CLRC

RRLC Webinar: Green Cleaning Principles and Alternatives
2025-07-10 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
What makes cleaning “green”? Can we reduce the need to clean with chemicals and find alternatives?
This webinar will cover:
– ready-made cleaners: typical & greener
– alternatives: ingredients & tools
– general purpose cleaners
– heavy-duty grease cleaning: cooking aerosols
– hard-water scale: tile, toilets, tubs, sinks
– disinfectants
– laundry detergents and softeners
– drain cleaners
Presenter: Nellie Brown is the Director of Workplace Health and Safety Programs for the Worker Institute at Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations. A certified industrial hygienist, biologist, and chemist, Nellie earned a master’s degree in a multidisciplinary program in natural sciences and applied science from the State University of New York College at Buffalo.
Free to RRLC & ESLN Members. This webinar will be held on Zoom Webinar; registration is required.
All attendees will receive a certificate of attendance for 1 hour of CE credit. This webinar will NOT be recorded.
We are committed to offering inclusive, diverse, and equitable services to all of our members. To request specific accommodations, please contact RRLC at least five business days ahead of the program you’d like accommodations for.
RRLC Registration & Program Attendance Policies

ESLN Webinar: 2025 PILLARS Symposium - Is AI On the Test? A Symposium for Educators Who Weren't Ready for Robots
2025-07-11 09:30 - 15:30 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
The PILLARS Symposium: Preparation, Information Literacy, Libraries, Academic Resources, and 21st Century Skills for Transitioning from Secondary School to College
This symposium is designed to introduce educators to a wide range of teaching and learning resources for practical use in the 21st-century classroom. This year’s theme, Is AI On The Test? A Symposium for Educators Who Weren’t Ready for Robots, focuses a critical lens on Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) in the classroom, including creating policies, practical methods, evaluating AI tools, user privacy, and legal issues.
The Lineup: We are proud to share that our keynote speaker this year is Elissa Malespina, author of The AI School Librarian Newsletter and owner of Educational Equity Advisors.
The lineup also includes:

Dr. Ifeoma Ajunwa, AI and the Future of Work
J. Denice Lewis, Practical AI: Lessons From An Academic Librarian’s Journey
Dr. Chris Harris & Betsy Hartnett, Teaching About AI, Not Just With AI: Bypassing The Cheating Issue

See the full schedule here.

LILRC Webinar: NASA en Español - STEAM Education for Youth Services and Adult Services
2025-07-18 14:00 - 15:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
STEAM Educator Francisco Silva will discuss NASA en español resources for libraries, addressing both children’s and adult services.
About Francisco Silva:
I was born in 1984 in Madrid and I am a STEAM educator based in Las Vegas. With 11 years of experience focusing on youth education, I have developed a strong expertise in popular science and am known for my engaging interactions with the general public, fostering a love for science.
My interest in astronomy began at the age of six, thanks to my mother, who instilled in me a sense of wonder about the universe. A special mention goes to my sisters, who have often been my patient and enthusiastic companions during countless nights of stargazing, supporting my passion and sharing in the wonders of the universe through my telescope.
My academic background includes studies in computer science, computer engineering, and astronomy. This diverse skill set allows me to engage audiences through a variety of mediums, from hands-on experiments to captivating presentations.
Throughout my career, I have worked with various organizations, including the Boys Scouts, Girl Scouts, Lions Club, Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, Clark County School District, Civil Air Patrol, State Park, National Parks Service, several Native Tribes, CSN, and UNLV. I have also contributed to several citizen science projects for NASA, JPL, The Planetary Society, and, focusing on asteroid tracking, Light Sail, and lunar and solar projects. In 2013, I joined the Las Vegas Astronomical Society (LVAS) as a member and volunteer. Today, I’m proud to serve as Vice President of their Education Outreach Program, a position I have held since 2018, promoting astronomy and space exploration in our community. In 2018, I collaborated with Denise Nikita, a doctoral candidate on the Astra project (air and space thermal nuclear rocket engine with turbojet project). In 2022, I was selected to participate in The Solar System Ambassadors Program, a national NASA and JPL engagement effort to share the science and excitement of NASA’s space exploration missions with the public. I am proud to conduct over 100 STEAM events annually. Outside my professional endeavours, I enjoy reading books, listening to music, and playing video games.
This program is being presented in cooperation with NASA’s Solar System Ambassador program.

