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NLA/MPLA Joint Conference
Wednesday, October 14
 

8:00am CDT

Information Desk Open
Wednesday October 14, 2026 8:00am - 6:00pm CDT
La Vista Conference Center

Wednesday October 14, 2026 8:00am - 6:00pm CDT
La Vista Conference Center 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Information Desk

9:00am CDT

Intro to Anime and Manga: A Cram Session
Wednesday October 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf
Hello everyone! Please join us, Liz Dukelow and Lyndsey Kopsa, as we geek out over Anime and Manga! This session is great for newbies or hard core otakus! We cover a variety of topics including but not limited to: tropes, Japanese visual language, purchasing, reviewing, cataloging practices, age ranges for materials, collectables, censorship, fanmade content, programing ideas, and much much more! ...
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Speakers
ED

Elizabeth Dukelow

Central Kansas Library System
LK

Lyndsey Kopsa

Director, Frank Carlson Library
I have been the Library Director for two rural public libraries going on six years. I currently serve a population of 5,000 with a local 2-year college that brings in students from various Kansas communities. While I'm not the most seasoned Librarian, I'm always open to talking about... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Pre-conference

9:00am CDT

Qualitative Research Bootcamp for Librarians & Archivists
Wednesday October 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Dapper 3
Have you ever wanted to do your own research study but were unsure where to start? Slay this dragon by attending this workshop designed for everyone...from the novice unsure where to start to the experienced researcher who wants a refresher. Publication doesn’t have to be part of your job to attend! Participants will get a crash course in qualitative research. Other topics include choosing and...
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Speakers
avatar for Erin Renee Wahl

Erin Renee Wahl

Assistant Professor/University Archivist, New Mexico State University
KK
Wednesday October 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Pre-conference

12:00pm CDT

Lunch on Your Own
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
TBA
Wednesday October 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
TBA
  Lunch

1:00pm CDT

Threading the Needle: Navigating Tough Topics in Librarianship
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Gatsby
Drawing on the Plains women’s tradition of addressing community issues through conversation at knitting circles and quilting bees, Patty Collins and Maribeth Shafer will facilitate an interactive craft-based discussion on complex challenges in librarianship. With more than 40 years of combined experience, the facilitators will introduce real-world scenarios to spark meaningful dialogue....
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Speakers
avatar for Patty Collins

Patty Collins

Central Kansas Library System
avatar for Maribeth Shafer

Maribeth Shafer

Library Director, Great Bend Public Library
Maribeth Shafer started her library career as the Assistant Director at Pottawatomie Wabaunsee Regional Library. She then moved to Great Bend, KS and worked at the Central Kansas Library System in several roles throughout her 13 year tenure there. In 2023, she became the Library Director... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Pre-conference

1:00pm CDT

Advocacy in Action
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Dapper 1
This dynamic preconference will equip library workers with the knowledge to confidently navigate some of the most challenging issues facing libraries, the skills and media training to communicate most effectively, and awareness of what successful library advocacy has looked like from those involved in the work. The NLA Advocacy Committee needs to confirm speakers for this preconference if...
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Speakers
WP

Wyatt Packard

Lincoln City Libraries
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Pre-conference

4:00pm CDT

MPLA Board Meeting
Wednesday October 14, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Manhattan II

Wednesday October 14, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Manhattan II 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Meeting

5:00pm CDT

Dine Around
Wednesday October 14, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm CDT
TBA
Wednesday October 14, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm CDT
TBA
  Social Event

5:30pm CDT

Omaha Public Libraries, Central Library Open House and Tours
Wednesday October 14, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Central Library, Omaha Public Library
Wednesday October 14, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Central Library, Omaha Public Library 7205 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68114
  Social Event

6:30pm CDT

Keynote: Jewel Rodgers
Wednesday October 14, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm CDT
Central Library, Omaha Public Library
Over the past nearly two years as Nebraska State Poet, Jewel Rodgers has reached thousands across the state through performances, workshops, and community-based programming. In this keynote, she reflects on what she’s accomplished during her tenure while sharing a selection of both newly written and recognized works. Grounded in themes of growth, resilience, and creativity, her work explores the...
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Speakers
avatar for Jewel Rodgers

Jewel Rodgers

Jewel Rodgers has been a spoken word poet for more than a decade, performing in schools, festivals, community settings, conferences, public events, and other venues. Rodgers is an Omaha Entertainment and Arts Award winner for Best Performance Poet in Omaha and a three-time TEDx speaker... Read More →
Wednesday October 14, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm CDT
Central Library, Omaha Public Library 7205 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68114
  Keynote
 
Thursday, October 15
 

7:00am CDT

Information Desk Open
Thursday October 15, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm CDT
La Vista Conference Center

Thursday October 15, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm CDT
La Vista Conference Center 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Information Desk

8:00am CDT

AI Literacy as Civic Duty: Preparing Students for America's AI-Powered Future
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Sugarloaf
As artificial intelligence reshapes how students access, evaluate, and create information, academic libraries stand at the heart of ensuring equitable AI literacy across higher education. This session explores how academic librarians can create safe, judgment-free spaces within information literacy and research instruction where students explore AI's complexities, experiment with emerging tools,...
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Speakers
LR

Leslie Ross

New Mexico State University
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:00am CDT

How Did I Get Here and Why Do I know That? Stories and Confessions of Small Library Directors
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Gatsby
Library Directors, especially in small and rural libraries find themselves dealing with situations and knowing things they never could have imagined when they started working in libraries. This panel will share stories of lessons learned, advice on dealing with the unexpected, and answer questions. What is something you have had to deal with or wondered how others would address? Questions can be...
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Speakers
JH

Janene Hill

Library Director, Jensen Memorial Library
AS
WM
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:00am CDT

Navigating AI: Conversations, Guidance, and Policy in Nebraska Libraries
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Dapper 1
The rapid arrival and development of AI is having a profound effect on libraries, librarianship, and education. As libraries and librarians work to account for this new, disruptive, and powerful information technology, they need to take into their patrons, stakeholders, and organizational cultures. Join a diverse panel of librarians for a discussion of how guidance, policies, and the conversations...
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Speakers
SC

Stephen Craig Finlay

OER Librarian, Criss Library, University of Nebraska at Omaha
SL

Sarah Lewald

Omaha Public Library
LM

Lisa Mount

Central Community College
HW

Hannah Winchester

University of Nebraska Medical Center
CL
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:00am CDT

Saving the Site: A D.I.Y. Approach to Website Archiving​
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Fedora 2
This presentation focuses on sharing documentation from a website archiving project while highlighting the fragility of the internet and reliable data. For this America 250 themed conference special attention will be given to highlighting projects like the End of Term Web Archive and Citizen Historians for the Smithsonian which work to preserve information related the U.S. government. These...
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Speakers
AG

April Griess

University of Nebraska Omaha

Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Fedora 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:00am CDT

