Professional Development Resources for Librarians: American Library Association (ALA)

Course: Standing Up for Libraries: 2024 Election Implications and Next Steps

The 2024 election will have broad impacts across all three branches of government. Standing up for libraries and library workers will demand both persistence and creative, year-round advocacy. Learn timely updates and insights from ALA member leaders, seasoned policy advocacy staff, and lobbyists, who will discuss: 

• the current state of play, 
• key timelines, 
• anticipated scenarios, and 
• planned actions 

for ALA and library advocates nationwide. This webinar is the first in a planned series of updates and communications to provide expert insights and hear from ALA members as we design strategies to guide effective work moving forward.

For ongoing opportunities to take action for libraries, subscribe to ALA’s advocacy list.

This webinar is limited to 1000 attendees. We will be recording, and the recording will be available to all ALA Members regardless of registration or attendance for the live session.

Course: A Lesson from Germany: Serving Refugee and Immigrant Populations

Are you looking for new and effective ways to help New Americans? Explore the invaluable resources and services offered by three prominent German libraries tailored specifically for refugee and immigrants communities. In this session, participants will learn how the libraries of Frankfurt, Cologne, and Bremen, Germany serve an ever-growing number of non-native populations from around the world. Discover how these institutions actively engage with diverse cultural backgrounds through multilingual collections, passive displays, language programs, community partnerships, and specialized services designed to meet the needs of newcomers. 

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the enriching experiences and resources avaiable at these libraries and how they might apply them at their library. Learn how these institutions serve as essential hubs for information and community building, offering a welcome environment where individuals from all backgrounds can connect, learn, and grow. From navigating bureaucratic processes to exploring cultural heritage resources, this webinar will highlight the transformative impact of library services in supporting the journey of refugees and immigrants as they integrate into German society. Don't miss this opportunity to explore innovatitve approaches and success stories that underscore the pivotal role of libraries in promoting social cohesion and cultural exchange.

By the end of this webinar, the participant will be able to:

• Consider avenues of communication with local immigrant and refugee groups
• Explore potential local and government partnerships that can expand library services and address target population's needs
• Identify the benefits of cultural education and sharing the community through library events and partnerships with local immigrant and refugee groups

The presenter, Jessica A. Curtis, is an adult reference librarian at the Westerville Public Library in Ohio and an adult learning specialist. She is an active member and frequent presenter for the Ohio Library Council. She specializes in creating user-friendly classes for emerging technology and library services. She holds a BA from the Ohio State University and an MLIS from Kent State University. 

This webinar is for public library staff, especially those working with youths, adults, and community populations and can influence and impact services, displays, procedures, and staff training as well as the well-being of the target audience of immigrant and refugee populations. 

Library Association LibGuides

American Library Association (ALA): ALA LibGuides

Association for College & Research Libraries (ACRL): LibGuides at ACRL

Reference & User Services Association (RUSA): RUSA LibGuide for Business Reference and Services Section (BRASS)