Narcan Administration and Workplace Wellness for Library Staff
LACONI Recharge presents: Narcan Administration and Workplace Wellness for Library Staff. This webinar offers two trainings in one package!
First, Lauren Ho of Peer Services will present Narcan Administration. This 30-minute training session will help you recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and administer Narcan (naloxone) to reverse it. Learn practical skills you can use in an emergency.
Then, Trina Bockus of NAMI Metro Suburban will present Compassion and Resilience. This 60-minute workplace wellness presentation explores the effects of stress and trauma on helping professionals. Look at the common symptoms of compassion fatigue, burnout and secondary traumatic symptoms; and learn about personal, intentional self-care that can help us regulate our nervous system and help us retain compassion for those we care about.
Register here. A zoom link will be emailed to registrants one week before the webinar.
SAAM Presents: Leadership Book Discussion (Session 1)
As a leader, having the trust of your team can be critical to the overall success of your organization. Join LACONI SAAM for one of three book discussions designed for library leaders. We'll be discussing The Trifecta of Trust by Joseph R. Folkman. In his book, he focuses on three core behaviors—Expertise, Consistency, and Positive Relationships. Join this discussion around how to build and keep trust. Bring your own experiences to share and come away with new techniques to try out. Refreshments will be served. Space is limited.
The program agenda will be the same on each date (3/16, 3/18 and 3/19).
SAAM Presents: Leadership Book Discussion (Session 2)
As a leader, having the trust of your team can be critical to the overall success of your organization. Join LACONI SAAM for one of three book discussions designed for library leaders. We'll be discussing The Trifecta of Trust by Joseph R. Folkman. In his book, he focuses on three core behaviors—Expertise, Consistency, and Positive Relationships. Join this discussion around how to build and keep trust. Bring your own experiences to share and come away with new techniques to try out. Space is limited.
The program agenda will be the same on each date (3/16, 3/18 and 3/19).
Register
SAAM Presents: Leadership Book Discussion (Session 3)
As a leader, having the trust of your team can be critical to the overall success of your organization. Join LACONI SAAM for one of three book discussions designed for library leaders. We'll be discussing The Trifecta of Trust by Joseph R. Folkman. In his book, he focuses on three core behaviors—Expertise, Consistency, and Positive Relationships. Join this discussion around how to build and keep trust. Bring your own experiences to share and come away with new techniques to try out. Refreshments will be served. Space is limited.
The program agenda will be the same on each date (3/16, 3/18 and 3/19).
Register
I Found a Grant: Now What?
LACONI Recharge and RAILS invite you to this online workshop.
Join Dr. Ruth Gomberg to learn the key components of a grant — what to do when you find a grant, what tools you need to complete it, and how to ensure you are meeting the requirements. Submit your grant questions at registration to help curate the agenda!
Trustee Banquet
The LACONI Trustee Banquet is an event that unites community leaders, donors, and supporters to celebrate our organization's achievements and further our mission of providing ongoing education for library professionals at all levels, as well as networking opportunities for library trustees.
This year, our keynote address will focus on strategic planning, with several speakers sharing their experiences using a consultant and doing it in-house. We recognize the crucial role that both elected and appointed public library trustees play in shaping our communities. In Illinois, libraries are vital hubs for information, education, and resources, promoting lifelong learning and fostering community connections. Our annual banquet provides an opportunity to acknowledge the advocates of these initiatives and their commitment to enhancing the lives of residents throughout Illinois.
Choose Your Own Adventure: A Youth Services Unconference
Join LACONI’s Youth Services Section for a day of participant led discussion and resource sharing as we learn from each other. Choose Your Own Adventure: A Youth Services Unconference will provide the opportunity to choose between breakout session topics that best fit your interests and goals. Complete the poll for breakout session topics when you register.
What to Expect:
9:30-10am-Refreshments and Networking
10-11am: Opening group session and presentation
11:15am-noon: Break out session #1
Noon-1:15pm: Lunch (on your own)
1:15-2pm: Break out session #2
2:15-3pm: Break out session #3
3:15-4pm: Break out session #4
4pm: Tour of Wheaton Public Library Youth Services Department (optional)
Register here.
Please register with your library email so LACONI can verify your membership. Not sure if your library is a member? View our list of member libraries.
Inclusive Minds: A Neurodiversity Workshop for Library Professionals
Join LACONI YSS and Northwestern University Professor Stephanie Boron for a professional workshop focused on understanding neurodiversity and building neuro-affirming practices. Participants will gain practical insights and strategies to create more inclusive, supportive services for patrons and community members of all neurotypes.
