WLA Honors YSS Members

Two members of YSS will be honored at the WLA Fall Conference in Middleton at the end of the month.

Alison Loewen, current YSS past chair, will be honored with the 2025 Demco Librarian of the Year Award! Alison has served on the YSS board for the past four years. She is being honored as an innovative collaborator and leader in early literacy within her community and beyond. You can read more about her accomplishments here.

Marge Loch-Wouters, longtime YSS member and recent YSS blog administrator, will be inducted into the Wisconsin Library Hall of Fame. She is being honored for her almost fifty years of work on behalf of youth librarians and youth in the state and nationally. You can read more about her accomplishments here. 

Both honors will be given at the WLA Awards and Honors banquet on Thursday evening October 30 at 6:30 pm at the Marriot West conference center. 

For those not attending the banquet, there will be a chance to join some of the honorees at an informal get-together starting at 8:45 pm following the banquet at the Marriott’s bar hosted by Jamie Matczak and Marge Loch-Wouters. We hope to see many youth folks there to celebrate!

Tips and Info from DPI's August 28, 2025 Youth Services Newsletter

Jeni Schomber's DPI Youth Services Weekly Reminders and Resources is an email newsletter chockfull of great resources we've come to rely on. If you are a WI youth library staffer and you don't receive this weekly missive in your email inbox, please contact Jeni (jennifer.schomber@dpi.wi.gov) to be placed on the list!

Here is the August 28, 2025 edition 

Hello All,  Check out these youth services reminders and resources!  WLA Leadership Development Institute – Application Deadline Extended  Applications for the WLA Leadership Development Institute (LDI) are now due by 8 am on Tuesday, September 2nd.   Due to our systems being down most of last week, we have decided to extend the deadline to submit LDI applications.  We apologize for any frustration this may have caused and are extending our application deadline for LDI by one week.  Revised Space Planning Outline and Webinar for Public Libraries  Wisconsin public libraries can access the revised Public Library Space Needs: a Planning Outline and register for the Space to Grow: Assessing Future Library Building Needs webinar.    Tuesday, October 7 at 1:00 p.m.  More information and registration  CSLP August Newsletter  The latest CSLP newsletter includes information about the 2028 Slogan and 2029 Theme, board members and committee chairs, annual survey, call for manual program ideas, and more!  CSLP Summer Symposium – Save the Date  December 4, 2025, 10-3:30 CST   The annual Summer Symposium is coming this year on December 4th. Come hear keynote speaker Dan Santat, and attend breakout sessions about the manual, learning to decorate a space, and dinosaur programming to use in your library.   The link to sign up for this symposium will go live in the coming months.    Jeni Schomber  Public Library Consultant

UW Madison iSchool Fall CE Courses

There are some great course coming up this fall to enhance your youth services work. If you enroll up to two weeks before the course starts, you are eligible for a 10% discount. 

Roll with it…Gaming in Libraries

Sept 8 – Oct 5 (4 weeks)  $165

Games are a multifaceted (and often, underutilized) way to engage with patrons of all ages at your library. In this class, we’ll discuss collection development and policy creation for video games, board games, and TTRPGs (tabletop role-playing games). We’ll also strategize the development and implementation of gaming clubs, from casual board game meet-ups, running Dungeons and Dragons campaigns, to after school video game clubs and more! Instructor: Dusty Karls, La Crosse Public Library

Bringing the Science of Reading into Library Storytimes and Play Spaces

Sept 15 – Oct 26 (6 weeks), $275

The “Science of Reading” is a term gaining traction and informing legislation but it is not new. Gough & Tunmer brought us their model for reading comprehension in 1986, The Simple View of Reading, and described a simple formula: RC = D x LC. Reading Comprehension (RC) is the product of Decoding (D) and Language Comprehension (LC) proficiencies. The science of reading remains grounded in this same research and now encompasses thousands of studies. As librarians, we can employ specific strategies to incorporate this knowledge into our programming and play spaces. Let’s focus on concrete ways we can bring this research into our daily work to assist our youngest patrons on their lifelong reading journey through weekly reading assignments, discussions, and reflection on our current practices. Instructor: Katelyn Martens-Rodriguez,  Washington County Library (MN)

