Conference Schedule

6:30am-7:30 am

Morning Yoga
Instructor: Beth Filla
Bio: https://www.presentcm.com/about

Bring your own mat

Sponsored by Data Axle Reference Solutions 

Keynote: Amanda Jones

Sponsored by NJ Library Trustee Association -NJLTA 

9:30-10:15AM

Exhibits Coffee Break

Sponsored by Creative Library Concepts 

Poster Sessions

Sponsored by dancker 

10:30-11:20AM

Program Sessions 

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

Bridging the Gap: Building Strong Partnerships between Schools and Public Libraries

Description: Panelists will discuss successful partnership models, share practical tips on outreach and communication with schools, and explore innovative policy approaches for library-school relations. Attendees will leave with actionable insights on how to break down barriers to library access, navigate challenges, and empower students with library cards and resources from their public library.

Presenters:

Kara Buono (Avalon Free Public Library)

Valerie Coughlin (Hoboken Public Library)

Heather Lubchansky (Sussex County Library System)

Moderator: Joshua Melissari (Linden Free Public Library)

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

Making it work (or not!): Learnings from Grant Project Fails & Unexpected Successes

Unexpected opportunities for grant funding seem like a gift—but is the money always worth it? In this presentation we’ll share lessons learned from impactful funding and grants gone wrong. Takeaways include who to include in the grant writing process; questions to ask before accepting funding; opportunities for prioritizing sustainability in short-term grants, and more. Attendees will leave with new frameworks for thinking about when grants are useful and when it’s okay to just say “no.”

Presenters:

Christine Szeluga (Cranford Board of Education

Jen Hoyer, City Tech

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

Beyond the Book with More Maker Challenges

Learn how to integrate new and even more monthly maker challenges that are inspired by read-alouds and utilize the engineering design process. Discover books, ideas for projects and fun ways to engage students in monthly hands-on maker challenges that can be accomplished in one library period.

Presenter:

Maren Vitali (Eisenhower Intermediate School)

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

Podcasting: Providing Student Choice and Voice

Learn how to engage students by giving them choice and voice in their research projects. Teach students how to create their own podcasts—from brainstorming and scripting to recording and publishing! Participants will learn how to guide students through the full creative process. Whether you’re new to podcasting or looking to expand your library’s digital media offerings, you’ll leave with a clear roadmap, classroom-ready resources, and the confidence to empower your students as digital storytellers.

Presenter:

Kathleen Lewin (Pleasant Valley School Library Media Center)

10:30AM-12:20PM

Deep Dive

Libraries and the Law

We all have a general understanding of Intellectual Freedom and privacy, but what are the practical applications in libraries?  How can we provide access and remove barriers to materials and protect all library users?

Learn the ins and outs of law for libraries. Learn how the First Amendment, privacy laws and copyright laws work in all our libraries, why they matter, how to incorporate them into your policies and procedures should reflect them.

Presenters:

Amanda Eigen (Maplewood Memorial Library)

Amy Penwell (NJASL)

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

Trans Young Adult Books Are Lit! 

With transgender representation in YA publishing more prevalent than ever, now is an exciting time to explore the range of their narratives. This special session will introduce new titles, present tools and resources for finding trans-inclusive materials, and equip attendees with skills for enhancing Reader’s Advisory and collection development around trans representation. Attendees will not only leave with a list of new titles but a new understanding on how to champion these materials so more patrons can have access to these often-challenged books.

Presenters:

Sloane Kazim (Manville Branch - Somerset County Library System)

Becca Levin (Hillsborough Branch - Somerset County Library System)

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

Ignite Learning: Community Nights for District Engagement in Literacy, Coding, and STEAM

This presentation showcases a replicable series of K–8 family events centered on literacy, coding, and STEAM. Participants will learn how collaboration, library leadership, and student volunteers create dynamic community experiences that highlight the value of literacy and technology. The session will provide practical planning tools, sample activities, promotional materials, and implementation tips to help educators launch similar programs that strengthen family involvement, boost student engagement, inspire interest in STEAM-based learning, and advocate for library-centered learning.

Presenter:

Jess Hoertel (Jefferson Township Intermediate School)

Stephanie Vislosky (Jefferson Township High School)

Alyssa Guagenti (Jefferson Township Intermediate School)

Aleyna Mannerberg (Jefferson Township Intermediate and High School)

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

Research success for ALL with FactCite

Join middle school media specialists and the co-founder of FactCite to learn how to incorporate FactCite’s databases into your information literacy instruction. Using FactCite’s Defining Moments database to incorporate primary sources into social studies research for middle school. Using FactCite’s learning accessibility features like “read aloud”, connect to Google Classroom, and Noodeltools direct import citation to assist students in their research. Using FactCite’s Teacher Resources to assist you in your planning.

