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Creating an Exceptionally Accessible Library
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Other
Description: This library media lesson focuses on strategies for incorporating and supporting exceptional students—those with diverse learning needs, including neurodivergent and students with disabilities—within the library environment. Educators will explore inclusive teaching practices, ways to make the library an equal and inclusive space, and foster collaborative partnerships with special education staff. The session will also highlight ways to ensure equitable access to resources and foster a welcoming, supportive atmosphere where all students can thrive as readers, researchers, and digital citizens.
Unleash the Power of Podcasts: Building a PLN and Sharing Your Expertise
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Discover how educational podcasts empower school librarians to curate personalized, on-demand professional learning that fits your unique needs and schedules. Learn how podcast engagement builds vibrant virtual PLN through meaningful connections with hosts, guests, and fellow listeners in our field. Transition from podcast consumers to contributors by becoming a podcast guest. Confidently share your innovative library practices, resources and teaching strategies with colleagues worldwide. Unlock the dual power of podcasts: as a free, flexible platform for professional growth and as a medium for showcasing your expertise, ultimately strengthening our school library community through shared experiences and knowledge.
“Gold” Level Participation: Transforming Displays into Learning Experiences
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Design & Create
Presenter
Amy Hybarger
Amy Hybarger is a teacher-librarian at Sky Ranch Middle School in Washoe County, NV. For the past 14 years, she has focused on creating a learning environment that encourages students to learn, design, and create. Amy believes that strong collaborative relationships with teachers provide her with opportunities to engage students in hands-on activities that incorporate the Nevada Academic Content Standards, social-emotional learning skills, and 21st-century competencies. Her goal is to embed STEAM experiences in the Sky Ranch Library Makerspace to prepare students for career and college readiness. Her previous experience as a middle school English Language Arts teacher motivates her to continue fostering a love of literacy among students. Amy is passionate about her work in the library and enjoys collaborating with others who share her commitment to enriching the educational experiences of both educators and students.
Description: Creating displays for the library environment involves significant effort, and it can be disheartening when students do not utilize these displays to gather the intended information. However, when displays encourage student interaction, they enhance not only the library environment but also the overall learning experience.
Displays can be crafted by students or gamified to add an element of fun. Whether through trivia, creative projects, QR codes, or I Spy activities, students enjoy the interaction, and staff will appreciate observing their engagement with the displays. This approach makes library displays both smart, educational and enjoyable.
"Show Me" Readers, Makers, Explorers, & Innovators: Using State Award Books to Meet the Standards
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5
Session Strand: Design & Create
Description: See how a Missouri librarian uses the Show-Me Reader Award nominee books as a starting point for elementary library lessons that include the curricular areas of love of reading, technology, digital citizenship, STEM and more! Resources will be shared to incorporate these ideas into your own library lessons!
Rock Your Read Aloud
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Literacy
Description: Want to bring read-alouds to life? This IdeaLab session introduces Novel Effect, an app that uses voice recognition to play music and sound effects that respond to your voice as you read. Discover how this tool creates a multisensory, engaging storytelling experience perfect for all ages. Learn how to set up the app, choose compatible titles, and seamlessly integrate it into your school library programming. Whether you're looking to boost engagement, support literacy goals, or add a fresh twist to your read-aloud routine, Novel Effect is a fun and easy tech tool to try!
Zines - Individual content across multiple platforms
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Utilizing Zines in school is a great way to conduct simple assessments but it can also be a great way for children to express themselves in ways they may not have previously known were possible. Using multiple platforms in both analog and digital formats for producing and publishing zines makes it possible for all students to share their knowledge, wisdom, thoughts and ideas with the world. paper formats are great for those who love to draw and write. Digital formats are great for English Language Learners, students with disabilities, people who struggle with writing and drawing, and for those who love all things digital. As librarians we know how important it is to reach & teach the whole child and zines are the perfect format for encouraging students to share parts of themselves with the world.
Ideate, Iterate, Collaborate!: Teaching Students to Think Like Designers in our Makerspaces
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Description: Design Thinking is a framework used by designers in many fields and it's an excellent framework for our student makers in our library makerspaces. Come learn about how to incorporate design thinking principles into your makerspace projects. I'll share examples of ways to incorporate design thinking into your library makerspace, including quick design challenges, longer-term projects, and collaborations with teachers that tie into curriculum.