Starting a Reading Dragons & Friends Program at Your Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Dapper 2
Reading Dragons and Friends is a fun reading incentive program. It uses the popularity of trading card games to encourage students to read. They earn collectable, playable trading cards. Reading Dragons was created by the Dover Public Library and has grown into a nationwide cooperative of libraries sharing resources. We will share information on our program at the Brookings Public Library. Learn...
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Speakers
KE

Katherine Eberline

Children’s Services Coordinator, Brookings Public Library

KP
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:00am CDT

The Nebraska Rural Poll at 30: Insights for Libraries
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Fedora 1
Across the United States, trust in public institutions has declined steadily over recent decades. Confidence in schools, media, and politics has eroded since the late 20th century, with national institutions often ranking lowest in public trust. While organizations such as Gallup and Pew have long tracked these trends, libraries have rarely been included in national surveys of institutional...
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Speakers
avatar for Erica DeFrain

Erica DeFrain

Assistant Professor and Social Sciences Librarian, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
HA
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:00am CDT

Where Stories Come Alive: Inside Our Reading Programs
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Dapper 3
Discover how the Hastings Public Library fosters a lifelong love of reading through a diverse range of reading programs designed for children, teens, and adults. This presentation provides an overview of our year-round literacy initiatives, including seasonal reading challenges, early literacy programs, teen engagement, and adult reading incentives. Participants will learn how we structure our...
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Speakers
SR

Samantha Rundle

Hastings Public Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:45am CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:00am CDT

Exhibit Floor Open
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 7:00pm CDT
TBA
Thursday October 15, 2026 8:00am - 7:00pm CDT
TBA
  Exhibit Floor

9:00am CDT

Beyond Inclusion: Building Library Collections That Center Native Voices
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Fedora 1
Many libraries are making strides toward building inclusive and representative collections. Achieving true inclusion, however, often involves more than simply adding a few titles by Native authors. This session explores strategies for meaningfully incorporating Native materials into library collections, guided by principles of respect, reciprocity, and representation. Participants will learn...
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Speakers
avatar for Cassandra Osterloh

Cassandra Osterloh

Tribal Libraries Program Coordinator, New Mexico State Library
I am a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. I have over 25 years of experience in library services across academic, school, and special libraries. Currently, I serve as the Tribal Libraries Program Coordinator at the New Mexico State Library, where I act as a key liaison between the state... Read More →
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:00am CDT

Data Analysis for Librarians: Using the R Programming Language to Tell Your Data Story
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Fedora 2
Library workers routinely use and analyze data related to their collection, patrons, and institutions. Using code for data management, analysis, and visualization can be extremely useful to them. This talk will cover the basics of the R programming language and how it can be used to analyze data and to create visualizations and interactive dashboards. Attendees will leave with a foundational...
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Speakers
EN

Emily Nimsakont

Digital Librarian, Posit PBC
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Fedora 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:00am CDT

From Racism to Reconciliation: The Path Forward for Nebraska
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Sugarloaf
Roots of Justice: A History of Race and Racism in Nebraska is a pathbreaking, multidisciplinary edited volume that confronts the history of racism experienced by minority populations in Nebraska. The book contains chapters on Native American, African American, Latino, Asian, and Refugee populations. Each chapter is written by an expert in the field, who is also a member of that particular...
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Speakers
GB

Gabriel Bruguier

University of Nebraska Libraries
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:00am CDT

Playing to Your Strengths: Empowering Your Best Work
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Dapper 3
Discover how recognizing and leveraging your natural strengths can boost your confidence, improve teamwork, and make your daily work more energizing. In this session, we’ll explore simple strategies for identifying what you do best, aligning tasks with strengths, and building a workplace where everyone shines. Come ready to reflect, share, and leave with practical tools to help you do more of...
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Speakers
MS

Mary Soucie

State Librarian, North Dakota State Library
Mary has 30 years experience as a professional librarian. She has served as the State Librarian of ND since 2014. She believes that libraries serve as community centers, connecting all the parts of the community that they serve. When she's not traveling for work, she loves to read... Read More →
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:00am CDT

Stars, Stripes, and Strong Libraries: Preparing for Advocacy Challenges With Case Studies
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Dapper 2
As libraries remain at the heart of their communities, they face growing challenges involving materials, policies, governance, and public trust. In this interactive MPLA Advocacy Committee session, participants will work through case studies based on current library controversies and trends. Small-group discussions will help attendees evaluate policies, procedures, and communication strategies,...
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Speakers
VN

Valerie Nye

Santa Fe Community College
avatar for Robin Hastings

Robin Hastings

Library Services Consultant, Northeast Kansas Library System
Robin Hastings is the Library Services Consultant for the Northeast Kansas Library System in Lawrence, KS. She has 20 years of experience in library technology and has written 4 books on various tech subjects, as well as several articles. She manages the Recollections:KS digital repository... Read More →
avatar for Conrrado Saldivar

Conrrado Saldivar

Tech Services Manager, Natrona County Library
Conrrado Saldivar is Tech Services Manager at the Natrona County Library in Wyoming, Guest Faculty at the University of Washington iSchool, and an ALA Councilor-at-Large. He is active in the Wyoming Library Association and is deeply committed to library advocacy and community eng... Read More →
HD

Holli Duggan

Kilgore Memorial Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:00am CDT

Tough Questions You Need Answered About Your Library: Navigating Space, Systems, and Technology
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Dapper 1
The role of libraries in today’s communities extends far beyond new construction. It includes the creative adaptation, renovation, and expansion of existing buildings to meet evolving user needs. Through adaptive reuse, strategic additions, and new facilities, libraries are embracing flexibility and innovation to remain vital civic anchors. This panel will examine multiple approaches to library...
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Speakers
avatar for Mark Bacon

Mark Bacon

Design Principal, BVH Architecture
Mark is a Design Principal at BVH Architecture, where he leads civic and cultural projects with a focus on museums, libraries, and community anchors. His work—including the Museum of Nebraska Art expansion, the Columbus Library, City Hall & Children’s Museum, and the Nature Conservancy... Read More →
PN
NN
TS
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:00am CDT

Youth Services Tips and Tricks
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Gatsby
Explore innovative and low-cost youth services programming designed to inspire curiosity and creativity, support early literacy, connect with the community, and build lifelong readers. Participants will learn practical and cost saving strategies for implementing engaging programs for children, teens and families, including ideas on reusing materials, promoting through free marketing, engaging...
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Speakers
JN

Jodi Norton

Assistant Library Director, La Vista Public Library
RB

Rachel Bachman

La Vista Public Library
AW

Ashley Wemhoff

La Vista Public Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

10:00am CDT

Keynote: Kelvin Watson
Thursday October 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
TBA
Kelvin Watson is executive director of the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, Nevada’s largest library system, where he oversees 25 branches, 600+ employees, and a $77 million budget. A nationally recognized library leader, Watson is known for innovative work in technology, outreach, digital access, and service to underserved communities. His leadership has earned major recognition,...
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Speakers
avatar for Kelvin Watson

