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We look forward to seeing you at the Utah Library Association’s 2026 Annual Conference at the Utah Valley Convention Center in Provo, Utah!

Monday, May 18
 

8:00am MDT

Registration
Monday May 18, 2026 8:00am - 4:30pm MDT

Monday May 18, 2026 8:00am - 4:30pm MDT
Level 3 North Prefunction

8:30am MDT

Quiet Space
Monday May 18, 2026 8:30am - 4:30pm MDT

Monday May 18, 2026 8:30am - 4:30pm MDT
Level 2 North Prefunction

9:00am MDT

Silent Auction
Monday May 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT

Monday May 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT

9:00am MDT

From the Ground Up: Building a New Foundation for Information Literacy at Weber State
Monday May 18, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm MDT
There have been many changes to higher education in Utah recently, and many directly impact our libraries. At Weber State, it has been particularly consequential for our information literacy (IL) education program: our long-standing IL General Education requirement is ending, and a new program to sustainably deliver high-quality IL education is needed. To that end, a team of librarians spent...
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Speakers
avatar for Angela Beatie

Angela Beatie

Social Science Librarian, Weber State University
avatar for Miranda Kispert

Miranda Kispert

Science Librarian, Weber State University
Monday May 18, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Cascade D

9:00am MDT

Slow Practices for Librarians
Monday May 18, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm MDT
The Slow Movement began in the 1980s as an objection to fast food restaurants in Rome, but it has since been applied to fashion, art, education, and other areas of life. Where modern society pressures us to speed up and become more efficient, the Slow Movement encourages mindfulness, environmental sustainability, intentional practices, deep attention, joy—even a different relationship with time....
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Speakers
TP

Toni Pilcher

Library Instructor, Brigham Young University
Monday May 18, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Cascade C

10:30am MDT

Morning Break
Monday May 18, 2026 10:30am - 10:40am MDT

Monday May 18, 2026 10:30am - 10:40am MDT
Level 3 North Prefunction

12:00pm MDT

Lunch - On Your Own
Monday May 18, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT

Monday May 18, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Lunch - Location of Your Choice

1:30pm MDT

After Rejection: Giving “Failed” Applicants a Chance to Thrive
Monday May 18, 2026 1:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
We’ve all had a job application rejected. But what if “no” wasn’t the end? This session will describe how one university library department, after a completed search for a faculty librarian, reached out to some of the so-called “failed” applicants to offer adjunct positions, training workshops, cohort support, and mentorship. Weber State’s Stewart Library gained four much-needed new...
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Speakers
avatar for Miranda Kispert

Miranda Kispert

Science Librarian, Weber State University
Monday May 18, 2026 1:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
Cascade D

1:30pm MDT

Archives 101: Intro to Archives
Monday May 18, 2026 1:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
This workshop session is sponsored by the Archives, Manuscripts, and Special Collections (AMSC) Roundtable. We will feature several archive workers from across the state, each giving a short presentation on their archival career, followed by a brief Q&A. This session is designed to provide newcomers with a broad overview of the archival profession. We hope to provide a platform for a diverse array...
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Speakers
KY

Katie Yeo

Brigham Young University
Katie Yeo is the 19th and 20th Century Americana Catalog Librarian at the Brigham Young University Library in Utah. She is also a former solo librarian at the Utah State Hospital Library. She is passionate about topics such as metadata accessibility and inclusive cataloging.
Monday May 18, 2026 1:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
Cascade C

3:00pm MDT

Afternoon Break
Monday May 18, 2026 3:00pm - 3:10pm MDT

Monday May 18, 2026 3:00pm - 3:10pm MDT
Level 3 North Prefunction

5:00pm MDT

Craft and Connect
Monday May 18, 2026 5:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
Unleash your creativity and unwind after a full day at the ULA Annual Conference! This self-guided craft session is the perfect chance to relax and recharge while mingling with fellow attendees. Whether you’re a crafting pro or just in it for the vibes, all materials will be provided.
Monday May 18, 2026 5:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
The Provo Marriott Hotel Lobby 101 W 100 N, Provo, UT 84601

5:30pm MDT

5K Fun Run/Walk/Stroll
Monday May 18, 2026 5:30pm - 7:00pm MDT
Come join us for a relaxing walk/jog along the scenic Provo River.


Location:


Description:

  • No signup or registration needed.


Moderators
DB

Dan Broadbent

Brigham Young University
Monday May 18, 2026 5:30pm - 7:00pm MDT
Provo River Park 335 N. Geneva Rd, Provo, UT

6:30pm MDT

Dinner Social w/ Mentoring and Networking Roundtable: Joe Vera's Mexican Restaurant
Monday May 18, 2026 6:30pm - 8:30pm MDT
Join us for dinner at Joe Vera's Mexican Restaurant! Spend time with colleagues from around the state before the main conference kicks off. Joe Vera's is located directly across Center Street from the Utah Valley Convention Center. RSVP is not required, but will help us to give the restaurant a head count. Food will not be provided by ULA.Location: Joe Vera's Mexican Restaurant...
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Monday May 18, 2026 6:30pm - 8:30pm MDT
Joe Vera's Mexican Restaurant 201 W Center Street, Provo, UT 84601
 
