How Libraries Can Build Connections to Combat Loneliness
***BEFORE YOU REGISTER FOR THIS ON-DEMAND WEBINAR PLEASE REVIEW IMPORTANT REGISTRATION INFORMATION BELOW***
Libraries save lives. Loneliness and social isolation are so rampant in America that the Center for Disease Control calls loneliness an epidemic, exacerbated by COVID. Using programming, community resources, and collection development and display, libraries can address this significant mental (and physical) health condition. This on-demand webinar guides you on how to develop these tools and create a culture of empathy and action by developing micro-communities to combat loneliness.
Recorded live on February 13, 2025.
Learning Outcomes
At the conclusion of this on-demand webinar, participants will be able to:
- Identify existing programs that combat loneliness and modify existing programs to add a social component;
- Utilize, at no cost, outside agencies, institutions, organizations, and businesses to develop a coordinated series of programs both in and outside the library building; and
- Identify areas where staff training can prepare them to help patrons in need of socialization.
Who Should Attend
This on-demand webinar is intended for all public library staff, including directors and administrators.
Panelists
Tony Iovino (he/him) is the assistant director of the Oceanside (NY) Library, a position he has held since January 2015. Prior to joining the Oceanside Library, he was the head of litigation and managing partner of a medium size law firm he co-founded in 1986.
Tony received his BA from the University of Richmond (History and Economics) in 1979, his Juris Doctorate from St. John’s University in 1982, and his MLIS from the University of Kentucky in 2020, where he was the recipient of the Melody Trosper Award for excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service.
Tony has lectured locally and throughout the United States on library topics. He is the chair of the Membership Committee of the New York Library Association and is a published author and poet. He has received a number of awards for his service to the community.
Important Registration Information
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Accommodations
This on-demand webinar is closed captioned in English (United States).
If you have a physical or communication need that may affect your access to this on-demand webinar, please contact us at plawebinars@ala.org or 800-545-2433 ext. 5PLA (5752) prior to registering so we can attempt to provide appropriate accommodations.
Tech Requirements
To play this on-demand webinar you should use a browser with native HTML5 support. Please use the most up-to-date version available of Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, or Edge. A fast Internet connection and computer is recommended.
Contact
This webinar is presented by the Public Library Association (PLA), a division of the American Library Association (ALA).
If you have questions or problems accessing a recording, send a message to plawebinars@ala.org or call 800-545-2433 ext. 5PLA (5752).
