What's new in public libraries, and what factors will affect them in the future? Join us for a panel discussion with directors from small, medium, and large public library systems as we answer that question. We'll talk about community trends, dealing with unpredictable challenges, and developing needed skills for your own public library career. You won't want to miss this conversation!
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this class, students will be able to:
Describe skills necessary to move forward in your library career
Explain trends that will affect how library service is provided in the future
Delineate processes that will help in dealing with unpredictable challenges
Instructors
Maurice Coleman [he/him/his] (Facilitator) is the Principal of Coleman & Associates. As a trainer, coach, and keynote speaker, Maurice helps organizations improve their human processes and use of technology, expand their internal/external communications, and broaden their focus and implementation of EDI activities.
Kelvin Watson is the executive director of the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District. He oversees 25 branches run by 600+ employees, spanning 8,000 square miles, with a budget of $77 million and a collection of 3.2 million items. Kelvin has brought innovative, award-winning leadership to Nevada’s largest library system and his deep experience in fundraising, technology, program development, and demonstrated success in addressing the digital divide has brought a new era to this library system.
Carrie Willson is the Director of Calvert Library a rural/suburban library serving a county of 93,000 residents on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. With a budget of 5.4 million, 82 employees, four locations and a bookmobile, Calvert Library takes advantage of being a small library system but one that can do big things. Carrie has served on the PLA Board, served in most leadership roles of the Maryland Library Association and relishes her daily work with staff, community partners and library customers.
Royce Kitts is a brilliant Library Director by day and bon vivant by night, Kitts, of the Liberal (KS) Memorial Library is a man of many talents. Not only is he a gifted librarian, but he’s also the reigning queen of witty comebacks and clever quips. His favorite pastimes include reading classic literature, organizing book clubs, and watching the occasional episode of Downton Abbey. Royce’s friends and colleagues know him for his joie de vivre and his sharp wit, which he often uses to spice up a conversation. He’s been known to say, “I may not be a scholar, but at least I can quote Oscar Wilde.” When asked what he loves most about his job, Royce replies, “I’m happiest when I’m surrounded by books. And I can’t deny the satisfaction of helping a fellow reader find the perfect book for their needs.” In his spare time, you can find Royce sipping tea and dreaming up new ways to make the library an even more inviting space for his patrons. He used ChatGPT to write this biography.