Tuesday, May 19
 

7:30am MDT

Early Morning Coffee Service
Tuesday May 19, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am MDT

Tuesday May 19, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am MDT
Level 3 North Prefunction

7:30am MDT

Registration
Tuesday May 19, 2026 7:30am - 4:00pm MDT

Tuesday May 19, 2026 7:30am - 4:00pm MDT
Level 3 North Prefunction

8:00am MDT

Health Roundtable (HEART) Meeting
Tuesday May 19, 2026 8:00am - 8:20am MDT
Business meeting for members of the Health Roundtable (HEART), or attendees who are interested in HEART.
Speakers
avatar for George Strawley

George Strawley

Engagement Specialist, Network of the National Library of Medicine Region 4
As an engagement specialist with the Network of the National Library of Medicine, George Strawley, M.L.I.S., works on funding and training aimed at increasing and enhancing access to reliable health information. George is a member of the NNLM Telehealth Interest Group. He works for... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 8:00am - 8:20am MDT
Hobble Creek

8:30am MDT

ULA President's Address & Lisa Varga Keynote
Tuesday May 19, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am MDT
Lisa Varga Keynote: "Beyond the Honeymoon Phase: Reflections on 13 months at the ALA Washington Office"When Lisa Varga assumed the role of Chief Advocacy Officer at the American Library Association, she changed zip codes and stepped into the epicenter of a shifting national discourse. Moving to Washington, D.C., during a period of historic political and social volatility, Lisa faced the dual...
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Speakers
avatar for Michael Whitchurch

Michael Whitchurch

OER & Media Literacy Librarian, Brigham Young University
Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University
avatar for Lisa Varga

Lisa Varga

Chief Advocacy Officer, American Library Association's Public Policy and Advocacy Office
Lisa Varga is the Chief Advocacy Officer of the American Library Association’s Public Policy and Advocacy Office in Washington, DC. Prior to that, she had been the Executive Director of the Virginia Library Association for 15 years. Lisa also served as Chair of the Virginia Beach... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am MDT
Ballroom BC - Level 2

9:00am MDT

Quiet Space
Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT

Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Level 2 North Prefunction

9:45am MDT

Morning Break & Exhibit Hall Opens
Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:45am - 10:10am MDT

Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:45am - 10:10am MDT
Ballroom A - Level 2

9:45am MDT

Headshots with Career Services
Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:45am - 1:45pm MDT
Career Services is offering free headshots for professional purposes! Times are available on Tuesday May 19th. The location is to be determined within the conference venue, but you will receive an email with additional information.

Questions? Email [email protected]

Link to sign up: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1paQX6exHmOCUo3t0IaGn8w0OKT4ffXG7bylbxNkZARE/edit?usp=sharing
Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:45am - 1:45pm MDT
TBA

9:45am MDT

Career Services Booth
Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:45am - 3:00pm MDT
The Career Services Booth is located in the Exhibit Hall and will be staffed during the morning and afternoon breaks:
9:45-10:10am
2:30-3pm
Speakers
avatar for Angela Beatie

Angela Beatie

Social Science Librarian, Weber State University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:45am - 3:00pm MDT
Ballroom A - Level 2

9:45am MDT

Posters
Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:45am - 5:00pm MDT
Posters will be on display Tuesday and Wednesday in the Level 2 East Prefunction area. Poster titles and presenters are available below. See the Posters page for the full poster descriptions.From the Dust: Introducing a History of the Health Sciences Archives and Lab — Bryan Hull & Carmin SmootUsing AI to Add Tables of Contents and Summaries to Cataloging Records — Marissa Bischoff &...
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Speakers
avatar for George Strawley

George Strawley

Engagement Specialist, Network of the National Library of Medicine Region 4
As an engagement specialist with the Network of the National Library of Medicine, George Strawley, M.L.I.S., works on funding and training aimed at increasing and enhancing access to reliable health information. George is a member of the NNLM Telehealth Interest Group. He works for... Read More →
avatar for Heidi Taylor

Heidi Taylor

Public Services Librarian, North Logan City Library
I am deeply passionate about Youth Services and strongly believe in centering youth voices in everything we do. I value opportunities that actively engage teens and empower them to share their ideas and opinions about library programs, collections, and how we can better serve them... Read More →
avatar for David Bird

David Bird

RASRT Past Chair, REFORMA interim President, Salt Lake County Library
Library Manager
Ruth Vine Tyler Library, Salt Lake County Library Services
CW

Christina Walsh

Taylorsville Branch Manager, Salt Lake County
avatar for Leonides Ortiz

Leonides Ortiz

Senior Librarian, Salt Lake County Library
I am a Senior Librarian with the Salt Lake County Library's Community Engagement team.
GD

Gordon Daines

Director of the Journal of Western Archives; Curator, L. Tom Perry Special Collections, Brigham Young University; Journal of Western Archives
J. Gordon Daines III is the Research and Instruction Services archivist and the Yellowstone National Park collection curator in the L. Tom Perry Special Collections at Brigham Young University. He also serves as the director of the Journal of Western Archives.
avatar for Duane Wilson