STEAM For Youth Services
Oct 6 – Nov 2 (4 weeks) $165
Are you interested in exploring Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) for youth ages 0–5? This course will highlight why STEAM matters in early childhood, how libraries can foster curiosity and discovery, and how to incorporate STEAM into programs and storytimes in developmentally appropriate ways. We’ll also explore what’s emerging in the field of preschool STEAM. You will learn:

• Understand how young children’s brains develop alongside early STEAM skills and milestones.
• Identify and explain the core concepts of STEAM and how they appear in early childhood learning.
• Design developmentally appropriate library programs or storytimes that integrate STEAM concepts.
• Explore current trends and future directions in early childhood STEAM learning.

Instructor: Kristin Caldwell, formerly La Crosse County Library

Trauma-Informed Care: An Introduction for Libraries

Oct 13 – Nov 23 (6weeks) $275

Trauma-Informed Care started in the healthcare field, but there is a lot to being trauma informed that can equip libraries to best serve our complex communities. A trauma-informed library is a place where staff understands the perspectives of people who have experienced trauma and provides positive and unbiased service. All the decisions we make are opportunities for retraumatization or healing; so we might as well make them deliberately! Learn how to apply a trauma-informed lens to improve your service, space, and work culture. Topics:

• What “trauma-informed” means in a library context
• Toxic stress and the brain, and what that means for our work interactions
• Applying trauma-informed principles to library work
• The importance of workforce wellness in a Trauma-Informed approach
• An introduction to the concepts of historical trauma and institutional oppression

Instructor: S. Bryce Kozla, Washington (OR) County Cooperative Library Services

Youth Services 101
Oct 13 – Dec 7 (8 weeks) $360
Looking to ground yourself in the basics of youth services for public libraries? Whether you are new to the field, need a refresher, or just need a breath of fresh air, this course will look at the past, present and, future of great service for children and teens. Learning Outcomes:

• Understand the basics of child development and trends
• Create age-appropriate collections and programming
• Perform advocacy and outreach activities
• Establish effective community partnerships
• Build kid-friendly environments
• Work through difficult patron situations
• Learn about recent trends in youth services
• Libraries and the Customer Experience, Oct 20 – Nov 16

Instructor: Brooke Newberry, La Crosse (WI) Public Library

You can see these additional courses of interest at the iSchool CE page go.wisc.edu/ischool-ce

• Advanced Public Library Administration, Sept 8 – Nov 30
• Introduction to Digitization Projects, Sept 8 – Nov 2
• Public and Community Library Services, Sept 15 – Dec 7
• Basic Public Library Administration, Sept 15 – Dec 7
• Basics of Cataloging, Sept 22 – Nov 16
• NEW! Starting Strong: A Guide to the Initial Phases of Library Facility Planning, Oct 6 – Nov 16
• Making a Collection Count: Collection Management Basics, Oct 13 – Dec 7
• Nonfiction RA: Beyond the Basics, Oct 20-Nov 16
• Libraries and the Customer Experience, Oct 20 – Nov 16

Tips and Info from DPI's August 7, 2025 Youth Services Newsletter

 Jeni Schomber's DPI Youth Services Weekly Reminders and Resources is an email newsletter chockfull of great resources we've come to rely on. If you are a WI youth library staffer and you don't receive this weekly missive in your email inbox, please contact Jeni (jennifer.schomber@dpi.wi.gov) to be placed on the list!