We'll also talk about setting up your makerspace for success, with advice on materials/supplies, managing the space and creating norms and guidelines. I'll also share resources from creating a Design Thinking elective for 7th and 8th grade at my school as well and how this gives us opportunities for deeper dives into making. No matter what your experience with makerspaces and design, you're sure to come away with ideas for inspiring creativity in your students.
Student-Made: Fostering Community, Mental Health, and Leadership through Maker Events
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Presenter
Angie Watson
Angie Watson is a school librarian at Parkway Central High School in the Saint Louis area and has over 20 years of experience as an educator. Angie earned her undergraduate degrees and MLS from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is passionate about promoting reading and providing welcoming spaces for her students and colleagues, especially the monthly maker events in the library that allow her to explore her own creativity and that of her students. Angie enjoys travel, reading, writing, live music, spending time outdoors, and movie nights with her two daughters, Ella and Anna, and her husband Aaron.
Description: Are you looking for a way to get students to connect on a genuine level in an interactive, fun environment and create something for themselves? If so, this is the session for you! The librarians from Parkway Central High in the St. Louis area will provide tips and tricks on how they created a monthly makerspace session for students that:
*Provides a safe, supportive, relaxing environment with mental health benefits
*Jumpstarts student creativity
*Fosters leadership
*Gives students a sense of belonging
*Allows school staff to bond with students by creating with them
Creating Belonging: How One Library Connects Life Skills Students to the Whole School
Grade Level: 6-8
Session Strand: Collaboration
Description: What happens when a school library becomes the bridge between student groups? At Coakley Middle School, the library facilitates purposeful partnerships between Life Skills students and general education classes to build inclusion, confidence, and community. From 3D printing adaptive tools with Computer Science to flying kites with Science students or celebrating holidays with Library Ambassadors, each project helps Life Skills students feel seen, valued, and connected.
This IdeaLab table showcases quick, creative collaborations that any librarian can replicate to foster school-wide belonging. Attendees will see examples, grab a handout of ideas, and walk away ready to launch inclusive experiences in their own schools.
School Librarianship in a School Without a Library
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Collection Development
Presenter
Jennifer Hill
Jenny Hill
St. Cloud State University
Associate Professor
St. Cloud, MN
https://www.stcloudstate.edu/graduate/librarymedia/default.aspx
About me
Jennifer Hill, Ed. D currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Education Department at St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN. She is also the Graduate Director of the School Library Media Program.
She has published articles in several journals such as Tech Trends and Collections Management and has presented at national conferences including the American Association of School Librarians and on YouTube via the TED-Ed channel. Her favorite children’s book is Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak.
Description: How do you circulate books when your building was designed and constructed without a library? This IdeaLab session will focus on how one school hired a school library media specialist consultant to envision a library collection that would serve students in grades 7-12 using bookshelves within common areas and a centralized circulation desk.
The Ultimate Sub Tub
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Description: A well-prepared Library Sub Tub reduces the stress of emergency absences, empowers substitutes to manage the library confidently, and ensures that students continue learning with minimal disruption. By incorporating both physical and digital resources, you can create a flexible and effective system that works in any situation. Join this poster session to discover practical steps and innovative tech tools to build your own Library Sub Tub—because when an emergency turns into panic, preparation makes all the difference.
Encouraging K-5 Students to Unplug
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5
Session Strand: Design & Create
Description: Do your students look like computer screen zombies? Students spend so much time on technology at school. Of course, technology is a powerful learning tool and I love using it in the library, but students need a place where they can go create, build, and play. In my elementary school, my library has become the perfect place to do just that!
Inquiry Begins with a Question: How to teach students to ask their own questions
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Presenter
Connie Williams
Connie Williams was a school librarian for over 30 years. She currently works as the History Room Librarian at the Petaluma Regional Library. She writes about question-building, inquiry, teaching with primary sources, and government info. She is the Chair of the Government Information for Children committee (ALA GODORT) and Chair of the CA State Library Services Board. She is the author of the book: Understanding Government Information: a teaching strategies toolkit for grades 7-12; many articles on history/inquiry, and school libraries, and is co-author with Blanche Woolls of Teaching Life Skills in the Library: Career, Finance, and Civics in a Changing World. Her latest work about the National Park Service can be found in the book: What Can Government Information Do For Me?
