the Auraria Library that serves three higher education institutions: University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan University of Denver, and Community College of Denver. Martín is a student supervisor who works at the Ask Us Desk. He recently graduated from San José State University with a MLIS. His research interests include emerging technologies, gaming, and anti-racism efforts in the LIS.

Laurel Schwaebe (she/her) is a Creative Technology Specialist at the Auraria Library. She trains students in creative technologies including 3D printers, vinyl plotters, and camera equipment. She has a BA in Film & Digital Media from the American University in Washington, DC, as well as an MS in Marketing from the University of Colorado Denver and an MLIS from the University of Denver. She is passionate about digital preservation and educational equity.

Joshua Herrington (he/him) is a Business Research & Instruction Librarian at the University of Colorado Boulder. He leads the Business Library instruction program, conducting
information literacy instruction sessions, creating online learning modules, and providing in-depth research help. Joshua is passionate about critical pedagogy and supporting student learning.

Demystifying Genre
2025-03-19 14:00 - 15:30
Nothing is scarier than trying to help a fan of a genre you yourself don’t enjoy. You want to help that, for example, Romance reader, find the perfect book, but you are having trouble knowing where to begin because…eek!… you don’t read Romance. You are afraid they will find out you are a fraud. How can YOU possibly help THEM?!? Never fear, in this program, Readers’ Advisory expert, Becky Spratford, will teach you the basic appeals of the major genres, give you the inside track on what a fan of that genre is most drawn to, and provide you with talking points to get your genres readers to tell you what they want. This program focuses on providing you with a diverse and inclusive list of up-to-date authors; only authors will be discussed. You will leave this session with the confidence and skill to help fans of every genre, regardless of whether or not you have ever read a book in that genre yourself. And that will leave a trail of happy patrons in your wake.
This 90-minute workshop is the third in the “Readers Advisory Workshop Series” for Colorado library professionals.
Session archive
Others in the series

RA for All: Flip the Script and Think Like a Reader
Booktalk Your Way to the Friendliest Library in Town

All registrants will be provided links to recordings of each session regardless of their ability to attend.
About the presenter
Becky Spratford [MLIS] is a Readers’ Advisor in Illinois specializing in serving patrons ages 13 and up. She trains library staff all over the world on how to match books with readers through the local public library. She runs the critically acclaimed RA training blog RA for All. She is under contract to provide content for EBSCO’s NoveList database and writes reviews for Booklist and a horror review column for Library Journal. Becky is a 23 year locally elected Library Trustee [still serving], a former Board member for the Reaching Across Illinois Library System, and currently on the Executive Board of the Illinois Library Association. Known for her work with horror readers, Becky is the author of The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Horror, Third Edition [ALA Editions, 2021] and the forthcoming Why I Love Horror and You Should Too [Saga Press, Sept 2025]. She is on the Shirley Jackson Award Advisory Board and is a proud member of the Horror Writers Association, currently serves as the Association’s Secretary and Co-Chair of their Library Committee. You can follow Becky on X @RAforAll.
RA for All’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement:RA for All’s programs are crafted and delivered with the understanding that increasing the collection, discovery, and circulation of titles written by marginalized voices in all public libraries is not a trend. It is a requirement. By contracting with RA for All, library organizations must take the position that libraries are not neutral, and understand that the goal is to become an anti-racist library, an organization that does the work to begin actively breaking down the walls of the systemic oppression of marginalized view points, walls which have been built over centuries but cannot be allowed to stand any longer. This work is not easy and will be uncomfortable at times, but getting comfortable with being uncomfortable is part of this process. RA for All is committed to helping you craft an actionable plan to begin this important journey.

How to Be a Librarian for Brain Health and Dementia
2025-03-25 12:00 - 13:00
Come ready with questions about brain health, memory loss, and dementia!
In this webinar, Kelly Osthoff, Senior Director of Programs for Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado, and Cristy Moran, Adult Library Services Senior Consultant for Colorado State Library, will guide librarians and staff from all types of library institutions through resources suitable for meeting the information needs of their community members. Ready resources, including webpages and websites that can be bookmarked on information desk computers, social media accounts and influencers (some care professionals and doctors included!), resource navigation directories, and academic journals and other sources suitable for students with high school and university coursework on brain health. Libraries often provide support for finding and filing applications for medical and other social services. This session may also prove helpful for people wondering where to start looking.
Attendees are asked to come prepared with questions they’d like to ask about available resources and FAQs from community members and other library visitors.
Session archive
Participants will:

