Connections ESC Region 11 Fall Library Conference 2024

Join Kids Discover and see firsthand how Kids Discover Online supports science and social studies curriculum-related subject matter for Grades K-8 with interactive content and a reading experience that will pique students’ inherent curiosity and love of learning.  

In today’s digital age, information literacy is a crucial skill for students preparing for the rigors of college-level research. This professional development session is designed specifically for high school librarians who play a pivotal role in guiding students through the complexities of information gathering, evaluation, and utilization.  Participants will explore effective strategies to foster information literacy among students, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for academic success. The session will focus on defining information literacy and the threshold concepts students explore as they move from novice to expert researchers.  Librarians will engage in interactive discussions and hands-on activities around the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy. These activities will include creating a research plan, evaluating sample sources for credibility, practicing the use of advanced research databases, and applying critical thinking skills to evaluate information quality. By the end of the session, participants will gain practical insights and ready-to-implement strategies to enhance students’ research capabilities.  Join us to transform your library into a hub of academic excellence and support your students in becoming confident, college-ready researchers.  

Need to revive your library and boost circulation? We propose a two-pronged approach that will breathe new life into secondary school libraries. Reviving secondary libraries means creating a safe, comfortable haven for teen readers while igniting a passion for literacy. Participants will walk away with bold, practical strategies for vibrant displays, student-centered spaces, and intentional literacy programming that renews energy and increases circulation in secondary libraries.

Passive programming is a foundational element of a robust library program, offering your audience invaluable exposure to literature and resources while fostering a vibrant sense of community within the school library environment. Throughout this session, we'll delve into concrete examples of passive programming tailored for both students and staff. You'll gain access to a plethora of templates that you can effortlessly adapt ensuring that these initiatives will be viable on your own campus. We'll explore versatile platforms such as Canva, Google Slides, Genially, and leverage cutting-edge tools like ChatGPT & Copilot to enrich your library programming experience.