Presenters:

Amy Nagle (New Providence Middle/High School)

Sarah Neiderman (Melvin H. Kreps Middle School)

Stacey Fulton (Vorhees Middle School)

Jenna Maus-Colucci (West Essex Middle School)

Susan Gall (FactCite)

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

NJ Information Literacy in Action

Information literacy is a shared responsibility across educational and community-based organizations—and libraries are key partners in this work. In this interactive, hands-on pre-conference, we’ll explore the New Jersey Department of Education four pillars of information literacy—Information Need, Identification & Evaluation, Use, and Creation & Distribution—as powerful frameworks for designing meaningful, learner-centered experiences.

Presenter:

Jen Nelson (New Jersey State Library)

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

D&O Section Meeting

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

MentorNJ In-Person Meet-up: School Libraries

10:30-11:20AM

Program Session

Quiet Room

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Sessions

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

Yes, You Can Do Reader's Advisory!

Anyone working in a library should be ready for the inevitable request for a "good book". Build (or refresh) your toolkit for providing RA service to patrons. Attendees will evaluate which reliable RA resources work best for them, explore "appeal factors" that influence reader opinions and professional reviews, examine popular reading genres/microgenres/tropes, and review the essentials of good RA discussion. This presentation will cover fundamentals that can be used to assist readers of all ages.

Presenters:

Maribeth Fisher (Scotch Plains Public Library)

Rachel Talbert (Jersey City Free Public Library Library)

10:30AM-12:20PM

Deep Dive

Libraries and the Law

We all have a general understanding of Intellectual Freedom and privacy, but what are the practical applications in libraries?  How can we provide access and remove barriers to materials and protect all library users?

Learn the ins and outs of law for libraries. Learn how the First Amendment, privacy laws and copyright laws work in all our libraries, why they matter, how to incorporate them into your policies and procedures should reflect them.

Presenters:

Amanda Eigen (Maplewood Memorial Library)

Amy Penwell (NJASL)

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

Onward and Upward! Forum for the NJ Academic Librarians Awards

New Jersey Academic Librarians (NJAL) showcase the 2026 winners of the annual NJAL awards. Forum presentations include the winners of the Outreach in Academic Libraries Award and the Research Award. Join us for presentations and discussion where outreach meets research in analysis, publishing, and dissemination. Come celebrate and learn from your fellow New Jersey librarians’ outreach and research excellence!

Presenter:

Natasha Zaleski (New Jersey State Library)

Maria Deptula (Rutgers University)

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

Cartooning Lessons for Middle-Grade Readers

An interactive cartooning workshop for students ages 8+. Drawing is part of cartooning, but drawing and cartooning aren't exactly the same thing. Learn how to tell a story using pictures and the importance of clarity and controlling the reader's eye as it moves across the page. Combines an engaging presentation with hands-on experience working alongside an established professional. Build confidence and understand that cartooning is a language you can use to tell your own stories.

Presenter:

Mike Dawson (Author/Illustrator)

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

Spotting the Synthetic: Library Strategies for AI Misinformation

AI-generated misinformation is becoming harder to detect in daily information use. Libraries must help communities recognize manipulated media and verify sources. This session introduces approachable techniques for identifying AI-generated text, images and videos and provides adaptable programming for teens and adults. Participants will receive ready-to-implement activities and outreach ideas that support stronger media literacy, protect community trust, and reinforce libraries as essential guides in a rapidly changing information landscape.

Presenter:

Elissa Malespina

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

Prime Time Family Reading: Advice from the Trenches

Prime Time Family Reading is a national program serving 6-10 year olds and their families, and winner of the 2025 Library of Congress Literacy Awards American Prize. The program builds communities of readers with award-winning books, thought-provoking discussion, and shared meals. Attendees from public and school libraries will gain insight on the program from library staff who have implemented it and learn how to apply for grant funding if they are interested.

Presenters:

Cindy Simerlink

Jim O'Connor

Gigi Naglak, Leanne Ly

Chelsea Neary

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

Connect, Learn, Grow: NJASL & Rutgers Explore Hopeful Futures for School Libraries

Join a lively, interactive panel discussion where veteran school librarians, early‑career practitioners, LIS students, and Rutgers faculty explore five(ish) opportunity‑filled futures for school libraries. Together we'll reframe today’s challenges as hopeful lenses and advocacy strategies—centering reading joy, intellectual freedom, instructional partnerships, equitable access, and evidence‑based leadership—and crowd‑source next steps to take back to your learning community. Come connect, learn and grow with NJASL & Rutgers.... Library students encouraged to attend! 