Description: The ability to ask one’s own questions may be the single most important thinking skill students can learn at any stage of their educational journey. The skill of question formulation, however, is too rarely deliberately or rigorously taught. How can students be supported in building their questioning skills in order to fully experience the world of discovery that the library has to offer? Discover the Question Formulation Technique, an easy to use and integrate, effective strategy to teach students to ask their own questions. Discuss with others and leave with free lesson plans and online resources.
PIP, PIP, Hooray!
Grade Level: 6-8
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Looking to foster student engagement, creativity, and ownership of learning? This IdeaLab session explores how Personal Interest Projects (PIPs) can empower middle grade students to pursue their passions while developing essential research and presentation skills. Learn how school librarians can take a leading role in facilitating these inquiry-based projects, supporting students in everything from topic selection to final presentations. The session will also highlight how AI has been used to support student learning and creativity throughout the process. Attendees will leave with practical strategies, sample timelines, and resources to implement or enhance Personal Interest Projects in their own schools. Whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your program, this session will offer fresh inspiration and actionable ideas.
Monuments and Makerspace: Using 3D Printing to Solidify the Symbolic
Grade Level: 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Presenter
Melanie Whiteley
Melanie Whiteley is in her 14th year in education and her 3rd year as a school librarian. She currently works at Parkway North High School in St. Louis County, Missouri. Melanie is deeply passionate about creating community and fostering creativity. By focusing on
makerspace activities in the library, she hopes to help students think about how they can use their creativity better their communities. Her goal is to collaborate with teachers in integrating these hands-on, creative learning methods into their curriculum to foster innovation. Outside of her professional life, she is married and has one daughter.
Brigid Dolan
Brigid Dolan is currently a high school librarian at Parkway North High School. She has been a librarian for 14 years, and before that, she used to be a high school English teacher. She is passionate about creating a library culture at her school that focuses on community, collaboration, creativity and discovery.
Description: Wondering how to interest teachers in a project that employs design thinking and will also challenge students to think critically about the key understandings of the class? In collaboration with a history teacher, we designed a project that challenged students to demonstrate knowledge of the events, people, and movements they learned about throughout the semester by creating something tangible using Tinkercad software and our library’s 3D printer. Learn about this project and other ways to adapt makerspace principles for different content areas using anything from craft supplies to a 3D printer.
Cultivating STEM: Cultivating community partnerships to create a vibrant STEM program
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5
Session Strand: Collaboration
Description: Cultivating STEM: Cultivating community partnerships to create a vibrant STEM program. Grow your STEM program by building community partnerships. Attendees will learn how to leverage community expertise into student learning experiences. Collaborations with local STEM-based civic and professional organizations can give students insights into a variety of subjects and first-hand experiences. This program will provide attendees with ideas for cultivating their own STEM collaborations.
From Page to Podcast: Inspiring Student Storytellers in the Library
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Presenter
Lauren Mobley
A self-proclaimed edtech and book nerd, Lauren Mobley is the host of the podcast Library on Lock and a Georgia high school library media specialist. She earned her Ed.S in Instructional Technology from the University of West Georgia, her M.Ed. in English Education from Valdosta State University, and her B.A. in English Education from the University of Georgia. Mobley is a member of the American Association of School Librarians and the Georgia Library Media Association, where she serves as the president-elect. Mobley is committed to improving literacy and education by collaborating with teachers and supporting all students. She believes in and strives to empower student joy, voice, and choice.
Rachael Welsh
Rachael Welsh is a passionate educator, advocate, and storyteller. Over her 18-year career in education, she has taught English and Theater on the high school level and has been a librarian in elementary, middle, and high school programs. She currently works at Sablatura Middle School in Pearland ISD, where she leads an award-winning library program focused on student voice, creativity, and inclusive access to information. Known for her innovative approach, Rachael developed the “Adopt a Shelf” initiative, which empowers students to design and manage their own themed book displays. This program earned a 2025 Branding Iron Award from the Texas Library Association and has become a model for student engagement in school libraries.
