Name: Connection by Design: Library Programming to Fight Loneliness and Strengthen Communities
Start: 2026-09-10T16:00:00-0600
End: 2026-09-10T17:00:00-0600

Connection by Design: Library Programming to Fight Loneliness and Strengthen Communities

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

Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

This session explores the role public libraries play in addressing the growing public health concerns of loneliness and social isolation–and how cross-sector partnerships with local public health professionals can support this work.

We will discuss the Clearview Library District’s intentional approach to designing low-barrier adult programs that foster meaningful connection and community engagement, and offer practical ideas libraries can use to incorporate this into their own programming. The session will highlight lessons learned from a variety of small and large-scale programs, including a community event centered around a screening of the documentary Join or Die. This event incorporated a Join Fair designed to connect adults with local clubs, organizations, and other opportunities to strengthen their social networks.

Participants will leave with strategies for positioning their library as a convener–bringing people and organizations together to address the loneliness epidemic and strengthen their communities.

Speakers

Rebecca Robbins

Rebecca Robbins (Adult Services Assistant) designs adult programs for the Clearview Library District aligned with the District’s mission and strategic goals., Clearview Library District

Courtney Harris

Courtney Harris (Adult Services Supervising Librarian) designs adult programs for the Clearview Library District aligned with the District’s mission and strategic goals., Clearview Library District

Cody Speece

Cody Speece is a Health Education Specialist focusing on Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment’s Acts of Connection initiative–a county-wide campaign combating loneliness and social isolation., Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment

Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

Breakout Session

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CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities

Rebecca Robbins

Courtney Harris

Cody Speece

Attendees (3)

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Success you have shared X tickets.

CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities

Rebecca Robbins

Courtney Harris

Cody Speece

Attendees (3)

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