Here is the August 7, 2025 edition

Hello All, Check out these youth services resources and reminders! WLA Leadership Development Institute (LDI) application is now open! Taking time for learning and development is critical for anyone who wants to improve their leadership skills and become a top performer.  LDI is about your professional development.  While the program is rigorous and does require a time commitment, your future is worth the investment.    Apply Now Visit the LDI website CSLP Sneak Peak! Here’s a sneak peak of the Collaborative Summer Library Program 2026 Unearth a Story artwork CSLP Slogan and Theme Announcements The 2028 Slogan for the Mythical Creatures theme is… drum roll… Libraries are Legendary (Tentative Spanish translation: Las bibliotecas son legendarias) The 2029 Theme is… drum roll… Nature (The slogan will be chosen in 2026) NAMI Trauma-Informed Care for youth-serving professionals The National Alliance for Mental Health is offering TraumaInSight, a comprehensive, asynchronous virtual training designed to enhance trauma awareness when working with youth.  This training is FREE and you will need to create an account to access the course.  More information is available.  Jeni Schomber Public Library Consultant The DPI does not sponsor

Applications for the WLA Leadership Institute (LDI) are NOW OPEN!

Leadership in libraries isn't just the responsibility of directors. Everyone can benefit from enhancing their leadership skills, no matter what position they hold. Youth librarians are natural leaders who can take their place at any table. LDI can help you hone those skills!

Taking time for learning and development is critical for anyone who wants to improve their leadership skills and become a top performer. LDI is about your professional development. While the program is rigorous and does require a time commitment, your future is worth the investment.

Your participation in LDI also benefits your library:

• You will learn best practices and tips from cohort members and instructors to bring back to your workplace.
• Equipped with ideas and strategies from experts, you will become a more effective advocate for libraries.
• You will strengthen your library’s network as you connect with and learn from members of your cohort.
• Having a representative from your library participate in LDI demonstrates to the Wisconsin library community that your workplace values professional development and innovation - a valuable recruiting tool!

Don't miss the chance to be part of the 2025 LDI cohort!

APPLY NOW -Applications due August 22

This program was developed in partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. Questions? Contact Cindy Foley, WLA Interim Executive Director, at event@wisconsinlibraries.org.

VISIT THE LDI WEBPAGE

DOWNLOAD THE LDI PROGRAM FLYER

WI’s Power Up Call for Proposals Deadline Near

This national conference, sponsored by the UW-Madison iSchool, conference has had some powerful presentations by Wisconsin youth librarians in the past. Here's an opportunity to offer your take on leadership and management at ANY level - including as a line staffer.

 Power Up: A Leadership Conference for

Youth Services Managers & Staff 2026 Conference

Call for Proposal - Deadline August 10th

go.wisc.edu/u5448i

March 26-27, 2026

Hybrid Conference 

The Power Up planning committee wants your session proposals for Power Up 2026 to be held March 26-27, 2026, in Madison, WI. Share your strategies for project management, mentorship, program evaluation, staff morale & retention, advocacy, change management, culturally relevant programming, and more! 

Conference sessions can take one of several formats, and you are welcome to submit multiple proposals. 

• Lecture presentation: 45-minute presentation + 15 min Q&A
• Panel Discussion: 2-4 presenters focused on one big topic and sharing their experience
• Workshop presentation: One-hour hands-on learning experience
• Programming lightning talk: 5-8 minute mini presentation on or about a successful program
• Roundtable discussion: Lead an in-depth full-group discussion on a topic of your choice. No need to prepare a presentation—just shepherd good conversation!

Selected presentation, workshop, and panel sessions will receive one complimentary conference registration. Selected lightning talk and roundtable presenters will receive a discounted conference rate. 

Submit your proposal by August 10, 2025 for full consideration.

We are also excited to announce this year’s closing keynote speaker, Dr. Lisa Roy. Dr. Roy is a distinguished leader in early childhood education, currently serving as the Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). Dr. Roy oversaw the creation of the Department and continues to boldly lead the agency to provide comprehensive programs and services for young children, families, and early childhood professionals, including the launch of the Universal Preschool Program, which provides half-day preschool for all Colorado children in the year before kindergarten. 

