Decision-makers need data. Librarians, School and district administrators, and school board members all have opinions on what should be happening in the library and how library funding should be used. Opinions and feelings are not how you build a library program. We'll explore ways that I've collected and analyzed data to tell a data story that has helped decision-makers make positive change in my libraries and district.
Bilingual Library Media Specialist, School District of Waukesha
This is my 13th year in education and my second year as a library media specialist. The old school ladies in cardigans might only say NOW that I can call myself a library media specialist as DPI just sent me my license. This is my first WEMTA conference, and I'm passionate about... Read More →
Many of us believe our libraries are “safe” or perhaps “brave” spaces. But how do we make these spaces safe? Who feels safest? Are ground rules at odds with free speech? What happens when someone causes harm with their words or actions? Do safe spaces even exist?
Sarah Beth shares her research on brave spaces along with lessons learned from open mic shows and storytelling workshops. We will plan strategies for creating and holding brave library spaces such as: including participants in creating rules of engagement, setting participant expectations around being brave, articulating consequences of transgression, and following through on consequences. There isn’t one “right” way to create a brave space so workshop participants will use this time to consider which brave space practices will work best with their libraries.
Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Sarah Beth Nelson is an Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Information Studies. Before becoming a professor, Sarah Beth worked in public and school libraries. In addition to researching oral information, she studies the American reality (true, personal... Read More →
Are you an elementary librarian on a fixed schedule? Are you wondering how to understand the layers of your position? We have got you covered! Join us for the ABCs of being an elementary librarian. We will discuss all the things from A to Z, like budget, lesson plans, STEM, engaging readers, ordering, inventory, displays, collaboration ideas, book processing, utilizing volunteers, and so much more. You will be given an A to Z organizer to customize during the presentation for useful ideas you can take back to your own library!
