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CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities
Wednesday, September 9
 

8:00am MDT

Vendor/Exhibit Hall
Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Discover the latest innovations in library technology, services, and resources from leading vendors and partners. Browse cutting-edge products, attend product demonstrations, and speak directly with company representatives about solutions tailored to your library's needs. The Exhibit Hall is your one-stop destination for exploring new tools that can enhance your library's impact in the community....
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Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT

8:00am MDT

Registration/Welcome Desk
Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:00am - Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am MDT
Start your conference experience here! Check in to receive your name badge, conference materials, and program guide. Our friendly volunteers will help you navigate the venue, answer questions about sessions, and connect you with networking opportunities. Stop by throughout the conference for assistance or to pick up any materials you may have missed.
Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:00am - Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am MDT

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...
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Speakers
avatar for Cynthia Nicola

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

8:45am MDT

Censorship and Sensibility: Intellectual Freedom Then, Now, and Beyond
Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Michaela Wilson

Michaela Wilson

CAL's IFC Co-Chair, Pine River Library

AR

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

8:45am MDT

Getting More out of CALCON!
Wednesday September 9, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am MDT
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Becky Van Den Berg

Becky Van Den Berg

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

avatar for Tanya Prax

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

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...
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Speakers
DV

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

10:45am MDT

A Herd of Unicorns: Colorado Public Library Standards & You
Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
If you've seen one Colorado public library, you've seen one Colorado public library. Colorado Library Law requires the state librarian develop standards to serve as models for achieving a consistent quality of library offerings across the state. Standards can be used for a variety of purposes for staff and community leaders. Come dive deeper into the landscape of Colorado public libraries and...
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Speakers
avatar for Office of Library Development, Colorado State Library

Office of Library Development, Colorado State Library

AI Trainers through SLAAIT and AI Awareness Project, Colorado State Library

avatar for Kieran Hixon

Kieran Hixon

Public Library Standard developer, Colorado State Library

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Captain Catalog Breakout Room 7

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
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Greg Wilson

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

avatar for Michelle White

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

DC

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

MS

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

10:45am MDT

Empowering Teens through Meaningful Service
Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
How do you build a teen volunteer program that truly serves teens, and also adds value to your library? In this session, two colleagues from a mid-sized suburban library share how they manage teen volunteers across departments, with a shared commitment to making opportunities meaningful, skill-building, and teen-centered. We'll walk through specific opportunities, logistics, and the philosophy...
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Speakers
JS

Jessica Schwartz

Lindsay Huth has spent 20 years in public libraries with a focus on early childhood services, and currently coordinates teen volunteers in the Children’s Department at Louisville Public Library. Jessica Schwartz has 15 years of experience in teen services and has been developing and managing teen volunteer programs throughout her career. Both presenters work collaboratively at the same library, giving them firsthand experience building a cross-departmental volunteer program with a shared philosophy. Together, the presenters bring nearly 35 years of combined public library experience, with deep specialization in youth services. They presented on this topic together for CSL’s Talking Teen Services webinar series last year, and Jessica recently presented on this topic for the Infopeople course “Teen Services Fundamentals.”, Louisville Public Library

LH

Lindsay Huth

Lindsay Huth has spent 20 years in public libraries with a focus on early childhood services, and currently coordinates teen volunteers in the Children’s Department at Louisville Public Library. Jessica Schwartz has 15 years of experience in teen services and has been developing and managing teen volunteer programs throughout her career. Both presenters work collaboratively at the same library, giving them firsthand experience building a cross-departmental volunteer program with a shared philosophy. Together, the presenters bring nearly 35 years of combined public library experience, with deep specialization in youth services. They presented on this topic together for CSL’s Talking Teen Services webinar series last year, and Jessica recently presented on this topic for the Infopeople course “Teen Services Fundamentals.”, Louisville Public Library

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Query Queen Breakout Room 3

10:45am MDT

Keep Them Coming Back with Sequential Passive Programs
Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
With limited staff time and budgets, many libraries are turning to passive programming. Take your library beyond the basics with sequential programs that last multiple weeks to keep patrons excited to return to the library. Learn the process of planning and implementing a multi-week program adapted to your community and capacity, perfect for summer reading - or whenever. The presenter duo will...
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Speakers
avatar for Tiffany Ruhl

Tiffany Ruhl

Tiffany Ruhl began in education, working in elementary schools for 9 years. She then grew an interest in libraries and has since worked at Denver Public Libraries for 6 years. Her education background taught her about learning strategies and development and how to adapt to communities with varying needs. As a librarian, Tiffany has created numerous passive programs and displays to establish a welcoming, creative environment and encourage community engagement with the library., Denver Public Library

CN

Charlotte Niteman

Charlotte Niteman started out with a degree in education, and worked as an elementary school librarian before joining Denver Public Library in 2019. For the last 7 years she has been leading and developing successful programs for all ages, taking a particular interest in passive offerings. She recently presented at the CLIC Virtual Winter Workshop, sharing scavenger hunt expertise. Charlotte and Tiffany have worked together to create some innovative new ways to serve the community through programs., Denver Public Library

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Archivist Prime Breakout Room 8

10:45am MDT

Library Escape Rooms for All Ages
Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
I will walk attendees through running an escape room program through the library including topics on the benefits (and drawbacks), puzzle creation, supplies to stock your escape room kit, elements to increase immersion, and how to design puzzle elements for different age groups.


Some hands-on examples of DIY puzzle pieces would be available. 
Speakers
DS

David Sharp

I have run regular escape room programs for over five years. We currently host three a year, including a Junior Escape Room for younger participants., High Plains Library District

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

10:45am MDT

The Power of Intention. DEIB Strategic Planning for Public Libraries
Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Making libraries more inclusive and our services more accessible to the public has a significant impact on our communities, but we often forget that change starts within. Anythink Libraries has committed to an intentional journey to reimagine how libraries can be a place where everyone belongs, starting with our internal culture and practices.This presentation will explain the intentional steps...
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Speakers
PV

Paola Vilaxa

I have developed bilingual Spanish services for public libraries for 8 years, Anythink Libraries

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

10:45am MDT

Turning Outward: Using the Harwood Approach to produce greater relevance, significance, and impact
Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Being "turned outward" is a mindset that uses community voices as a reference point to create meaningful change. Using this framework and tools developed by the Harwood Institute has led to intentional choices and actions that have strengthened connections and sparked actions to build civic culture. This session will share how this approach has been used in several public library settings and give...
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Speakers
CM

Currie Meyer

Library Branch Manager, attended multiple Harwood Institute Labs and used tools over past 8 years, Poudre River Public Library District

DL

Diane Lapierre

Executive Director of Library and 20+ years doing community engagement work, Poudre River Public Library District

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

10:45am MDT

You Can’t Pour From Empty (But You Still Have To Show Up)
Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Working in libraries means holding a lot.  You're supporting patrons with diverse needs, managing competing demands, navigating interruptions, and showing up with patience and care, even when the day feels overwhelming.In this interactive session, participants will explore what overwhelm actually is, how it shows up in the body and mind, and why it can be so hard to stay grounded in...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Brady

Amy Brady

Certified Coach and Facilitator. Certified in many emotional intelligence modalities. 25+ years working with youth and youth organizations., The Flourish Lab

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

12:00pm MDT

IFC Keynote and Awards Lunch
Wednesday September 9, 2026 12:00pm - 1:15pm MDT

Wednesday September 9, 2026 12:00pm - 1:15pm MDT

1:45pm MDT

Budget Development and Forecasting
Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
This session provides a practical overview of budget development and financial forecasting for local governments, including forecasting techniques, managing uncertainty, and using financial projections to support informed decision-making, long term planning, and fiscal sustainability.
Speakers
AK