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Questions? Email ce-info@ischool.wisc.edu 

WLA Leadership Development Institute Applications Opening

 

Applications for WLA’s 2025 Leadership Development Institute Open Soon

Ready to grow as a library leader? The Wisconsin Library Association will begin accepting applications for its 2025 Leadership Development Institute (LDI) on July 7, open to library workers of all positions and backgrounds.   This dynamic program blends in-person and virtual learning with flexible access to live or recorded sessions. Participants will develop leadership skills, expand their professional networks, and learn from experts within and outside the library field.    Apply July 7–28, 2025  Tuition: $545 (WLA members), $620 (non-members)

Learn more and apply!

2026 Power Up Conference Call for Proposals

                       

 Power Up 2026 

A Leadership Conference for Youth Services Managers & Staff

Call for Proposals is Open!

The Power Up planning committee wants your program proposals for Power Up 2026 to be held March 26-27, 2026, in Madison, WI. Topics could include, by are not limited to strategic planning, leadership styles & strategies, advocacy, intellectual freedom, mentorship, staff morale and retention, culturally relevant programing & collection, managing change, program assessment, innovative or experimental programming, and playful & connected learning. 

Conference sessions can take one of several formats, and you are welcome to submit multiple proposals!

• Lecture presentation: 45-minute presentation + 15 min Q&A
• Panel Discussion: 2-4 presenters focused on one big topic and sharing their experience
• Workshop presentation: One-hour hands-on learning experience
• Programming lightning talk: 5-8 minute mini presentation on or about a successful program
• Roundtable discussion: Lead an in-depth full-group discussion on a topic of your choice. No need to prepare a presentation—just shepherd good conversation!

Submit your idea by August 10th, 2025.

Submit your idea: go.wisc.edu/u5448i

Selected presentation, workshop, and panel sessions will receive one complimentary conference registration. Selected lightning talk and roundtable presenters will receive a discounted conference rate. 

For full details visit the conference website: go.wisc.edu/882gy2 

A Look Back at 2024 on the YSS blog

Image by Igor from Pixabay

It's been a fun year for the Youth Services Shout-out blog. Thanks for joining us. Here's a look at some of the year's highlights.

• During 2024, we shared 288 posts. 
• These 2024 posts had over 11,000 views.
• Overall this year, we had over 170,000 views of all of our blog content - 3,446 posts from 2010 to the present - during 2024.
• We've had a total of 1,194, 530 views overo the life of the blog!

What were the most viewed posts that were published in 2024? They were a mixture of diversity and inclusion topics; advice and tips from the field; Summer reading program thoughts; and YSS/WAPL info.

• Two New Books in Menominee Language 
• Ideas to Create an Equitable SLP 
• Throw-It Thursday - Culturally Inappropriate Material 
• Autism Acceptance Month Webinar 
• Why ARE We Doing Summer Reading Programs? 
• It Doesn't Have to Be Perfect 
• What's Up at WAPL for Youth Folks? 
• A Few More Ideas for Summer 
• Tuesday Tips: Free Webinar on Serving Kids with Disabilities 
• 2025 YSS Board Candidates 

We check numerous sources to find out news to share with everyone working with youth in WI libraries: from the WLA newsletter; library system newsletters and Facebook pages; national blogs; wispublib; DPI, the CCBC; to folks sending us information and links throughout the year. We are grateful for the transparency and sharing that goes on among those in our profession! 

I want to give a shout-out to our contributors who took the time to write or create content for the blog this year.  A huge shout-out to our contributors from 2024:

• Cathy Pescinski
• Alison Loewen
• Hanna Collins
• Ashley Borman
• Sam Jones
• Jennifer Davis
• Jenna Gilles
• Leah Langby
• Jeni Schomber
• Chris Baker
• Katherine Schoofs
• Merry Lindgren
• Laura Sauser
• Megan Schliesman

If you would like to contribute to the blog, we'd love to have you! You can write about a program you've done; opinion piece; how-to; spotlight on great library service; upcoming event of interest to youth folks state-wide or whatever you think people working in youth services in WI would like to read! Plus we're always looking for links of interest to share with youth library folks. Simply email the blog admin at lochwouters@gmail.com and you can join the fun.

