Bridging the Gap: Communicating Across Generations in the Library Workplace

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By 2034, the iGeneration, also known as Gen Z, is projected to become the largest generation in the workforce, bringing new energy, perspectives, and expectations to the library world. Today’s library teams are more multigenerational than ever, which can lead to both dynamic interactions and communication challenges.

This six-week course explores the growing need for effective communication across multiple generations. Participants will examine generational traits, communication styles, and work preferences while developing empathy, understanding, and greater awareness of generational dynamics. Through engaging discussions, hands-on activities, and mindful strategies, participants will gain practical tools to bridge communication gaps and strengthen team relationships, helping to build a more cohesive, connected library workplace.

Through taking this course, participants will:

  • Identify key traits, values, and communication preferences of different generations in the library workplace
  • Adjust their own communication style to better connect and collaborate across age groups
  • Spot potential generational misunderstandings and take steps to address them respectfully
  • Build a more inclusive, respectful work environment that supports all generations
  • Apply what they’ve learned through real conversations and experiences to strengthen team relationships and boost workplace morale

Weekly Topics & Generational Spotlights:

  • Week 1: Meet the Generations—Understanding the Dynamics of Working with Multi-Generations in the Library

Explore the defining traits, life experiences, and workplace values of the five main generational groups currently working in libraries: Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. We’ll unpack common stereotypes versus reality, reflect on our own communication styles and biases, and set the foundation for cross-generational empathy.

  • Week 2: Speak So We All Hear—Strategies for Effective Multigenerational Communication

Learn communication strategies that bridge generational gaps. Explore how tone, technology, language, and expectations shape understanding—and how to adjust your communication style with awareness and intention.

Spotlight: Millennials & Gen Z—Dive into how these generations connect, give feedback, and navigate digital communication.

  • Week 3: From Conflict to Collaboration—Navigating Teamwork Across Ages

Discover how to leverage generational strengths in teams, address communication challenges, and support inclusive collaboration. We’ll explore conflict resolution techniques and leadership strategies that bring out the best in everyone.

Spotlight: Gen X—Focus on self-reliance, practicality, leadership, and how the work/life balance culture evolved. 

  • Week 4: Building Connections—Real-World Insights Through Interviewing

Build bridges across generations through intentional conversations. Learn interview techniques rooted in active listening and empathy, then conduct an interview with someone from a different generation. 

Spotlight: The Storyteller Generation—Honor the value of wisdom, memory, and lived experience of this generation (Baby Boomers). Invite stories from long-time library professionals to explore what’s changed and what still matters.

  • Week 5: Listening Forward—Understanding & Empowering the Next Generation

Younger generations are already shaping the future of library work. This week focuses on how to support, mentor, and collaborate with Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Learn how to engage their values, listen without judgment, and foster a culture that makes space for their voice.

Spotlight: Gen Z & Gen Alpha—Explore their motivations, leadership styles, communication needs, and what they look for in a supportive work environment.

  • Week 6: Mindful Communication in Action – Sustaining a Positive Workplace Culture

Wrap up the course with a focus on mindfulness in workplace communication. Discover how to stay grounded in conversations, reduce misunderstandings, and promote a culture of thoughtful, inclusive dialogue.

About the Instructor

Kimberli S. Buckley has over fifteen years of experience in the library field working with teens and adults. She is currently the library manager at Concord Library in Contra Costa County, California. Kimberli has a passion for teaching classes on life skills for emerging adults. She teaches at San Jose State University’s School of Information and also teaches an online class called Growing Up Is Hard. She loves to be creative when it comes to library programming, and she has been known to tap into her inner unicorn to bring all her ideas to life. Kimberli has an MLIS degree from San Jose State University and an MA in consciousness studies from John F. Kennedy University.

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact us at ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.

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