Presenters:

Andrea Caporale (Somerville High School)

Joyce Valenza (Rutgers University)

Lisa Manganello (South Brunswick High School)

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

MentorNJ In-Person Meet-up: Latino Library Staff

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

Circ Chat: Circulation Round Table

This is a forum for circulation staff to discuss shared issues and develop collective solutions. The event space will feature five themed discussion areas (tables or chair groupings) each with a specific prompt. Groups will rotate every 10 minutes to engage with a new topic.

Topics:

1. Handling Damaged or Lost Materials

2. Managing Challenging Patrons Behaviors

3. Interdepartmental collaboration

4. Delivering Exceptional Library Customer Service

5. Spotlight on Unique Library Services

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

Emerging Leaders

11:30AM-12:20PM

Program Session

Quiet Room

12:30PM-2:00PM

Lunch Break

Presidents’ Leadership Lunch

Speaker: Kennedy Ryan

Sponsored by Settembrino Architects

2:00-2:50PM

Program Sessions

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Two Libraries, One Goal: Building a Stronger Community of Learners

This session discusses the positive effects of collaboration between school and public libraries that aims to bridge gaps in access to resources, fostering a stronger, more inclusive community. By sharing books, technology, and educational support, we hope to promote a love for reading and learning. This connection allows students to have access to events, contact with the public librarians and support outreach to the local community enhancing their educational opportunities and building a lasting partnership. 

Presenter:

Iveth Yelegen (Cliffside Park School)

Joseph Rivera (Cliffside Park Public Library) 

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Repair, Replace, or Repurpose: Smart Strategies for Library Materials and Tech

Budgets are tight—so when do you repair, replace, or repurpose? Discover sustainable ways to extend the life of your books, furniture, and tech through smart purchasing, maintenance, and creative upcycling. Make every dollar (and every item) count.

Presenters:

Crystal Hooper (Somerset County Library System)

Amelia Rodriguez (Mercer County Library System)

Carina Gonzalez (Governor Livingston High School)

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Information Literacy and Technology: Finding Balance in the Library

With increasing use of technology in the classroom, let’s slow down together and talk about information. This session will discuss the forthcoming NJ information literacy standards, digital citizenship and ways to prepare our students for critical thinking. We will talk basics of inquiry and information gathering in the library.

Presentor:

Jennifer Latimer (Clinton Elementary School)

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

We Can Teach That Information Literacy panel with coauthors

Several local Information Literacy specialists wrote chapters for an edited book "We can Teach that. Information Literacy for School Librarians". Due to the upcoming new NJ Information Literacy Student Learning Standard there is a great interest among librarians in NJ how to approach and implement Information Literacy in all our education and library oriented institutions. The panelist will talk about their experiences as professional Information Literacy Specialist Pk-16.

Presenters:

Ewa Dziedzik-Elliott (The College of New Jersey)

Neil Grimes (William Paterson University)

Gary Marks (William Paterson University)

Beth Thomas (Lawton C. Johnson Summit Middle School)

Tricina Strong Beebe (Burlington Institute of Technology)

Steve Tetreault (William R. Satz Middle School)

Brenda Boyer (Rutgers University)

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Marking the 250th: Commemorating the American Revolution

Are you looking for ideas to mark the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution? Find out what other libraries around the state are planning. North, Central, and South Jersey institutions are all represented in this program. Each panelist will describe what their institution is doing to commemorate this important milestone.

Presenters:

Thomas Ankner (Newark Public Library)

Beth DeGeorge (Gloucester County Library System)

Veronica Calder (NJ State Archives)

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Proud Year Round: The library as a Safe Space for LGBTQ+ youth

Public libraries around New Jersey are working hard to create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth. Whether they are hosting PRIDE proms and parades, curating inclusive teen collections and booklists or collaborating with local organizations, librarians are celebrating LGBTQ+ youth all year long. Join librarians from the Somerset County Library System, Maplewood and Fort Lee to learn about each public library’s programs and services for LGBTQ+ youth and find out how you can follow in their footsteps.