Duane Wilson

Assessment Facilitator, Brigham Young University
I work as an Assessment Facilitator in the Assessment Department of the BYU Library.
avatar for Jen Kirk

Jen Kirk

Government Information Librarian, Utah State University
avatar for Ellen Amatangelo

Ellen Amatangelo

Scholarly Publishing Manager, Brigham Young University
avatar for Marissa Bischoff

Marissa Bischoff

Humanities & European Studies Catalog Librarian, Brigham Young University Lee Library
avatar for Nancy Moos

Nancy Moos

Youth Services Librarian, Salt Lake County Library System
I am a youth services librarian specializing in programs for school-age children. I love art and STEM programs and anything that encourages children to read!
avatar for Kori Robbins

Kori Robbins

Library Relations Manager, FamilySearch Library
Kori Robbins, AG®, manages the team that oversees FamilySearch affiliates, which include libraries, museums, and archives. She holds a BA in Family History/Genealogy from Brigham Young University and is accredited in research in England. Alongside her husband, H.J., she tag teams... Read More →
AG

Adam Griggs

Brigham Young University
avatar for Cory Nimer

Cory Nimer

University Archivist, Brigham Young University
Cory Nimer is the University Archivist at the L. Tom Perry Special Collections at Brigham Young University. He received a Masters of Arts degree in History from Sonoma State University and a Masters of Library and Information Science degree from San Jose State University, and he is... Read More →
avatar for Bryan Hull

Bryan Hull

Assistant Librarian, Head, Digital Publishing, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah
avatar for Carmin Smoot

Carmin Smoot

Program Manager, Historical Collections, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah
CB

Cherie Bush

FamilySearch
Booth(s)-221, 223, 225, 227, 320, 322, 324, 326 Provider of tools and resources for records preservation and online access.
avatar for Sandra Joseph

Sandra Joseph

FamilySearch
avatar for Paul Daybell

Paul Daybell

Special Collections Librarian, Utah State University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 9:45am - 5:00pm MDT
Level 2 East Prefunction

10:00am MDT

Technical Services Roundtable (TSRT) Meeting: TSRT Presents Breaking News from the RDA Steering Committee
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Business meeting for members of the Technical Services Roundtable (TSRT), or attendees who are interested in TSRT.
Speakers
avatar for Milan Pohontsch

Milan Pohontsch

Cataloger, Brigham Young University
Genealogy, scuba diving
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Boardroom

10:10am MDT

Attitudes, Behaviors, and Beliefs: The Psychology of Library Instruction
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
The Librarian is in! Librarians don't typically provide psychiatric advice, such as Lucy van Pelt from the Peanuts comic strip. However, we do consider the psychological concept of dispositions in our instruction and interactions with patrons. Dispositions are “any of a number of enduring characteristics that describe or determine an individual’s behavior across a variety of situations and...
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Speakers
avatar for Betsy Hopkins

Betsy Hopkins

Nursing Librarian, Brigham Young University
Betsy Hopkins is the Nursing Librarian at Brigham Young University. She is interested in the use of metrics in research evaluation and preparing students to succeed in today's complex information environment. She has curated exhibits on Florence Nightingale and early Utah women in... Read More →
avatar for Anne R. Diekema

Anne R. Diekema

Assoc. Professor/Dept. Chair, Southern Utah University
Anne Diekema is Department Chair of the Library & Information Science department at Southern Utah University's Sherratt Library. Anne teaches information literacy and library research skills and studies how to best prepare students for information problem solving in school, profession... Read More →
avatar for Brandon Patterson

Brandon Patterson

University of Utah, Eccles Health Sciences Library
avatar for Nena Schvaneveldt

Nena Schvaneveldt

Associate Librarian, University of Utah Eccles Health Sciences Library
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
Cascade E

10:10am MDT

Finding Your Feet: Harnessing the Power of Collaboration and Co-mentoring for Professional Development
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
As a group of seven faculty librarians hired in the same year at a large academic library, we formed a cohort to help support one another in our new roles and navigate the oft-confusing organizational forays and multi-layered processes of our positions. As catalogers and subject specialists from across the humanities and social sciences, we have found that our group—which we have affectionately...
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Speakers
CD

Cassandra Danielson

Art & Design Librarian, Brigham Young University
AG

Adam Griggs

Brigham Young University
JT

Jessica Tuwun

Brigham Young University
avatar for Brian Wages

Brian Wages

History and Political Science Librarian, Brigham Young University
KY

Katie Yeo

Brigham Young University
Katie Yeo is the 19th and 20th Century Americana Catalog Librarian at the Brigham Young University Library in Utah. She is also a former solo librarian at the Utah State Hospital Library. She is passionate about topics such as metadata accessibility and inclusive cataloging.
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
Cascade D

10:10am MDT

ULA 101
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
A how-to session for ULA Annual Conference attendees. Learn to navigate the exhibits, decipher the conference program, how ULA really works, and ways to get involved. Ask questions and hear from active ULA members about staying connected and engaged in the ULA organization and how to make the most of your professional development.
Speakers
avatar for Caroline Macfarlane