Amanda Karger

Amanda Karger served Colorado’s state and local communities for over 17 years as a government finance leader in various roles from budget analyst to the Director of Finance and Operations providing accounting, budget, forecasting, compliance, grants management, procurement, and financial oversight services at the Colorado Department of Education – Charter School Institute, Colorado Department of Revenue, Jeffco Public Schools, and the City of Aurora., Plante Moran

RS

Reed Smythe

Reed Smythe served as Accounting Supervisor for the City of Wheat Ridge, overseeing core financial operations including audit preparation, reconciliations, cash management, budgeting, capital assets, and two bond issuances. He prepared monthly internal financial statements, managed AP/AR, led implementations of multiple financial systems, and developed processes to ensure compliance with GASB 87 and 96., Plante Moran

Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Query Queen Breakout Room 3

1:45pm MDT

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

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
SS

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

1:45pm MDT

Enhancing Access
Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
How can your library move beyond basic access and truly advance equity? This session explores practical, sustainable strategies for strengthening Spanish-language services in your library.We will discuss the critical role Spanish Services play in building trust, increasing engagement, and fostering inclusion within diverse communities. Topics include the value of hiring native Spanish-speaking...
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Speakers
LG

Lidia Gurrola-Navarro

As the Spanish Services Coordinator for the past three years, I bring hands-on experience in developing and expanding Spanish-language services in the library. My work centers on building trust with our Spanish-speaking community, improving language accessibility, and ensuring that our Latine community can fully benefit from the library’s programs, resources, and partnerships. am the Spanish Service Coordinator and have been for 3 years I'm very invested in the community and always looking for ways that my Latine community can benefit from our services., Lake County Public Library

SP

Stephanie Puebla

As a Bilingual Library Assistant III, I am often the first point of contact for many of our patrons. I take pride in representing my community within the library and bringing my lived experience into my work. This perspective helps inform areas such as collection development and the creation of meaningful bilingual programming., Lake County Public Library

Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

1:45pm MDT

Going to the Voters for Funding: How the Basalt Regional Library District Achieved Voter Approval in 2025
Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Join us for an insightful discussion on the best practices and strategies for a library district to secure voter approvalfor a funding ballot measure. Drawing on years of ballot measure survey experience and using the Basalt Regional Library as an example, we will share proven approaches and practical tips. Learn how the Basalt Region Library effectively used opinion research and campaign...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Shipley

Amy Shipley

My library board members and I planned and successfully passed a funding ballot measure for our library distrct., Basalt Regional Library

avatar for David Flaherty

David Flaherty

Our firm managed a voter opinion ballot measure survey for the library district. The survey results and findings determined the community engagement and ballot measure messaging strategy., Magellan Strategies

Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Captain Catalog Breakout Room 7

1:45pm MDT

How To Not Always Run the Show: Library Person-In-Charge Training
Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Do you or other leaders at your library feel like you are always on call to handle every emergency or crisis? From handling staff callouts to plumbing emergencies to problem patrons, this presentation will help you recognize the importance of training future leaders in your library to have a full rotation of Library Persons-In-Charge (PICs). We will discuss main PIC expectations, PIC vs Supervisor...
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Speakers
CW

Carrie Watson

Library Operations Manager, successfully created a training plan that involves over 70 training hours, has implemented with staff 12 times., Englewood Public Library

Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

1:45pm MDT

Let’s Cook: Teaching Cooking Skills in the Library
Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Cooking classes are a great way to address food insecurity while building life skills and community engagement, but they’re often financially inaccessible. This presentation will examine the program series Let’s Cook!, which provides free cooking classes to the community. Through programmer experience, program statistics, and post-program survey data, we will discuss planning,...
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Speakers
MS

Madeleine Sardina

I am the creator and sole programmer for the program series being presented. I have been a programmer for almost 2 years as a library assistant at Hoffman Heights Library and am also a fantastic home cook and proponent that everyone should know how to cook., Aurora Public Library

Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Archivist Prime Breakout Room 8

1:45pm MDT

Power of the People: Seeking and leveraging long-term staff insights for organizational effectiveness
Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Through years of service, staff turnover, technological impacts, leadership changes, economic shifts, and other notable events, long term staff accumulate insights and ideas that can benefit organizations. Learn about ways to identify an insightful group of staff, create surveys, organize focus groups, and synthesize and present relevant information to key stakeholders. Garfield County Public...
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Speakers
avatar for Kim Owens

Kim Owens

Head of Human Resources. Focused on staff retention and growth. Headed up this project, including identifying staff to solicit feedback, developing and deploying surveys and focus groups, and presenting the information to key stakeholders., Garfield County Public Libraries District

AK

Abraham Korah

Hands on experience in completing this project, including identifying staff to solicit feedback, developing and deploying surveys and focus groups, and presenting the information to key stakeholders., Garfield County Public Libraries District

Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

1:45pm MDT

Who C.A.R.E.S.? Teaching and Assessing Excellent Customer Service in the Public Library
Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Join us to learn about the C.A.R.E.S. framework of customer service, how it can be taught to up-skill staff, and how these skills can be assessed by a supervisor. C.A.R.E.S. stands for communication, accountability, response, empathy, and solution - the key ingredients in patron satisfaction.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Bush

Elizabeth Bush

Co-developed the MCL Customer Service training in the C.A.R.E.S. framework with Andy (speaker no. 1 above), oversee a team of professional librarians and other staff and assess customer service skill., Mesa County Libraries

avatar for Andy Hamilton

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

Wednesday September 9, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

3:00pm MDT

All I really need to know, I didn't learn in library school
Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Library school teaches you cataloging, collection development, and information theory - many very useful things! It does not teach you how to manage a legacy employee who has outlasted four directors, navigate a board member with a personal agenda, or get glass out of carpet after a vandalism incident at 2 a.m. This session covers the practical realities of library leadership and administration...
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Speakers
avatar for Brena Smith

Brena Smith

I am the director and I have 25 years experience as a librarian., Lake County Public Library

avatar for Kieran Hixon

Kieran Hixon

Public Library Standard developer, Colorado State Library

Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Captain Catalog Breakout Room 7

3:00pm MDT

Once Upon a Time in the Library: How Film and TV Portray Libraries
Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Libraries appear frequently in film and television, often serving as symbols of knowledge, authority, and community. Using a series of short, curated clips, this session moves from familiar, traditional depictions of libraries and librarians in popular media to more expansive and contemporary portrayals found in lesser-known films and documentaries.Attendees will be introduced to library-related...
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Speakers
JF

Jon Frederick

MLS from Emporia State University and minor in film production from the University of Colorado Denver, Colorado Library Consortium

Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Query Queen Breakout Room 3

3:00pm MDT

Programming for Therians: Building Belonging Through Subcultures
Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Cody Robinson

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

3:00pm MDT

The Library is all-write, Integrating Writing into Early Literacy Programs
Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Writing is an essential part of early literacy, yet it can be challenging to develop engaging programs that support it. In this interactive workshop, participants will engage with examples of pre-writing activities and stations. Participants will also be able to share how they have incorporated writing activities into their programs. Participants will also learn about a variety of activities that...
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Speakers
AB

Alexa Bynum

7 years in public libraries working with ages 0-18. 3 years as a Librarian focused on ages 0-5., Arapahoe Library District

Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Archivist Prime Breakout Room 8

3:00pm MDT

Three Kinds of Conversations: Preparing Effective Legislative Advocacy for Libraries
Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Library leaders are increasingly called on to speak with legislators about funding, policy, and the future of library services. But not every conversation with an elected official should be approached in the same way. This session introduces a practical framework for legislative advocacy built around three types of conversations: Affirmative, where advocates persuade someone who is likely...
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Speakers
avatar for John Chrastka