Thanks for being part of our YSS blog community this year and see you in 2025!

Power Up Virtual Conference Schedule

The Power Up Conference is going virtual on alternative years! You can now get the same fabulous sessions from library leaders from our state and around the country as you do at this national in-person biennial conference held in Madison and sponsored by UW-Madison iSchool Continuing Ed Dept.  

Register today: go.wisc.edu/w2uvnu (sliding fee scale)

Join youth services managers and staff for two days of virtual learning. Sessions will focus on leveling up your leadership skills, best practices for serving your community, and how to best support your team. Each concurrent session will be presented live, and recordings will be available to registered attendees for 3-months.

 2025 Virtual Power Up Schedule

February 13 & 14, 2025

Online, Zoom 

Thursday, February 13		Friday, February 14
9:50-10:00	Welcome	9:00-9:45	Programming Lightning Talks
10:00-11:00	Keynote	10:00-11:00	Concurrent session 3
11:30-12:30	Concurrent session 1	11:30-12:30	Concurrent session 4
1:00-2:00	Concurrent session 2	1:00-2:00	Concurrent session 5

Keynote Session

Thursday Keynote: Kyle Lukoff, 10:00-11:00 AM CST
Kyle Lukoff is the author of many books for young readers. His debut middle-grade novel, Too Bright To See, received a Newbery honor, the Stonewall award, and was a National Book Award finalist. His picture book When Aidan Became A Brother also won the Stonewall, and his book Call Me Max has been banned in schools across the country. He is the recipient of the 2025 Children's Literature Lecture award, and has forthcoming books for all ages on a variety of topics. While becoming a writer he worked as a bookseller for ten years, and then nine more years as a school librarian.

Concurrent Sessions

Concurrent Session 1, Thursday 11:30-12:30 PM CST

Data-driven to distraction: Reconsidering the role of vulnerability in a healthy library workplace 

Jessica Jones, Library Director, Takoma Park Maryland Library

While workplace mental health and burnout are topics that library workers frequently discuss in professional development settings, vulnerability rarely garners the same attention. However, in order to meaningfully address the presence and impact of burnout and mental health challenges in the workplace, we have to be vulnerable enough to talk about them - not in abstract terms, but in ways that our specific workplaces create barriers to wellness. This session will focus on three key areas and how to implement them in a library workplace: 1) Why vulnerability can be an asset in the workplace, 2) Leading by example, and 3) Reconciling the need to be "data driven" while embracing more holistic practices.


Giving Great Service
Jamie Matczak, Education Consultant, Wisconsin Valley Library Service

Providing great customer service in any business is no longer a "nice to have." It's a MUST have. Given that libraries put their customers first, they have an incredible opportunity to shine when it comes to giving the best service possible at every interaction. In this session, learn tips on assessing and improving your library's commitment to great service, how to deliver it, and steps to take when customer service fails.

Concurrent Session 2, Thursday 1:00-2:00 PM CST

Leading Staff Through Change to Elevate Youth Services
Joyce Arellano, Children's Services Manager, Fountaindale Public Library District

All too often, youth services departments find themselves set in a routine, recommending the same go-to titles and offering the same programs. As libraries work to make their services, collections and programs more inclusive, how do managers effectively make the changes to move beyond legacy practices and move their departments forward? Implementing change can be a long and challenging process. Using examples from a Children’s Services Manager’s library and experience, this session will cover the basics for leading through change when you’re a new manager and employees push back and push hard. From implementing new ideas to letting go of outdated processes, we’ll explore ways to show staff how to embrace change, encourage out-of-the-box thinking and gain staff buy-in.