Caroline Macfarlane

Children’s Librarian, Provo City Library

Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
Cascade A

10:10am MDT

Don't Self-Opt Out of Career Opportunities: Proceed with Confidence
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
While reflecting on your career in the past, have you ever stepped back from an opportunity that you wanted because you doubted yourself? In the workplace, confidence often gets mistaken for competence, and that means talented employees can be overlooked simply because they hesitate. The truth is that confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s a skill you can build. This session will...
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Speakers
avatar for Valerie Mendoza

Valerie Mendoza

BYU Library
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
Hobble Creek

10:10am MDT

Better Together: Library Outreach and Community Resilience
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
We will relate our small library’s successes turning outward. Partnering with local organizations and non-profits, our library team shows up to support their events, creating lasting relationships and having tons of fun. This strengthens social networks, builds the library’s relevance and fosters library advocacy. We will demonstrate how libraries can contribute to the development of resilient...
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Speakers
avatar for Charlotte Hurley

Charlotte Hurley

Youth Services Manager, Grand County Public Library


JM

Jessie Magleby

Adult Services Manager, Grand County Public Library
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
Cascade C

10:10am MDT

Programming Burnout
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
Even if we love doing library programming, it's easy to get burnt out. In this presentation, we'll discuss burn out, tips for recovering from burn out, easy programs to do when you're burnt out, and programming resources for when you think you can't possibly come up with another program idea.
Speakers
EP

Emily Pearce

Tween Librarian & Reference Librarian, Springville Public Library & Provo City Library
Tween Librarian at Springville Public Library
Reference Librarian at Provo City Library
MLIS Graduate from Emporia State University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
Cascade B

10:10am MDT

Cataloging 101: What Do You Mean I Have to Catalog?!
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
Librarians often wear many hats, and for some, cataloging may be an expectation they were not expecting. What do these librarians need to know, in order to best catalog for their institution? In this session, attendees will learn the basics regarding cataloging, RDA, and MARC formats. They will gain a basic understanding of the history and importance of the technical skill of cataloging and its...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Banks

Amy Banks

Rural Collection and Cataloging Librarian, Utah State Library Division
avatar for India-Bleu Niehoff

India-Bleu Niehoff

Cataloging Librarian, Utah State Library Division
Tuesday May 19, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am MDT
Soldier Creek

11:10am MDT

Source Fight: An Information Literacy Card Game
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Library patrons tend to view source evaluation as determining which sources are good and which ones are bad. To invite them to a deeper understanding of information literacy, a team of student employees at the BYU Library developed a card game called Source Fight for library instruction. Participants in this session will learn about the research principles embedded in this game, explore ways to...
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Speakers
TP

Toni Pilcher

Library Instructor, Brigham Young University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Cascade C

11:10am MDT

From Assessment to Transcription: AI in Real Library Work
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Artificial intelligence is already changing how libraries do their work—from everyday assessment to large-scale digitization and access projects. In this joint session, we’ll start with practical ways generative AI can strengthen library assessment. You’ll see examples of how AI tools can help generate assessment questions and ideas, speed up analysis, and produce clear, professional...
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Speakers
avatar for Duane Wilson

Duane Wilson

Assessment Facilitator, Brigham Young University
I work as an Assessment Facilitator in the Assessment Department of the BYU Library.
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Soldier Creek

11:10am MDT

The Lawyer Is In: Library Legislation over Time
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
We will present an overview of copyright litigation that has affected libraries. The session will provide a hands-on look at specific cases and how they have affected and changed library work over time. A lawyer from the BYU Copyright Office will comment on each case and librarians will discuss the impact of these cases on library policy. This will help alleviate librarian's fear of copyright and...
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Speakers
avatar for Ellen Amatangelo

Ellen Amatangelo

Scholarly Publishing Manager, Brigham Young University
avatar for Marissa Bischoff

Marissa Bischoff

Humanities & European Studies Catalog Librarian, Brigham Young University Lee Library
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Cascade A

11:10am MDT

Our Path to Unity: A Reflective Case Study in Library Integration
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
What happens when two library systems become one? Intermountain Health Library Services recently completed a merger of two library systems. Join us as we reflect on our journey to become a unified library system, reshaping our foundational elements of people, collections, infrastructure, and policies. We will share key insights from this journey, and highlight the successes, challenges, and...
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Speakers
DC

Dave Castelli

Sr. Medical Librarian, Intermountain Medical Center
I like trains. I have 100 miles left to drive the full length of the Mississippi River from the headwaters to the gulf on the Great River Road.
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Cascade D

11:10am MDT

Reflecting on the First Year of Health Outreach at the Library
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
The Health Outreach Librarian for the Salt Lake County Library reflects on his first year in a brand-new position. He will share lessons learned from the outreach, partnerships, programs, and training opportunities he had in his first year. The Engagement Specialist from the Network of the National Library of Medicine will share the benefits of the Consumer Health Information Specialization...
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Speakers
avatar for George Strawley

George Strawley

Engagement Specialist, Network of the National Library of Medicine Region 4
As an engagement specialist with the Network of the National Library of Medicine, George Strawley, M.L.I.S., works on funding and training aimed at increasing and enhancing access to reliable health information. George is a member of the NNLM Telehealth Interest Group. He works for... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Hobble Creek