Description: Discover how podcasting can engage students, build critical 21st-century skills, and transform your library into a hub of creativity and collaboration. Podcasting is more than just a tech trend—it’s a powerful tool for inquiry-based learning and student expression. Participants will begin by exploring the benefits of podcasting in the library setting, including how it supports literacy, critical thinking, collaboration, and digital fluency. This session explores strategies for designing and implementing podcasting programs that empower students to research, create, and share their unique voices. Attendees will learn practical tips for guiding students through the entire podcasting process—from developing ideas and conducting research to recording, editing, and publishing. Whether you’re new to podcasting or looking to refine your approach, this session will inspire you to embrace this innovative medium and create opportunities for student-led storytelling, inquiry, and digital literacy.
Beyond the Books: Integrating ELA with Science and Social Studies through Award-Winning Literature and Library Resources
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5, 6-8
Session Strand: Collaboration
Description: This session explores how school librarians can support interdisciplinary instruction by leveraging award-winning books and library resources to connect English Language Arts with science and social studies meaningfully. Attendees will discover how to curate engaging texts from national book award lists (such as the Sibert and National Book Award for Young People’s Literature) that align with content standards across multiple disciplines. Participants will leave with ready-to-use strategies, sample lesson ideas, and a resource list that empowers librarians to collaborate with classroom teachers, enrich curriculum, and foster inquiry-based learning. Whether you support elementary or middle-grade learners, this session offers practical tools to bring the library to the center of content-area learning.
Fostering academic achievement and community engagement through captivating and interactive library practices.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Join us for an engaging IdeaLab session where we explore how libraries can boost student success and community engagement using interactive activities like escape rooms. This session, based on my presentation at the 2025 CSLA Conference, will demonstrate how to blend academic content with hands-on learning that fosters collaboration, literacy, and critical thinking. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and resources, including how to integrate these activities with grade-level and staff Google Classrooms, Instagram, community reading programs, and tutoring efforts to create a library that supports both academic achievement and meaningful community connections.
The Humble Brag: Using Your PLN to Boost Your Work
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Leadership & Advocacy
Presenter
Rain (Raenell) Smith
Rain Smith is an ILF Award winning School Library Media Specialist at Whiteland Community High School. She is an active and involved member of many library and education related organizations including being the AISLE chair-elect, AASL Chapters Indiana Rep, ILF Comms Cmte Chair, MCLS Board Member, and a founding member of Indiana FREADOM to Read. She is a facilitator, presenter, author, advocate, and reader.
Tim Jones
Tim Jones, the 2025 School Library Journal School Librarian of the Year, a 2024 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, and 2023 NAMLE Media Literacy Teacher of the Year, serves as librarian at John F. Kennedy Elementary in Louisville, Kentucky. Author of the forthcoming Teaching Media Literacy Using Graphic Novels, he has shared his expertise in Booklist, podcasts, webinars, and conferences. A Second City alum, he blends humor, creativity, and advocacy through teaching and his family business NIMCO, Inc.
Description: Join the Humble Brag: Using Your PLN to Boost Your Work - an interactive networking station that helps you reconnect, celebrate, and grow your professional learning network across the country. Led by award-winning librarians Rain Smith and Tim Jones (the 2025 School Library Journal School Librarian of the Year), this station offers ideas, tools, templates, and a live digital directory to help you share your wins and amplify the work of others. Add your name to the opt-in PLN directory, scan a QR code to join later, and grab customizable resources for shout-outs, press releases, social media posts, and more. Whether you’re new to the field or just ready to reengage after some digital burnout, this station helps you brag - just a little - and connect in meaningful, sustainable ways.
Show Me the Money$$
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Learn 5 successful strategies for writing successful grants! School libraries can always use more money for books, programs, youth led projects, makerspace and much more. With Show Me the Money$$ school librarians will have useful tools for grant writing.
