Administration and Management Section Meeting
Second Tuesdays at 10 am
AI in the Library
Date: October 13
Presenter: Jon Braun
Description: AI in the Library offers a clear and practical introduction to artificial intelligence for library staff. Together we'll explore how AI works where it shows up in everyday life and how it’s beginning to shape library services. Participants will consider both the opportunities AI presents and the ethical questions it raises around bias transparency and human judgment.
Bio: The session is led by Jon Braun, Online Learning and Digital Content Specialist with LibraryLinkNJ. Jon manages the LearningSpace an on‑demand learning platform for library professionals and has been researching and leading AI programs for over three years. With more than 16 years of experience in public libraries Jon has directed projects that combine user‑focused design technology innovation and community engagement.
Effective Library Surveys
Date: Nov. 10
Presenter: Doug Gildenberg - Marketing and Communications at South Brunswick Public Library
Bio: Doug Gildenberg - Marketing and Communications at South Brunswick Public Library (NJLA Marketing and PR Section); 35 years retired marketing research professional in private industry.
Description: 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-library world examples, participants will receive guidance on how to turn the daunting task of conducting a survey into a powerful tool for library advocacy and enhancement.
Hard Hats & Hurdles: Building Today’s Public Library
A frequent presenter at the Pennsylvania Library Association (PaLA) and the New Jersey Library Association (NJLA) Annual Conferences, as well as NJLA's Diversity & Outreach Section Unconferences, Tanya has presented on a wide range of topics, including open-source technologies, digital literacy, emerging technologies, artificial intelligence in libraries, STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) programming, fine-free libraries, library construction and design, management and leadership, and equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility(EDIA).
In 2026, Tanya was named the New Jersey Library Association (NJLA) Librarian of the Year. She serves on the New NJLA Executive Board, the Public Library Association (PLA) Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice Committee, the PLA Digital Literacy Task Force, the South Jersey Alliance of Independent Libraries (SAIL) Executive Board, and the New Jersey Makers Day (NJMD) Executive Board.
Tanya is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Library and Information Science at Simmons University. Her research explores evidence-based practices and how artificial intelligence can support planning, library space design, and leadership decision-making in public libraries while promoting equitable, inclusive, and community-centered services.
She earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and a Master of Science in Library and Information Science from Drexel University.
Description: This session explores the challenges, decisions, and lessons learned from planning through grand opening and beyond. Topics include working with architects and contractors, furniture and technology procurement, moving logistics, staff preparation, and managing community expectations. The session will also explore how evidence-based practices and emerging AI tools could support future library planning, space evaluation, and more informed and equitable decision-making.