WLA "What's Up?" Wednesdays - Take 2

For the next few Wednesdays, we'll be highlighting some of the amazing content for children's and teen librarians  being presented at the Wisconsin Library Association conference coming up November 4-6 at the Marriott West in Middleton. But remember, there are a ton of non-youth programs of worth as well. To plan your schedule, stop by the conference webpage for the full listing of goodies!


Thursday, November 5
YSS Annual Business Meeting     7:30-8:30 am
Yes, it's early but you know you want to join the fun. Find out about what's up and how you can become more involved in the adventure of promoting WI youth services.

Freedom to Create! Using Process-Focused and Open-Ended Concepts in Children's Programming                                  1:45-2:30 pm
Want to make your library programming easier and more budget-friendly? Wishing your toddlers, preschoolers and elementary-school age kids could explore, create and problem-solve in a way that makes them feel confident and proud? You need process-focused and open-ended programming in your library life!  Katie and Valerie will discuss successful examples, the types of supplies to have on hand, and ways to encourage reluctant children and their parents.  Katie Kiekhafer, Valerie Morris

Pair Up! School Libraries and Public Libraries Form Rich Partnerships              1:45-2:30 pm
Have you ever wondered how to pull more students into your public library programs? Have you thought about reaching out to school librarians? In this session, one public children’s librarian and two school librarians will share how they have forged a collaborative relationship. They will describe the resulting programs, which have brought together not only schools and public libraries, but also community members and volunteers. Bring your questions and ideas to share!  Maegan Heindel, Lesley Kircher, Dana Prager

Guerrilla Storytime           2:45-3:30 pm
Oh, you mighty storytime providers! Come share your expertise with colleagues from around the state! This free-form sharing of tips, tricks, songs and silliness will pack your story bag with new ideas and materials!Hosted by Kelsey Johnson-Kaiser.

Burr-Worzalla Children's Book Award              2:45-3:30 pm
Crystal Chan, author of Bird,  accepts the award for most distinguished book by a state author!

Making Justice: Maker-Focused Programs for Underserved Teens     4:30-5:15 pm
Can libraries make a difference for teens entangled in the justice system? Learn how a campus-community initiative is building on Madison Public Library's Bubbler program to address the educational opportunity gap for court-involved youth, who are overwhelmingly low-income youth of color. Connecting with local black makers, artists and activists, teens are creating visual, audio and performance projects documenting themselves and their communities. The presenters will discuss their partnerships, projects and plans for the future. Nancy Buenger, Kay DeWaide, Jesse Viau


Plus keynoter Jay Turner, luncheon speaker Wayne Weigand, the Awards and Honors Reception, New Members Meet-up, WLA Foundation Silent Auction, The Foundation Rock and Roll Fundraiser and much, much more!