John Chrastka

Executive Director, EveryLibrary
I am the executive director of EveryLibrary, the national political action committee for libraries. I am open to chat about ballot measures, local political issues, and ways to improve relationships with local elected officials and stakeholders. All of our work is pro-bono and for... Read More →
Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

3:00pm MDT

What’s Next? Possibilities for Adult English Language Learners After the Curriculum is Done
Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Do you have programming for adult English language learners? Have they completed a textbook series or curriculum? What’s next for these patrons? Come and learn about how a library and nonprofit community based organization are addressing the diverse needs of people who are mostly fluent in English but still growing in their confidence and desire to connect. Participants will learn more about who...
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Speakers
TC

Tiffany Curtin

Tiffany Curtin has served as the the Adult Literacy and Community Outreach Specialist with Douglas County Libraries since 2012. This program serves serves around 100 adult English learners annually at all levels. Since 2015, Ms Curtin has taught a graduate seminar in Adult Literacy for MLS students at San Jose State University as an adjunct instructor.., Douglas County Libraries

avatar for Karin Bates

Karin Bates

Karin Bates is the TESOL Specialist for Intercambio Uniting Communities in Boulder, Colorado. Karin has her M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). She has over 35 years of experience teaching ESOL in multiple levels and settings. Before joining Intercambio, she worked with adult immigrants and refugees for five years at the Immigrant and Refugee Center of Northern Colorado. At IRCNOCO, she helped to develop programming with the cooperation of the High Plains Library District. At Intercambio, she now specializes in curriculum writing and volunteer teacher training, and regularly presents at regional and national adult education and TESOL conferences., Intercambio Uniting Communities

Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

3:00pm MDT

You’re Not Always Your Best—Now What?
Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
We all have two versions of ourselves that show up I our work and lives: one where we're at our best, and the one that shows up when we’re stressed, overwhelmed, or triggered.In this interactive session, participants explore what shapes how they show up in the moments that matter most. Through reflection and real-life scenarios, we’ll unpack the internal and external factors that influence our...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Brady

Amy Brady

Certified Coach and Facilitator. Certified in many emotional intelligence modalities. 25+ years working with youth and youth organizations., The Flourish Lab

Wednesday September 9, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

4:00pm MDT

Exhibit Hall Happy Hour
Wednesday September 9, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Wednesday September 9, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
 
Thursday, September 10
 

8:00am MDT

Exhibit Hall Continental Comfort Breakfast
Thursday September 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am MDT

Thursday September 10, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am MDT

8:00am MDT

Vendor/Exhibit Hall
Thursday September 10, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Discover the latest innovations in library technology, services, and resources from leading vendors and partners. Browse cutting-edge products, attend product demonstrations, and speak directly with company representatives about solutions tailored to your library's needs. The Exhibit Hall is your one-stop destination for exploring new tools that can enhance your library's impact in the community....
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Thursday September 10, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT

8:00am MDT

Registration/Welcome Desk
Thursday September 10, 2026 8:00am - Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am MDT
Start your conference experience here! Check in to receive your name badge, conference materials, and program guide. Our friendly volunteers will help you navigate the venue, answer questions about sessions, and connect you with networking opportunities. Stop by throughout the conference for assistance or to pick up any materials you may have missed.
Thursday September 10, 2026 8:00am - Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am MDT
Aurora Foyer

9:00am MDT

CAL Keynote Speaker: Lana Hailemariam
Thursday September 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Libraries are far more than buildings—they are places of refuge, possibility, and change because of the people who show up each day. You may never see every seed you plant grow, but your conversations, recommendations, and moments of kindness change lives in ways you may never fully know.Through powerful stories rooted in real library experiences, Lana illustrates a simple truth: even when you...
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Thursday September 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Aurora Ballroom "The Library League"

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 divideThis presentation highlights several successful programs that have strengthened community connections in our small town. From programs like our Golden Years Ice Cream...
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Speakers
PS

Paul Stanley

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

avatar for Shylo Harlan

Shylo Harlan

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

NW

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

10:45am MDT

Charting Your Path: Career Development for the Courageous Library Professional
Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
What if you had a clearer roadmap for your library career? Whether you are early in your journey, considering a move into management, or simply figuring out your next step, this deep dive session meets you where you are! Through a short strengths and goal-setting exercise, small group conversations with experienced library professionals, and a take-home career path template, participants will...
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Speakers
XA

Xochil Arellano

Equity Diversity and Inclusion management for Poudre Libraries, Poudre Libraries

Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

10:45am MDT

Compassion Without Collapse: Boundaries for Library Staff Under Pressure
Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Library staff are expected to provide exceptional service while navigating behavior that can be demanding, inappropriate, or emotionally charged. This interactive session introduces a trauma-informed approach to asserting compassionate boundaries, helping participants stay kind, clear, and courageous under pressure. Rooted in neuroscience and informed by real-world library scenarios, participants...
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Speakers
avatar for Ariana Friedlander

Ariana Friedlander

Ariana Friedlander brings over two decades of experience working alongside mission-driven leaders navigating complex interpersonal dynamics. As the founder of Rosabella Consulting, she designs and facilitates trauma-informed leadership and communication trainings, including programs specifically for library staff focused on boundary setting and patron interactions. She holds a certificate in the Neuroscience of Conversation® that she integrates into practical, real-world application. Her approach is grounded in the lived experiences of library professionals through extensive research, reflecting a deep understanding of the emotional labor required in public service and the nuanced skills needed to hold boundaries with both compassion and clarity. Library training participants have reported increased confidence in handling difficult interactions and greater clarity in how to uphold boundaries without escalating situations., Rosabella Consulting, LLC

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

10:45am MDT

From Data to Dialogue: Understanding Burnout, Coping, and Support in Library Settings
Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
More than 800 library workers from across the country responded to a survey exploring the relationship between burnout and mental health practices. Follow up interviews with 50 library employees created a more robust and nuanced understanding of how library workers are faring in today’s complicated world. This presentation will share results from both the survey and interviews, exploring how...
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Speakers
avatar for Annie Epperson

Annie Epperson

Academic librarian with more than 20 years of experience working in academia. Active researcher in assessment, belongingness, and space utilization., University of Northern Colorado

avatar for Jayne Blodgett

Jayne Blodgett

Academic librarian for more than 18 years with nearly 10 years as an administrator. Soon to graduate (Aug. 2026) from UNC with an MA in clinical mental health counseling., University of Northern Colorado

KK

Kristin Kang

University of Northern Colorado
na
Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

10:45am MDT

From Planning to Progress: The Communication-Centered Approach to Library Strategy
Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
In today's rapidly evolving world,  libraries face unprecedented challenges that demand thoughtful planning. Yet even the most brilliant strategies falter without effective communication—the true heart and soul of the strategic planning process.Join us to explore how intentional, ongoing communication transforms strategic planning from a static document into a living framework that...
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Speakers
avatar for Chelsea Dodd Coleman

Chelsea Dodd Coleman

As a library strategist, Chelsea guides libraries through the strategic planning process while keeping communication front and center. She earned her B.A. in Communication from Seton Hall University (South Orange, N.J.) and Master's in Library and Information Science from Drexel University (Philadelphia)., Library Logic Consulting, LLC

Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Archivist Prime Breakout Room 8

10:45am MDT

Good people are hard to find: Developing and retaining an effective workforce
Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
This session explores today’s talent challenges facing government organizations, including workforce shortages, generational differences, and the high cost of turnover. 
Speakers
AK