CDLC In Person Event: Sustainability Idea Swap
2025-07-29 10:30 - 2025-08-27 12:00 | Capital District Library Council, 800 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Latham, NY, 12110, United States
CDLC Sustainability Idea Swap

Please Note: This is an in-person event at CDLC in Latham, New York.
We invite you to join fellow CDLC members for a Sustainability Idea Swap, an in-person networking event intended to ignite new ideas and share practical strategies for sustainability in libraries.
Every library, regardless of size or type, is engaged in sustainability work. This is your chance to share your initiatives, services, and programs—and learn what others are doing across our region. We’ll move beyond “green” initiatives to explore the broader scope of sustainability, encompassing environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic viability.
This interactive session, led by Jennifer Ferriss of the Saratoga Springs Public Library and Ali Larsen of Siena College, both librarians involved in the Sustainability Library Initiative certification, is a follow-up to our earlier Sustainability Library Initiative program. It’s an opportunity to connect with peers, gauge regional interests, and build a stronger network for sustainable library practices.
All are welcome! You do not need to have attended our previous sustainability session to attend this event. Bring your successes, your questions, and your innovative ideas.

RRLC Webinar: Shift Work, Long Hours, and Fatigue
2025-07-31 13:00 - 14:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
This webinar deals with the effects of shift work and hours of work on the worker and the workplace with suggestions made as to solutions which can minimize adverse effects.
The program content includes the effects of shift work on the human body to produce desynchronization of body systems and the resulting health, behavioral, and social consequences which can result in short-term and long-term stress. Is there an “ability” to tolerate shift work? Can we predict who is best suited for shift work? Types of shifts and arrangements and analysis of shift work schedules is done with a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of types of work schedules. Legislation and regulation on shift work and hours of work are covered. Methods of hazard reduction and control to lessen the impact of shift work are covered including: the job demands/job control model, job stress interventions, staffing, and balancing work and family life. Also covered are some personal strategies for dealing with stress.
Presenter: Nellie Brown is the Director of Workplace Health and Safety Programs for the Worker Institute at Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations. A certified industrial hygienist, biologist, and chemist, Nellie earned a master’s degree in a multidisciplinary program in natural sciences and applied science from the State University of New York College at Buffalo.
Free to RRLC & ESLN Members. This webinar will be held on Zoom Webinar; registration is required.
All attendees will receive a certificate of attendance for 1 hour of CE credit. This webinar will NOT be recorded.
We are committed to offering inclusive, diverse, and equitable services to all of our members. To request specific accommodations, please contact RRLC at least five business days ahead of the program you’d like accommodations for.
RRLC Registration & Program Attendance Policies

LILRC Webinar: Jewish Librarians Meetup
2025-08-06 15:00 - 16:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Join us for a conversation with fellow librarians and library workers to share your workplace concerns. All are welcome.

OPALS Users' Group 2025
2025-08-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
OPALS Users’ Group 2025

Please join us as we welcome John Schuster, of Media Flex, to CDLC’s annual OPALS Users Group Meeting. OPALS is an open-source automated library system, developed by Media Flex, Inc. This Users Group meeting is for both current users of OPALS and those who are considering adopting OPALS. John, an OPALS Librarian, Consultant, and Trainer, has experience with all types of libraries and provides training to library staff, including volunteers.
This year’s user group meeting will be an abridged online version with the following topics covered.

Basic overview of OPALS
OPALS current and upcoming enhancements
Advanced topics and answers to in-depth questions asked by members

More information about OPALS may be found on the Media Flex website: OPALS Library System
There is no cost to attend for CDLC or ESLN members.
This program will be recorded.

Related LibGuide: Technical Services at CDLC

LILRC Webinar: Long Island Rail Road: How to Research Its History
2025-08-07 11:00 - 12:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Dave Morrison will give advice on the various resources that are available to librarians and individuals who desire to research the history of the oldest railroad in the country that still operates under its original name. He will discuss the libraries, historical societies, museums and websites that have a wealth of LIRR history. He’ll talk about what is available in his own archives and the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum program that is available to libraries.
Dave Morrison is a retired LIRR branch line manager and railroad historian. He has been researching LIRR history for over 50 years and he is the author of 11 LIRR books published in Arcadia Publishing’s Images of Rail series. He is on the Board of Directors of the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum and the Hicksville Historical Society.

ESLN Webinar: NYS Coordinated Collection Development Aid
2025-08-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Join Barbara Lilley, Library Development Specialist at the Division of Library Development, for an overview of the NYS Coordinated Collection Development Aid program. Barbara will review how libraries should complete and submit the CCDA print and online forms, review when a library needs to submit a waiver, and share tips for libraries to track their CCDA funds once it is received on their campus. We invite you to submit a question for Barbara on the registration form or by emailing Susan D’Entremont at susan@cdlc.org.
Questions submitted by September 2 will get priority.
Free to ESLN Members. Registration is required. This webinar will be recorded. This session is sponsored by the Empire State Library Network. If you have any questions, contact Susan D’Entremont at susan@cdlc.org.

