CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities: Full Schedule

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8:45am MDT

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

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

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

10:45am MDT

Elevator to Auditorium: Crafting Your Library's Message in 5, 15, and 30 Minutes

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT

Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

In an era of rapid change, building Courageous Libraries and Resilient Communities begins with a single, clear voice. Advocacy isn't just a task—it’s the heartbeat of modern librarianship. Join members of the CAL Legislative Committee for this high-energy, 60-minute interactive workshop designed to transform you into a confident champion for your community.
Participants will utilize proven frameworks to tackle advocacy one battle at a time. We will guide you through three scalable templates—the 5-minute grocery store run-in, the 15-minute legislative brief, and the 30-minute deep dive—incorporating quantitative data and powerful personal anecdotes. You’ll identify your target audience, hone a specific issue, and practice your pitch in a supportive "give-and-take" environment. Together, let's turn your library’s mission into a movement.

Speakers

Greg Wilson

I did my MA in history while working full-time in a pharmacy, did my MLIS while working part time for an R1, and started at Adams State University in Dec 2022. Since then, I have published a few papers and started my doctoral program. I am a professional nerd., Adams State University

Michelle White

Michelle White is a career librarian with 29 years of experience spanning a diverse range of library and leadership roles. Currently serving as a District Elementary School Librarian in the Weld RE-4 School District, Michelle’s extensive background includes work as a school librarian, public library children’s librarian, college reference librarian, instructional technology teacher, and administrator at both the school and district levels. She holds a Master’s in Library Science from Florida State University, a foundation that supports her career-long belief that libraries are essential hubs for curiosity, learning, connection, and free expression. Outside of her professional life, Michelle is a proud Florida State alumna who has been married to her high school sweetheart for over three decades. With her two children now "grown and flown" and living their best lives, she fills her time enjoying the Colorado outdoors, getting lost in a good book, and hosting lively evenings in a kitchen full of friends, family, Weld RE-4 School District

Danielle Cowles

Danielle Cowles is the Digital Resources Librarian for Pueblo City-County Library District. Danielle received her MLS fr, Pueblo City-County Library District

Mathangi Subramanian

Dr. Mathangi Subramanian is a neurodiverse South Asian American writer, educator, and policy maker who uses she/they pronouns. Her books have been longlisted for the PEN/Faulkner, shortlisted for the Lambda Literary Award, and won the South Asia Book Award. She currently serves as the Director of Early Childhood at the Colorado Children's Campaign, as well as a Denver Public Library Commissioner. She lives in Denver with her child, a gerbil, and way too many picture books., Colorado Children's Campaign

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

Breakout Session

1:45pm MDT

Creative Cardboard

Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT

Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

A playful look at how one library has seen great success with creative cardboard-based programs for youth. Cardboard is everywhere, so learn how to encourage skill building and quality play using the recycling bin and some imagination. Get hands-on time with our favorite cardboard tools and take away some great ideas for programs for toddlers to teens with our tips for success.

Speakers

Nick Anderson

Programming for children and teens with experience at an art museum and a public library. Nearly four years in Youth Services at Bemis Public Library focusing on creative programming and artistic displays. ., Bemis Public Library

Sheena Shakely

Enthusiasm for building fun things with cardboard, experience with carboard tools and programming. Seven years at Bemis Public library with six in Youth Services. MLS Librarian., Bemis Public Library

Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

Breakout Session

3:00pm MDT

AI Perspectives; or, A Luddite And A Tech Bro Walk Into A Bar

Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT

Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

AI use in libraries is pretty polarizing. What better way to consider an issue more fully than to hear from someone who loves it and someone who hates it?

Andy Hamilton, Head of Public Services (Luddite) and Shanachie Carroll, Regional Branch Manager (Tech Bro, but nice), both with the Mesa County Libraries in western Colorado, will discuss how and why they use (or don't use) AI tools in their workflow.

They'll ask and discuss thought-provoking and challenging questions about the pros, cons, successes, failures, pitfalls, and ethical quandaries they've experienced around AI usage. This session will be interactive, with participants asking and answering questions and sharing their own feelings and experiences as well.

After this session, participants will have a more balanced understanding of where AI may be appropriate or may not be appropriate, concerns to address in writing policies around AI, and in thoughtfully exploring the nuanced territory around the use of AI in libraries.

Speakers

Andy Hamilton

I currently train and assess customer service for 20 employees at the Mesa County Libraries. Elizabeth (speaker 2) and I present training to all new staff in the C.A.R.E.S. framework of customer service., Mesa County Libraries