Presenters:

Alyssa Alyssa Korczakowski-Titus (Somerset County Library System)

Laura Curry (Somerset County Library System)

Ayoola White (Maplewood Public Library)

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Tips from Trenton

School Budgets? Job Loss? Value of having certified school library media specialists vs a certified teacher or aide? These are all issues that keep NJASL legislative consultant Mary Moyer Stubbs up at night. This session will provide information on recent legislative and educational victories that support school libraries and will help to provide valuable insight into how to advocate for your school library program. Bring your questions and concerns to the session.

Presenter:

Mary Moyer Stubbs (NJASL Legislative Consultant)

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Global Reads: Adding Reading to the Social Studies Curriculum

While English teachers are often a School Librarian's best customers, adding a reading assignment to the Social Studies curriculum helps students to connect with books in a new way. This presentation will share how adding a global reading project increased book circulation, student engagement, and maximized the teacher-librarian partnership. Through booktalks and partnering with teachers to design assessments that maximize creativity while limiting the unethical use of AI, Global Reads is a win!

Presenter:

Lisa Manganello (South Brunswick High School)

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Period Poverty and Patrons

-Be able to provide period products in library restrooms.

-Understand the financial gap that period poverty causes.

-Have a thorough understand of period supplies as part of a janitorial line item.

-Be able to form an argument to Boards and stakeholders that period products are a building services necessity.

Presenter:

Erin Hughes (Wood-Ridge Memorial Library)

Guest speaker from “Aunt Flow,” a period provision company.

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Services for New Americans

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

MentorNJ In-Person Meet-up: AI in Libraries

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

MentorNJ In-Person Meet-up: Adventures in Administration

2:00-2:50PM

Program Session

Quiet Room

Ice Cream Break and Exhibits

Sponsored by Arcari + Iovino Architects, P.C. 

4:00-4:50PM

Program Sessions

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

Collaborative Practice: Building Effective Partnerships Between Librarians and Library Social Workers in New Jersey’s Public Libraries

As New Jersey’s public libraries evolve as community hubs, collaboration between librarians and social workers is vital. This session highlights practical frameworks for interdisciplinary teamwork, covering ethics, trauma-informed practice, and local partnerships. Drawing on New Jersey’s pioneering initiatives, presenters will share strategies to support patrons facing homelessness, food insecurity, and digital inequity. Participants will gain actionable tools to strengthen partnerships, enhance staff support, and position libraries as centers of equity and community resilience.

Presenters:

David Perez (Long Branch Free Public Library)

Morris Balacco

Stacey Shapiro (Cranford Public Library)

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

Under New Management: Tips & Tricks from the Newbies

It's great to learn from veteran leaders, but sometimes the best tips and tricks come from the newbies. Hear from new(ish) library leadership - directors, branch managers, and supervisors - on what they learned in their first months on the job and how they prepared for their roles in leadership.

Presenters:

Cassie Collucci (Roxbury Public Library)

Kayla Polt (Haddonfield Public Library)

Ashley Mitchell (Camden County Library)

Sara Cassaro (Bogota Public Library)

Mary Kristen Albertson (The Marie Fleche Memorial Library).

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

Prompting for Impact: How Librarians Shape AI Outcomes

AI responses are only as strong as the prompts behind them. Librarians can model how to ask better questions that support inquiry, reader's advisory, accessibility, and community programs. This session teachers prompt structures that promote reliable results and equity-centered information practices across schools and public libraries. Participants will leave with adaptable prompt templates they can use immediately for referencing support, instructional planning, and patron services.

Presenter:

Elissa Malespina (Newark Public Schools)

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

The Type A and Type B School Librarians’ Guide to Genrefying

Are you considering the seemingly daunting task of genrefying your school library, but you’re not sure where to start or how to find the time? Join us for two different approaches, timelines, and methods for genrefying, and take the Type A or Type B tips (or some of both!) that will work for you and your library.

Presenters:

Renae Borgstrom (Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle School)

Laurel Erickson (The Hun School)

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

Advocacy 101

It's never been clearer - librarians need to advocate for funding, programs, collections, and sometimes, their jobs. In this session, you'll learn about the basics of developing an advocacy plan, using the library ecosystem, the vital role of coalitions in amplifying your voice, potential partners, using data & storytelling, and crafting your message to suit the audience. We'll look at different digital tools that can help spread your message and engage supporters. Come build your advocacy toolkit!

Presenters:

Amy Penwell (Riverton School)

John Chrastka (EveryLibrary)

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

Linking Libraries to Local Lifelines: Connecting NJ, NJ4S, Family Success Centers, and NJ 211

Library professionals will learn how to navigate and connect the children and families they serve to free, statewide programs for all ages. 