Kelvin Watson

Kelvin Watson is executive director of the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, Nevada’s largest library system, where he oversees 25 branches, 600+ employees, and a $77 million budget. A nationally 
recognized library leader, Watson is known for innovative work in technology, outreach, digital access, and service to underserved communities. His leadership has earned major recognition, including the ALA Library of the Future Award, the RUSA Best Emerging Technology Award, and hono
... Read More →
Thursday October 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
TBA
  Keynote

10:45am CDT

Exhibitor Break
Thursday October 15, 2026 10:45am - 11:15am CDT
TBA
Thursday October 15, 2026 10:45am - 11:15am CDT
TBA
  Exhibit Floor

11:15am CDT

Best Teen Titles of 2026
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Fedora 2
Brief book talks/reviews of new titles recommended to public and school libraries, covering both middle school and high school levels.
Speakers
avatar for Sally Snyder

Sally Snyder

Coordinator of Children & Young Adult Services, Nebraska Library Commission
Sally Snyder is Coordinator of Children and Young Adult Library Services at the Nebraska Library Commission, and has worked at there in various capacities since 1984.  She holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a Master of Arts in... Read More →
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Fedora 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

11:15am CDT

Borrowing Brains - Working Together to Figure It Out!
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Dapper 1
Woodrow Wilson said that he used his brains and all that he could borrow. Following his insight on the power of collaborating, please help us discover solutions to library-life challenges. There will be mentoring as we help each other. Got a conundrum to share in advance so it can be anonymized? Please provide as much information as you can to help us better understand it. You can send it to Elena...
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Speakers
avatar for Elena Rosenfeld

Elena Rosenfeld

Community Engagement & Strategies Manager, High Plains Library District
My focus is to help us keep us discovering new ways the Library can help our community members grow and thrive. This means looking to partner with organizations that might be ones that we never considered before as well as supporting new ways of making services and programs available... Read More →
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's University Libraries

avatar for Carol Satersmoen

Carol Satersmoen

Librarian, Aims Community College's Kiefer Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

11:15am CDT

From Review to Remediation: Building a Sustainable Reparative Metadata Workflow
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Fedora 1
This presentation describes the results of UNL Libraries’ project to implement reparative metadata practices by replacing or supplementing pejorative or outdated subject headings in our bibliographic metadata. Using examples drawn from local subject heading review and remediation workflows, it explores how librarians at UNL evaluate replacement and supplemental subject headings, determine when...
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Speakers
BW

Broghan White

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

HW
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

11:15am CDT

From Shelf to Spotlight: Amplifying Readers Services with Adult Programming
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Gatsby
Want to add readers services into your adult programs? This session will spark ideas for building engaging, reading-based programs that fit your capacity and inspire your community. We’ll highlight two successful adult programs, sharing practical tools, lessons learned, and creative strategies for designing, scaling, and sustaining programs that deepen community connection through reading. ...
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Speakers
MC

Michelle Carlson

Omaha Public Library
DB

Dacia Bryan

Omaha Public Library
SP

Stephanie Poletti

Omaha Public Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

11:15am CDT

Golden Sower Award Presentation
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Dapper 3
Members of the Golden Sower Award committee will celebrate the winners and announce the new nominees.
Speakers
SR

Samantha Rundle

Hastings Public Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

11:15am CDT

Human-Centered AI: Policies and Practices to Elevate—and Safeguard—the Library Workforce
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Dapper 2
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how library work gets done, raising urgent questions about staff roles, ethics, and institutional responsibility. This session by the author of the recent ALA Special Report on AI Policy, Robin Hastings, argues that thoughtfully designed AI policies can elevate the human workforce—freeing staff from routine tasks while protecting privacy, accuracy,...
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Speakers
avatar for Robin Hastings

Robin Hastings

Library Services Consultant, Northeast Kansas Library System
Robin Hastings is the Library Services Consultant for the Northeast Kansas Library System in Lawrence, KS. She has 20 years of experience in library technology and has written 4 books on various tech subjects, as well as several articles. She manages the Recollections:KS digital repository... Read More →
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

11:15am CDT

Just a punk a$$ librarian...nothing formal, born to excel, be creative, and the best-est hype woman you ever met
Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf
This presentation is about what you can achieve without formal training and the imposter syndrome that comes with it. As a person with a drive to excel and a creative mind, I have led initiatives at the Minot Public Library, in my local community, and state-wide that have made a difference. The goal of this presentation is to encourage library staff to step out of their comfort zone and do the...
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Speakers
RM

Randi Monley

Minot Public Library

Thursday October 15, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

12:00pm CDT

Lunch
Thursday October 15, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
TBA
Thursday October 15, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
TBA
  Lunch

12:30pm CDT

C&U Business Meeting
Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
Manhattan I

Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
Manhattan I 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Meeting

12:30pm CDT

IFRT/Advocacy Committee Business Meeting
Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
Gatsby

Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Meeting

12:30pm CDT

MPLA Member Meeting
Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
TBA
Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
TBA
  Meeting

12:30pm CDT

PLTS Business Meeting
Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
Manhattan II

Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
Manhattan II 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Meeting

12:30pm CDT

TSRT Business Meeting
Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf

Thursday October 15, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Meeting

1:15pm CDT

Better Together: Strategic Campus and Community Partnerships
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Dapper 2
At Fort Hays State University’s Tebo Library, the outreach department frequently partners with campus and community organizations to host events and outreach initiatives. This strategy helps reach underserved student populations and strengthens town and gown relationships. In this session, you will learn about examples of successful partnerships (as well as cautionary tales) and brainstorm...
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Speakers
avatar for Cyndi Landis

Cyndi Landis

Instruction & Outreach Librarian, Fort Hays State University - Tebo Library
I am a marketer turned librarian with experience doing instruction, programming, and reference in a variety of settings.

