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Breakout Sessions

 



Spring Institute 2012 Conference Schedule

March 22-23, 2012

 

Thursday, March 22

 
8:00-8:45      Registration, Exhibits, & Continental Breakfast

 
8:45-9:00      Welcome & Announcements

 
9:00-10:00    Keynote - Chris Crutcher

 
10:00-10:30 Exhibits (and Prize Drawing)

 

10:30-11:30 Breakout Session #1, choose from:

A. Songs, Stories and Singing Games: Tunes for Tots to 8s

Songs are a staple for many story times. However, they can be intimidating for new librarians or become same-old-same-old for veterans. In this session learn how anyone can add songs to their story time to keep children’s attention. Also, take home new ideas for singing activities and books that you can add to your program. Presented by Gari Stein of Music for Little Folks.

 

B. Book Talks with a Hook

We’ve all done impromptu book talks to kids in the library, but sometimes we need to take our show on the road and book talk to a class; which can be a challenge. Learn new ways to talk up books to tweens/teens that will keep them engaged and wanting more. Plus, see how the pros show-off some recent tween/teen titles. Presented by Paula Schaffner of Saline District Librrary and Vicki Browne of Ann Arbor District Library.



 

11:30-11:40 Transition

11:40-12:40 Breakout Session #2, choose from:

A. Blog, Blog, Blog
Blogs are everywhere and they can do a lot more than just tell you what John Smith had for lunch on his day off. Find out how you can use blogs to help you plan programs, keep up with reading trends, collect marketing ideas, and more. Plus, learn how, you too, can enter the Blogosphere and start a blog of your own and why you may want to. Presented by Travis Jonker of the Wayland Union Schools and Anne Clark of the Shiawassee District Library.
 
 
B. Mad Lab—Science Programs @ the Library
Have you always wanted to put on a science-themed program but were afraid of the cost and lack of a science background? Well fear no more! Here you will be shown how to create budget-friendly scientific programs using common household materials and craft supplies that will appeal to all kids of all ages. Presented by Jess Pugh of the Allegan District Library.

 
12:40-12:55 Transition

 
12:55-2:25    Lunch & Keynote - Jonathan Rand

 
2:25-3:25      Book Signing for both keynote speakers

 
3:25-4:25      Breakout Session #3, choose from:
 
A. De-Stress & Decompress: Stress Relief for Today's Librarian
A little bit fried out? Looking for ideas to relieve stress? Look no further! You'll be learning tips and tricks from some local pros that will have you relaxed in no time.  Presented by Faith Cain of Oasis Hot Tub Gardens and Emma Greene of RUB Ann Arbor.                    

B. Animals in the Library

There are few programs that are more popular than those that bring in animals. Unfortunately those programs also tend to take a large chunk out of the budget. In this session find out how you can remedy that by looking within your own community for low budget, high quality animal programs. Plus, get ideas for different ways animals can be used in your library. Presented by Tom Shilts of the Capital Area District Library and Beth Spanski of the For Better Independence Assistance Dogs organization.

 
4:25-4:45      Transition

 
4:45-5:55      Performers Showcase

 
5:55-6:15      Transition

 
6:15-7:45      Dinner & Awards Ceremony - Matthew Quick (Thumbs Up! Winner)



Friday, March 23

 
8:00-8:45      Registration & Continental Breakfast

 
8:45-9:00      Welcome & Announcements

 
9:00-10:00    Keynote - Donna Jo Napoli

 
10:00-10:15 Transition

 
10:15-11:15 Breakout Session #4, choose from:
 
A. Beyond X-Box: Boys in the Library
Drawing boys to the library can be tough, but it’s not impossible! Learn about some fun, inexpensive programs (beyond gaming) that pull boys from elementary to middle school in, and get book suggestions for all ages so that you can keep them coming back. Get ready to channel your inner boy (yeah, he’s in there) and get creative. Presented by Laura Wright of Portage District Library and Mary Jo Gallagher of East Lansing Public Library.



B. Collaborations

Librarians will share their collaboration experiences with organizations in their communities and how those led to successful partnerships and a nearly cost-free Summer Reading Program. Learn tips and tricks on how you too can create connections within your community in order to provide programs for your patrons and cut costs along the way. Presented by Jill Abood of East Lansing Public Library, Sally Seifert of Charlotte Community Library, and Allison Boyer of Loutit District Library.

 
11:15-11:25 Transition    

 

11:25-12:25 Breakout Session #5, choose from:



A. Social Networking to Connect with Teens

Find it hard bringing teens into your world? Maybe it’s time to step into theirs. Learn how to use social networking sites to cultivate an online community for your teens. By using social media you can listen, collaborate, and communicate with your young adult patrons. Presented by Kolene Allen of the Grand Rapids Public Library.

B. Early Literacy Part 2

Expanding off of last year’s program, this session will show you how you can incorporate early literacy into your programs and library space. Take home planning tools, ideas, and strategies that will do nothing by benefit your patrons. Presented by Sarah Smith-Conlan of Rochester Hills Public Library.

12:25-12:35 Transition    

 
12:35-2:05    Lunch & Keynote - Gary Schmidt

 
2:05-3:05      Dessert & Musical Keynote - Eric Litwin

 
3:05-4:05      Book & CD signing for all Friday keynote speakers