Amanda Karger

Amanda Karger served Colorado’s state and local communities for over 17 years as a government finance leader in various roles from budget analyst to the Director of Finance and Operations providing accounting, budget, forecasting, compliance, grants management, procurement, and financial oversight services at the Colorado Department of Education – Charter School Institute, Colorado Department of Revenue, Jeffco Public Schools, and the City of Aurora., Plante Moran

RS

Reed Smythe

Reed Smythe served as Accounting Supervisor for the City of Wheat Ridge, overseeing core financial operations including audit preparation, reconciliations, cash management, budgeting, capital assets, and two bond issuances. He prepared monthly internal financial statements, managed AP/AR, led implementations of multiple financial systems, and developed processes to ensure compliance with GASB 87 and 96., Plante Moran

Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Query Queen Breakout Room 3

10:45am MDT

Trustee Track: A Survey of Colorado Laws Affecting Libraries and What's New for 2026
Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Our libraries are governed by many laws and touched by many principles. They are subject to change by the culture, politics, legislatures, rulemaking, and court interpretations. This presentation will survey major topics that affect our libraries, including:Efforts to use the First Amendment as a sword instead of a shield; New Colorado laws and court cases impacting libraries;Colorado Open...
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Speakers
KJ

Kim J. Seter, Esq.

Attorneys specializing in the representation of libraries for a combined 55 years, Seter, Vander Wall & Mielke, P.C.

avatar for Elizabeth

Elizabeth "Beth" Dauer, Esq.

Attorneys specializing in the representation of libraries for a combined 55 years, Seter, Vander Wall & Mielke, P.C.

Thursday September 10, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

12:15pm MDT

CAL Awards Lunch
Thursday September 10, 2026 12:15pm - 1:45pm MDT

Thursday September 10, 2026 12:15pm - 1:45pm MDT

2:00pm MDT

Implementing a Bilingual Pay Model
Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Bilingual staff help libraries create meaningful connections that foster a feeling of inclusion and belonging with populations that otherwise would be left out of our services.Over many months, Anythink libraries developed a simple but intentional Bilingual Pay model that helps reward and retain staff who are bilingual in Spanish, without adding additional tasks to their workloads. We created a...
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Speakers
PV

Paola Vilaxa

I have developed bilingual Spanish services for public libraries for 8 years, Anythink Libraries

Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Query Queen Breakout Room 3

2:00pm MDT

Moving the goal posts or raising the bar? Deciding on the best objectives in Children’s Services
Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Create proficient readers by third grade or nurture lifelong readers? Focus on high door counts or measure the effectiveness of programs? Buy decodable books recommended by schools or those craved by kids? Take books and programs out to the underserved families in the community or keep the community coming to the library building?  Are these and other topics false dichotomies or the current...
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Speakers
avatar for Jim Erekson

Jim Erekson

Jim Erekson has been teaching language and literacy at the college level since 1989. His Ph.D. in learning and development (Michigan State, 2000) focused on language and literacy development. He has a wide K-12 background in both elementary and secondary schools, including research, teaching, and consultation. His professional work and publications focus on helping readers who don’t have a clear path forward, and interpreting children’s literature. He is currently Professor of Reading at University of Northern Colorado., Literacy Program, School of Teacher Education, University of Northern Colorado

avatar for Lu Benke

Lu Benke

Lu Benke brings to her consultations, presentations, and research articles experiences from over 35 years as a children’s librarian (most recently at Poudre Libraries) as well as the best of recent research from her Master’s in Reading and PhD in Educational Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. She is passionate about identifying and strengthening the connections between what libraries do and what research indicates creates lifelong readers. She currently consults through Linking Libraries and Literacy and presents and writes locally and nationally on topics such as current trends in the teaching of reading, the role of motivation in literacy, creative outreach, and the history of children’s librarianship. In addition, Lu is active on three Colorado Association of Libraries (CAL) groups—Legislative Committee, Intellectual Freedom, and Children and Teen Services., Linking Libraries and Literacy

Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

2:00pm MDT

Presence & Purpose: The Essential Elements of Confident Leadership
Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Transform your leadership approach by discovering the powerful intersection of personal strengths, authentic purpose and confident presence. Through interactive exercises and reflective practices, you'll identify your unique strengths and learn practical strategies to leverage them in real-world management situations. You'll craft a personalized purpose statement that serves as your leadership...
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Speakers
avatar for Chelsea Dodd Coleman

Chelsea Dodd Coleman

As a library strategist, Chelsea guides libraries through the strategic planning process while keeping communication front and center. She earned her B.A. in Communication from Seton Hall University (South Orange, N.J.) and Master's in Library and Information Science from Drexel University (Philadelphia)., Library Logic Consulting, LLC

Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Archivist Prime Breakout Room 8

2:00pm MDT

Snacktivities and Beyond: Addressing Food Insecurity with Young Library Patrons
Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
In 2019, Arapahoe Libraries created a "Snacktivities" program to help address the need for Food Justice in our community in a fun and engaging way. The program was revived post-covid in 2022 and grew rapidly with our growing neighborhoods and their shifting needs. In 2024, the program grew from two branches to district-wide, now serving seven diverse communities...
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Speakers
MG

Mariann Gentile

As branch Youth Reference Librarians, we are the branch level staff that have the most day-to-day interactions with our patrons to directly observe these needs. We are in these positions at two of the ALD branches that see the highest food insecurity needs from our surrounding communities. Mariann has a background in Social Work and has worked extensively both in and out of library settings with diverse populations of young people, including through Head Start and After School Programs. June worked with young people experiencing homelessness (and food insecurity) for many years before working at a library. She has previously presented at the Colorado State Library on trauma informed best practices for working with kids and teens in libraries., Arapahoe Library District

JM

June McGinn

As branch Youth Reference Librarians, we are the branch level staff that have the most day-to-day interactions with our patrons to directly observe these needs. We are in these positions at two of the ALD branches that see the highest food insecurity needs from our surrounding communities. Mariann has a background in Social Work and has worked extensively both in and out of library settings with diverse populations of young people, including through Head Start and After School Programs. June worked with young people experiencing homelessness (and food insecurity) for many years before working at a library. She has previously presented at the Colorado State Library on trauma informed best practices for working with kids and teens in libraries., Arapahoe Library District

Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Captain Catalog Breakout Room 7

2:00pm MDT

The AI-Powered School Librarian
Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Between managing collections, supporting literacy, and teaching digital citizenship, a school librarian’s to-do list is often a mile long. What if you had a tireless administrative assistant ready to draft your newsletters, analyze your circulation data, and curate personalized professional development in seconds?Join us for a fast-paced, hands-on workshop designed to transform AI from a...
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Speakers
avatar for Sheena Kelly

Sheena Kelly

I have been a librarian for 15 years, primarily in K-12 library settings. I have presented on this specific topic seven times in a variety of conference settings since 2024., Thompson School District

Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

2:00pm MDT

Thursday Thought Talks
Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Thought Talks are 15-20 minute mini-sessions within a session! 1. Numbers (Help!) Tell Our Library Story:This session will focus on statewide, multiyear trends in public library services, collections, finances, staffing, and more. Highlights from the latest data from the 2025 Public Library Annual Survey as well as national trends will tell the story of Colorado’s public libraries. The...
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Speakers
avatar for Kim Bartels

Kim Bartels

Children's Environmental Health and Healthy Schools Coordinator, USEPA Region 8
avatar for Charissa Brammer