As the Instruction and Outreach Librarian at Fort Hays State University, I lead communications and events, manage the library website and wayfinding, and teach... Read More →
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:15pm CDT

Food For Thought: Feeding Our Future Through Partnerships
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf
We know libraries are becoming more: not just places for check-outs, computers, programming, or study groups, but spaces for our community members to find, connect, and fulfill needs. How do we bring in more unique resources to our customers without burning out our staff? This presentation uses the example of a rural library that focuses on partnerships to bring food programs to their community...
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Speakers
ME

Marie Elena "Jett" Reed

Indian Springs Library - Las Vegas-Clark County Library District
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:15pm CDT

From Challenges to Superpowers: ADHD & AuDHD in the Workplace
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Dapper 3
This session takes a fresh, engaging look at ADHD and AuDHD (Autistic + ADHD) in the workplace—moving beyond challenges to spotlight the powerful strengths neurodivergent employees bring. Discover practical, real-world strategies to navigate time blindness, task paralysis, and burnout, while unlocking the potential of hyperfocus, creativity, and innovation. Whether you’re an employee or an...
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Speakers
KL
AM
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:15pm CDT

Local History in the Public Square: Opportunities for Public & Academic Libraries
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Fedora 1
What obligation, if any, do libraries have to preserve local history records? We will explore the functions of public history, comparing how citizens engage with local history resources in academic and public library settings (as opposed to archival). These collections enable scholars and curious laypeople alike to contextualize personal, regional histories in a national context. Using public...
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Speakers
NS

Nathan Sonnenschein

Montana State University Billings
CS
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:15pm CDT

Nontraditional Pathways to Librarianship
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Fedora 2
In many rural libraries, staff are hired directly from the community and may not have prior library experience or formal training. If that sounds like you, have you ever wondered where to go from here? Whether you’re interested in pursuing a library degree or are simply looking for ways to strengthen your resume and expand your opportunities, this session is designed with you in mind. We’ll...
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Speakers
avatar for Judi Boyce

Judi Boyce

Assistant Director, Sublette County Library - Pinedale, Wyoming
Judi is presenting from experience in this session. She began her library career as a part-time circulation staff member, was hired full-time a year later as the adult programmer, and worked very deliberately to put herself in a position to be hired as Assistant Director, including... Read More →
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Fedora 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:15pm CDT

Pro Bono Librarianship: Collection Development as Community Service
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Dapper 1
Many library professionals carry expertise that extends far beyond their institutional walls — and their communities often need exactly what they have to offer. This session explores how technical services librarians can apply professional collection skills in volunteer, consulting, and community settings, drawing on real experience working with public libraries, faith communities, and civic...
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Speakers
avatar for Michael Straatmann

Michael Straatmann

Associate Director for Collections Management, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
avatar for Margaret Mering

Margaret Mering

Metadata Quality Librarian, University of Nebraska Lincoln
Meg Mering is the Metadata Quality Librarian for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Institutional Repository. She previously served as the Principal Catalog Librarian at UNL.
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:15pm CDT

Tech Services Showcase: Four Projects, Four Perspectives
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Gatsby
What’s happening in technical services right now? In this fast-paced session, four librarians each spotlight a project, initiative, or area of expertise from their technical services work. Topics will range from collaborating in a consortium to cataloging and metadata remediation to a discovery catalog to and an ILS evaluation. Attendees will discover practical strategies and new ideas they can...
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Speakers
TA

Tricia Andrews

Metropolitan Library System
avatar for Shay Beezley

Shay Beezley

Assistant Director, Metadata & Cataloging, University of Central Oklahoma
Shay Beezley (she/her), Assistant Director of Metadata and Cataloging at University of Central Oklahoma's Chambers Library, leads a team of six catalogers and up to four student employees in providing accurate, effective and timely access to library resources. As someone that the... Read More →
avatar for Jenny Bodenhamer

Jenny Bodenhamer

Assistant Department Head, Oklahoma State University
KB

Kirsten Bryson

Collection Services Manager, Metropolitan Library System
Thursday October 15, 2026 1:15pm - 2:00pm CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

2:15pm CDT

Keynote: Alex Kava
Thursday October 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm CDT
TBA
Alex Kava is a New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon bestselling author of twenty-three novels, including the internationally bestselling Maggie O’Dell series and the award-winning Ryder Creed K-9 mystery thrillers. Known for blending real crimes and facts into her fiction, Kava has earned praise for her suspenseful plots, believable characters, and professional insight into K-9 search work. She...
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Speakers
avatar for Alex Kava

Alex Kava

Alex Kava is a New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon bestselling author of twenty-three novels, including the internationally bestselling Maggie O’Dell series and the award-winning Ryder Creed K-9 mystery thrillers. Known for blending real crimes and facts into her fiction, Kava... Read More →
Thursday October 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm CDT
TBA
  Keynote

3:15pm CDT

Curate Your Collection By Utilizing Data and Your Community
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Fedora 2
Are you feeling lost in your never-ending journey of collection development? You may need to take a closer look at your ordering process and priorities for your collection. In this session we will lay out a basic guideline for selecting and purchasing your materials. We will also discuss how to compile useful data and involve your community in cultivating your catalog. Additional tools and...
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Speakers
SP

Sophia Perez

North Platte Public Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Fedora 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

3:15pm CDT

From Community Memory to Access: Sharing and Preserving the Stories from the Great Plains Black History Museum
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Gatsby
The partnership between the Great Plains Black History Museum and UNO Criss Library is preserving and more widely sharing the museum’s archival collections. This session will explore how partnerships can transform technical services like archival processing into opportunities for community engagement. By combining archival description with active outreach, libraries can play a vital role not...
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Speakers
JO

Jessica Oosting

University of Nebraska Omaha-Criss Library
AS

Amy Schindler

Director of Archives and Special Collections, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Amy Schindler (she, her) is an archivist and has been the Director of Archives and Special Collections at the University of Nebraska at Omaha Libraries since 2014. Previously, Amy held appointments in academic archives in the Mid-Atlantic region as well as holding contract positions... Read More →
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

3:15pm CDT

Leveling up: How gamification supercharged our library's adult summer reading program
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Dapper 2
To drive more participation in our annual Summer Reading Smackdown competition, we added a fun gamifying element to our adult reading program, McDonald's Style Monopoly! This collect-and-win game reignited community engagement and led to record participation.
Speakers
HL

Hattie Lee

Kilgore Memorial Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

3:15pm CDT

Notable Books, Along with Some Interesting Others
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Fedora 1
Pat Leach, host of Nebraska Public Media's All About Books program and retired director of Lincoln City Libraries, will present a readers' advisory-focused presentation on the 2026 ALA Notable Books list for adults, as well as additional titles that deserve your interest, and the interest of your reading community.
Speakers
PL

Pat Leach

Nebraska Public Media
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

3:15pm CDT

Responding to Crisis: The Lexington Public Library Steps Up When Tyson Stepped Out
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Dapper 1
When the Tyson Foods plant announced its closure in Lexington, NE, the Lexington Public Library was one of the first responders. By assessing Tyson workers' needs, the Library became a space not only for information, but a place to be heard and seen. Learn how the Library stepped up to the community's needs when a third of its population lost their jobs.
Speakers
JN

Jennifer Norton

Lexington Public Library
RC
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

3:15pm CDT

The Audacity! How to step up and speak out for libraries during your legislative session.
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf
Libraries have become an increasingly contentious battleground in the political landscape. More than ever, we need to be able to speak up for critical thinking, empathy, and the freedom to read. This discussion begins with a review of the library bills brought before the 2026 Utah Legislative Session and the story behind how the ULA’s Advocacy Committee collaborations helped to defeat multiple...
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Speakers
TT