11:10am MDT

Cryptid Catchers: Imaginative Programming for Older Kids
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Creative and engaging ideas for developing programs for kids ages 8+. Staff from the Spanish Fork Library will present on planning programs based on specific genres and books. Haven Gertson from the Salt Lake County Library system will present on hosting a program for the popular tabletop role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons.
Speakers
HG

Haven Gertson (they/them)

Customer Service Specialist, Salt Lake County Library
avatar for Kirsa Merrell

Kirsa Merrell

Children's Program & Outreach Librarian, Spanish Fork Library
Storytime is my happy place! I oversee programs for ages 0-12 and all ages events, supervise a team of amazing program coordinators, and create content for marketing. I am passionate about helping caregivers/children connect and have meaningful experiences with each other. I run an... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Cascade B

11:10am MDT

Rockin' Good Times
Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
What began as a fun program for the 2018 Summer Reading theme, Libraries Rock, quickly became a staff and patron favorite that transformed throughout the years to cover more summer reading events, the closing of a beloved neighborhood branch, a new library kick-off celebration, National Old Rock Day, and more. Librarians and Salt Lake County’s biggest library fan will share successes, creative...
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Speakers
avatar for Timothy Patrick Hinkle

Timothy Patrick Hinkle

Library Assistant, Salt Lake County Library
avatar for Vern Waters

Vern Waters

Library Manager, Salt Lake County Library
Past POTULA, guitar buyer, pen and ink collector, provider of puns on Sundays, definitely more wizard than elf...I hope I am your friend.
avatar for Melodie Ashley

Melodie Ashley

Assistant Branch Manager, Salt Lake County Library Services
avatar for Deanna Simonis

Deanna Simonis

Librarian, Salt Lake County Library

Tuesday May 19, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm MDT
Cascade E

12:00pm MDT

Lunch & Awards Presentation
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT

Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Ballroom BC - Level 2

1:40pm MDT

Finding Joy in Librarianship, When You "Care Too Much"
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Have you found yourself questioning your value as a librarian? Have you mourned the loss of certainty and stability in the wake of social movements and political events or just change? The work of librarianship has always been a profession of change and adaptation- both in response to community needs and technology changes, but disruption still can create confusion and stress Many people who are...
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Speakers
avatar for Angela Beatie

Angela Beatie

Social Science Librarian, Weber State University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Cascade B

1:40pm MDT

Intellectual Freedom: Navigating Current Concerns
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Come join us for a practical intellectual freedom discussion with ideas on how to have conversations with concerned patrons and community members, tips for creating and maintaining smart policies, advice for responding to reconsideration requests, and discussion on other current intellectual freedom concerns. The panel will spend the first part of the presentation answering common and relevant...
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Moderators
avatar for Lori Ann Potter

Lori Ann Potter

Duchesne Branch Manager, Duchesne County Library System

SS

Suzanne Sawyer

Libraria, Utah Department of Natural Resources, Utah Geological Survey

Speakers
avatar for Wanda Mae Huffaker

Wanda Mae Huffaker

Librarian, Salt Lake County Library
Wanda has been involved with intellectual freedom, privacy issues, and policy in both Utah and with ALA.
avatar for Shawn Bliss

Shawn Bliss

Director, Smithfield Public Library
Hello! I'm a director of a small-town library in Cache Valley, and I work with a staff of ten amazing people! Four of us are at ULA this year! In a previous life, I worked for the Utah State Library as a bookmobile librarian for 16 years. I loved it very much but I love being a director... Read More →
DA

Dianna Aldrich

Assistant Director of Library Services, Rocky Vista University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Cascade C

1:40pm MDT

Self-Care for Librarians
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Providing customer service in libraries unfortunately exposes library workers at times to tense and even hostile interactions. This session will focus on helping library workers to set appropriate boundaries with patrons and to care for themselves during and after those hard moments. By learning to recognize their own symptoms of fight, flight and freeze; to soothe their nervous systems in moments...
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Speakers
SR

Shaina Robbins

Adult Services Librarian, Provo City Library
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Cascade E

1:40pm MDT

The State of Book Banning in Utah
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
As the number of government mandated book removals increases, it’s essential for librarians to understand the legal and cultural landscape shaping this new censorship. This session will provide a clear overview of Utah’s current book banning laws and policies: what they say and how the state is interpreting them. Just as important is an understanding of the people and forces behind this push...
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Speakers
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Cascade D

1:40pm MDT

Mindful Moments: Libraries Creating Dementia-Friendly Communities
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Memory Cafés are welcoming, inclusive programs designed for individuals living with dementia and their care partners--offering connection, creativity, and joy in a supportive environment. This session will explore how libraries can become leaders in building dementia-friendly communities through these simple yet powerful programs. In this session, you'll learn what a Memory Café is, why it...
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Speakers
EW

Erin Warnick

American Fork Library
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Hobble Creek

1:40pm MDT

Refocusing Library Security: Shifting from Punitive Measures Towards Voluntary Compliance
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
This session explores how establishing clear expectations and engaging the community have enabled the Weber County Library to reframe its approach to security—from enforcement-focused practices to strategies grounded in communication and voluntary compliance. Participants will examine how communication and de-escalation techniques build trust and foster a community-centered environment, creating...
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Speakers
avatar for Holly Okuhara