Charissa Brammer

Multiple years of experience working in survey design, implementation, and data analysis., Colorado State Library

avatar for Dana Petersen

Dana Petersen

Multiple years of experience working in survey design, implementation, and data analysis., Colorado State Library

avatar for Amanda Davidson

Amanda Davidson

Amanda is a Research & Instruction Librarian at Regis University. She has worked in academic libraries for over three years and has an MLIS from San Jose State University. Amanda is the subject liaison for Communications, Counseling, Education, and Psychology and is currently the lead librarian for the Regis University Prison Education Program., Regis University

AM

Ashley Meisenheimer

Ashley Meisenheimer, MA, MLIS currently serves as a Research and Instruction librarian at Regis University. Her previous positions have seen her in both private business, as well as industry, and she has worked with varied populations across her career. Her specialties are History, Politics and Medicine., Regis University

Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

2:00pm MDT

Trustee Track: How to Build and Grow a Great Fundraising Foundation
Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
A strong board does more than govern well. It also helps advance fundraising in visible and meaningful ways. Kitty L. deKieffer and Chris Barge will focus on the board’s role in fundraising success, from setting expectations and building a culture of philanthropy to opening doors, strengthening donor relationships, and supporting major gifts. Participants will leave with practical ideas for how...
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Speakers
KL

Kitty L. deKieffer

Boulder Library Foundation

CB

Chris Barge

CEO, Boulder Library Foundation
Thursday September 10, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

3:00pm MDT

Exhibit Hall Dessert Reception
Thursday September 10, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT

Thursday September 10, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT

4:00pm MDT

Bringing Resilience To Light: Working With Communities Through Oral Histories
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Engaging with communities through oral history interviews enables librarian archivists to work towards amplifying voices traditionally excluded from historical records. Marginalized groups such as people of color, women, immigrants, differently abled, and LGBTQ represent a significant percentage of the population that has been severely...
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Speakers
MS

Maria Smyer

Several years of experience working with diverse communities., Colorado State University Pueblo

CG

Charlene Garcia Simms

Several years of experience working with diverse communities., Colorado State University Pueblo

Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Query Queen Breakout Room 3

4:00pm MDT

Connection by Design: Library Programming to Fight Loneliness and Strengthen Communities
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
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...
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Speakers
RR

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

CH

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

CS

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

4:00pm MDT

From Idea to Impact: First Steps to Transforming Your Library
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Libraries evolve with their communities. Whether you’re expanding, renovating, refreshing, or building a new facility, knowing where to begin can be the biggest challenge. This session will guide librarians, staff, and trustees through the essential first steps. It starts with community engagement: listening to residents, understanding what they need, and building the case for investment. From...
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Speakers
avatar for Rob Cullin

Rob Cullin

Rob brings over 20 years of experience working with libraries nationwide and internationally. As co-founder of ReThinking Libraries (RTL) and a former leader at Kimberly Bolan & Associates (KBA), he has supported thousands of libraries and visited more than 1,000 facilities. His work focuses on strategic planning, facility planning, and community engagement. Rob’s expertise includes library space programming and design, demographic and usage data analysis, technology planning, and organizational assessment, helping libraries translate community insights into practical, data-informed decisions., ReThinking Libraries

avatar for Wells Squier

Wells Squier

Wells has more than 29 years of professional experience working with public sector clients, and has a proven record of success with library projects in Colorado. He is known for his gracious demeanor and collaborative approach, successfully bringing clients, communities, and design teams together to create legacy projects., Anderson Hallas Architects

RS

Rebecca Silva

Rebecca brings hands-on experience managing library projects from concept through completion, each grounded in robust community engagement. Her work is driven by a passion for holistic, context-sensitive design that connects people, place, and purpose, ensuring library spaces reflect and support the communities they serve. She also brings expertise in evaluating and implementing sustainable design strategies, helping libraries create efficient, resilient, and future-ready facilities., Anderson Hallas Architects

Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

4:00pm MDT

Making All The Right Moves: Circulating Board Games In Your Library
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
The Bemis Public Library has recently launched its circulating board game collection with massive success! Learn from the staff responsible for its inception about the process of pitching a new collection to internal stakeholders and coming up with best practices for containing and displaying games. We’ll touch on our experience seeking grants and creating relationships with local game stores...
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Speakers
avatar for Emma Lea Embry

Emma Lea Embry

Head of Gaming Interest Group and recently launched circulating board game collection, Bemis Public Library

avatar for Mary Miller

Mary Miller

Member of Gaming Interest Group and recently launched circulating board game collection, Bemis Public Library

Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Archivist Prime Breakout Room 8

4:00pm MDT

Strategic Planning Reimagined - AI and Gamification in Public Libraries
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Public libraries are rethinking strategic planning—and this session offers a blueprint for doing so with innovation, equity, and engagement. Learn how one library district replaced traditional consulting with AI-assisted tools to analyze trends, community input, and internal metrics. Discover how gamification was used to anonymize data and foster objective, inclusive planning during a full-day...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Nelson

Amy Nelson

I have over 20 years of experience in public libraries and have been in leadership for over a decade. As the Associate Director, I led the strategic planning project our library conducted last year with our Executive Director of Library Foundation and Strategic Initiatives and we plan to present this session together. We both work extensively with data and community engagement, as well as planning and administration for our library district. We are both on the task force for AI implementation at PCCLD we and have completed extensive professional development in AI to support responsible AI governance and application in in public libraries., Pueblo City-County Library District

Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

4:00pm MDT

True Crime Book Clubs: Making it Ethical without Censorship
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
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...
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Speakers
SM

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

4:00pm MDT

Turning Your Teens Into Library Leaders
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Libraries need advocates more than ever, and your teens are the next generation of leaders. The Teen Advocacy Toolkit is a programming guide for librarians, educators, or anyone who works with teens. It provides detailed and scalable program ideas on topics like the importance of libraries, finding your role in your community, media literacy, and advocacy skills.  In this session,...
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Speakers
EE

Emma Eriksson

Manager of Youth Civic Engagement & Expression, Brooklyn Library
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Captain Catalog Breakout Room 7

4:00pm MDT

Trustee Track: On the Path to the Ballot: Preparing Your Community for a Successful Library Funding Measure
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Library ballot measures rarely succeed when they are introduced as a last-minute measure. The real work happens years before Election Day. Long before a question is filed with the clerk of elections, libraries must build trust, engage partners, test community attitudes, and communicate transparently about their plans.This session explores the strategic path libraries can follow in the five years...
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Speakers
avatar for John Chrastka

John Chrastka

Executive Director, EveryLibrary
I am the executive director of EveryLibrary, the national political action committee for libraries. I am open to chat about ballot measures, local political issues, and ways to improve relationships with local elected officials and stakeholders. All of our work is pro-bono and for... Read More →
Thursday September 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

5:30pm MDT

CALCON After Hours Social Event
Thursday September 10, 2026 5:30pm - 7:00pm MDT
Join us at the newly renovated Martin Luther King Jr branch of the Aurora Public Library from 5:30-7pm for food, games, tours, and more. The branch is just a ten-minute drive west on Colfax from the Hyatt Regency. Questions? Email Jenny Rodger at [email protected]
Thursday September 10, 2026 5:30pm - 7:00pm MDT
Martin Luther King Jr Aurora Public Library Branch 9898 E Colfax Ave, Aurora, CO 80010
 
Friday, September 11
 

8:00am MDT

Registration/Welcome Desk
Friday September 11, 2026 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Friday September 11, 2026 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT

8:45am MDT

Beyond the Buzzwords: People-First EDI That Builds Around Your Library's Heart
Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion efforts within US organizations have faced a tumultuous landscape over recent years to which libraries are not immune. Our library recognizes that EDI initiatives are not about politics but rather about people. By evolving and expanding our EDI efforts, we prioritized best practices which make our organization more innovative, more responsive to our community, and...
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Speakers
XA