Webinar: Turning the Page - ADHD and Employee Policies
2025-08-12 14:00 - 15:30 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Webinar Description:
This presentation will share the findings from a pilot study that looked into the workplace experiences of library employees with ADHD and how (or if) public library policymakers take these experiences into account when making internal policies. Five public library employees were interviewed about their workplace experiences, then policymakers were surveyed based on the issues raised in those interviews. The goal is to offer insights into strategies that can make library environments more inclusive and supportive for employees with ADHD. Real stories from those with ADHD will be shared and used to provide practical tips for policymakers and leaders on how to improve inclusivity in their libraries.
Learning Objectives:

Upon completion, participants will understand what ADHD is.
Upon completion, participants will learn common things library employees with ADHD have reported they struggle with.
Upon completion, participants will learn what actions they can take to better meet the needs of library employees with ADHD.

About the Presenter:
Courtney Tsahalis
Dr. Courtney Tsahalis is the Director of the Millbrook Library in Millbrook, NY. With a deep passion for library science and community engagement, she earned her doctorate in Information Studies from the School of Information Studies at Dominican University. Her research focuses on the intersection of library policies and neurodiversity

Live captioning will be provided.
This webinar will be recorded and a recording will be shared with all registrants afterward.

**All participants will have the option to request a certificate of attendance for one contact hour.**
All CLRC events are open to CLRC members and members of the Empire State Library Network.
All Attendees are expected to follow CLRC’s Code of Conduct.

LILRC Webinar: Copyrights for Educational and Cultural Institutions: Common Considerations, Challenges, and Pitfalls
2025-08-13 10:00 - 11:30 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Libraries, museums, and other educational and cultural institutions often must balance their public duty as repositories of knowledge against the complexities of modern copyright law in the United States. With the rise of digitization of collections, especially, institutions can face challenges and pitfalls as they try to navigate this complex area of law. This program will give a broad overview of United States copyright law while also diving into some specific considerations for educational institutions, including fair use, the public domain, digitization of collections, and even social media presence.
Presenter Kaitlyn Garvin (Kaitie) is a Senior Associate Attorney at Saunders & Silverstein LLP, where she combines a background in art history with extensive experience in intellectual property law, offering insightful counsel on trademark, copyright, and transactional matters to a wide array of clients. Her copyright practice, in particular, focuses on counseling clients through copyright registration and appeals with the U.S. Copyright Office, enforcement strategies, and defending against infringement claims.
Kaitie has particular esteem for libraries and museums. Her first ever job was at her local public library, and she has since worked or volunteered at a number of other libraries, archives, and historical societies everywhere from Athens, Greece to Waconia, Minnesota. She therefore takes great interest in the intersection between these important institutions and the intellectual property law she works with every day at her job as an attorney.
More information about Kaitie’s background and intellectual property practice can be found at Saunders & Silverstein LLP’s website at the following link: https://www.sandsip.com/en/team/kaitlyn-garvin/

LILRC Webinar: Temple Grandin - How I Learned to Read
2025-08-19 10:00 - 11:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Join LILRC as we welcome back author Dr. Temple Grandin who will share her personal journey of how she learned to read in the 3rd grade and what worked and didn’t work for her in personal childhood reading journey.
About Temple Grandin:
“Dr. Grandin did not talk until she was three and a half years old. She was fortunate to get early speech therapy. Her teachers also taught her how to wait and take turns when playing board games. She was mainstreamed into a normal kindergarten at age five. Oliver Sacks wrote in the forward of Thinking in Pictures that her first book Emergence: Labeled Autistic was “unprecedented because there had never before been an inside narrative of autism.” Dr. Sacks profiled Dr. Grandin in his best selling book Anthropologist on Mars.
Dr. Grandin became a prominent author and speaker on both autism and animal behavior. Today she is a professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University.”
templegrandin.com

SENYLRC Webinar: We Have Always Been At War With Computers
2025-08-21 12:30 - 13:30 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Join Jessamyn West and Ale Ruiz for a conversation about computers: what they are, how we use them, and why we use them wrong. Also, why it’s not our fault. The values supposedly imbued into technology are not the ones actually reflected back at technology users. We’ll talk about how various dark patterns serve the goals of capitalism not community and what we can do about it.
About the speakers: Jessamyn West has been speaking on the intersection of libraries, technology and politics since 2003. You may have seen her talk about topics such as the digital divide and its effects on library services, Legislation that affects library services (such as CIPA, the USA PATRIOT Act and copyright laws), or rural libraries using new technologies to make the most of their small budgets, spaces, and staff. She has given talks to organizations all over the world, and her main work is at home in Orange County Vermont, helping libraries and librarians make sense of technology and teaching adult education classes in basic technology topics.
About Alejandro Ruiz: After 14 years writing software in the tech industry, Ale is now a PhD student at UVM in complex systems and data science. He writes about the intersection of computers and power at theluddite.org. He’s interested in trying to understand what horrors he’s helped unleash upon the world in his time in tech, and what we can do about it.