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Other
Description: This library media lesson focuses on strategies for incorporating and supporting exceptional students—those with diverse learning needs, including neurodivergent and students with disabilities—within the library environment. Educators will explore inclusive teaching practices, ways to make the library an equal and inclusive space, and foster collaborative partnerships with special education staff. The session will also highlight ways to ensure equitable access to resources and foster a welcoming, supportive atmosphere where all students can thrive as readers, researchers, and digital citizens.
Unleash the Power of Podcasts: Building a PLN and Sharing Your Expertise
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Discover how educational podcasts empower school librarians to curate personalized, on-demand professional learning that fits your unique needs and schedules. Learn how podcast engagement builds vibrant virtual PLN through meaningful connections with hosts, guests, and fellow listeners in our field. Transition from podcast consumers to contributors by becoming a podcast guest. Confidently share your innovative library practices, resources and teaching strategies with colleagues worldwide. Unlock the dual power of podcasts: as a free, flexible platform for professional growth and as a medium for showcasing your expertise, ultimately strengthening our school library community through shared experiences and knowledge.
“Gold” Level Participation: Transforming Displays into Learning Experiences
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Design & Create
Presenter
Amy Hybarger
Amy Hybarger is a teacher-librarian at Sky Ranch Middle School in Washoe County, NV. For the past 14 years, she has focused on creating a learning environment that encourages students to learn, design, and create. Amy believes that strong collaborative relationships with teachers provide her with opportunities to engage students in hands-on activities that incorporate the Nevada Academic Content Standards, social-emotional learning skills, and 21st-century competencies. Her goal is to embed STEAM experiences in the Sky Ranch Library Makerspace to prepare students for career and college readiness. Her previous experience as a middle school English Language Arts teacher motivates her to continue fostering a love of literacy among students. Amy is passionate about her work in the library and enjoys collaborating with others who share her commitment to enriching the educational experiences of both educators and students.
Description: Creating displays for the library environment involves significant effort, and it can be disheartening when students do not utilize these displays to gather the intended information. However, when displays encourage student interaction, they enhance not only the library environment but also the overall learning experience.
Displays can be crafted by students or gamified to add an element of fun. Whether through trivia, creative projects, QR codes, or I Spy activities, students enjoy the interaction, and staff will appreciate observing their engagement with the displays. This approach makes library displays both smart, educational and enjoyable.
"Show Me" Readers, Makers, Explorers, & Innovators: Using State Award Books to Meet the Standards
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5
Session Strand: Design & Create
Description: See how a Missouri librarian uses the Show-Me Reader Award nominee books as a starting point for elementary library lessons that include the curricular areas of love of reading, technology, digital citizenship, STEM and more! Resources will be shared to incorporate these ideas into your own library lessons!
Rock Your Read Aloud
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Literacy
Description: Want to bring read-alouds to life? This IdeaLab session introduces Novel Effect, an app that uses voice recognition to play music and sound effects that respond to your voice as you read. Discover how this tool creates a multisensory, engaging storytelling experience perfect for all ages. Learn how to set up the app, choose compatible titles, and seamlessly integrate it into your school library programming. Whether you're looking to boost engagement, support literacy goals, or add a fresh twist to your read-aloud routine, Novel Effect is a fun and easy tech tool to try!
Zines - Individual content across multiple platforms
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Utilizing Zines in school is a great way to conduct simple assessments but it can also be a great way for children to express themselves in ways they may not have previously known were possible. Using multiple platforms in both analog and digital formats for producing and publishing zines makes it possible for all students to share their knowledge, wisdom, thoughts and ideas with the world. paper formats are great for those who love to draw and write. Digital formats are great for English Language Learners, students with disabilities, people who struggle with writing and drawing, and for those who love all things digital. As librarians we know how important it is to reach & teach the whole child and zines are the perfect format for encouraging students to share parts of themselves with the world.
Ideate, Iterate, Collaborate!: Teaching Students to Think Like Designers in our Makerspaces
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Description: Design Thinking is a framework used by designers in many fields and it's an excellent framework for our student makers in our library makerspaces. Come learn about how to incorporate design thinking principles into your makerspace projects. I'll share examples of ways to incorporate design thinking into your library makerspace, including quick design challenges, longer-term projects, and collaborations with teachers that tie into curriculum.
