Monday, April 28, 2025
Session 2: Mini Breakouts
10:00-10:30 AM
10:00-10:30 AM
Conference Room 1
Community Brain Dump
Hosted by: CLA Conference Committee
We all have those questions: who/what has been your favorite and most successful library presenter/event? Where do you buy your library swag? If you could build your dream library, what would you make sure to include? Plus many more. Join us for a simple brain dump- shout out your answers or write them on the boards of questions around the room!
Sponsor: CLA Conference Committee
Conference Room 2
Layered Programming:
Making Space by Meeting Basic Needs
Layered Programming:
Making Space by Meeting Basic Needs
Presenters: Bonnie Solberg, Hartford Public Library; Irene Blean, Hartford Public Library
Do you have trouble engaging adults in programming for enrichment when they are struggling with issues of basic need? Layered programming allows you to provide resources to meet needs, for example FoodShare, and connect customers with partner agencies, while providing opportunities for enrichment. Come and hear how we’ve learned to layer up.
Sponsor: CLA Member
Objectives & Takeaways:
Many people today are struggling to make ends meet. While they would benefit from time to engage in literacy, digital, creative or mindfulness programming, they are often overwhelmed by more urgent concerns. Attendees will gain ideas for connecting and partnering with community agencies and FoodShare to bring resources that address basic needs and ideas for layering these resources with enriching programming opportunities.
Conference Room 3
Technical Services Spring Meeting
Presenters: Ann Victor, Fairfield University; Christine Rinaldi, Silas Bronson Library
All are invited to the Technical Services Section Spring meeting! Come and hear more about the section, and meet and chat with your fellow Tech Services peers. We'll be having an open discussion about making literal space in libraries, and how we find balance between community needs and collection needs.
Sponsor: Technical Services Section
Objectives & Takeaways:
Any chance our section has of meeting in-person is a great opportunity to network and build connections with others who work in Technical Services departments. Meeting at the conference would be great way to recruit new members, give a chance for current members to meet and chat in person, and provides a space for us to discuss issues we may be having in our own libraries.
Conference Room 5
The Viability of AI Supplementation in Librarianship: Exploring the Impacts on Professional Practice & User Services
Presenters: Dr. Saira Hanif Soroya, Southern Connecticut State University; Zachary Mans, Southern Connecticut State University
Artificial intelligence. A statement no longer mitigated to the mindset of Hollywood cinematic relevance, but rather a highly topical term now prevalent in the minds of current generations who are wrestling with the ethical implications of real-world applications of adaptive technology. A presentation on the findings of attitudes and uses of AI assistive technology in Connecticut public libraries. Advisor: Dr. Saira Hanif Soroya, Southern Connecticut State University
Sponsor: CLA Conference Committee
Objectives & Takeaways:
Artificial intelligence, and its professional applications, has stirred up strong perceptions and opinions in recent years across a wide range of fields and professions. The study conducted here aims to shed light on those perceptions as they apply to the field of information & library science; and to suggest possibilities moving forward for a healthier integration model of application of adaptive/assistive AI technologies.
Conference Room 7
CLA YA Section Meeting
Presenters: Stephanie Smith, Connecticut Library Consortium
Join us to learn about the Young Adult Services Section of the Connecticut Library Association. Discover how the section improves library services for young adults, stay updated on trends, and connect with fellow library professionals. Whether you’re looking to join or just learn more, this meeting is a great opportunity to get involved and share ideas. All are welcome!
Sponsor: CLA YA Section
Objectives & Takeaways:
Overview of the Section's Objectives: Learn how the section works to promote library services for young adults, supporting the needs of this dynamic group in Connecticut’s libraries.
Networking & Collaboration: Meet other library professionals, share experiences, and build connections with colleagues who are passionate about serving young adult populations.
Exchange of Ideas: Participate in discussions on innovative programming, resources, and strategies for engaging young adults in library settings.
