June 28, 2024
Dozens of Library professionals attended a day filled with connection, community, laughter, and learning, for the annual meeting held at St. Francis University in Joliet. President Brigitte Bell welcomed us first at the USF Library, then gave a brief tour as we walked over to the Tower Hall Auditorium. Brigitte shared an overview of the past year, thanked us all for our support, and encouraged future engagement by joining the LIBRAS Announcements Listserv.
Treasurer Thom Jencks, was unable to attend so Vice President/President Elect Michelle Boule-Smith provided an overview of the budget, showcasing the increase in professional development grants given this year. Michelle went on to introduce the special interest groups (SIGs) and encouraged everyone to join a group. Past President Matt Ostercamp shared details about the different trainings LIBRAS grants enabled people to attend. Matt strongly encouraged all LIBRAS institution staff to apply for funds.
Anne Craig from CARLI joined us virtually for a short conversation around CARLI’s activities and support for academic libraries. There was a brief update relating to Constellation and finally Brigitte announced Joy Matteson as the incoming Vice President / President Elect.
After the short business meeting we disbanded into small discussion groups listed below, thank you to the amazing facilitators who ensured outstanding conversations.
- How can collection development policies help? (Facilitator Matt Ostercamp)
- Diverse library programing for reluctant students (Facilitators Amber Rubio)
- AI ethics roundtable: Information literacy challenges and opportunities in libraries (Facilitator Nichole Novak and Michelle Vanderwoude)
- Let freedom read: Actionable steps to protect your students’ right to read (Facilitator Julie Perenchio)
- Incentivizing OER on your campus (Facilitator Carolyn Ciesla)
- Nurturing trust at work (Facilitator Brittany Poku)
- Success starts here: First generation college students and the library (Facilitators Abby Mastin)
- Academic Libraries’ role with generative AI on the college campus (Facilitators Arlie Sims)
Finally, we enjoyed a tasty lunch from Los Razos Mexican Grill food truck. A great time was had by all, we hope to see you in 2025!