We'll also talk about setting up your makerspace for success, with advice on materials/supplies, managing the space and creating norms and guidelines. I'll also share resources from creating a Design Thinking elective for 7th and 8th grade at my school as well and how this gives us opportunities for deeper dives into making. No matter what your experience with makerspaces and design, you're sure to come away with ideas for inspiring creativity in your students.
Student-Made: Fostering Community, Mental Health, and Leadership through Maker Events
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Presenter
Angie Watson
Angie Watson is a school librarian at Parkway Central High School in the Saint Louis area and has over 20 years of experience as an educator. Angie earned her undergraduate degrees and MLS from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is passionate about promoting reading and providing welcoming spaces for her students and colleagues, especially the monthly maker events in the library that allow her to explore her own creativity and that of her students. Angie enjoys travel, reading, writing, live music, spending time outdoors, and movie nights with her two daughters, Ella and Anna, and her husband Aaron.
Description: Are you looking for a way to get students to connect on a genuine level in an interactive, fun environment and create something for themselves? If so, this is the session for you! The librarians from Parkway Central High in the St. Louis area will provide tips and tricks on how they created a monthly makerspace session for students that:
*Provides a safe, supportive, relaxing environment with mental health benefits
*Jumpstarts student creativity
*Fosters leadership
*Gives students a sense of belonging
*Allows school staff to bond with students by creating with them
Creating Belonging: How One Library Connects Life Skills Students to the Whole School
Grade Level: 6-8
Session Strand: Collaboration
Description: What happens when a school library becomes the bridge between student groups? At Coakley Middle School, the library facilitates purposeful partnerships between Life Skills students and general education classes to build inclusion, confidence, and community. From 3D printing adaptive tools with Computer Science to flying kites with Science students or celebrating holidays with Library Ambassadors, each project helps Life Skills students feel seen, valued, and connected.
This IdeaLab table showcases quick, creative collaborations that any librarian can replicate to foster school-wide belonging. Attendees will see examples, grab a handout of ideas, and walk away ready to launch inclusive experiences in their own schools.
School Librarianship in a School Without a Library
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Collection Development
Presenter
Jennifer Hill
Jenny Hill
St. Cloud State University
Associate Professor
St. Cloud, MN
https://www.stcloudstate.edu/graduate/librarymedia/default.aspx
About me
Jennifer Hill, Ed. D currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Education Department at St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN. She is also the Graduate Director of the School Library Media Program.
She has published articles in several journals such as Tech Trends and Collections Management and has presented at national conferences including the American Association of School Librarians and on YouTube via the TED-Ed channel. Her favorite children’s book is Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak.
Description: How do you circulate books when your building was designed and constructed without a library? This IdeaLab session will focus on how one school hired a school library media specialist consultant to envision a library collection that would serve students in grades 7-12 using bookshelves within common areas and a centralized circulation desk.
The Ultimate Sub Tub
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Description: A well-prepared Library Sub Tub reduces the stress of emergency absences, empowers substitutes to manage the library confidently, and ensures that students continue learning with minimal disruption. By incorporating both physical and digital resources, you can create a flexible and effective system that works in any situation. Join this poster session to discover practical steps and innovative tech tools to build your own Library Sub Tub—because when an emergency turns into panic, preparation makes all the difference.
Encouraging K-5 Students to Unplug
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5
Session Strand: Design & Create
Description: Do your students look like computer screen zombies? Students spend so much time on technology at school. Of course, technology is a powerful learning tool and I love using it in the library, but students need a place where they can go create, build, and play. In my elementary school, my library has become the perfect place to do just that!
Inquiry Begins with a Question: How to teach students to ask their own questions
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Presenter
Connie Williams
Connie Williams was a school librarian for over 30 years. She currently works as the History Room Librarian at the Petaluma Regional Library. She writes about question-building, inquiry, teaching with primary sources, and government info. She is the Chair of the Government Information for Children committee (ALA GODORT) and Chair of the CA State Library Services Board. She is the author of the book: Understanding Government Information: a teaching strategies toolkit for grades 7-12; many articles on history/inquiry, and school libraries, and is co-author with Blanche Woolls of Teaching Life Skills in the Library: Career, Finance, and Civics in a Changing World. Her latest work about the National Park Service can be found in the book: What Can Government Information Do For Me?
