From the CE Team

STEM Fairs and Summer Reading Summits Have Wrapped!

We had so much fun out and about around the state at the STEM Fairs and Summer Reading Summits in March. Thank you to all our presenters, host sites, and attendees for making them a success!

Apologies to our friends in Northwest District whose events got snowed out, but we did snag a few fun pictures from each of the other events around the state. Take a look at the album linked below.

We hope to offer these events again in the future! Attendees, be sure to complete your evaluations so we know what you liked and what we could improve. If you weren't able to attend, but have thoughts to share, you can always reach out to the CE Team at [email protected].

View the 2023 STEM Fairs & Summer Reading Summits Album

Newly-Added Events

Big Ideas Book Discussion
Friday, May 19, 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Next up in the Big Ideas Book Discussion series is “Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect” (c2022), a debut title by Will Guidara. Since customer service is always top-of-mind in public libraries, this book about transforming customer experiences is sure to connect in ways large and small.

More Information & Registration

Boardroom Series: Pay it Forward Checklist

Thursday, May 25, 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

This webinar suggests practical approaches that help pave the way for new directors and ease the learning curve. We’ll look at a “Pay It Forward Checklist,” an annual calendar of program deadlines, and the board’s involvement in helping their directors through this period of adjustment. Plus, library boards should work on their own brand of transition planning … ideas for that, too!

More Information & Registration

Library for the Blind (May 2023) | 
Screen Readers in Your Library

Thursday, May 11, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

This webinar will provide information about screen readers (JAWS, Voiceover, NVDA, Narrator), An overview of NVDA (free option for all) will be provided including how to install and use on public computers. We’ll also highlight keyboard shortcuts that any user will find helpful.

More Information & Registration

Additional Upcoming Events

Pop YS Live (April 2023) | The Whole Book Approach

Wednesday, April 11, 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Discover the difference between reading to children and reading with children. This approach helps adults create an active, discussion-based reading experience for children that builds observation and critical-thinking skills. This session will be presented by Courtney Waring of the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art.

More Information & Registration

Library for the Blind (April 2023) | 
Etiquette: Providing Customer Services to Individuals Who are Blind

Thursday, April 13, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The staff from the Iowa Department for the Blind will provide general etiquette examples and useful customer service tips for serving individuals who are blind.

More Information & Registration

Click here to View More Information About State Library of Iowa CE Newsletter - March 31, 2023