Teresa Thompson

Serials, Brigham Young University Lee Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

3:15pm CDT

There’s No Need to Rush - Why Generative AI Can Wait
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Dapper 3
You’re Not Falling Behind. When truly useful tools emerge, they’ll be more user-friendly. You will be able to jump in immediately. Learning about AI is important, but much like cigarettes, you can learn about AI without using it. This presentation covers the current AI landscape, helpful terminology, and motivations behind AI hype, with accurate citations and a word order that doesn’t match...
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Speakers
BM

Brian Maass

Acquisitions and eResources, University of Nebraska Medical Center
Thursday October 15, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

4:15pm CDT

Conference Chew & Chat
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Dapper 1
Join regular Hosts Jake and Mary in an IN PERSON version of our popular monthly web chat. The topic for this meeting will be a ‘potpourri’ which means we’ll be taking your questions about anything that’s impacting your library life. Bring your questions, thoughts and whimsies for an enjoyable hour of conversation and sharing. Chew & Chat is a monthly web meeting where librarians from the...
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Speakers
MS

Mary Soucie

State Librarian, North Dakota State Library
Mary has 30 years experience as a professional librarian. She has served as the State Librarian of ND since 2014. She believes that libraries serve as community centers, connecting all the parts of the community that they serve. When she's not traveling for work, she loves to read... Read More →
JR
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

4:15pm CDT

Empowering Student Success and Library Innovation: The Impact of the Paul Scholar Program at Link Library
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Dapper 2
This session highlights the implementation of the Paul Scholar Program at Link Library, Concordia University Nebraska, where a student scholar works 15 hours per week on meaningful library projects. Attendees will learn how the program supports student professional development while enhancing library services, outreach, and user experience initiatives. The presentation will share practical...
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Speakers
KC

Karen Centeno

Concordia University Nebraska
PB
PH
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

4:15pm CDT

Everyday Inclusion: Welcoming Neurodivergent Guests
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Dapper 3
Libraries are for everyone, yet many neurodivergent individuals—particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)—can face barriers that make library visits challenging. This session explores practical, realistic ways libraries can create more welcoming and supportive experiences for neurodivergent guests and their families. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of autism,...
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Speakers
KN

Kelly Nielsen

Autism Action Partnership
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

4:15pm CDT

Exploring AI with Confidence and Curiosity
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Fedora 1
Join Ethan and Richard from the Western Library System as they share real-world examples of how they use artificial intelligence in libraries. From cautiously dipping their toes into the AI waters to experimenting with current projects, they bring equal parts skepticism, curiosity, and “what did we just ask ChatGPT to do?” energy. This session invites participants to explore AI with curiosity,...
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Speakers
RL

Richard Landreth

Western Library System
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

4:15pm CDT

One Book Many Librarians
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf
Join us for a conference favorite - One Book Many Librarians - book discussion group. We'll be joined by Nebraska author Alex Kava in disucssing the first in the Ryder Creed series - Breaking Creed. It's a great chance to join your colleagues and the author, and the program includes beverage and snacks for a relaxed and fun environment. Get started now in reading - Breaking Creed by Alex Kava.
Speakers
avatar for Alex Kava

Alex Kava

Alex Kava is a New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon bestselling author of twenty-three novels, including the internationally bestselling Maggie O’Dell series and the award-winning Ryder Creed K-9 mystery thrillers. Known for blending real crimes and facts into her fiction, Kava... Read More →
BE
BB
LO
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

4:15pm CDT

Team Tiny Kiosk Bot, Deployment of a local LLM-powered robot in Creighton University Libraries' Makerspace
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Gatsby
The programmable Reachy-Mini robot from Hugging Face is an open-source robotics platform designed to support the embodied deployment of large language models (LLMs). Because it can operate without cloud-based computing, it also offers a reduced-impact approach to deploying artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Equipped with auditory and visual sensors, the platform can interact with patrons and...
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Speakers
RJ

Rich Jenkins

Creighton University Libraries
ZM
MD
Thursday October 15, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

5:00pm CDT

Exhibitor Reception with live band: The Raw Nerve
Thursday October 15, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm CDT
TBA
Thursday October 15, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm CDT
TBA
  Social Event

7:30pm CDT

Smash Park
Thursday October 15, 2026 7:30pm - 9:30pm CDT
Smash Park La Vista
Thursday October 15, 2026 7:30pm - 9:30pm CDT
Smash Park La Vista 8121 S 125th St, La Vista, NE 68128
  Social Event
 
Friday, October 16
 

7:30am CDT

Information Desk Open
Friday October 16, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm CDT
La Vista Conference Center

Friday October 16, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm CDT
La Vista Conference Center 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Information Desk

8:00am CDT

Exhibit Floor Open
Friday October 16, 2026 8:00am - 11:30am CDT
TBA
Friday October 16, 2026 8:00am - 11:30am CDT
TBA
  Exhibit Floor

8:30am CDT

Critical Thinking in the Digital Age: Helping Students Navigate Online Resources
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Dapper 2
This session will explore practical strategies for teaching students how to evaluate online information in a world of constant digital content. Participants will examine common challenges such as misinformation, bias, and unreliable sources, and learn classroom-ready techniques to build students’ critical thinking and digital literacy skills. The session will highlight best practices for guiding...
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Speakers
avatar for Courtney Pentland

Courtney Pentland

ITL/School Library Programs Coordinator, University of Nebraska Omaha
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:30am CDT

Discovering Stories and Developing Community via Archives
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Dapper 3
Learn how to nurture curiosity, community, and identity by telling stories with library archives.
Speakers
JT

Jean Turman

Bellevue University
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:30am CDT

Museum Exhibitions for the Public Library: Bring the experience local!
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Fedora 2
Library and museum partnerships are a great way to engage and educate patrons in a new and exciting way. Hosting temporary traveling exhibitions provides an experiential visit to the library that patrons will not forget. This collaborative presentation will share how to enhance your partnerships with local national institutions in a variety of ways. Join Jenna Wells, Deputy Director at the Rio...
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Speakers
JW

Jenna Wells

adult services supervisor, Rio Rancho Public Library
Adult services, librarian, facilitator of local history room, archives and digital preservation
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Fedora 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:30am CDT

Opening Up the American Dream: Advocating for Affordable Textbooks for All Students
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Dapper 1
Did you know that Nebraska has an OER action team?  We do!  Come to our panel discussion to learn about what we do, what plans we have, and how you can get involved!  We will introduce the Midwest Higher Education Compact (MHEC) and how our partnership with them benefits Higher Education in Nebraska.  In addition, we will discuss how we have implemented OER at our institutions...
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Speakers
avatar for Billie Cotterman

Billie Cotterman

Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Access Services, University of Nebraska at Kearney
SC

