CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities: Full Schedule

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10:45am MDT

Bringing Community Together in a Town Divided

Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT

In a time when it’s easy to feel separate, these shared experiences remind us that community isn’t about sameness—it’s about connection. And when we create space for that connection, we begin to bridge the divide
This presentation highlights several successful programs that have strengthened community connections in our small town. From programs like our Golden Years Ice Cream Social for Seniors, Lotería for our Spanish- speaking community, and Shake Your Sillies Out for children and their caregivers. The library provides welcoming opportunities and programs for neighbors to connect and reduce social isolation.
One of the most meaningful examples of this is our Community Friendsgiving—an event that welcomes residents from all walks of life, across economic backgrounds, cultures, and generations, to sit at the same table.
Rural libraries are uniquely positioned to bring people together across generations, cultures, and life experiences. Through intentional programming, we create spaces where people can come together, share stories, and build understanding.

Speakers

Paul Stanley

A combined 10+ years in programming experience., Garfield County Public Library District

Shylo Harlan

A combined 10+ years in programming experience., Garfield County Public Library Districe

Natasha Wolburg

A combined 10+ years in programming experience., Garfield County Public Library Districe

Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

Breakout Session

2:00pm MDT

Personal Identity and Librarianship

Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

For many public librarians, the profession becomes a part of their personal identity. This facilitated conversation explores how librarianship shapes how we see ourselves, relate to others, and find meaning and value in our work, while also considering how to build a healthy and sustainable relationship with the profession.

Speakers

Anne Kemmerling

Library Strategist

Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

Breakout Session

4:00pm MDT

True Crime Book Clubs: Making it Ethical without Censorship

Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

This presentation examines how true crime book clubs can remain engaging while upholding ethical responsibility—without resorting to censorship. As true crime continues to dominate popular culture, librarians and facilitators face unique challenges in selecting materials that respect victims, survivors, and community boundaries. Drawing on real-world book club practices and well-known true crime titles, this session examines how to establish patron-defined content boundaries, evaluate authorship and sourcing, and distinguish ethical decision-making from censorship. Attendees will gain practical strategies for fostering thoughtful, inclusive discussions through intentional question design and critical reading practices. The presentation also highlights the real-world consequences of unethical true crime consumption and emphasizes the importance of empathy, consent, and accountability. Designed for peers and professionals, this session encourages a more reflective approach to true crime that centers humanity over sensationalism

Speakers

Stephanie Mead

I started my first book club in 2023, I ran this for 5 month before I transferred to a different branch. After my transfer I started another True Crime Book Club that has been running since 4/24 and has been getting 14-20 patrons a month., High Plains Library District

Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

Breakout Session

CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities

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CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities

10:45am MDT

Paul Stanley

Shylo Harlan

Natasha Wolburg

2:00pm MDT

Anne Kemmerling

4:00pm MDT

Stephanie Mead

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