LILRC Webinar - How to Effectively Manage Difficult Conversations and Personalities in the Workplace
2025-08-22 13:00 - 15:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
In our high tech and hybrid world effective communication skills are necessary. All too often mistakes occur and conflicts get generated due to miscommunication. Some of the most complicated and difficult communications are exchanged at the workplace including coaching and disciplinary matters. The communication process is often complicated by the fact that managers/supervisors must communicate with “difficult” and “challenging” personalities. This program will offer the nuts and bolts of being a more effective communicator and the keys to managing difficult communications and personalities.
Presented by: Joshua Bienstock, JD., LLM, Associate Professor of Business Law, New York Institute of Technology, School of Management

RRLC Webinar: Reproductive Health and the Reference Desk
2025-08-27 14:00 - 15:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
REGISTER HERE
Reproductive health care is not only a health access concern, but it is also an information access issue. Amid changing legislation regarding sexual and reproductive health care, library professionals may be left wondering how they can accurately provide this information to their community. In this webinar, attendees will learn about reproductive health as an information aspect, introduce the Reproductive Justice framework as it relates to intellectual freedom, and discover methods for creating environments that foster credible information access.
Presenter: Barbara Alvarez, PhD is the author of The Library’s Guide to Sexual and Reproductive Health Information with ALA Editions. She holds a PhD in Information Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison where she studied reproductive health information. Barbara is a 2022 Library Journal Mover & Shaker and a 2011 Spectrum Scholar.
Free to RRLC & ESLN Members. This webinar will be held on Zoom Webinar; registration is required.
All attendees will receive a certificate of attendance for 1 hour of CE credit. This webinar will be recorded; you must be registered in order to receive the recording. All registrants will receive a copy of the recording within 1 month of the webinar.
We are committed to offering inclusive, diverse, and equitable services to all of our members. To request specific accommodations, please contact RRLC at least five business days ahead of the program you’d like accommodations for.
RRLC Registration & Program Attendance Policies
If you have any questions, please contact Tina Broomfield.
REGISTER HERE

LILRC Webinar - Using Archaeogaming to Engage Patrons with History and Culture
2025-09-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
This program explore standout titles like Never Alone, Assassin’s Creed, Heaven’s Vault, No Man’s Sky, Civilization VI, and Pentiment, alongside a variety of program-ready ideas such as Play & Learn Game Nights, Virtual Digs and Alien Archaeology, Decode the Past: Ancient Language Challenges, and History vs. Game Night. Whether you’re a gamer or not, you’ll leave with hands-on ideas and accessible tools to build engaging, culturally rich programs rooted in play.

LILRC Webinar: A Guide to Court Help on NYcourts.gov
2025-09-17 11:00 - 12:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
An introduction to the Court Help page on the New York State Court’s webpage NYcourts.gov. You will be introduced to helpful topics that are some of the most commonly asked about when seeking help on the website.

9/17/2025

When:
Wednesday, September 17
11:00am – 12:00pm

Where:
Zoom
United States

Contact:
Eliscia Cirrone
ecirrone@lilrc.org
631-675-1570

RRLC In-Person Workshop: Project Management Fundamentals
2025-09-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Rochester Regional Library Council, 3445 Winton Place, Suite 204, Rochester, NY, 14623
Do you manage events and projects at your library or cultural heritage institution? No matter the project’s size, a robust understanding of project management can help you work more efficiently. This workshop is for any library worker whose role involves planning and completing projects, at any level. Walk away from class with project management tools to help you plan and manage your projects effectively!
In this workshop, you will learn:
– What a project lifecycle is and how to manage a project through each phase.
– How to identify and plan for project constraints.
– Simple tools to use to define a project scope, identify possible risks, and manage a project’s schedule and assign tasks.
– How to engage and manage a project team, including non-direct reports.
This session uses short presentations, interactive activities, and group discussions to engage you in key project management concepts and practices. Participants will build knowledge and skills which can be immediately applied to make meaningful enhancements in the workplace.
Presenter: Elaine Ellis, Senior Learning Consultant

Free to RRLC & ESLN Members.
All attendees will receive a certificate of attendance for 2 hours of CE credit.
This is an in-person event; registration is required and the event will not be recorded. Registration closes September 16th or when all seats are filled.
We are committed to offering inclusive, diverse, and equitable services to all of our members. To request specific accommodations, please contact RRLC at least five business days ahead of the program you’d like accommodations for.
RRLC Registration & Program Attendance Policies
If you have any questions, please contact Tina Broomfield. If the class reaches capacity and you are still interested in attending, please reach out to join the waiting list.