Xochil Arellano

Equity Diversity and Inclusion management for Poudre Libraries, Poudre Libraries

Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Query Queen Breakout Room 3

8:45am MDT

Can’t Touch This: Mastering Archival Processing in a Virtual Space
Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
As technology advances, so does our ability to teach virtually, but how do you instruct a student to analyze a nineteenth-century collection in detail without the opportunity to physically handle the collection? After adapting an in-person archival experience, I will share how I delivered four virtual practicums with the use of an adapted in-person archival experience. These virtual practicums...
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Speakers
avatar for Justin Easterday

Justin Easterday

Research and Instruction Librarian, CSU Pueblo
For the past two years, I have been a virtual practicum supervisor and have continually refined my instructional methods and style. My improvements were based on direct student feedback and on areas that clearly showed gaps during instruction.
Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Captain Catalog Breakout Room 7

8:45am MDT

Designing Together: Strategies for Building Stronger Programs and Partnerships
Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Unlock one of the library’s keys to success and innovation: collaboration. Programming partnerships create an impact on every level, and we’ll share the strategies for you to build fruitful, lasting connections. Drawing on a combined 10+ years of experience, we’ll explore collaboration types, ranging from small-scale programs to larger events, and the specific processes that made them...
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Speakers
avatar for Katie Harness-Hemmer

Katie Harness-Hemmer

Over four years of experience collaborating, fostering new partnerships, and leading 60+ programs while working at BPLD. I have focused mostly in my department Youth Services in which I have created programming for families, children and teens., Boulder Public Library District

SS

Sophia Surage

Sophia has over 6 years of experience fostering and maintaining community partnerships as the Volunteer Services Manager at BPLD, and before that at CU Boulder's Volunteer Resource Center. Her experience covers planning the JLF Colorado festival, cultivating partnerships within the Boulder community, and solidifying relationships with volunteers., Boulder Public Library District

Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Archivist Prime Breakout Room 8

8:45am MDT

From Curiosity to Career: Building STEM Pathways Through Libraries
Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
How can libraries spark curiosity, inspire future innovators, and connect families to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) possibilities? According to an article published in Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, informal STEM learning can lead to positive outcomes for students from historically marginalized communities. In response to opportunity gaps for students to...
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Speakers
avatar for Melissa Beavers

Melissa Beavers

As an experienced manager, I have been working towards improving the success of one-on-ones both as a facilitator with my staff and as an attendee with my supervisor. I have read numerous books and articles on the topic and be using various techniques for many years with strong results., High Plains Library District

AJ

Alyssa Johnson

Alyssa is an Innovation Technician at HPLD and is an adjunct chemistry instructor at University of Northern Colorado, she has been making science accessible to people of all ages for more than a decade., High Plains Library District

VS

Victor Sam

Victor is an engineer and a DEI administrator at Stantec who has been assisting STEM enrichment programs at schools, libraries, and recreation centers for over 15 years., Stantec

Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Captain Catalog Breakout Room 7

8:45am MDT

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Leadership: Zen and the Art of Librarianship
Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Join our panel as we discuss our approaches to leadership, resilience, and joy. The program examines how the panel navigates the pressures of management, decision-making, and organizational change. Through personal stories, practical examples, and thoughtful discussion, the session highlights strategies for cultivating calm, clarity, and resilience while leading teams and serving communities....
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Speakers
avatar for Allaina Wallace

Allaina Wallace

Each presenter has several years of experience as a library director or equivalent. We represent several types of libraries, public, academic, federal, and special. We have each managed teams of various sizes through change – construction, restructuring, fiscal, etc., Denver Botanic Gardens, Helen Fowler Library

AP

Amy Phillips

Each presenter has several years of experience as a library director or equivalent. We represent several types of libraries, public, academic, federal, and special. We have each managed teams of various sizes through change – construction, restructuring, fiscal, etc., Loveland Public Library

avatar for Robyn Lupa

Robyn Lupa

Each presenter has several years of experience as a library director or equivalent. We represent several types of libraries, public, academic, federal, and special. We have each managed teams of various sizes through change – construction, restructuring, fiscal, etc., Jefferson County Public Library, Arvada Library

JM

Jack Maness

Each presenter has several years of experience as a library director or equivalent. We represent several types of libraries, public, academic, federal, and special. We have each managed teams of various sizes through change – construction, restructuring, fiscal, etc., Colorado School of Mines, Arthur Lakes Library

MM

Michele Masias

Each presenter has several years of experience as a library director or equivalent. We represent several types of libraries, public, academic, federal, and special. We have each managed teams of various sizes through change – construction, restructuring, fiscal, etc., Retired Law Librarian, CoALL Member-at-Large

Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

8:45am MDT

Local Children’s Authors: A Vibrant Resource for your School and Public Library Communities
Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
In this session participants will learn about the Rocky Mountain Chapter of SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators). There are many ways our chapter can help Colorado librarians connect their patrons with books for young people by local authors and illustrators. Our Rocky Mountain Chapter (RMC) maintains an up-to-date list of authors and illustrators who enjoy giving...
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Speakers
avatar for Susan Wroble

Susan Wroble

Led and volunteered for the Rocky Mountain Chapter of SCBWI (the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators), Rocky Mountain Chapter Society of Children's Book Writers or Illustrators

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Polly Holyoke

Volunteer and conference presenter for the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, Rocky Mountain Chapter of SCBWI

Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

8:45am MDT

The Standards Advantage: A Framework for Strategic Planning and Library Success
Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Step 1: Read Colorado Public Library Standards. Step 2: ???. Step 3: Library growth and success! If your library’s director, leaders, and trustees are wondering about “Step 2”, learn how the Clearview Library District is using the Colorado Public Library Standards to drive library assessment, identify improvement opportunities, and shape our Operational and Strategic Plans....
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Speakers
avatar for Jeromey Balderrama

Jeromey Balderrama

As a Trustee for the Clearview Library District Board, I worked diligently with the standards to develop surveys for each standard. Following the survey dissemination, I collected, mined and curated the data, presenting it back to the Board of Trustees and staff., Clearview Library District

avatar for Erica Rose

Erica Rose

comprehensive evaluation of our library district over the course of 18 months. As a new director, I often reached for the standards to help ground my decision making and direction. We are now relying on the results of our evaluation to as key aspects of our operational plan and upcoming strategic plan., Clearview Library District

Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

8:45am MDT

“Mini-Programs: Finding Your Blank Spaces”
Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
The secondary school library is more than a resource hub—it’s a space where connections are made, ideas are shared, and students find a sense of belonging. This session highlights how “mini programs” and the blank spaces in our schedule can transform you and your library program into a dynamic asset to your school community. From quick activities to thematic events, mini programs engage...
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Speakers
avatar for Erica Leu

Erica Leu

I am a certified teacher librarian with a passion to collaboratively and creatively build literacy, technology and criti, Douglas County School District

Friday September 11, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am MDT
Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

9:00am MDT

CAL Committee/Interest Group Tables
Friday September 11, 2026 9:00am - 11:30am MDT

Friday September 11, 2026 9:00am - 11:30am MDT

10:00am MDT

AI Framework: Questions, Ethics, Cybersecurity
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
As artificial intelligence (AI) tools become increasingly integrated in our workspace and our lives, library professionals must grapple with complex questions around use, ethics, legality, cybersecurity, and public trust. This session will include a brief overview of the AI landscape, and then we will then dive into discussion to wrestle with questions of ethics and application. By preparing...
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Speakers
avatar for Office of Library Development, Colorado State Library