What to Expect:
12:30 PM- Refreshments and Networking
1 PM - All Brains Welcome: Creating Community Spaces for Minds of All Kinds is a practical, approachable workshop designed to support library professionals in building spaces where neurodivergent community members feel understood, supported, and welcome. The session begins with vocabulary and core concepts related to neurodiversity, grounding this knowledge in lived experiences of neurodivergent people and families. From there, participants move into concrete, library-relevant tools, tips, and examples that can be applied across spaces, programs, and daily interactions. Leave with tangible takeaways and conversation starters to support ongoing reflection, staff dialogue, and continued growth at your library.
This event is free for LACONI members. Please register with your library email so LACONI can verify your membership
LACONI Recharge Library Tour Series: Harold Washington Library Center
Join the LACONI Recharge Section for a tour of the Harold Washington Library Center. Meet the staff and learn about the history, architecture and design of the library as well as discuss the issues associated with those aspects.
Meet other library workers while experiencing the ins and outs of a library that may be new to you. A library after hours social will follow at a nearby bar/restaurant.
This event is free for LACONI Member Institutions. Not sure if you're a member? Check our website here.
TSS Acquisitons Round-Up
Representatives from Brodart, Ingram, Libraria, Follett Content, Midwest Tape, and Penworthy will present an overview of their services.
Register here
TSS Planning Committee
Planning meeting of the Technical Services Section. Contact Joy Anhalt if interested. janhalt@tplibrary.org
LACONI CSS Presents: Standing Ovation Customer Service
To execute excellent customer service, we need to look at it from a different perspective. That perspective is a personal one!
Elevate your customer service skills with this fun, engaging, and ALA-aligned training program! Martina is an energetic and engaging speaker who will give us a fresh understanding on what customer service excellence is and how to execute it. Learn the fundamentals of body language, develop methodologies for handling difficult interactions, and expand and develop Core Customer Service Competencies as directed by the ALA. Bring a coworker and come early to network and enjoy a light snack and coffee!
TSS: Unconference
Join us for LACONI TSS and COD present: Technical Services Unconference
A collaborative gathering for Technical Services professionals — where structured conversations spark spontaneous insights. Conversations, ideas and solutions from the people who know your challenges best — your colleagues.
Register here
LACONI Technology and RAILS Presents: Integrating AI into Your Library
LACONI Technology Section and RAILS are teaming up to present:
Integrating AI into Your Library: AI Literacy and Detection
Presented by Bree Kirsch, Director of the Schewe Library, Illinois College
How is generative AI changing library services, and how can librarians keep up? This session explores the impact of AI on libraries and offers practical guidance on detecting and evaluating AI-generated content. Based on Dr. Kara Kennedy’s AI Literacy Framework, participants will learn key concepts in AI literacy and gain tools to recognize AI-generated images, video, and audio.
We'll also discuss how to thoughtfully integrate AI tools into library programs and reference services, while addressing essential ethical and privacy considerations.
Topics include:
Core AI concepts and common generative models (text, image, audio, video)
Applying the AI Literacy Framework in library settings
Spotting deepfakes and AI-generated content
Ethical and privacy challenges in using AI in libraries
Learning outcomes:
Understand the differences between major types of generative AI
Apply core concepts from the AI Literacy Framework
Identify signs of AI-generated media
Recognize key ethical and privacy issues related to AI in libraries
Can’t attend the live presentation but want to catch up later?
The session will be recorded and uploaded to the official LACONI YouTube page at a later date.
To register, click here.
LACONI POP Presents: Civic Literacy & Collaboration
Monday, November 10, 10:00 am – 11:30 am via Zoom
Learn how area libraries are bringing civic literacy to patrons through programming and collaboration with community partners:
Peggy Kell, member of the League of Women Voters of Oak Park and River Forest, will discuss the League’s partnership with the Oak Park Public Library in promoting civic literacy through municipal election candidate forums.
Get firsthand insight into running candidate forums from Nikki Camp, Programs and Exhibits Coordinator at Arlington Heights Memorial Library.
Learn about the Political Scientist in Residence project from Vernon Area Public Library staff, Ashley Johnson and Roz Topolski, recipients of the 2025 Illinois Library Association Innovative Programs and Service Award.
LACONI YSS Presents: Everything Babies and Toddlers
Join LACONI Youth Services Section for a mini conference all about babies and toddlers!