Stephen Craig Finlay

OER Librarian, Criss Library, University of Nebraska at Omaha
avatar for Rachel Menzel

Rachel Menzel

STEM Research & Instruction Librarian, Creighton University
avatar for Rochelle Reeves

Rochelle Reeves

Curriculum Librarian/Associate Professor, University of Nebraska at Kearney
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:30am CDT

Pages from the Past: Bringing Local History to Life Through Community Partnership
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Gatsby
Local history programming is one of the most powerful tools for successful adult programming. This presentation explores how a public library and a local historical society can build a rich, sustained partnership that brings community history to life and deepens patron engagement. Co-presented by a public librarian and the Vice President of a local historical society, this session draws on real...
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Speakers
SK

Shaun Klee

Adult & Technical Services Librarian, Grand Island Public Library
MS

Michelle Setlik

Hall Co. Historical Society
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:30am CDT

Respectful Representation: Honoring Indigenous Art and Culture in Libraries
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Fedora 1
Libraries often serve as cultural bridges, yet efforts to highlight Indigenous art and history can unintentionally misrepresent or appropriate the communities they aim to honor. This presentation will explore practical, relationship-based approaches to acquiring, displaying, and creating programming around Native American cultural materials. This session will outline key principles for ethical...
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Speakers
avatar for Cassandra Osterloh

Cassandra Osterloh

Tribal Libraries Program Coordinator, New Mexico State Library
I am a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. I have over 25 years of experience in library services across academic, school, and special libraries. Currently, I serve as the Tribal Libraries Program Coordinator at the New Mexico State Library, where I act as a key liaison between the state... Read More →
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

8:30am CDT

Strong Boards, Strong Libraries: Governance Skills That Matter
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Sugarloaf
Library boards and committees make decisions that shape the direction, funding, and public trust of their organizations—but many members receive little training in how meetings actually work. This practical, plain-language session demystifies the essentials of meeting management, parliamentary procedure, bylaws, and minute-taking for library contexts. Participants will learn how governing...
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Speakers
avatar for Robin Hastings

Robin Hastings

Library Services Consultant, Northeast Kansas Library System
Robin Hastings is the Library Services Consultant for the Northeast Kansas Library System in Lawrence, KS. She has 20 years of experience in library technology and has written 4 books on various tech subjects, as well as several articles. She manages the Recollections:KS digital repository... Read More →
Friday October 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:30am CDT

AI Perspectives; or, A Luddite And A Tech Bro Walk Into A Bar
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Dapper 1
AI use in libraries is pretty polarizing. What better way to consider an issue more fully than to hear from someone who loves it and someone who hates it? Andy Hamilton, Head of Public Services (Luddite) and Shanachie Carroll, Regional Branch Manager (Tech Bro, but nice), both with the Mesa County Libraries in western Colorado, will discuss how and why they use (or don't use) AI tools in their...
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Speakers
avatar for Andy Hamilton

Andy Hamilton

Head of Public Services for Mesa County Libraries., Mesa County Libraries

avatar for Shanachie Carroll

Shanachie Carroll

Regional Branch Manager - Fruita, Gateway, Orchard Mesa, Mesa County Public Libraries
I am the Regional Branch Manager at Mesa County Libraries. I oversee the operations of our locations in Fruita, Gateway, and Orchard Mesa. I am a collaborative leader and community builder who is invested in being part of the communities that we serve by sparking joy for our patrons... Read More →
AI Perspectives pdf
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:30am CDT

Best Children's Books of 2026
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Fedora 2
Brief book talks of titles that could be good additions to your library's collection. Titles for preschool through elementary school will be included.
Speakers
avatar for Sally Snyder

Sally Snyder

Coordinator of Children & Young Adult Services, Nebraska Library Commission
Sally Snyder is Coordinator of Children and Young Adult Library Services at the Nebraska Library Commission, and has worked at there in various capacities since 1984.  She holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a Master of Arts in... Read More →
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Fedora 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:30am CDT

Controlled Chaos: The Beautiful Mess of Teen Programming
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Dapper 3
Teen programming isn’t always neat and tidy—and that’s exactly what makes it fun. Join us as we explore creative, meaningful, and wildly engaging programs that embrace the unpredictable nature of working with teens. From year-round ideas to seasonal themes, we’ll share adaptable strategies for every budget and staffing level. Whether you’re new to teen services or a seasoned youth...
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Speakers
JM

Jennifer McCulley

McPherson Public Library
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:30am CDT

LEGOs in your Library
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Fedora 1
Everything is awesome when you use LEGOs in the library! Hear from Shannon about how she has developed LEGO resources and programs at Lincoln City Libraries. Attendees will learn about different ways they can use LEGOs in library programs including free play, games, and digital building; how to offer in-building checkout of full LEGO sets; as well as best practices and pitfalls she has learned...
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Speakers
SK

Shannon Koch

Lincoln City Libraries - Walt Branch
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:30am CDT

Podcasting: How to Develop, Facilitate, and Host a Podcast in an Academic Library
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Dapper 2
This presentation will break down the process for a library to develop its own podcast, including coming up with an idea, creating a hook and tagline, and choosing the technology to use. While also looking at what formatting works best for your library, what topics and themes you can use, and how to develop your ideas. It will then go into how to facilitate your podcast in connection to platforms,...
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Speakers
JO

Jessica Omer

Bellevue University Library
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:30am CDT

Securing Public Computers
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Sugarloaf
Providing computers for use by the public is a key service unique to libraries. It is crucial that these "public" computers be properly secured and the privacy of the patrons who use them is protected. This program will cover the necessary steps that need to be be taken to accomplish this.
Speakers
AS

Andrew Sherman

Nebraska Library Commission
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

9:30am CDT

Staff Innovation Grants - watch staff, services, and programs thrive!
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Gatsby
In 2024 Lincoln City Libraries launched a staff innovation grant program funding by our Library Foundation. A committee representing all levels of staffing was put together and created an application, rubric and reporting mechanism. It was so successful, we did it again! Come hear how staff have learned to write grants, track expenses, work with partners, create amazing programs, and even learn...
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Speakers
JG

Jodene Glaesemann

Lincoln City Libraries
WP

Wyatt Packard

Lincoln City Libraries
Friday October 16, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

10:15am CDT

Exhibitor Break
Friday October 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am CDT
TBA
Friday October 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am CDT
TBA
  Exhibit Floor

11:30am CDT

NLA Annual Meeting Opening Speaker: Dr. Maria McCauley
Friday October 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CDT
TBA
Dr. Maria McCauley is the Director of Libraries for the City of Cambridge, where she leads 167 dedicated professionals in delivering an inclusive, future‑focused vision of library service for the entire community. She partners with city leadership and three boards to expand access, elevate community engagement, and ensure Cambridge’s libraries remain vibrant, welcoming places of learning and...
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Speakers
avatar for Maria McCauley