CDLC Webinar: Strengthening Internship Pathways: Best Practices for Libraries, Archives, and Information Agencies
2025-09-23 10:00 - 11:30 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Strengthening Internship Pathways: Best Practices for Libraries, Archives, and Information Agencies

Internships are essential for preparing future professionals in information fields. This session outlines practical, inclusive strategies for sponsoring internships, including mentorship structures and community-focused design. Emphasis will be placed on aligning programs with institutional missions and professional development for both the mentor and mentee. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas for creating sustainable, enriching internship experiences that benefit students and organizations alike.
The presenters are Erin Couture, Director of Student Experiences, and Carol Anne Germain, Associate Teaching Faculty and Chair of the Department of Information Sciences and Technology in the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security, and Cybersecurity (CEHC) at the University at Albany. CEHC houses the University’s ALA-accredited Master of Science in Information Science program.

SCRLC Webinar: "It's an Art, Not a Science:" How to Build a Practice of Slow Librarianship
2025-09-23 15:00 - 16:30 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Description: Integrating principles of “slowness” can play a key role in your growth, personally and professionally. Whether you’re familiar with slow librarianship, looking to develop the skills to implement it, or aiming to enhance your library services along with the quality and fulfillment of your work as a librarian, Lorin Jackson, an experienced slow librarianship practitioner, is here to guide you through building a practice of slow librarianship.
Slow librarianship is a holistic framework that prioritizes forming connections by first centering the needs of a community (e.g. department, university, users, hospital, public collaborators, city/town) to ensure impactful, equitable services. Slow librarianship grounds us in a value set that, when enacted, enhances the well-being of employees and their relationships with their broader community.

LILRC In Person Event: The American Revolution: A Screening with Sam Helmick, ALA President
2025-09-26 10:00 - 12:00 | Long Island Library Resources Council, 627 N. Sunrise Service Rd., Bellport, NY, 11713, United States
Please join LILRC and ALA President Sam Helmick for an in-person advanced screening of select portions of Ken Burns’s new PBS documentary series, The American Revolution.

9/26/2025

When:
Friday, September 26
10:00am – 12:00pm

Where:
627 N Sunrise Service Rd
Bellport
Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Auditorium, New York 11713
United States

Contact:
Eliscia Cirrone
ecirrone@lilrc.org
631-675-1570

LILRC Webinar - Anticipating and Resolving Workplace Complaints
2025-09-26 13:00 - 15:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Managing day to day complaints requires a great deal of skill and patience. This workshop will address the process of investigating and responding to employee complaints to prevent them from spiraling out of control. The workshop will also focus on conflict resolution and problem-solving skill sets needed to address day to day employee complaints.
Presented by: Joshua Bienstock, JD., LLM, Associate Professor of Business Law, New York Institute of Technology, School of Management

LILRC Webinar: Designing Immersive Virtual Reality Spaces with Spatial.io
2025-09-30 10:00 - 11:30 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Discover how to design and host your own immersive virtual art gallery using Spatial.io, a web-based platform for building interactive 3D spaces. In this session, we’ll explore how libraries and creators can use Spatial.io to bring exhibits and programs into virtual environments accessible from VR headsets, mobile devices, and desktop computers.
You’ll be guided through the process of setting up an account, navigating the interface, and adding your own content to build gallery or meeting spaces. VR headsets are not required to participate but can enhance the experience. Attendees should be comfortable with creating online accounts and uploading digital files.
Presented by Christopher Van Wickler, Head of Emerging Technologies (STEM Lab), Great Neck Library

LILRC Webinar - Ancient Worlds, New Tech: Bringing History to Life with AR and MR in the Library
2025-10-08 11:00 - 12:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Bring the past into the present with immersive technology! This webinar explores how libraries can use Augmented and Mixed Reality (AR/MR) to activate cultural stories, build layered exhibits, and engage patrons of all ages. Learn how to design interactive experiences using tools like Adobe Aero, BlippAR, and ZapWorks—no coding required. We’ll spotlight successful library case studies and walk through accessible workflows to create your own programs. Featured ideas include Myth in Motion: AR Poster Series, Augment the Exhibit, Time Travelers’ Map, History on a Cube, Voices in the Stacks, and Smells of the Past. Whether you’re working with a single display or developing full immersive zones, this session will help you start small, think big, and connect your community through technology and story.
Participants will be able to:

Distinguish between AR and MR and identify key tools for each that are accessible in public and academic libraries.
Apply practical workflows to create spatial, visual, and auditory exhibit layers using beginner- and intermediate-friendly tools.
Design interactive programming that brings cultural heritage to life through multisensory experiences such as AR posters, Merge Cube artifacts, soundscapes, and tactile installations.