Featured programs and populations served:

Connecting NJ: Pregnant women, families with young children birth to five;

New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services (NJ4S): Youth, teachers, and parents from public schools;

Family Success Centers: Families with children, regardless of family structure;

NJ211: Individuals and families of all ages

Presenter:

Sanford Starr

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

Crossing Over: From School to Public Libraries

Join a panel of school and public library staff who will share ideas on how to collaborate on joint programming/projects for youth between school and public libraries that incorporates teaching information literacy skills in programming or research projects for youth in a fun and engaging way. Including information literacy practices in programming/projects for youth will be invaluable in helping support the implementation of the forthcoming NJ Student Learning Standards in Information Literacy.

Presenters;

Sharon Rawlins (NJ State Library)

Andrea Caporale (Somerville High School)

Kellyanne Healey (Parsippany- Troy Hills Public Library)

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

Civic Literacy and Libraries

This session will provide attendees with an overview of the David & Lorraine Cheng Library's Civic Literacy Initiative at William Paterson University. The initiative provides students and members of our community with resources supporting the Civic Engagement Core Value of the university. The session will discuss events, programs, and resources provided by the Library and demonstrate how libraries are committed to fostering the growth of civic knowledge and informed participation in civic society.

Presenter:

Gary Marks (William Paterson University)

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

Building Equity Together: Tools from New Jersey’s Statewide EDI Library Initiative

This session introduces the New Jersey Statewide EDI Strategic Roadmap for Libraries, a coordinated initiative providing tools and resources to support equity, diversity, and inclusion across library organizations. Attendees will gain an understanding of available resources, access points, and collaborative structures that support EDI efforts statewide. This session equips libraries with actionable knowledge to begin exploring and adapting strategies that can strengthen their leadership, partnerships, and campus impact.

Presenters:

Ralph Bingham (LibraryLink NJ)

Alison Cole (Virtual Academic Library Environment of New Jersey)

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

4:00-4:50PM

Program Session

Honors and Awards Ceremony

Sponsored by Soyka Smith Design Studios 

Dance Party

Sponsored by Direct Flooring 

Morning Yoga
Instructor: Beth Filla
Bio: https://www.presentcm.com/about

Bring your own mat

Sponsored by Data Axle Reference Solutions 

9:00-9:50AM

Program Sessions

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

The Surprising Benefits of Saying Yes

Librarians tend to avoid taking risks—especially when it comes to trying new things or using government funds. Join Jen Nelson for a conversation designed to inspire you to think about risk-taking as an opportunity for innovation and growth. Jen will highlight the successes and challenges she’s had in her career to demonstrate the benefits of saying yes. You’ll leave the session re-energized to take on new projects and integrate innovative thinking into your work.

Presenter:

Tiffany McClary (NJ State Library)

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

Do-Overs That Deliver: Reworking Programs and Implementing Practical Strategies for Success

Sometimes the best ideas come from moments that do not go as planned. This session will explore how to reframe “failure” as a valuable part of innovation in library programming and daily operations. Through specific examples, participants will learn to recognize when a program needs a refresh, spot early signs that something is not connecting, and pivot effectively. By the end, participants will be able to redesign ideas and strengthen engagement through creative marketing approaches.

Presenters:

Michelle Jordan (Wallington Veterans Memorial Library)

Mariah Texidor (Wallington Veterans Memorial Library)

Carolyn Kosten (Leonia Public Library)

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

Advancing LGBTQIA+ Youth Equity and Inclusion in Schools

In the wake of New Jersey's Freedom to Read Act (FTRA), which protects affirming library resources, the focus shifts from defense to proactive implementation. This poster session explores how the Advisory Commission on Advancing LGBTQIA+ Youth Equity and Inclusion in Schools provides the essential framework for that crucial next step: creating safe spaces for all—students, educators, and staff. We move beyond maintaining diverse collections to utilizing these resources to impact the entire school community. Librarians are positioned as indispensable partners, leveraging the Commission's recommendations on policy, professional learning, and curriculum. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for integrating the Commission’s work to ensure comprehensive, systemic, and sustainable support, turning policy into tangible equity throughout the entire school environment.

Presenters:

Andrea Caporale (Somerville High School)

Kate Okeson, (Executive Director of the NJ DOE Advisory Commission on Advancing LGBTQIA+ Youth Equity &  Inclusion in Schools) 

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

Emerging Technology: Why Being a Luddite Is Important

The word "Luddite" is used to describe a hater of technology; but the term actually refers to someone who critically evaluates a technology's impact on its users and the community. School librarians in particular often lead new technology initiatives; it is therefore critical to adopt a Luddite attitude. This workshop will discuss aspects of critical technology evaluation, using AI as an example.