Maria McCauley

Dr. Maria McCauley is the Director of Libraries for the City of Cambridge, where she leads 167 dedicated professionals in delivering an inclusive, future‑focused vision of library service for the entire community. She partners with city leadership and three boards to expand access... Read More →
Friday October 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CDT
TBA
  Keynote

11:30am CDT

NLA Annual Meeting
Friday October 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
TBA
Friday October 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
TBA
  Meeting

12:30pm CDT

Lunch
Friday October 16, 2026 12:30pm - 1:15pm CDT
TBA
Friday October 16, 2026 12:30pm - 1:15pm CDT
TBA
  Lunch

1:30pm CDT

Books, Blocks and Bubbles: Hosting a Young Child Fair for Your Community
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Sugarloaf
In this engaging presentation, we'll provide a roadmap for you to follow to host your own young child fair that includes community resources and organizations benefiting families with young children, ages 0-6. Our Library started its annual event 13 years ago to connect families with local resources, while also including fun activities like Storytime, block play, bubbles, and games. Our event now...
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Speakers
avatar for Lesley Lard

Lesley Lard

Youth Services Librarian, Bonner Springs City Library
I am the Youth Services Librarian at the Bonner Springs City Library. I am in charge of collection development, outreach, programming, resources and more for students grades K-12. I am always available to help with classroom needs, provide Library tours, or be of assistance for... Read More →
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:30pm CDT

Collaboration Station!: How School Libraries and Public Libraries Work Together!
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Dapper 1
Public libraries and School libraries have the same goal: be an open and welcoming place for people to work, study, and just be. We are going to tell the story of a Public Youth Services Librarian (Justine Ridder) and a School Librarian (Dana Fontaine) came together to collaborate and make both spaces feel connected across the city.
Speakers
avatar for Dana Fontaine

Dana Fontaine

Librarian Media Specialist, Fremont High School
Dana is a 9-12 Librarian in Fremont, NE. She hosts many clubs in the Library, which includes a developing Makerspace. She loves to read. Dana does not believe her job is truly a job because she feels it is much too fun to be a job. She lives with her daughter Luna and a houseful of... Read More →
JR
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:30pm CDT

Don’t Panic!: Common Interlibrary Loan Errors and How to Resolve Them
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Fedora 1
Unfortunately, many Interlibrary Loan errors can be made with one click—but cannot be corrected with one click. And when a mistake is made, one can quickly think of the worst possible outcomes—disappointing patrons and librarians you wanted to help, lost items, wasted postage fees, billing issues, and more. But don’t panic, because most Interlibrary Loan errors can be corrected with a few...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Heberling

Amy Heberling

Borrowing Research & Lending Assistant, University of Nebraska Lincoln Libraries
Amy Heberling is Borrowing Research and Lending Assistant at University of Nebraska—Lincoln Libraries. She has worked in Interlibrary Loan for 18 years and has experience various Interlibrary Loan activities including Borrowing, Lending, the Purchase on Demand program, and patron... Read More →
LC

Lynda Clause

ILL Coordinator, Nebraska Library Commission
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:30pm CDT

From ‘Meh’ to ‘Heck Yeah!’—Book Talks That Work
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Dapper 2
If your book talks are getting more yawns than cheers, it’s time for a makeover! Learn how to turn “meh” moments into “heck yeah!” reactions by finding the juicy bits of any book, using your voice (no opera singing required), and adding just the right amount of flair to keep listeners hooked. Whether you’re talking to kids, teens, or adults, you’ll leave with practical tips to...
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Speakers
JM

Jennifer McCulley

McPherson Public Library
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:30pm CDT

Low Cost/No Tech Makerspaces
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Dapper 3
Learn how to create low-cost, no-tech maker activities for students and patrons—some take-and-make kits and others for onsite completion. The 40 plus ideas fit a variety of age and skill levels, are budget-friendly and include craft supplies or upcycled materials—plus they pair well with books, storytime, or other events. Make an upcycled craft during the session.
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Pentland

Courtney Pentland

ITL/School Library Programs Coordinator, University of Nebraska Omaha
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:30pm CDT

When I Disagree Becomes I Can’t: Balancing Personal and Professional Ethics
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Gatsby
What happens when your personal beliefs collide with your professional duty to provide access to information? Join the Central Kansas Library System ladies for a lively and practical session on balancing professional and personal ethics. We will share some of the ethical situations we have found ourselves in, how to recognize when personal discomfort makes work responsibilities a challenge, and...
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Speakers
ED

Elizabeth Dukelow

Central Kansas Library System
avatar for Patty Collins

Patty Collins

Central Kansas Library System
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

1:30pm CDT

Bess Streeter Aldrich - Nebraska Hall of Fame Author
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
Bess Streeter Aldrich, a Nebraska Hall of Fame author, is not as widely known today as her accomplishments might suggest. While living in small-town Nebraska, she wrote seven best-selling novels and most of her 160 short stories. She was also one of the highest-paid and most widely read authors of the 1930s. During this Table Talk, the Aldrich Foundation will introduce librarians from across...
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Speakers
JM

Jolene McLaughlin

Bess Streeter Aldrich Foundation
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

1:30pm CDT

Experiential Learning in the Archives: The New Mexico Black History Spotlights
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
Considering what experiential learning can look like in your archives? Archivist Erin Wahl will share the story of a collaborative project that had students taking the reins to create an exhibit on Black history in New Mexico, and what you should consider as you create these kinds of opportunities for students and classes as well.
Speakers
avatar for Erin Renee Wahl

Erin Renee Wahl

Assistant Professor/University Archivist, New Mexico State University
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

1:30pm CDT

Jigsaw Puzzling
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
Introduction into the rising popularity of jigsaw puzzles and how to incorporate that into a fun event for your library patrons. How to host a speed puzzling event, puzzle swap, puzzle chess tournament and more. Events that build connections and bring people of all ages together.
Speakers
TW

Tresia White

Librarian, Ord Township Library
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

1:30pm CDT

Meet the NLA Candidates
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
Opportunity to meet the Nebraska Library Association candidates running for election prior to November 15th when electronic voting begins. If candidates are not able to be present in person we will have printed bios and individual statements available.
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

1:30pm CDT

Mysteries Await at Your Library – New Books for the 2027 Summer Reading Program
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
Brief book talks of titles to consider for library collections. Titles for preschool through high school will be included.
Speakers
avatar for Sally Snyder

Sally Snyder

Coordinator of Children & Young Adult Services, Nebraska Library Commission
Sally Snyder is Coordinator of Children and Young Adult Library Services at the Nebraska Library Commission, and has worked at there in various capacities since 1984.  She holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a Master of Arts in... Read More →
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