Office of Library Development, Colorado State Library

AI Trainers through SLAAIT and AI Awareness Project, Colorado State Library

Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

10:00am MDT

Beyond Listening: Expanding Library Services Through the Power of Music
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Is the extent of your library's musical offerings a wilting CD collection? Do you want to level up your storytimes, all while flexing your own creativity? This talk is for you! Find out what happens when we integrate music into library services, and how to expand and work to integrate more music into library offerings. Whether you are a seasoned musician, an intimidated first time storytime...
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Speakers
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Asa Kennison

I have worked as a passionate public library employee for over five years, providing a dynamic range of library services to every possible age group in that time across both in-house and outreach settings. Alongside my career as a public library employee, I have been a lifelong independent musician. Guitar is my instrument of choice, although I love the piano, and I am also an audio engineer. Based on that musical background, I have integrated my passion for singing and songwriting into my work at the library. I've built and grown a unique music-based early literacy program titled 'Songs and Stories', which has become a highly popular program. Since building this program from its humble beginnings to a beloved community experience, I've begun to develop other ways to integrate music into library services. I want to encourage others to do the same, expanding patron access to music in many forms and facilitating more opportunities for community based connections., Clearview Library District

Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

10:00am MDT

CUnique Stories: Community Connection Through Storytelling
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
How might libraries enact compassion and belonging through storytelling? Librarians at CU Boulder explored this question over the past several years and designed intentional events to better understand the possibilities. CUnique Stories was a storytelling event in celebration of our 2025-2026 campus One Read title. In an effort to center compassionate listening and community connection, the...
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Speakers
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Cynthia Keller

Ample years of experience designing and facilitating engagement programming to promote connection, community, and belonging in academic libraries., University of Colorado Boulder
avatar for Amanda Rybin Koob

Amanda Rybin Koob

Ample years of experience designing and facilitating engagement programming to promote connection, community, and belonging in academic libraries., University of Colorado Boulder
CS

Caroline Sinkinson

Ample years of experience designing and facilitating engagement programming to promote connection, community, and belonging in academic libraries., University of Colorado Boulder
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

10:00am MDT

Library Safety in Uncertain Times
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
We believe safety is the foundation to building strong, collaborative, and equitable communities. Safety is important for all libraries-- not just big picture safety, such as emergency preparedness, but small, everyday safety issues like how your team responds to stress or how your patrons feel walking into your building. If people don’t feel safe, they will not access the library programs and...
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Speakers
KH

Krista Hanley

Krista Hanley is a public speaker, writer, and has over twelve years of experience teaching violence prevention and personal safety to people of all ages and abilities. She is a Credentialed Empowerment Self-Defense Professional through the International Association of ESD Professionals and earned her empowerment self-defense instructor certification in 2017. Krista’s work is grounded in an inclusive, trauma-informed approach that prioritizes practical skills, confidence, and informed choice. Her professional training includes first aid and AED, Colorado Mandatory Reporter certification, Mental Health First Aid, Community Emergency Response (CERT), Adaptive Sport Abuse Prevention (accredited by SafeSport in Colorado Springs), Trauma-Informed Instructor certification, ALERRT (Active Shooter) Civilian Response trainer certification, and nonviolent communication. In addition to her teaching work, Krista is a public speaker and published writer. She holds a Master’s degree from Western Colorado University and bri, We Are Safer Together LLC

Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Query Queen Breakout Room 3

10:00am MDT

Seeing and Serving Our Unseen Caregiving Youth
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Caregiving youth are people under the age of 18 who provide care for family/kin who require support due to chronic illness, age-related decline, disability, or other medically-related conditions. In this deep dive, we will introduce participants to the special needs of caregiving youth in the state of Colorado, and engage in a co-creation of meaningful opportunities to support this population. The...
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Speakers
avatar for Kate Brunner

Kate Brunner

Kate Brunner is the Youth and Family Services Principal Consultant at the Colorado State Library. She works with youth services professionals across all Colorado public libraries to co-design innovative approaches to their work that help to more effectively provide library services for underserved adolescent populations like caregiving youth in their communities., Colorado State Library

NR

Nadine Roberts Cornish

Nadine Roberts Cornish is the Executive Director of the CO Alliance for Caregiving Youth, a Certified Senior Advisor, Gerontologist, Author, National Speaker, and Chief Care Strategist with over eighteen years of experience in care management and consultation. Nadine’s unwavering dedication to caregivers extends to her recent founding of the non-profit organization, (CACY) Colorado Alliance for Caregiving Youth focusing on supporting caregiving youth and their families. Her expertise and passion make her a leading voice in the field of caregiving and advocacy., Colorado Alliance for Caregiving Youth

DE

Dr. Elizabeth Olson

Dr. Elizabeth Olson is the Interim Director of the Institute for the Arts and Humanities and a Professor of Geography and the Environment in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is co-founder and co-director of the Caregiving Youth Research Collaborative, a national consortium of researchers and scholars in the U.S. Dr. Olson researches themes related to care, ethics, and young people, sometimes separately, sometimes in relation to each other. Her scholarship is produced in collaboration and through transformative partnerships with practitioners, artists, and other scholars, often co-developing methodological innovations to engage diverse communities., College of Arts and Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Archivist Prime Breakout Room 8

10:00am MDT

Sometimes You Need a Moment: Searching for Stories of Hope and Joy in YA Literature
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Young adult literature has often been at the forefront of navigating social themes and issues, such as advocating for greater diversity in representation of characters, authors, and stories; normalizing discussions of mental health; and exploring the ways identity intersects with society. While these are important discussions for teens learning to live in and process the world, the result is a...
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Speakers
avatar for Catherine Boddie

Catherine Boddie

Supervisor, Teen Services, Arapahoe Libraries
Catherine and Erica work with teen services at Arapahoe Libraries, Catherine as supervisor of Teen Services and Erica as a teen services librarian. As part of their work with ALD, they maintain a robust schedule of booktalking visits with local schools and also manage their district’s... Read More →
avatar for Erica Schimmel

Erica Schimmel

Teen Services Librarian, Arapahoe Libraries
Catherine and Erica work with teen services at Arapahoe Libraries, Catherine as supervisor of Teen Services and Erica as a teen services librarian. As part of their work with ALD, they maintain a robust schedule of booktalking visits with local schools and also manage their district’s... Read More →
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Paige Turner Breakout Room 4

10:00am MDT

Storytelling for Libraries
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
In September 2025, Library Research Service began planning a new blog series: Colorful Colorado Libraries: Stories from our Centennial State. The past year has been full of library visits, fascinating conversations, story-crafting, and many lessons learned. This session will cover the process of telling different stories from all types of libraries big and small across Colorado. It will draw...
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Speakers
SW

Sara Wicen

Over four years of experience working at Library Research Service (LRS), a degree in English and a professional writing certificate, and a year of planning and executing the Colorful Colorado Libraries blog series. This session will share lessons from this lived experience., Colorado State Library

Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1

10:00am MDT

Sustainability in Action: Building Stronger Library Communities
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Libraries are already doing important sustainability work, often without calling it that. From managing donated materials to improving building operations and partnering with local organizations, libraries play a key role in reducing waste and supporting resilient communities.This panel brings together perspectives from library facilities, book reuse/recycling, statewide environmental programs,...
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Speakers
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Courtney Dixon

Courtney is the Partnerships Manager at Dream Books Co. and works directly with libraries and school districts to build programs around book reuse and recycling. She has helped expand partnerships that keep donated books in circulation while creating funding opportunities for libraries., Dream Books Co.