LACONI Recharge: Serving Patrons in Unique Circumstances Part-2: Front Frontline Staff
Back by demand! Part 2 of our series for library staff on serving patrons in crisis. Panels, Q&A, and real-world strategies.
How can frontline library employees address the needs of patrons experiencing housing issues, mental illness, addiction, and other stressful circumstances? How can frontline staff provide accurate resources within their roles? Library social workers, directors, managers, and a crisis hotline professional will demonstrate models and advice for navigating through unique and difficult patron situations. With two panel discussions and a Q&A session, there will be ample opportunities to ask questions and network at this interactive mini-conference.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Keynote - Mimi Haze
Mimi Haze is a Certified Recovery Support Specialist with five years of experience in mental healthcare.
10:30 AM - 10:35 AM
Break
10:35 AM - 11:35 AM
Panelist stories and insights
Joining us for this morning panelist stories and insight are Jennifer Hovanec, Laurie Papdourakis, Liz Reyes, Thalma Brooms, and Denice Alanis
11:35 AM - 11:40 AM
Break
11:40 AM - 1:00 PM
Q&A
For a lively discussion, please bring any questions you have for our lovely panelist.
To register, click here.
LACONI TSS Who do we order from now?
Come discuss where you are ordering from now that B&T is shutting down.
Register here
LACONI Recharge Library Tour Series: Gerber/Hart Library & Leather Archives
Join the LACONI Recharge Section for a tour of the Gerber/Hart Library and Leather Archives & Museum. Meet the staff and learn about the history, architecture and design of the library as well as discuss the issues associated with those aspects.
Meet other library workers while experiencing the ins and outs of a library that may be new to you. A library after hours social will follow at Hamburger Mary's.
Documentation in Action
Are you looking for insight from other professionals regarding documentation? Come listen to our panelist of rockstars, and take the first step towards becoming a better communicator through effective documentation.
Join LACONI SAAM for a follow-up to our 2024 program, Documentation is Communication. Documentation in Action is a virtual program in which speakers will discuss the importance of documentation as it relates to communication across branches and departments, multi-generational communication in the workplace, and crisis communication.
No matter your library size, department makeup, or platform for communication, our panel of like-minded individuals will share their experiences and best practices. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your communication skills!
This will be a live event only, and it will not be recorded.
Interested in speaking? Express your interest via email to laconisaam@gmail.com by May 31 with a brief description of your topic, relevant experience, and key takeaways for attendees.
Registration opens August 4.
LACONI POP: Sustainability in Action: Programs & Practices (PART TWO)
Sustainability in Action: Programs & Practices (Part Two) will explore sustainable library practices that can be integrated into your library’s policies, procedures, and daily operations. Rebekkah Smith Aldrich (Co-Founder, Sustainable Libraries Initiative; Executive Director, Mid-Hudson Library System) will discuss the Sustainable Libraries Initiative Certification Program and how libraries can become more “environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically feasible.” Mandi Goodsett (Performing Arts and Humanities Librarian, Cleveland State University) and Evan Meszaros (Research and Engagement Librarian, Case Western Reserve University) will share their Library Swag Sustainability Rubric and practical examples of sustainable library swag. Martha Hanson (Director, Woodstock Library) will present on integrating an in-house food pantry and other passive swap programs into daily library life, benefiting both staff and patrons.
LACONI Unconference 2025
Register here for LACONI’s Unconference, presented by LACONI SAAM and LACONI Recharge.
Come ready to design your own conference. Join the Recharge and Supervisors, Administrators & Managers (SAAM) sections of LACONI to celebrate our collective expertise by discussing any library-related topics at our third annual unconference. You will help to determine the topics discussed for the half day unconference when you arrive, so come with an open mind and be ready to network.
Breakfast, snacks and coffee will be served
TSS: Book Repair
Book Doctor Workshops provide book care training aiming to keep your collections circulating longer. Lunch included. Please bring scissors!
Stronger Together: Networking Toward More Accessible Libraries
LACONI Recharge presents Stronger Together: Networking Toward More Accessible Libraries
Build your accessibility network at this energizing unconference. Whether you have expertise to share on a specific topic or want to discover what’s working in other libraries, this is the perfect chance to connect, mentor, learn, and find new inspiration.
Peer facilitators will guide discussions on a range of accessibility related topics including library spaces and physical accommodations, adaptive technology in the library, neurodivergent affirming programs and services, accessible collections, and neurodiversity staff training.