1:30pm CDT

New patron opportunities: increasing your out-of-service-area users
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
After a short presentation of what has been found around the region in user fees for people from outside of the funding area, as a group let's try to answer the following questions: • Why have an out-of-funding-area user fee? • How do you determine what the fee should be? • Should the fee for users who only use electronic resources be the same as for those who use physical materials? •...
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Speakers
MM
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

1:30pm CDT

Shedding Light on Untold Stories and Underrepresented Voices in the Creighton University Archives
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
Pete Brink and Thomas Haggstrom, archivists at Creighton University, will discuss the professional archival responsibility to shed light on the voices and stories of unrepresented groups and individuals. They will provide examples of efforts that they have undertaken in their own work to help tell stories that have long been lost.
Speakers
TH

Thomas Haggstrom

Creighton University Archives and Special Collections
PB
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

1:30pm CDT

Small Spaces, Big Impact: Designing Immersive Play Environments for Family Engagement
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
Are you responsible for making your children’s area beautiful, educational, and exciting? A play environment - playscape - might be the answer! Playscapes are small, themed, immersive floor environments that use simple, cost-effective toys and backdrops to inspire open-ended play while supporting early literacy. In this session, you’ll gain the resources and knowledge needed to design a...
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Speakers
DB

Dacia Bryan

Omaha Public Library
MC

Michelle Carlson

Omaha Public Library
SP

Stephanie Poletti

Omaha Public Library
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

1:30pm CDT

Something's Been Eating the Books: A Practical Approach to Pest Management
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
Library and Archival collections are vulnerable to insect damage, and staff are often the first — and best — line of defense. This session covers practical pest management for library staff without a conservation background. Topics include identification of common library insects and incidental invaders, environmental conditions that attract pests, building exclusion strategies, monitoring,...
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Speakers
avatar for Michael Straatmann

Michael Straatmann

Associate Director for Collections Management, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

1:30pm CDT

Threading Tales: Library Engagement through StitchCraft
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
StitchCraft began as a Crochet 101 session that fell short of its original goal but revealed a strong student desire for connection. In response, our academic library launched a weekly StitchCraft gathering that evolved into a sustained, student-driven community. This table talk explores how consistency, visibility, and student ownership transformed a one-time program into an ongoing outreach...
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Speakers
JT

Jennie Tobler-Gaston

Criss Library, University of Nebraska at Omaha

MZ

Marina Zendejas

Criss Library, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Friday October 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
TBA
  Table Talk

2:30pm CDT

$$$ Show me the (Library) Money! $$$
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Dapper 1
Libraries are not run on thoughts and prayers. We also cannot buy materials with kindness and hugs. We are also so busy. I am going to speak about many types of fundraisers and put them into three categories: no effort, low effort, and all hands on deck. I have done many types of fundraisers and will showcase what I did, what was successful, what worked, what didn't and what kind of buy in you...
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Speakers
avatar for Dana Fontaine

Dana Fontaine

Librarian Media Specialist, Fremont High School
Dana is a 9-12 Librarian in Fremont, NE. She hosts many clubs in the Library, which includes a developing Makerspace. She loves to read. Dana does not believe her job is truly a job because she feels it is much too fun to be a job. She lives with her daughter Luna and a houseful of... Read More →
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Dapper 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

2:30pm CDT

How spicy is too spicy?: Readers Advisory in the ever changing world of romance
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Dapper 2
The past few years have seen everything from the rise in romance set in fantasy worlds, to serial killers falling in love, and even mothmen as heroes. How is a librarian to decide what is worth buying and recommending to readers especially when many romance readers can consume upwards of 30 books a month. You will learn how to maximize your romance budget, purchase the very latest trends in the...
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Speakers
AA

Alicia Ahlvers

Central Kansas Library System
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Dapper 2 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

2:30pm CDT

NLA Advocacy Committee Updates
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Gatsby
Join us for updates and news from members of the NLA Advocacy Committee. Members will share information on advocacy activities and plans for the coming 2027 Legislative Session. The association lobbyist, the Nebraska ALA Liaison, director of the Nebraska Library Commission, and other advocacy leaders will be on this panel.
Speakers
WP

Wyatt Packard

Lincoln City Libraries
avatar for Courtney Pentland

Courtney Pentland

ITL/School Library Programs Coordinator, University of Nebraska Omaha
DR
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Gatsby 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

2:30pm CDT

Strategic Planning: A Roadmap for Libraries
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Sugarloaf
A library’s strategic plan is a roadmap that aligns staff, board, and community with shared goals. Cheyenne Chontos (Harrisburg Community Library Director, SD) will share real-world examples and guide participants through hands-on planning activities—from surveys and SWOT analysis to stakeholder engagement and writing a clear, actionable plan—helping attendees build confidence in creating...
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Speakers
avatar for Cheyenne Chontos

Cheyenne Chontos

Director, Harrisburg Community Library
Cheyenne Chontos is the Director of the Harrisburg Community Library in Harrisburg, SD. They have previously worked as the Library Technology Coordinator and as the Continuing Education Coordinator for the South Dakota State Library. Cheyenne lives in Sioux Falls with their husband... Read More →
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Sugarloaf 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

2:30pm CDT

Unlocking Nebraska’s Stories: Introducing the Nebraska Literary & History Escape Room Kits
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Fedora 1
This presentation introduces librarians to a new suite of four free, ready to use escape room kits developed by the Nebraska Center for the Book and the Nebraska Library Commission through a Working with Primary Sources Grant from the Library of Congress. Inspired by the One Book One Nebraska selections, each kit immerses participants in a different facet of Nebraska’s past—Willa Cather’s...
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Speakers
MS

Miranda Shreves

Nebraska Library Commission
TT

Tessa Timperley

Nebraska Library Commission
BJ

Bailee Juroshek

Nebraska Library Commission
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Fedora 1 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

2:30pm CDT

Visual Excel-lence: Using Spreadsheets for Their Graphical Potential
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Dapper 3
Spreadsheets are a powerful tool for organizations to crunch numbers and present data, but they can also be used as easily modifiable visual displays! In this presentation, Joseph from Hastings Public Library will cover ways to use Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets to make graphical tools for your library such as desk schedules, locker charts, and more!
Speakers
JC

Joseph Chapman

Hastings Public Library
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:15pm CDT
Dapper 3 12520 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Nebraska
  Breakout

3:30pm CDT

Keynote: Juli Burney
Friday October 16, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm CDT
TBA
With the constantly changing landscape of American libraries, it is important for librarians to not only safeguard the organization but also to protect themselves. Humor is the key! Good humor helps one to get a clear perspective. Humor alleviates stress, eases the discomfort of change, builds strong relationships, and facilitates challenging situations. Each of us was born with a sense of humor....
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Speakers
avatar for Juli Burney
Friday October 16, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm CDT
TBA
  Keynote

4:15pm CDT

Closing Address
Friday October 16, 2026 4:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
TBA
Friday October 16, 2026 4:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
TBA
  Closing Address
 

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