CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities: Full Schedule

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8:45am MDT

Building Community Through Collaborative Screenprinting

Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT

This presentation will explore how screen printing has been used as an accessible, creative tool to connect people, amplify voices, and strengthen community relationships at PCCLD. Screen printing works as a shared, hands-on experience that supports collaboration, conversation, and participation across different groups.
We will share examples of how screen printing has been integrated into library outreach with schools and nonprofits, as well as tailored programming for specific library user groups such as book clubs, movement and wellness classes, and makers. We will also discuss how screen printing supports broader community engagement through holiday celebrations, local events, and cultural sharing—resulting in tangible items like patches, tote bags, and shirts that reflect collective identity and pride. This will include a brief overview of how reusable screens can be created using easily accessed, low-cost materials, demonstrating how this type of programming will be achievable even for libraries with limited budgets.
There will be a collaborative idea portion where attendees will brainstorm new ways to use screen printing and identify new groups to reach. The presentation will conclude with hands-on screen printing of patches. Attendees will leave with practical examples, inspiration for using upcycled materials, collaborative design to foster inclusive, meaningful connections, and screen print patches that can be used to assist in getting buy in. Collaborative screen printing will continue to be a flexible and impactful way for our library to build community—one print at a time.

Speakers

Cynthia Nicola

Screenprinting personally and for library for over 4 years, Pueblo City-County Library District - Frank I. Lamb branch

Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

Deep Dive

8:45am MDT

Censorship and Sensibility: Intellectual Freedom Then, Now, and Beyond

Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT

Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

What is intellectual freedom, and why does it matter in today’s libraries? Join CAL Intellectual Freedom Committee Co-Chairs, Ally and Michaela, to explore the history of book challenges, what makes a book “banned,” and the impact these issues have on our communities. This session introduces key milestones and movements that have shaped intellectual freedom, while also addressing current issues and emerging challenges.

Participants will engage with peers through guided activities and discussions that explore real-world scenarios, encouraging reflection and collaboration. Content will be tailored to the unique intellectual freedom concerns faced by public, school, and academic libraries, providing a practical and relevant foundation for understanding and responding to these challenges.

Speakers

Michaela Wilson

CAL's IFC Co-Chair, Pine River Library

Ally Rodriguez-Marshall

CAL's IFC Co-Chair, High Plains Library District - LINC Library Innovation Center

Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

Deep Dive

8:45am MDT

Getting More out of CALCON!

Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT

Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

Whether it’s your first time or you just want to make the most of your conference, this session is your perfect kickoff. Join Becky and Tanya (CALCON 2026 Program Chair and Conference CO-Chair)for a high-energy jumpstart — they’ll share insider tips on can’t-miss sessions, help you connect with fellow attendees, and answer any questions you may have. We will also be highlighting volunteer and leadership opportunities as well as giving attendees a breakdown of how CAL works and it's importance to Colorado libraries. Come get the lay of the land and start your CALCON adventure off right!

Speakers

Becky Van Den Berg

Hosting RPG library programs, Pine River Library District (Bayfield branch)

Tanya Prax

CALCON Co-Chair 2026/Youth Services Librarian, Arapahoe Libraries

Tanya Prax is a Youth Services Librarian at Arapahoe Libraries in Denver, Colorado. Her favorite things about her job (if she had to pick) are a family cooking program and booktalking to kids at schools.Tanya has been involved with ALA, ALSC, CAL, and is just finishing up a term on... Read More →

Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

Deep Dive

8:45am MDT

Journey Mapping the Library: Using UX Research to Design Intuitive Spaces

Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT

Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

Patrons’ voices are often left out of shaping the physical experience: wayfinding, signage, furniture, zones, and workflow, because getting meaningful feedback in surveys or community input meetings is difficult. This session brings retail-grade user experience research into the stacks. We’ll show how two public libraries (Charlotte County, FL and North Canton, OH) ran rapid, affordable studies using task-based walk-throughs and GoPro headcams to capture sightlines and decision points. Participants attempted common tasks (find a specific book, locate a computer, make a copy, choose a place to work, browse for “something to read”). The footage revealed recurring pain points—unclear category language, sign overload, hidden technology, “is this allowed?” ambiguity—and a consistent desire to self-serve without asking. We’ll demonstrate a practical, repeatable method any library can use: recruit diverse patrons (including disabled users), run standardized tasks, code the video for patterns, and translate findings into low-cost fixes that reduce “where is…?” interruptions and increase satisfaction. You’ll leave with new ideas on how to see your space through diverse patron eyes. Video clips illustrate what patrons see, where they hesitate, and how small changes can unlock confident, independent use.

Speakers

David Vinjamuri

Over 30 years of understanding consumer behavior in the private sector and with libraries. 20 years teaching students at NYU. Working with over 100 libraries in 26 states, New York University

Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT
Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

Deep Dive