Holly Okuhara

Assistant Director, Weber County Library System
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Cascade A

1:40pm MDT

The Great Metadata Migration: 20 Years of Digital Collections Information on the Move
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
In this presentation you’ll learn about the tools, strategies, and decision-making currently being used in migrating 20 years of metadata and digitized special collections from BYU’s CONTENTdm system to a new, highly customizable OrangeDAM platform. This migration involves transforming and standardizing our often inconsistently entered metadata from years’ past to align with a newly...
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Speakers
avatar for Abby Beazer

Abby Beazer

Digital Metadata Librarian, Brigham Young University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm MDT
Soldier Creek

2:30pm MDT

Business Roundtable (BURT) Meeting
Tuesday May 19, 2026 2:30pm - 2:55pm MDT
Business meeting for members of the Business Roundtable (BURT), or attendees who are interested in BURT.
Speakers
JT

Jessica Tuwun

Brigham Young University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 2:30pm - 2:55pm MDT
Silver Creek

2:30pm MDT

Afternoon Break & Exhibit Hall
Tuesday May 19, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm MDT

Tuesday May 19, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm MDT
Ballroom A - Level 2

3:00pm MDT

A Dose of Institutional History: Archiving Health Sciences Campus Milestones
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:25pm MDT
This session explores the Eccles Health Sciences Library’s (EHSL) role in commemorating milestones across the University of Utah’s health sciences campus. As colleges, schools, and departments celebrate anniversaries and historical achievements, they often turn to the library for curated materials, particularly photographs, from EHSL’s historical collections. Additionally, these...
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Speakers
avatar for Bryan Hull

Bryan Hull

Assistant Librarian, Head, Digital Publishing, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah
avatar for Carmin Smoot

Carmin Smoot

Program Manager, Historical Collections, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:25pm MDT
Hobble Creek

3:00pm MDT

Zero-Prep Programming
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:25pm MDT
No time for planning programs? Come learn about some programs that require little or no set-up or planning and can be run by almost anyone. Also includes supplies to always have on-hand in storage and what programs can be created with these supplies.
Speakers
EP

Emily Pearce

Tween Librarian & Reference Librarian, Springville Public Library & Provo City Library
Tween Librarian at Springville Public Library
Reference Librarian at Provo City Library
MLIS Graduate from Emporia State University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:25pm MDT
Soldier Creek

3:00pm MDT

The Librarian Is In: Demystifying Systematic Reviews for Better Decision-Making
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Systematic reviews are syntheses of multiple studies on the same topic that meet pre-defined inclusion criteria, thereby increasing confidence in the research findings. Unlike traditional narrative literature reviews, systematic reviews follow an established methodology aimed at minimizing bias and increasing transparency and research reproducibility. When conducted by a team in accordance with...
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Speakers
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Cascade E

3:00pm MDT

Where Are the Fun Books? Reflections from an Academic Library Monthly Display Program
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
In 2023 our academic library started a monthly display program to celebrate heritage months and to make books from the collection more visible and accessible to students. In two years, this program has grown into a fully developed display program with specific outcomes, assessment practices, the development of a student position, and cross-campus support and collaboration. In this presentation we...
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Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Cascade B

3:00pm MDT

Growing Library Programming for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Over the past few years, the County Library has grown its services for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) through a number of coordinated programs including quarterly activity kits and in person programs held throughout the valley. Join us to find out about the work we've done serving this underserved population and how you can start this kind of programming in your...
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Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Cascade C

3:00pm MDT

Nine Digital Curation Principles to Guide Decision-making
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
From 2021 to 2023, BYU Library commissioned an in-house, interdivisional task force to holistically examine the extant personnel, systems, and workflows allocated to managing our wide range of digital content types. The aim was to identify the gaps and better coordinate the future access to and care of digital content. We created a set of guiding principles for the library administration and staff...
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Speakers
avatar for Lindsey Memory

Lindsey Memory

Digital Initiatives Department Head, Brigham Young University
avatar for Cory Nimer

Cory Nimer

University Archivist, Brigham Young University
Cory Nimer is the University Archivist at the L. Tom Perry Special Collections at Brigham Young University. He received a Masters of Arts degree in History from Sonoma State University and a Masters of Library and Information Science degree from San Jose State University, and he is... Read More →
avatar for Paul Robbins

Paul Robbins

Math, Statistics, and Construction Management Librarian, Brigham Young University
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Cascade D

3:00pm MDT

Empowering Teens as the Voices of the Library, Supporting Teens Mental Health
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Empower teens to be the youth voices of the library through a Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Mentor teens to actively participate in decision-making by proposing, voting on, and helping implement library programs, while also promoting events to their peers and schools—ensuring teen services reflect real community needs. This session will explore how TABs provide meaningful leadership opportunities...
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Speakers
avatar for Heidi Taylor

Heidi Taylor

Public Services Librarian, North Logan City Library
I am deeply passionate about Youth Services and strongly believe in centering youth voices in everything we do. I value opportunities that actively engage teens and empower them to share their ideas and opinions about library programs, collections, and how we can better serve them... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm MDT
Cascade A

