Name: Programming for Therians: Building Belonging Through Subcultures
Start: 2026-09-09T15:00:00-0600
End: 2026-09-09T16:00:00-0600

Programming for Therians: Building Belonging Through Subcultures

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

Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

Teens often find belonging through subcultures that adults may not immediately understand. Whether Therians, fandom communities, fans of music or any number of identity and affinity based groups, librarians who don't understand them are missing a great opportunity to connect with and build communities with them.

This session will introduce therianthropy and other current teen subcultures and explore why these identities resonate with teens. Participants will also gain practical tools and tips on how to figure out what subcultures you should be programming for as well as tips on how to run both large and small programs for these groups. We will also be looking at how to handle pushback from patrons and administration to ensure you're prepared for when you may encounter misunderstanding.

By looking at what we've been doing at Aurora Public Library, attendees will learn how to design welcoming spaces that affirm diverse identities while aligning with library values while helping every teen feel seen, safe, and at home in the library.

Speakers

Cody Robinson

Teen Services Librarian, Aurora Public Library

Cody (he/him) is the Teen Services Librarian at Central Library where he has been for 2.5 years. In addition to more traditional programming, he is passionate about making the library an inclusive and welcoming space for all the teens in Aurora regardless of their identity or bac... Read More →

Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

Breakout Session

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CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities

Cody Robinson

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CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities

Cody Robinson

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