2025 Annual Conference
2025-10-16 | Hamilton College
You’re invited to the Central New York Library Resources Council’s 2025 Annual Conference on Thursday, October 16 at Hamilton College!
Register Now!
Registration Deadline: Monday, October 6, 2025

Schedule at a Glance

8:45 AM – 9:30 AM
Optional Nature Walk @ Root Glen

9:30 AM
Registration Opens – Coffee & Pastries

10:00 AM – 11:15 AM
Welcome & Keynote Panel

11:25 AM – 12:25 PM
Lightning Talks – Morning Block

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Lunch

1:00 PM
Business Meeting & Library Awards

1:45 PM – 2:45 PM
Lightning Talks – Afternoon Block

2:45 PM – 3:00 PM
EOD – Thank You & Raffle

3:00 PM
Optional Tour of Burke Library @ Hamilton College

Schedule Details

8:45 am – 9:30 am Optional Nature Walk @ Root Glen
Join CLRC for a nature walk at Hamilton College’s own Root Glen, a botanical garden spanning 7.5 acres in the heart of campus. Root Glen is named after the Root family who once lived on the land and contains 65 species of trees, dozens of shrubs, and scores of varieties of flowers. Wide, soft paths run through the scenic area, composed primarily of a beautiful crushed red stone. The walk will be short and non-strenuous.

9:30 am Registration Opens – Coffee & Pastries
Continental Breakfast Pastries and Fruit will be provided by CLRC. Coffee/Tea/Water will be provided by Hamilton College.

10:00 am – 11:15 am Welcome & Keynote Panel
The Central New York Library Resource Council welcomes you to our 2025 Annual Conference! We are pleased to once again offer an opportunity for our members across Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, and Onondaga counties to come together and share ideas, learn about one another’s work, and celebrate our many accomplishments. We are very grateful to our presenters and attendees for their willingness to participate in this annual event!
Libraries and cultural organizations are resilient. Our ability to adapt and respond to new challenges has enabled us to thrive for centuries. We presently face a daunting array of challenges from political headwinds, emerging technologies, and evolving expectations for our services. This keynote panel will celebrate our collective strength and offer a forward-looking perspective on the critical issues we face. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion exploring how we can bolster our resilience through sustainable funding models, fostering positive staff morale and well-being, and cultivating strong community partnerships. Together, we will examine proactive strategies for grappling with technological advancements, enhancing our disaster preparedness, and cultivating the institutional flexibility and adaptability necessary for a vibrant future.
PANELISTS
Allison Comes, Systems Librarian, OCM BOCES School Library System
Allison Comes leads the O²CM School Library System, supporting school library media specialists in 33 districts while fostering collaboration, resource sharing, and forward-thinking library innovation.

Lisa Moore, Executive Director, Onondaga Historical Association
Lisa Romano Moore was named Executive Director of the Onondaga Historical Association in September of 2022, after serving as the organization’s Director of Development for two years. Her career in non-profit management and advancement includes positions at the Onondaga Community College Foundation, the Say Yes To Education Initiative, Syracuse University’s academic departments and athletics, Central New York Community Foundation, and various academic institutions. She currently serves on multiple nonprofit boards, including the Community Library of Dewitt and Jamesville. She lives in Dewitt with her partner, Steven Bessette, and is the proud mother of Hannah and Jack, and a golden retriever, Denali.
Amanda Perrine, Executive Director, Onondaga County Public Libraries
Amanda Perrine is the Executive Director of the Onondaga County Public Libraries, focusing on the system and the Syracuse city libraries. A Syracuse University iSchool graduate, she also adjuncts teaching graduate students about library leadership and management. When not at work, Amanda can be found reading and exploring Central New York and beyond.

James Teliha, Dean of the Library & Learning Commons, Utica University
Jim Teliha has just finished his 10th year as the Dean of the Library & Learning Commons at Utica University. He has worked in libraries since 1978, and before coming to the Mohawk Valley, he worked in libraries as a librarian in Idaho, Rhode Island, and Oregon, and as a paraprofessional in Oklahoma and Colorado, where he grew up.

11:25 am – 12:25 pm Lightning Talks – Morning Block
11:25 am – 11:40 am Northside Photo League
Description: This past summer, a public library in Syracuse, NY distributed disposable cameras to groups of young people and encouraged them to capture images from their life. These young photographers formed the Northside Photo League, taking photography walks around the neighborhood and also bringing their cameras home with them. Their photographs offer a look at the life and spirit of their communities, which are often overlooked.
Presenters: Tamice Gates and Sean Molinaro, Children’s Librarians, White Branch Library; Renée Deemer, Librarian Assistant, Soule Branch Library Tamice has worked for OCPL since 2015 and has been a library page, clerk, librarian assistant, and librarian. Sean is a public librarian in Syracuse, NY with the White Branch Library, where he has worked with members of the community since 2013. Renée is a professional photojournalist and is the Librarian Assistant at Soule Branch Library, focusing on design work and digital literacy workshops.

