WEMTA 2025 - Ignite and Inspire: Impacting Learning Together: Full Schedule

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12:30pm CDT

I'm a Librarian! Now What?

Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT

You’ve got the passion, you’ve got the drive, and now you’ve got the job! So… what now? You’re probably the only librarian in your school - maybe the only librarian in your district.

Becoming a new school librarian can be overwhelming. You may have read about Amanda Jones fighting censorship or watched Mychal Threets spread library joy on TikTok, but you're still just getting your feet under you — while you’re also being asked to cover lunch duty, teach typing, and oh, your space will be used for a staff meeting so all your furniture will be rearranged and not put back — is that okay?

Kristin Rosenberg has been the new librarian in five different school and public libraries and wants to share some actionable tips and tricks you can take back to your library. In this practical presentation, we’ll discuss things like boundaries, goal setting, and how to manage your never-ending to-do list.

Speakers

Kristin Rosenberg

IMC Consultant, CESA 10

Kristin Rosenberg is a lot like a pleasant cat you might see around the neighborhood - a little skittish and easily overwhelmed, but likes people once she has time to warm up to them. Also, she'll go just about anywhere if there's going to be food.Originally from Ohio, she has over... Read More →

Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
BCC Collaborate B

Beginner, Early childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School

Company Library Space, New Librarian

12:30pm CDT

Sparking Curiosity: Using Passive Programming to Engage Students in the Library Makerspace

Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT

BCC Collaborate C

In this session, learn how to use the power of passive programming to engage students in your library's makerspace, even when you’re not actively leading a lesson. We’ll explore a variety of low-maintenance, self-directed activities that encourage students to explore, create, and innovate on their own. From hands-on activities to collaborative projects, these strategies allow students to engage at their own pace while fostering a dynamic, creative environment. Whether you’re working with limited resources or looking for ways to make your makerspace more accessible, this session will provide you with practical ideas and easy-to-implement activities to engage students in your library every day.

Speakers

Michele Green

Library Media Technology Specialist, School District of Greenwood

Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
BCC Collaborate C

Beginner, Middle School, High School

Company Library Space, Makerspace, Students as Creators

3:00pm CDT

Secondary School Librarians Unite!

Sunday March 9, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT

Sheraton Wisconsin 1

Let's share our favorite tips & tricks for secondary (middle and high school) libraries! This session will be interactive. Emily and Danielle will share some of our favorite mini lesson topics, collection development strategies (buying & weeding), study hall management, programming, and display ideas. Come to this session ready to be inspired, and prepared to share some of your favorite tips & tricks with the group.

Speakers

Danielle Brannan

Secondary Librarian, Greendale School District

This is my 15th year as a school librarian and my first year with my current district, Greendale Public Schools near Milwaukee. I work in the middle school and high school libraries, and I love it! Being a school librarian is my dream job.

Emily Dittmar

Library Media Specialist, Muskego High School

Emily Dittmar is the Librarian at Muskego High School. She is an active participant in many state library networks including serving on the WEMTA Board and CESA 1 Library Network

Sunday March 9, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Sheraton Wisconsin 1

Beginner, Middle School, High School, Higher Education

Company Budget & Resources, Collaborative Spaces, Library Space