Presenter:

Steve Tetreault (William R. Satz Middle School)

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

Shelf Help: Youth Services Readers’ Advisory

Are you a library worker who struggles with readers’ advisory for young patrons? Or maybe you are a reference librarian who is covering the Youth Services’ desk and are not familiar with that collection? This session is for you. We will provide popular book series, read-alikes, and tips for helping our youngest patrons find the perfect book. Four public and school librarians will cover all ages from 0-17 to make readers’ advisory an easier process.

Presenters:

Stephanie Smith (Gloucester County Library System)

Crysta Miller (Gloucester County Library System)

Katie Helf (Cherry Hill Public Library)

Theresa Wordelmann (East Greenwich Schools)

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

Effective Marketing Research Surveys for Libraries

This practical workshop empowers Library professionals to design, implement, and analyze surveys that drive meaningful improvements in programming, services, and strategic planning. Drawing from real-world examples including community-wide strategic planning surveys, program evaluation studies, and grant-supporting research, participants will learn to transform data collection from a daunting task into a powerful tool for library advocacy and enhancement.

Presenter:

Doug Gildenberg (South Brunswick Public Library)

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

Learning Powered by Teens: Designing a Library Tutoring Program That Works

Launched in March 2024, the JCFPL Free Tutoring Program has delivered over 400 hours of free K-8 support while giving teens meaningful volunteer opportunities. Using a simple, replicable model, patrons and tutors submit forms detailing needs, strengths, and availability, and are matched for flexible in-person or virtual sessions. The program is scalable, including small-group options. We are ready to share all our resources so you can easily launch a similar tutoring program at your library.

Presenter:

Nicole Zimmermann (Jersey City Free Public Library)

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

Making Reading Accessible

This workshop explores how curating diverse material formats – large print, read-alouds, bilingual texts, and graphic novels/manga – can expand accessibility and promote equity for ESL learners, special education students, and all K-12 readers. Participants will examine strategies for integrating these resources into library programs to support varied learning needs and literacy goals. The session will also highlight reliable vendors and potential funding sources to help schools build inclusive, high-impact collections.

Presenters:

Ellen Pozzi (William Paterson University)

Lisa Krauze (Kawameeh Middle School)

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

All In: Using Every Library Resource to Target Patron Niches

Libraries can transform communities by mobilizing all our resources. This session explores how collections, staff expertise, spaces, technology, and programs can support specific patron groups. We will discuss low- and no-cost strategies for identifying niche audiences (local businesses, nonprofits, people with disabilities or experiencing loneliness, new homeowners, etc.) and aligning library assets to meet their needs. Attendees will learn to map resources, build targeted outreach and marketing, and design specialized services to maximize community impact.

Presenter:

Tony Iovino

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

Member Engagement Meetup

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

MentorNJ: Indigenous American Library Staff

9:00-9:50AM

Program Session

Quiet Room 

10:00-11:00AM

Exhibits Coffee Break

Sponsored by Ebsco Information Services 

11:00-11:50AM

Program Sessions

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

Public Policy Update

The annual update from the Public Policy Committee on legislation and budgeting efforts that affect library funding from a federal and state level, our advocacy efforts throughout the year, and updates from NJLA's lobbyists, Porzio Governmental Affairs.

Presenters:

James Keehbler (Hunterdon County Library)

Nick Bastean

Brett Bonfield (NJLA)

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

Level Up Your Library with Teen Volunteers

Hear from two middle school librarians and two public librarians about building thriving library volunteer programs for your students and teens. From leadership roles in daily library operations to assisting with programming and services, responsibilities and perks, library promotion, and top tips, the panel will discuss practical strategies to recruit, train, and sustain student and teen volunteers who become true partners in cultivating an active, student-centered library—without additional funding!

Presenters:

Taysha Gatteau-Barrera (Hillsborough Middle School)

Stephanie Singer (Readington Middle School)

 Becca Levin (Somerset County Library System, Hillsborough Branch)

 Laura Curry (Somerset County Library System, Hillsborough Branch)

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

AI Literacy for Librarians: A Practical Guide to Navigating the New Frontier or The AI-Ready Librarian: Building Confidence and Competence

This session demystifies generative AI for library media specialists, cutting through the hype to offer clear, practical guidance. Participants will explore what AI is, how to use it immediately in daily workflows, and the ethical issues libraries must lead on. Attendees will learn core AI concepts, identify practical productivity applications, understand key concerns like bias and privacy, and leave with strategies and a concrete plan for introducing AI literacy within their library community.