Locate and save at least five websites to bookmark and social media accounts to follow for general public inquiries (e.g., caregivers, people with personal brain health and memory concerns)
Identify some academic and medical resources for supporting research for students from high school to university levels (e.g., journals, databases, books)
Connect with specific resources from Alzheimer’s Association and Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment specific to brain health and memory care
Engage in conversation and Q&A with Alzheimer’s Association and Colorado State Library about supporting their communities

About the presenter
Kelly has 15 years of experience working in program delivery and assessment, organizational advancement, non-profit leadership. She has been a life-long volunteer with Meals on Wheels and advocate for older adults who had the pleasure of growing up in an intergenerational household, bringing a family connection to the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission.
She has studied Celtic and Gaelic history at the University of Glasgow in Scotland, has earned a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Denver, a master’s degree in Education from the University of Northern Colorado, a post-graduate certificate in gerontology from the University of Northern Colorado, and is currently pursuing a PhD in gerontology with a research focus on dementia caregiving in multi-generational families from the Lutheran Concordia University of Chicago.
She has been with the Association since March of 2015 and currently leads the Care and Support division of the chapter, providing leadership and quality assurance in programs and services execution. She also represents the Alzheimer’s Association on the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s Alzheimer’s and Dementia Related Disorders Action Coalition.

Loneliness and Social Isolation: Tackling the Social Disconnection Epidemic
2025-04-02 14:00 - 15:00
The U.S. is currently experiencing a loneliness and social isolation crises. This webinar will discuss why we should care about loneliness and social isolation, the negative health consequences of these issues, how to recognize and identify loneliness and social isolation, and potential solutions for loneliness and social isolation including the role of community.
Session archive
About the presenter
Rebecca Mullen is a family medicine physician-researcher and Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado Department of Family Medicine. She practices broad-spectrum family medicine in the outpatient and inpatient clinical settings and is an educator in the University of Colorado Family Medicine residency program. Her research and clinical interests include loneliness and social isolation, aging health disparities, dementia, LGBTQ+ and gender affirming care.

Aging at Your Library: How Colorado Libraries Meet the Moment for Aging Adults (AARP Livable Communities + Colorado’s Public Libraries)
2025-04-04 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-04-07 17:30 - 19:00
April is a month of celebration for libraries! This month, community members and partners are invited to join the Colorado State Library to learn about what your libraries are doing to support you through your silver, golden, and diamond years. Community members and library professionals will have two opportunities in and around National Library Week 2025 to learn together and forge new relationships.
In “Aging at Your Library: How Colorado Libraries Meet the Moment for Aging Adults,” Coloradan community members, partners, and libraries will learn about the Colorado public library ecosystem, find their local libraries, and learn how their libraries have built robust programs, curated resources, and fostered partnerships to meet the ever-growing needs of aging and older adults. As the state’s population trends bend toward aging and aging-in-place communities, the trends of Colorado’s public library services, resources, and partnerships follow. From tai chi classes and Ageless Grace programming to end of life and caregiving for adults educational series, Colorado’s libraries have responded to the call of their communities to meet them where they are and take them where they want to go. Colorado’s Associate State Director of Livable & Diverse Communities at AARP, Marissa Volpe, will share the vision, scope, and opportunities for work with AARP Livable Communities in Colorado. Together from the vantage point of the state library and AARP’s Livable Communities, participants will learn how they are connected to one another and how we all work to creating an age-friendly, inclusive Colorado.
This presentation will include examples from the field, highlighting different libraries’ offerings and introducing participants to the new, innovative ways libraries respond to their unique and dynamic communities.
This 90-minute webinar will include 30 minutes for community members to engage in direct conversation with their local library partners. Please come ready for robust conversation and an eagerness to meet and chat with fellow Coloradans working toward age-friendly communities.
LibraryLand, please visit the AARP Livable Communities page to learn about the community who will be attending and to locate the resources that are available for you, your neighbors, and your library.
Session archive
About the presenter
Cristy Moran (she/ ella) is a librarian, an educator, an instructional designer, and an information literacy specialist who has worked in libraries and education for over 15 years. Currently she serves at the Adult Library Services Senior Consultant for the Colorado State Library. She is a “librarian for librarians” and a library evangelist, bringing the critical often overlooked role libraries play as social and civic infrastructure to every room she’s in. Adults are her people no matter their age, identity, language, needs, aspirations, or contexts. Cristy’s professional library interests are wide-ranging and varied, but always centered on the users, patrons, and communities who we serve.
Spanglish is her superpower. Kindness punk is her praxis. She’d tell you wildflower seed-bombing is what she does for a living.
