Should It Stay or Should It Go?

Do you feel like you're wasting time putting together programming no one attends? Has your library invested time and money into a program that would positively impact the community, but no one attends? Do you hate the phrase "that's how it's always been done"—but don't know how to get the ball rolling toward doing things differently? 

We've been there too and want to prepare you for the difficult conversations that come with a program overhaul—and show you how you can get past those program fails and reframe them as success. Get the tools to objectively analyze your existing programming, discuss program effectiveness with colleagues and stakeholders, and consider whether or not program resources can be better utilized—or canceled altogether.

By participating in this session, you will:

• Gain tools and information to assist in critically evaluating current program offerings and collections in your library.
• Learn how to objectively analyze your programs to ensure that they are worth the library's financial and staffing investment.
• Discover how to use these tools to assess a program's value in the short term as well as to forecast its long-term success.
• Become empowered to have difficult conversations about your programs' effectiveness with your supervisors, colleagues, and other stakeholders.

About the Instructors

Danielle "Dani" DiAmico (she/her) has worked for the Bay County Library System at the historical Sage Branch since 2016. In 2019 she was awarded the Rising Star award by the Michigan Library Association. She was recognized for developing innovative library collections, collaborating with local elementary schools, and building community through the programming she provides for families. She has a BFA degree from Central Michigan University and an MLIS from Wayne State University. 

Dena Moscheck (she/they) has spent her career in youth services, having worked in large and small libraries in Massachusetts and Michigan. Since 2019, she has worked for the Bay County Library System, currently as their Children's Coordinator. She is passionate about making connections through outreach, partnerships with community organizations, and directly with community members by fostering an environment that celebrates connection and inclusion. She earned her MSLIS from Simmons College in 2012.

This event will be hosted in Zoom. Automatic captions will be enabled for this event. This event will be recorded, and registrants will receive access to the recording once it is available.

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