Presenters:

Dana Mason (New Jersey City University)

Laura Zieger (New Jersey City University)

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

Grant Writing for School LIbrarians

In this panel discussion, you will learn about opportunities for grants from NJEA, other sources for grant money and how to get started and work through the process.  Join our panelists as they share their personal experiences obtaining grants, share tips and tricks for finding grants and navigating the necessary steps, and answer questions you might have.

Presenters:

Heather Haggerty Woolslayer (CL Spragg School)

Mary Moyer Stubbs (NJASL Legislative Consultant)

Gabrielle Casieri (Lawrence Intermediate School)

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

Digital Collections: Choosing a Platform

Libraries that have digitized material from their collections do not always know how to best get those items before the public. There are several digital platforms from which to choose. This program will explore these different platforms, with librarians from institutions around the state discussing their experiences with the various platforms. Come learn from the experience of your peers!

Presenters:

Beth Zak-Cohen (Newark Public Library)

Chris Larlee (Morristown/Morris Township Public Library)

Bernadette Patino (Jersey City Free Public Library)

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

Bed Bug Crisis: Communication, Cleanup, and Community Trust

What do you do when bed bugs show up in your library? This session offers a behind-the-scenes look at one library's experience navigating detection, treatment, and prevention. Learn practical strategies for clear communication with staff and the public, working with service contractors, and keeping your community’s trust intact. Walk away with actionable tips for managing unexpected challenges while maintaining a safe and welcoming library environment.

Presenters:

Amy Behr Shields (Summit Free Public Library)

Kristin Hayes (attorney)

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

Come & Get it! Ready-to-use Resources for Busy School and Youth Librarians!

Need some help with a new initiative? Want some new professional resources? Discover a treasure trove of FREE resources created by Rutgers LIS graduate Schoen fellows! Building community, SEL, working with special ed students, homeschoolers, resources on disabilities, diversity, or bridging equity gaps, outdoor or museum-based learning, digital citizenship & more ready-to-use resources await you in this session! These tools, lessons, and resources are perfect for busy NJ school and youth librarians. Join us!

Presenter:

Brenda Boyer (Rutgers University)

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

Exploring AASL's Best Digital Tools for Teaching and Learning

BYOD and expand your teaching and learning toolkit with AASL's curated list of the best of the best digital tools. We'll sandbox the 2025 tools and look at some tools from previous years that are just too good to leave unexplored. You'll leave with new ideas for tools and how to use them, boosted by the brainstorms and experiences of others in the session.

Presenters:

Amy Penwell (Riverton School)

 Steve Tetreault (William R. Satz Middle School)

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

The Other Side of the DM Screen: How to Be a Library Dungeon Master

Interested in Dungeons and Dragons but scared to run it by yourself? Learn the truth of what it's like to be a Dungeon Master from those who run it themselves. Hear about the ups and downs of being a DM, learn some tips and tricks for running your own program, and receive helpful resources. This program will focus on eliminating YOUR concerns about running D&D, so come with questions!

Presenters:

Melissa DeSantis (Collingswood Public Library)

Joshua Cohen (Cape May County Library)

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

11:00-11:50AM

Program Session

12:00-1:30PM

Garden State Awards Luncheon

Sponsored by Sustainable Libraries Initiative 

1:30-2:15PM

Exhibits Closing and Raffles

Sponsored by LOTE4Kids (by Storytime PODs) 

1:30-2:15PM

Poster Sessions

Sponsored by dancker

2:20-3:10PM

Program Sessions

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

ICE and Immigration Enforcement in Your Library – Rights and Responsibilities

What should you do if ICE officials come into your library? In light of recent government attention on immigration enforcement and seemingly random raids of businesses and other locations, it’s important to understand the rights and limitations of ICE agents. Library Assistant Director Amanda Eigen and Library Attorney Douglas S. Zucker will review do’s and don’ts for all library workers and discuss how to prepare in case ICE officials come into your library.

Presenters:

Amanda Eigen (Maplewood Memorial Library)

Douglas Zucker

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

Smart Outreach: Doing More with What You Have

Imagine outreach that lasts. This session shows how libraries can build sustainable, high-impact marketing by focusing on consistency, smart partnerships, and repeatable practices, not just cutting costs. Learn how shared collaborations, simple pop-up outreach, reusable materials, and effective newsletters can boost visibility without draining staff or budgets. Presenters will share practical, scalable examples that help libraries maintain momentum and imagine new possibilities for community connection all year long.