The Right to Inclusion: How Libraries can Extend Privilege's to the Underserved
Georgette Spratling, Youth Services Librarian, North Miami Public Library

In this session, we will explore how libraries can serve underserved communities by extending privileges that aren’t typical to smaller or underfunded Libraries. We will examine the critical role libraries play in providing access to people, places and location, thereby breaking cycles of inequity. Through innovative thinking and partnerships, libraries can provide experiences that will benefit all of our underserved families. Session takeaways: 

• Understand the barriers underserved communities face in accessing library resources and how libraries can address these challenges.
• Learn about successful initiatives from progressive libraries worldwide that promote inclusivity and diversity.
• Gain actionable insights to transform your library into an inclusive, empathetic space that empowers underserved individuals and communities.

Programming Lightning Talks, Friday 9:00-9:45 AM

Talk #1 - Empowering 'Terrific Talkers': Connecting Health Literacy, Local Early Childhood Experts and the Public Library
Tessa Fox-Pawlaczyk, Early Literacy Librarian, Kenosha Public Library

Hear how one library's success pairing health literacy programs with existing children's library programs on a budget inspired a month-long program series centering on language and speech development in babies and toddlers. "Terrific Talkers" free program series provides book giveaways, early childhood developmental screenings; themed programs with pediatric speech and occupational therapists; classes from a local music school and art educator; and an author visit featuring workshops for parents and caregivers, and Early Childhood Educators who can earn continuing education credit.

Talk #2 - Monster Medical: A Studio NPL Intensive
Mariano Hayes, Program Supervisor - Lead Mentor, Studio NPL

The Monster Medical Camp is an immersive, hands-on experience where students role-play as veterinarians in the Monster Medical Corp, responsible for treating magical creatures. Through an engaging RPG campaign, participants build and embody unique characters, collaborating to solve creative and medical challenges. The camp features various fabrication stations where students use advanced technology, including laser cutting, 3D design, 3D printing, and audio production, alongside sewing, cardboard sculpting, and painting to craft costumes and props. Emphasizing safety, teamwork, and technical skills, the camp nurtures creativity and problem-solving while providing practical experience in both crafting and technology.

Concurrent Session 3, Friday 10:00-11:00 AM CST

Belonging at Work: An Inspiring Environment for Neurodivergent Employees
Kate Thompson, West Des Moines Public Library

Diversity in how employees think makes for a creative and dynamic staff. How can we recruit and train neurodivergent employees to give them a great start? And how can libraries retain and empower all employees? Learn strategies to improve your interview process and onboarding, and tips and tricks for managers and coworkers. You'll leave this session with practical ideas for making your library more welcoming to all employees.


Mastering the Art of Middle Management: Real Talk, Hacks, and Humor from the
Front Lines
Brooke Newberry, Youth Services Manager, La Crosse Public Library & Kendra Jones, Deputy Director, Timberland Regional Library

Join Brooke Newberry for a session packed with practical tips, candid advice, and a dash of humor for anyone navigating the world of middle management. Whether you’re putting out fires, juggling personalities, or just trying to stay afloat, she's got you covered with insights from a seasoned pro who has weathered the chaos and lived to tell the tale.

Concurrent Session 4, Friday 11:30-12:30 PM CST

Crafting Communication: Tools for Effective Youth Services Management
Ashley McHose, Library Manager, Lakeshore Technical College

Managing a Youth Services team is a complex and rewarding puzzle. How do you keep the whole team on the same page across multiple shifts? How do you manage team members with a variety of roles and responsibilities? How can you position yourself to advocate for your team to upper management? At the end of the day, a lot of our struggles as managers come down to inefficiency in our internal communication structures. In this session, we’ll examine common communication issues that Youth Services managers face - from the unique challenges of middle management to coordinating communication across multiple shifts. We’ll explore evidence-based strategies for strengthening communication practices on your team, including recognizing implicit communication rituals, developing shared communication expectations, and creating sustainable, effective internal communication channels. Whether you oversee a single part-time assistant or a large team, the best practices we’ll explore in this session will equip you to better support your direct reports and encourage a more inclusive, collaborative, effective workplace.