Description: The ability to ask one’s own questions may be the single most important thinking skill students can learn at any stage of their educational journey. The skill of question formulation, however, is too rarely deliberately or rigorously taught. How can students be supported in building their questioning skills in order to fully experience the world of discovery that the library has to offer? Discover the Question Formulation Technique, an easy to use and integrate, effective strategy to teach students to ask their own questions. Discuss with others and leave with free lesson plans and online resources.
PIP, PIP, Hooray!
Grade Level: 6-8
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Looking to foster student engagement, creativity, and ownership of learning? This IdeaLab session explores how Personal Interest Projects (PIPs) can empower middle grade students to pursue their passions while developing essential research and presentation skills. Learn how school librarians can take a leading role in facilitating these inquiry-based projects, supporting students in everything from topic selection to final presentations. The session will also highlight how AI has been used to support student learning and creativity throughout the process. Attendees will leave with practical strategies, sample timelines, and resources to implement or enhance Personal Interest Projects in their own schools. Whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your program, this session will offer fresh inspiration and actionable ideas.
Monuments and Makerspace: Using 3D Printing to Solidify the Symbolic
Grade Level: 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Presenter
Melanie Whiteley
Melanie Whiteley is in her 14th year in education and her 3rd year as a school librarian. She currently works at Parkway North High School in St. Louis County, Missouri. Melanie is deeply passionate about creating community and fostering creativity. By focusing on
makerspace activities in the library, she hopes to help students think about how they can use their creativity better their communities. Her goal is to collaborate with teachers in integrating these hands-on, creative learning methods into their curriculum to foster innovation. Outside of her professional life, she is married and has one daughter.
Brigid Dolan
Brigid Dolan is currently a high school librarian at Parkway North High School. She has been a librarian for 14 years, and before that, she used to be a high school English teacher. She is passionate about creating a library culture at her school that focuses on community, collaboration, creativity and discovery.
Description: Wondering how to interest teachers in a project that employs design thinking and will also challenge students to think critically about the key understandings of the class? In collaboration with a history teacher, we designed a project that challenged students to demonstrate knowledge of the events, people, and movements they learned about throughout the semester by creating something tangible using Tinkercad software and our library’s 3D printer. Learn about this project and other ways to adapt makerspace principles for different content areas using anything from craft supplies to a 3D printer.
Cultivating STEM: Cultivating community partnerships to create a vibrant STEM program
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5
Session Strand: Collaboration
Description: Cultivating STEM: Cultivating community partnerships to create a vibrant STEM program. Grow your STEM program by building community partnerships. Attendees will learn how to leverage community expertise into student learning experiences. Collaborations with local STEM-based civic and professional organizations can give students insights into a variety of subjects and first-hand experiences. This program will provide attendees with ideas for cultivating their own STEM collaborations.
From Page to Podcast: Inspiring Student Storytellers in the Library
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Design & Create
Presenter
Lauren Mobley
A self-proclaimed edtech and book nerd, Lauren Mobley is the host of the podcast Library on Lock and a Georgia high school library media specialist. She earned her Ed.S in Instructional Technology from the University of West Georgia, her M.Ed. in English Education from Valdosta State University, and her B.A. in English Education from the University of Georgia. Mobley is a member of the American Association of School Librarians and the Georgia Library Media Association, where she serves as the president-elect. Mobley is committed to improving literacy and education by collaborating with teachers and supporting all students. She believes in and strives to empower student joy, voice, and choice.
Rachael Welsh
Rachael Welsh is a passionate educator, advocate, and storyteller. Over her 18-year career in education, she has taught English and Theater on the high school level and has been a librarian in elementary, middle, and high school programs. She currently works at Sablatura Middle School in Pearland ISD, where she leads an award-winning library program focused on student voice, creativity, and inclusive access to information. Known for her innovative approach, Rachael developed the “Adopt a Shelf” initiative, which empowers students to design and manage their own themed book displays. This program earned a 2025 Branding Iron Award from the Texas Library Association and has become a model for student engagement in school libraries.