11:40 am – 11:55 am Building AI Support Networks in Libraries: Lessons Learned from Launching an AI Committee
Description: This presentation shares how Syracuse University Libraries formed an artificial intelligence committee to support both internal library operations and the broader user community. Attendees will gain practical strategies for establishing partnerships and support networks to address AI-related needs in academic, school, and public library settings.
Presenters:
John Stawarz (He/Him), Online Learning Librarian, Syracuse University John serves as an online instructor in Syracuse University’s MSLIS program and is currently editing a book about library support for online degree programs that will be published by ACRL.
Juan Denzer (He/Him), Engineering and Computer Science Librarian, Syracuse University Juan holds degrees in Computer Science and Library Science and serves on the Syracuse University Libraries AI Committee, advising on AI in library services. He is the author of two books, with recent contributions including an ACRL 2025 panel on AI and ALA’s AI Literacy Essentials for Academic Libraries.
Kiley Jolicoeur (She/Her), Metadata Strategies Librarian, Syracuse University Kiley currently serves as the chair of the Libraries’ Artificial Intelligence Committee.

11:55 am – 12:10 pm Unlocking the Law Library: Free Resources for the Public
Description: The New York State Unified Court System manages public access law libraries in every county throughout the state. Attendees will learn about these libraries’ free legal resources and assistance, including the “Do-It-Yourself” (DIY) form creation program.
Presenters: Michele Coolbeth, Senior Law Librarian, Onondaga Supreme Court Law Library and Kristin Neri, Law Librarian, Onondaga Supreme Court Law Library Michele and Kristin are both graduates of Syracuse University’s iSchool. Prior to becoming a law librarian, Michele was a school library media specialist. Kristin came to law librarianship with a background in public librarianship and community outreach.

12:10 pm – 12:25 pm Encouraging Digital Leadership in Undergraduate Internships in Archives & Special Collections
Description: To develop responsible digital citizens, students need to learn how to evaluate technologies available to them and make decisions accordingly. However, undergraduate students don’t often get the chance to make big decisions on real-world projects. This talk will detail two individual internship projects involving undergraduate students’ work on segments of a large scale digital project and will also provide strategies for fostering collaborations between librarians and undergraduate students through individualized learning experiences.
Presenter: Marissa Caico (She/Her), Digital Collections Librarian, SUNY Oswego Marissa works within the Archives & Special Collections unit to make unique resources accessible and discoverable to a wider audience. Marissa earned her MSLIS from Syracuse University. Her research interests include digital preservation, digital humanities, information literacy, digital pedagogy, and library anxiety. She lives in Syracuse, New York.

12:30 pm – 1:30 pm Lunch
We will change rooms for the lunch portion of the conference.
Attendees will choose (1) sandwich option during conference registration. Accommodations can be made for dietary restrictions.

Turkey w/brie and cranberry mayo on baguette
Grilled chicken salad w/ apples on croissant
Roasted portabella w/ goat cheese and red pepper on focaccia

Lunch will also include:

House Made Potato Chips – GF
Autumn Apple & Quinoa Salad – GF and Dairy Free
Pumpkin Chip Chocolate Chip Cookies – GF
Iced Tea with Mint, Ice Water

Coffee Service will be refreshed during lunch.

1:00 pm Business Meeting & Library Awards
Nominations for Library Staff All-Star are open to any academic, public, school, or special library (this includes archives and museums) staff member in Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, or Onondaga County. We truly mean any staff member – not just librarians. Library staff members may not win All-Star awards two years in a row.
Nominations for Library of the Year are open to any academic, public, school, or special library (this includes archives and museums) in Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, or Onondaga County. However, a library may not win the award two years in a row. Nominations for Library of the Year must be self-submitted. Library staff can submit one nomination per library so please plan accordingly.
See the CLRC Library Awards page for further information.

1:45 pm – 2:45 pm Lightning Talks – Afternoon Block
1:45 pm – 2:00 pm New Educational Programming
Description: Over the last year, the Oneida Community Mansion House has reinvigorated and redesigned its education programs for student groups of all ages. This presentation will outline these new interactive programs that engage middle school, high school, and college groups both in person and virtually.
Presenter: Thomas A. Guiler (He/Him), Director of Museum Affairs, Oneida Community Mansion House A scholar of intentional and utopian communities, Tom received his Ph.D. from Syracuse University and taught for 5 years at the University of Delaware and Winterthur Program in American Material Culture. He researches and teaches 19th and 20th century American social and cultural history and has particular interests in social protest, material culture, decorative arts, and public humanities. He has published and presented on a wide variety of intentional communities including Byrdcliffe, Roycroft, and Rose Valley in addition to extensive work on the Oneida Community. His book, The Handcrafted Utopia: Arts and Crafts Communities in America’s Progressive Era, which examines utopian communities in the Arts and Crafts Movement is due out in the Fall of 2025 with the Richard W. Couper Press of Hamilton College.

2:00 pm – 2:15 pm 10 Fundable Accessibility Upgrades For Your Library
Description: Learn about fundable ideas that can transform your library into a more accessible and inclusive space. Each idea is designed to spark interest, attract support, and make meaningful change
Presenter: Jill Hurst-Wahl, Hurst Associates, Ltd In her own consulting practice, Jill works at the intersection of information, technology, and people, which includes creating inclusive systems and spaces. In addition, Jill is part of Widerstand Consulting, which helps organizations (including libraries) create a healthier environment for staff, partners, and clients.