Using Critical Literacy to Decolonize your Collections
Nisa Kesseler, Teen Services Librarian, Petoskey District Library & Meredith Kennedy, Executive Director, Miigwech Inc.

In this session, we will delve into the impact of colonization on Indigenous youth, with a specific focus on stereotypes and tropes perpetuated in children’s literature. With this knowledge in mind, we explore how youth librarians can use the principles of critical literacy to decolonize their collections and center children's literature that is inclusive and affirming of our Indigenous patrons. Attendees will leave with an understanding of how to complete a diversity audit, the ability to identify tropes and stereotypes to guard against, and an understanding of when items should be removed from the collection.

Concurrent Session 5, Friday 1:00-2:00 PM CST

Implementing Trauma-Informed Principles in Your Library
Bryce Kozla, Partnerships Librarian, Washington County Cooperative Library Services

A trauma-informed library is a place where the perspectives of people who have experienced trauma are honored, and one that provides positive spaces, services, and work culture. Trauma-Informed Principles can equip libraries to best serve our complex communities. All the decisions we make are opportunities for retraumatization or healing; so we might as well make them deliberately! Explore the six principles of trauma-informed organizations, and how we can implement them in libraries.

Pushing Boundaries Without Pushing Buttons
Kevin Kelly, Associate Director for School Age Programs and Services & Alexandria Abenshon, Director of Children's Services, New York Public Library

In 2023 NYPL organized a large drag queen story hour program across the city that received pushback from local and extra-local organizations. Many of the programs were picketed by a small but militant religious group that protested, and in some cases, turned violent. In this presentation, we will discuss the strategies we implemented as leaders in the NYPL Children’s department, including: ensuring physical security and safety of staff and branches before, during, and after the events, equipping staff with adequate resources and support to navigate the situation (both personnel and institutional support and policy), collaborating with the city council to support, promote, and accomplish the events.

Power Up Virtual Conference Registration Open

This Madison WI-based conference has been held biennially since 2017 (except in 2021 during COVID). This is the first time it is being offered virtually. It has the same great sessions as the in-person conference and the sessions are varied to appeal to youth library leaders whatever their position within the organization. You don't have to be a manager to be a leader. All library staff can step up to the plate and use leadership skills. This is a great chance to hone yours!

Power Up:

A Leadership Conference 

for Youth Service Managers & Staff

When: February 13-14, 2025

Where: Zoom, Virtual Conference 

Cost: $225 (sliding scale options) 

Conference Schedule

Register today: go.wisc.edu/w2uvnu

Join youth services managers and staff for two days of online learning. Sessions will focus on leveling up your leadership skills, best practices for serving your community, and how to best support your team. Each concurrent session will be presented live, and recordings will be available to registered attendees for 3-months.

Keynote Speaker - Kyle Lukoff
Kyle Lukoff is the author of many books for young readers. His debut middle-grade novel, Too Bright To See, received a Newbery honor, the Stonewall award, and was a National Book Award finalist. His picture book When Aidan Became A Brother also won the Stonewall, and his book Call Me Max has been banned in schools across the country. He is the recipient of the 2025 Children’s Literature Lecture award, and has forthcoming books for all ages on a variety of topics. While becoming a writer he worked as a bookseller for ten years, and then nine more years as a school librarian.

In addition to Kyle's keynote, Power Up 2025, will offer a diverse array of sessions including: 

• Leading Staff Through Change to Elevate Youth Services
• The Right to Inclusion: How Libraries can Extend Privilege's to the Underserved
• Belonging at Work: An Inspiring Environment for Neurodivergent Employees
• Crafting Communication: Tools for Effective Youth Services Management
• And more! 

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Questions? Email ce-info@ischool.wisc.edu