Description: Discover how podcasting can engage students, build critical 21st-century skills, and transform your library into a hub of creativity and collaboration. Podcasting is more than just a tech trend—it’s a powerful tool for inquiry-based learning and student expression. Participants will begin by exploring the benefits of podcasting in the library setting, including how it supports literacy, critical thinking, collaboration, and digital fluency. This session explores strategies for designing and implementing podcasting programs that empower students to research, create, and share their unique voices. Attendees will learn practical tips for guiding students through the entire podcasting process—from developing ideas and conducting research to recording, editing, and publishing. Whether you’re new to podcasting or looking to refine your approach, this session will inspire you to embrace this innovative medium and create opportunities for student-led storytelling, inquiry, and digital literacy.
Beyond the Books: Integrating ELA with Science and Social Studies through Award-Winning Literature and Library Resources
Grade Level: Prek-2, 3-5, 6-8
Session Strand: Collaboration
Description: This session explores how school librarians can support interdisciplinary instruction by leveraging award-winning books and library resources to connect English Language Arts with science and social studies meaningfully. Attendees will discover how to curate engaging texts from national book award lists (such as the Sibert and National Book Award for Young People’s Literature) that align with content standards across multiple disciplines. Participants will leave with ready-to-use strategies, sample lesson ideas, and a resource list that empowers librarians to collaborate with classroom teachers, enrich curriculum, and foster inquiry-based learning. Whether you support elementary or middle-grade learners, this session offers practical tools to bring the library to the center of content-area learning.
Fostering academic achievement and community engagement through captivating and interactive library practices.
Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Join us for an engaging IdeaLab session where we explore how libraries can boost student success and community engagement using interactive activities like escape rooms. This session, based on my presentation at the 2025 CSLA Conference, will demonstrate how to blend academic content with hands-on learning that fosters collaboration, literacy, and critical thinking. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and resources, including how to integrate these activities with grade-level and staff Google Classrooms, Instagram, community reading programs, and tutoring efforts to create a library that supports both academic achievement and meaningful community connections.
The Humble Brag: Using Your PLN to Boost Your Work
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Leadership & Advocacy
Presenter
Rain (Raenell) Smith
Rain Smith is an ILF Award winning School Library Media Specialist at Whiteland Community High School. She is an active and involved member of many library and education related organizations including being the AISLE chair-elect, AASL Chapters Indiana Rep, ILF Comms Cmte Chair, MCLS Board Member, and a founding member of Indiana FREADOM to Read. She is a facilitator, presenter, author, advocate, and reader.
Tim Jones
Tim Jones, the 2025 School Library Journal School Librarian of the Year, a 2024 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, and 2023 NAMLE Media Literacy Teacher of the Year, serves as librarian at John F. Kennedy Elementary in Louisville, Kentucky. Author of the forthcoming Teaching Media Literacy Using Graphic Novels, he has shared his expertise in Booklist, podcasts, webinars, and conferences. A Second City alum, he blends humor, creativity, and advocacy through teaching and his family business NIMCO, Inc.
Description: Join the Humble Brag: Using Your PLN to Boost Your Work - an interactive networking station that helps you reconnect, celebrate, and grow your professional learning network across the country. Led by award-winning librarians Rain Smith and Tim Jones (the 2025 School Library Journal School Librarian of the Year), this station offers ideas, tools, templates, and a live digital directory to help you share your wins and amplify the work of others. Add your name to the opt-in PLN directory, scan a QR code to join later, and grab customizable resources for shout-outs, press releases, social media posts, and more. Whether you’re new to the field or just ready to reengage after some digital burnout, this station helps you brag - just a little - and connect in meaningful, sustainable ways.
Show Me the Money$$
Grade Level: Not grade specific
Session Strand: Teaching & Learning
Description: Learn 5 successful strategies for writing successful grants! School libraries can always use more money for books, programs, youth led projects, makerspace and much more. With Show Me the Money$$ school librarians will have useful tools for grant writing.
IdeaLab Presentations
Description
IdeaLab Presentations
Date: 10/16/2025Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Room: Convention Center - Room 131