This event is ideal for library professionals of all roles, as well as MLIS students.
CANCELED: LACONI Recharge Library Tour Series: Arlington Heights Memorial Library
This program has been canceled. Stay tuned for future tours from LACONI.
LACONI Trustee Banquet
The LACONI Trustee Banquet brings together community leaders, donors, and supporters to celebrate our organization's accomplishments and further our mission of providing continuing education for library professionals at all levels and networking opportunities for library trustees. This year, we are thrilled to welcome Chicago authors Rebecca Makkai and Juan Martinez in conversation with RAILS Executive Director Monica Harris.
CSS Presents: The Time Bomb: Get Control Before Things Explode! with Martina Mathisen
The Time Bomb: Get Control Before Things Explode! Personalized Productivity Take control of time before things explode! A fun twist with time management.
Secure a ticket and register here.
TSS: World Language Vendors
Join us for an interactive panel with World Language Vendors that are serving our libraries. Vendors include Ingram, Libraria, DK Agencies, WEPA Libros and India for Everyone.
Register here
Recharge & YSS: Youth Mental Health First Aid Training
Dispel stigma and judgments towards mental illness -- support your friends, family members, and community by increasing your knowledge and confidence in mental health advocacy. Join NAMI Metro Suburban to learn how to identify, understand, and respond to mental health challenges during this full day certification training.
Registration will be open until April 25, 2024. Lunch, snacks and light beverages will be provided. We encourage people to bring their favorite reusable cup to use throughout the day.
This event is free for LACONI member libraries and $15 for non-members.
LACONI POP: Library Services for Immigration and Citizenship
Moving to a new country, becoming acclimated to a new environment, and applying for citizenship is a daunting hurdle for many immigrants. People often turn to their local library for help, but frequently their library doesn't offer much beyond reading material and research databases. Join us for a Zoom webinar to learn what different libraries have done to further assist patrons, as well as legal issues for libraries to consider when offering these services.
A Q&A session will follow the presentation.
Our Presenters —
Maria Cifuentes from the Aurora Public Library District will talk about how their library has assisted their immigrant community with citizenship and naturalization questions.
Margie Ramirez from the Spanish Community Center will discuss how their organization has partnered with local libraries to provide their services.
Katie Nagy, attorney from Ancel Glink, will discuss the legal concerns that may come up for library workers when providing immigration and naturalization assistance.
Register to join the event. This webinar will be recorded.
Mental Health First Aid Training
Join LACONI-SAAM for a day long workshop to become certified in Mental Health First Aid. Leave better equipped to identify, understand, and respond to signs of addictions and mental illnesses.
Sertoma Star Services and NAMI South Suburbs of Chicago are co-sponsoring this 8 hour certification course that teaches participants what signs and symptoms to look for in someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis, then provides a 5 step action plan on how to assist them and get them to the correct professional help.
The course will be delivered by a certified instructor, following a national curriculum, emphasizing a hope for recovery. Learning is comprised of group discussions, scenario-based activities, shared lived experiences, PowerPoint presentation and videos. Class is limited to 30 participants.
Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Registration opens March 10 and will close on April 1. Learn more and register here.
CSS -LACONI CSS Presents: Keeping Cool Under Pressure with Martina Mathisen
Please join LACONI as we welcome Martina Mathisen. Martina is an educational entertainer who has given more than 200 presentions for libraries and fundraising organizations.
Martina will share strategies for front line staff on how to deal with a variety of situations and keep cool under pressure in the moment.
Secure a spot by registering here. Eventbrite
Management Book Discussion Session 2
Join LACONI's Supervisors, Administrators, and Managers Section for a second session of an engaging and insightful discussion of Radical Candor, the transformative book by Kim Scott that explores how leaders can effectively build relationships of trust and accountability within their teams.
TSS Planning Committee
Technical Services Section planning meeting via Zoom. Contact Joy Anhalt if you would like to join us. janhalt@tplibrary.org
Management Book Discussion Session 1
Join LACONI's Supervisors, Administrators, and Managers Section for an engaging and insightful discussion of Radical Candor, the transformative book by Kim Scott that explores how leaders can effectively build relationships of trust and accountability within their teams.
TSS: Book Cataloging
Are you new to RDA guidelines or just need a refresher? Did the holidays push your cataloging knowledge out of your brain? If so, then please join us for RDA Book Cataloging with Bobby Bothmann.
Register here