DC

David Chung

David is the founder of Dream Books Co. and brings decades of experience in book reuse, resale, and recycling. Through building Dream Books from a small operation into a company that works with libraries and community organizations across the region, he brings expertise in creating systems that keep books in circulation and out of landfills, Dream Books Co.

avatar for Cameron Bowen

Cameron Bowen

Cameron brings the perspective of a public library system working to incorporate sustainability into both operations and, Arapahoe Libraries
LS

Lex Shannon

Lex Shannon, Public Education and Engagement Senior manager at Eco-Cycle. Eco-Cycle is one of the nation’s oldest and largest non-profit recyclers dedicated to innovating, implementing, and advocating for waste reduction, recycling, composting and other zero waste solutions. Lex specializes in volunteer management and community engagement strategy. She has been lucky enough to live all over the United States working as a park ranger and teaching environmental education before landing in Colorado, and she's so excited to combine her passion for sustainability and relationship building in her current role with Eco-Cycle. Lex has a M.S. in Urban Resilience and Sustainability from the University of Colorado-Boulder Masters of the Environment (MENV) program and a B.S. in Natural Resource Management from the University of Arizona, Eco-Cycle, Inc.

avatar for Kathleen Hynes

Kathleen Hynes

Outreach & Technical Assistance Specialist, Colorado Circular Communities (C3)
Kathleen works for the Colorado Circular Communities (C3) program, which supports communities state-wide in advancing Colorado’s transition from a linear take-make-waste economy to a circular reuse-repair-remanufacture economy. With a background in consulting and market development... Read More →
Friday September 11, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Captain Catalog Breakout Room 7

10:45am MDT

From Check-Ins to Breakthroughs: Rethinking One-on-Ones
Friday September 11, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Are you stuck in a routine when it comes to holding one-on-one meetings? Have you been eager to overhaul your approach to ensure both you and your employees get more value from these sessions? In this workshop, you will understand the pivotal role one-on-one meetings play in enabling supervisors to nurture growth, enhance retention, and boost overall performance. Uncover techniques for creating...
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Speakers
avatar for Melissa Beavers

Melissa Beavers

As an experienced manager, I have been working towards improving the success of one-on-ones both as a facilitator with my staff and as an attendee with my supervisor. I have read numerous books and articles on the topic and be using various techniques for many years with strong results., High Plains Library District

Friday September 11, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

11:30am MDT

CAL Business Meeting/Networking Lunch
Friday September 11, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm MDT

Friday September 11, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm MDT

1:15pm MDT

Beyond D&D: The Wide World of Roleplaying Games in Libraries
Friday September 11, 2026 1:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
At this point, you know about Dungeons & Dragons. But what else is out there? We’ll discuss the diverse range of roleplaying games (RPGs) currently being published and strategies for connecting library patrons to their next favorite game, whether it’s at a library program or with their own playgroup. Similar to traditional reader’s advisory, we’ll discuss factors like genre, tone,...
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Speakers
avatar for Becky Van Den Berg

Becky Van Den Berg

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

MG

Matthew Galloway

Purchasing RPG-related materials for library collection, Anythink Libraries (Collection Development department)

avatar for Jakob Seelig

Jakob Seelig

Hosting RPG library programs, Anythink Libraries (Thornton Community Center branch)

PA

Patrick Austin

Teen Guide, Anythink Libraries (Huron St branch)
I have been running role playing games as a teen guide at Anythink for the past three years. When I'm not gaming, I am writing and collecting zines, tinkering with retro games and cameras, and conducting Unwise Microwave Experiments
IO

Izzie Olsen

RPG Reader’s Advisory with library patrons, Anythink Libraries (Wright Farms branch)

Friday September 11, 2026 1:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
Digital Defender Breakout Room 5

1:15pm MDT

Lightning Talks
Friday September 11, 2026 1:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
1. ABA's Free Legal Answers - A New Tool for Library Patrons with Legal Questions:Colorado just joined the American Bar Association's platform Free Legal Answers.  Learn more about how this website can help your patrons with legal questions by connecting them with attorneys in the state.  2. (Re)Introducing Colorado Libraries Collaborate:Colorado Libraries Collaborate (CLC) has...
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Speakers
avatar for Deborah Hamilton

Deborah Hamilton

Over ten years as a law librarian and author of the book "Helping Library Users with Legal Questions.", Pikes Peak Library District

avatar for Josh Hem Lee

Josh Hem Lee

Current vice president/president elect of the Colorado Black Library Association and has served on the organization's board in the past. Has worked to highlight diversity within libraries and has worked with children and adults., Pinnacle Charter School

avatar for Melissa Beavers

Melissa Beavers

As an experienced manager, I have been working towards improving the success of one-on-ones both as a facilitator with my staff and as an attendee with my supervisor. I have read numerous books and articles on the topic and be using various techniques for many years with strong results., High Plains Library District

PB

Paul Betty

The proposal covers matters and experience related to management, reference skills, user experience, and outreach, Dayton Memorial Library,

avatar for Kristen DeSanto

Kristen DeSanto

I have worked as a health sciences librarian for 17 years in consumer health, hospital, and academic settings. I completed the Consumer Health Information Specialization program from the Medical Library Association and am a Distinguished Member of the Academy of Health Information Professionals., Strauss Health Sciences Library, University of Colorado Anschutz

MW

Marisa Wood

Seven years of experience supporting statewide resource sharing initiatives through direct contact with Colorado libraries, cultural heritage institutions, and library users., Colorado State Library

MS

Michael Smith

During my tenure as University Librarian, I have presented on this topic at another conference and I am completing an article for publication on the same topic (which may be published before CALCON 2026 begins). Further, I am an avid reader of poetry and a believer in the power of the medium to reach across cultural and philosophical divides to inspire discussion, debate, reflection, and growth. My favorite types of poetry include odes, haikus, limericks, tankas and couplets., Colorado Christian University

MK

Maria Kramer

I have been playing and leading D&D groups for about 20 years. I've been leading the library D&D program for three years., Alamosa Public Library

Friday September 11, 2026 1:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
Dewey Decimator Breakout Room 6

1:15pm MDT

Project Management in Libraries: Make a Plan and then Paddle Like the Dickens
Friday September 11, 2026 1:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
Much of the work we do in libraries is project-based, and we often find ourselves in charge of projects without formal training in how to successfully manage them. While most projects are still successful, they can be more stressful than they need to be. This session will help support people who manage projects in the library to plan those projects to ensure success...
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Speakers
avatar for Charissa Brammer

Charissa Brammer

Multiple years of experience working in survey design, implementation, and data analysis., Colorado State Library

avatar for Jami Yazdani

Jami Yazdani

Strategic Execution Partner, Yazdani Consulting & Facilitation
Jami Yazdani, MLIS, is the founder of Yazdani Consulting and Facilitation, where she helps changemakers lead collaborative teams with clarity and confidence—so their work creates meaningful impact. Jami began her library career in circulation roles before earning a library degree... Read More →
Friday September 11, 2026 1:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
Reference Ranger Breakout Room 2

1:15pm MDT

What We Talk About When We Talk About AI
Friday September 11, 2026 1:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
AI is obviously a hot topic in libraries (and everywhere), but one thing I struggled with in my programming was figuring out where to begin with my patrons. It's one thing to know about AI and another to know how to navigate educating people about it, especially when one's own feelings about it can be complex. This is essentially a presentation about a programming series I've planned (and already...
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Speakers
SW

Savannah Winchell

Experience studying and working with AI, as well as teaching it to patrons, Aurora Public Library

Friday September 11, 2026 1:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
Tome Raider Breakout Room 1
 
CALCON 2026 Courageous Libraries Resilient Communities
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