Presenters:

Jon Braun (LibraryLinkNJ)

Doug Gildenberg (South Brunswick Public Library)

Julie Knapp (Sussex County Library System)

Pham Condello (Old Bridge Library)

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

Creating an AI Welcoming Environment

This session explores how one district built an environment that welcomes AI while ensuring ethical, effective, and sustainable use. Through committees, guidelines, professional development, policy, and an AI Innovation in Education Grant, the district laid a foundation rooted in equity and collaboration. Attendees will leave with practical examples of how librarians can support AI use in their libraries and serve as leaders in helping teachers and students navigate this evolving landscape.

Presenters:

Arielle Denrich (Somerville Public Schools)

Andrea Caporale (Somerville High School)

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

Media Literacy in a Post-Truth World

In this interactive session, library media specialist, Kristen Luettchau, will show participants how to establish a community of critical thinkers by teaching media literacy skills and working with various academic departments. Through a sequence of lessons involving academic integrity, responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, lateral reading, and database research, Kristen will help participants develop a plan for tackling media literacy education for secondary education students in a post-truth world.

Presenter:

Kristen Luettchau (Morristown High School)

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

Local History for Modern Media: Cultivating Community Through Shared Stories

Learn various creative ways that librarians can take material from local historical records (such as books, newspapers, photographs, audiocassettes, or videotapes) and repurpose them into content that’s more accessible for modern audiences (like podcasts, social media, blog posts, digital images, or print zines). As a result, we can help library patrons not only gain a deeper understanding of their communities, but feel more pride and connection toward them as well.

Presenter:

Joe O’Brien

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

How the Carnegie Corporation of New York is reinvesting in public libraries

Attendees will learn about the Carnegie Corporation’s ongoing and expanding support of libraries as trusted public institutions that strengthen the democratic idea and reduce political polarization,  what that looks like in NJ through their support of the Plainfield Public Library and NJSL’s Labor and Literacy Library ESL program,  national efforts in these spaces, and how these   types of private/public partnerships can help libraries, patrons, and communities.

Presenters

Maya Ward (Carnegie Corporation of New York)

 Scott Kuchinsky (Plainfield Public Library)

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

Making the Move to Public Librarianship: A Panel of Former Academic and School Librarians

Changing careers from one library type to another can feel daunting—but it can also be deeply rewarding. In this session, three librarians will engage in an open and honest discussion about their transitions from school and academic libraries into administrative leadership roles in public libraries and a library system. The presenters will highlight the parallels between the positions and leave time for an “anything goes” Q & A.

Presenters:

Christine Brandenburg (Springfield Free Public Library)

Bonnie Lafazan (Springfield Free Public Library)

Jen Park (Ramapo Catskill Library System)

Amanda Primano (Monroe Free Public Library)

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

Imagine Community: Combining School Author Visits with Library Events

With bringing together school and public librarians, why not bring author programs to both? Participants will hear and discuss ideas for combining school author assemblies with afternoon or evening programs at the public library to show parents and the community what their children experienced at school. With budget constraints the cost of bringing and author can be shared by both the school and public library. Many authors already include evening literacy nights at schools.

Presenter:

Timothy Young (Author)

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

NJLA Conferences Through the Years

What now-famous librarians attended? Did we always meet in Atlantic City? These and other burning questions can be answered using the treasure of our NJLA Archive. The panel will recap over 125 years of conferences and the many librarians who have attended, as well as who was networking with whom! Past conference programs, photographs, and scrapbooks will give insight into the important issues facing libraries of the time.

Presenters:

Frederic Pachman (Monmouth Medical Center Altschul Library)

Ezra Downs (NJLA's Project Archivist)

Teresa Bayles (Somerset County Library System)

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

Let’s Talk about Sustainability with the Maplewood Memorial Library

Listen and learn from this candid conversation with Sarah Lester, Library Director of the Maplewood Memorial Library and Sophia LoCascio, Member Engagement Associate of the Sustainable Libraries Initiative.

Get details on how the library’s team is using the Sustainable Library Certification Program to improve internal operations, make environmentally conscious decisions, and build stronger connections with its community. Expect to come away with numerous ideas on how to get started and make sustainability a part of your library mission, values, and everyday processes.

Presenters:

Sarah Lester (Maplewood Library)

 Sophia LoCascio (SLI)

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

Library Workers of Color Meetup

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

NJLA County Library Section Meeting 

2:20-3:10PM

Program Session

Quiet Room

3:20-4:10pm

Closing Keynote

Closing Keynote

Closing Keynote: Mychal Threets

Sponsored by Rutgers University - School of Communication and Information