2:15 pm – 2:30 pm Smells Like Teen Spirit: Adolescent Hygiene in the Library
Description: It shouldn’t be our job to talk to teens about wearing deodorant, but sometimes it is! Here’s how to do that in the least humiliating way possible for all parties involved while retaining the best chance at positive library vibes.
Presenter: Stephanie Markham (She/Her), Teen Services Librarian, Jervis Public Library Stephanie’s experience as a former zoo educator, professional arguer, retail zombie, and self-identified angsty teen led her to an MLIS from Syracuse University. Since beginning her library career in 2011, Stephanie has had more awkward conversations with teens than she cares to revisit, yet remains passionate about serving this difficult and brilliant demographic.

2:30 pm – 2:45 pm Behind the Scenes of a Wikipedia Edit-a-thon
Description: Syracuse University Libraries hosted a student workshop that explored Wikipedia, its history, and its modern challenges. After a conversation and Q&A with a Wikipedia expert, librarians worked with students to make their own updates to Wikipedia, focusing especially on making improvements to pages for folks from the Latinx and LGBTQ+ communities. This lightning talk will explore how staff prepared for this event, how it went, and some takeaways from running it.
Presenter: Rebecca Johnston (She/Her), Social Sciences and Humanities Librarian, Syracuse University Libraries Rebecca Giver Johnston recently started at Syracuse University Libraries after previously working at Wells College in Aurora, NY. She received her MLIS and MA in History from Simmons University in Boston, MA and her BA from The College of Wooster in Wooster, OH.

2:45 pm – 3:00 pm EOD – Thank You & Raffle
The raffle will include a gift basket of local goodies. You must be present to win.

3:00 pm Optional Tour of Burke Library @ Hamilton College
Join CLRC for a short tour of Burke Library, home to Hamilton College’s Library & IT Services. Burke Library houses Circulation, Special Collections, Research & Instructional Design, Jazz Archives, Research Support, the IT Help Desk, College Archives, and more.

Register Now!
Registration is FREE and open to all members of CLRC and the Empire State Library Network.
If you have any questions regarding the Annual Conference, please email Sophie Friedman at sfriedman@clrc.org.
All attendees are expected to follow CLRC’s Code of Conduct.

LILRC Webinar - Managing Conflict in a Culturally Diverse Workplace
2025-10-24 13:00 - 15:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
In our diverse and multi-cultural workplace, it is essential that we have the necessary skill sets to responsibly manage, lead, and work collaboratively with others. This workshop will provide participants with the tools to be both a transformational leader and a team player with a focus on diversity, inclusiveness, sensitivity and the role of being culturally aware.
Presented by: Joshua Bienstock, JD., LLM, Associate Professor of Business Law, New York Institute of Technology, School of Management

LILRC Webinar - Food as Storytelling: Michael W. Twitty and Raj Tawney
2025-10-28 11:00 - 12:00 | Online Via Zoom, NY, United States
Food and cooking hold powerful roles in the transmission of stories, as cultural memory, as family history, and more. Join LILRC as we welcome culinary historian Michael W. Twitty and food memoirist Raj Tawney for a conversation about the many ways that food is narrative.
Michael W. Twitty is a culinary historian and food writer from the Washington D.C. area. He blogs at Afroculinaria.com. He’s appeared on Bizarre Foods America with Andrew Zimmern, Many Rivers to Cross with Henry Louis Gates, and most recently Taste the Nation with Top Chef’s Padma Lakshmi.
HarperCollins released Twitty’s acclaimed book, The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, in 2017, which traces his ancestry through food from Africa to America and from slavery to freedom. The Cooking Gene was a finalist for The Kirkus Prize and The Art of Eating Prize and a 3rd place winner of Barnes & Noble’s Discover New Writers Awards in Nonfiction. The Cooking Gene also won the 2018 James Beard Award for best writing as well as book of the year, making him the first Black author so awarded. A follow up book, Kosher Soul :The Faith and Food Journey of an African American Jew (HarperCollins, 2022) was the 2023 National Jewish Book Council Award Winner for Book of the Year.
Raj Tawney is a writer and journalist whose work largely reflects his multiracial American upbringing. Born to an Indian, Puerto Rican, and Italian American family, Tawney has explored his identity and family history through personal essays published in The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, and other outlets throughout the country. His debut memoir Colorful Palate: A Flavorful Journey Through a Mixed American Experience (Empire State Editions/Fordham University Press) earned critical acclaim and won a 2024 Best Indie Book Award and Living Now Book Award. His Middle Grade novel All Mixed Up (Paw Prints Publishing/Baker & Taylor) was released on November 26, 2024 to much praise.