3:25pm MDT

Utah Reading Census
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:25pm - 3:50pm MDT
Come hear the results of a recent statewide survey conducted by researchers from the U of U and SUU about Utahn's attitudes towards reading and learn more about how librarians can address challenges adult readers in their community might face.
Speakers
avatar for Allyson Mower

Allyson Mower

Scholarly Communications & Copyright Librarian, University of Utah
Marriott Library, University of Utah
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:25pm - 3:50pm MDT
Soldier Creek

3:25pm MDT

Chaos to Clarity: Automating Metadata Audits in AV Archives
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:25pm - 3:50pm MDT
Auditing digitized AV files is essential for ensuring accuracy and preservation, but our early approach was anything but efficient. We started with spreadsheets and formulas to compare filenames and descriptive metadata, paired with separate tools for technical metadata checks—a process that was slow and prone to human error. To speed things up, we introduced small scripts for individual tasks,...
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Speakers
avatar for Michael Gates

Michael Gates

AV Digitization Lab Manager, Brigham Young University
Michael Gates is the AV Digitization Lab Manager at the BYU Library and has filled that role for just over a year.  Previously Mike was the Digital Preservation Technical Specialist at the BYU Library (2 years), and an AV Collection Care specialist at the Church History Library (8... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:25pm - 3:50pm MDT
Hobble Creek

3:30pm MDT

Assessment Roundtable (ASMTRT) Meeting
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:30pm - 3:45pm MDT
Business meeting for members of the Assessment Roundtable (ASMTRT), or attendees who are interested in ASMTRT.
Speakers
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:30pm - 3:45pm MDT
Silver Creek

3:45pm MDT

Library Administration and Management Roundtable (LAMART) Meeting
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Business meeting for members of the Library Administration and Management Roundtable (LAMART), or attendees who are interested in LAMART.
Speakers
avatar for Joshua Johnson

Joshua Johnson

Davis County Library
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Silver Creek

4:00pm MDT

Networking Social
Tuesday May 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Join us for our networking social! 

Featuring: Cardigans & Convos, hosted on behalf of the Rural & Small Business Roundtable.

Connect with fellow librarians using the classic cardigan to spark conversation, camaraderie, and community. Bring your own cardigan to swap or browse the donated cardigans while supplies last. Customization options available! 

Tuesday May 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Ballroom A - Level 2

4:00pm MDT

Typewriter Poets
Tuesday May 19, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
    Free, impromptu poems, written on vintage mechanical typewriters just for you and on the topic of your choice.

Tuesday May 19, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Ballroom A - Level 2

5:00pm MDT

Stacks & Sips: An Evening Bookshop Stroll
Tuesday May 19, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Join us for an optional, relaxed social outing to wind down the day. We’ll meet outside Ballroom A (right after the networking event) on Tuesday, May 19th at 5:00 pm and walk together to Pioneer Book for about 30 minutes of browsing, followed by a stop at Peace On Earth Coffee to grab a drink and hang out. The group will return or wrap up around 6:00 pm. Come for the books, the coffee, or just...
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Speakers
avatar for Miyamoto Jensen

Miyamoto Jensen

Digital Preservation Specialist, Harold B. Lee Library
Tuesday May 19, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Ballroom A - Level 2

5:00pm MDT

Craft and Connect
Tuesday May 19, 2026 5:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
Unleash your creativity and unwind after a full day at the ULA Annual Conference! This self-guided craft session is the perfect chance to relax and recharge while mingling with fellow attendees. Whether you’re a crafting pro or just in it for the vibes, all materials will be provided.
Tuesday May 19, 2026 5:00pm - 10:00pm MDT
The Provo Marriott Hotel Lobby 101 W 100 N, Provo, UT 84601
 
Wednesday, May 20
 

7:30am MDT

Registration
Wednesday May 20, 2026 7:30am - 12:00pm MDT

Wednesday May 20, 2026 7:30am - 12:00pm MDT
Level 3 North Prefunction

8:00am MDT

Rural and Small Libraries Roundtable (RSLRT) Meeting
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
Business meeting for members of the Rural and Small Libraries Roundtable (RSLRT), or attendees who are interested in RSLRT.
Speakers
avatar for Shawn Bliss

Shawn Bliss

Director, Smithfield Public Library
Hello! I'm a director of a small-town library in Cache Valley, and I work with a staff of ten amazing people! Four of us are at ULA this year! In a previous life, I worked for the Utah State Library as a bookmobile librarian for 16 years. I loved it very much but I love being a director... Read More →
avatar for Brittnie Hecht

Brittnie Hecht

Young Adult Librarian, Wasatch County Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
Cascade A

8:00am MDT

Youth Services Roundtable (YSRT) Meeting
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
Business meeting for members of the Youth Services Roundtable (YSRT), or attendees who are interested in YSRT.
Speakers
avatar for Nancy Moos

Nancy Moos

Youth Services Librarian, Salt Lake County Library System
I am a youth services librarian specializing in programs for school-age children. I love art and STEM programs and anything that encourages children to read!
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am MDT
Cascade B

8:00am MDT

Early Morning Coffee Service
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am MDT

Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am MDT
Level 3 North Prefunction

8:15am MDT

Copyright Education (CERT) Meeting
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:15am - 8:50am MDT
Business meeting for members of the Copyright Education (CERT), or attendees who are interested in CERT.
Speakers
avatar for Ellen Amatangelo

Ellen Amatangelo

Scholarly Publishing Manager, Brigham Young University
avatar for Marissa Bischoff

Marissa Bischoff

Humanities & European Studies Catalog Librarian, Brigham Young University Lee Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:15am - 8:50am MDT
Cascade C

9:00am MDT

Quiet Space
Wednesday May 20, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT

Wednesday May 20, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Level 2 North Prefunction

9:00am MDT

Jennifer Blair Keynote
Wednesday May 20, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Jennifer Blair Keynote: "Authentic Grace: Enlisting Gentle Boundaries and Compassionate Resistance by Shifting Motivations Toward Self-Compassion and Empathy"Libraries are caregivers, providing compassion, and empathy to their communities. We recognize the impact we make, but only primarily as a library representative. As servant leaders, we often fail to recognize that compassion also requires...
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Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Blair

Jennifer Blair

Head of User Services Librarian, Azusa Pacific University
Jennifer Blair is the Head of User Services Librarian and Associate Professor at Azusa Pacific University (APU). Her role is dedicated to the user experience, operations, design and student engagement. She has extensive experience teaching courses in design and library science. Jennifer... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Ballroom BC - Level 2

10:15am MDT

Morning Break
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am MDT

Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am MDT
Ballroom A - Level 2

10:15am MDT

Career Services Booth
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am MDT
The Career Services Booth is located in the Exhibit Hall and will be staffed during the morning and afternoon breaks:
10:15-10:30am
2:05-2:30pm
Speakers
avatar for Angela Beatie

Angela Beatie

Social Science Librarian, Weber State University
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am MDT
Ballroom A - Level 2

10:15am MDT

Posters
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 2:30pm MDT
Posters will be on display Tuesday and Wednesday in the Level 2 East Prefunction area. Poster titles and presenters are available below. See the Posters page for the full poster descriptions.From the Dust: Introducing a History of the Health Sciences Archives and Lab — Bryan Hull & Carmin SmootUsing AI to Add Tables of Contents and Summaries to Cataloging Records — Marissa Bischoff &...
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Speakers
avatar for George Strawley

George Strawley

Engagement Specialist, Network of the National Library of Medicine Region 4
As an engagement specialist with the Network of the National Library of Medicine, George Strawley, M.L.I.S., works on funding and training aimed at increasing and enhancing access to reliable health information. George is a member of the NNLM Telehealth Interest Group. He works for... Read More →
avatar for Heidi Taylor

Heidi Taylor

Public Services Librarian, North Logan City Library
I am deeply passionate about Youth Services and strongly believe in centering youth voices in everything we do. I value opportunities that actively engage teens and empower them to share their ideas and opinions about library programs, collections, and how we can better serve them... Read More →
avatar for David Bird

David Bird

RASRT Past Chair, REFORMA interim President, Salt Lake County Library
Library Manager
Ruth Vine Tyler Library, Salt Lake County Library Services
CW

Christina Walsh

Taylorsville Branch Manager, Salt Lake County
avatar for Leonides Ortiz

Leonides Ortiz

Senior Librarian, Salt Lake County Library
I am a Senior Librarian with the Salt Lake County Library's Community Engagement team.
avatar for Ellen Amatangelo

Ellen Amatangelo

Scholarly Publishing Manager, Brigham Young University
avatar for Marissa Bischoff

Marissa Bischoff

Humanities & European Studies Catalog Librarian, Brigham Young University Lee Library
CB

Cherie Bush

FamilySearch
Booth(s)-221, 223, 225, 227, 320, 322, 324, 326 Provider of tools and resources for records preservation and online access.
GD

Gordon Daines

Director of the Journal of Western Archives; Curator, L. Tom Perry Special Collections, Brigham Young University; Journal of Western Archives
J. Gordon Daines III is the Research and Instruction Services archivist and the Yellowstone National Park collection curator in the L. Tom Perry Special Collections at Brigham Young University. He also serves as the director of the Journal of Western Archives.
avatar for Paul Daybell

Paul Daybell

Special Collections Librarian, Utah State University
AG

Adam Griggs

Brigham Young University
avatar for Bryan Hull

Bryan Hull

Assistant Librarian, Head, Digital Publishing, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah
avatar for Sandra Joseph

Sandra Joseph

FamilySearch
avatar for Jen Kirk

Jen Kirk

Government Information Librarian, Utah State University
avatar for Nancy Moos

Nancy Moos

Youth Services Librarian, Salt Lake County Library System
I am a youth services librarian specializing in programs for school-age children. I love art and STEM programs and anything that encourages children to read!
avatar for Cory Nimer

Cory Nimer

University Archivist, Brigham Young University
Cory Nimer is the University Archivist at the L. Tom Perry Special Collections at Brigham Young University. He received a Masters of Arts degree in History from Sonoma State University and a Masters of Library and Information Science degree from San Jose State University, and he is... Read More →
avatar for Kori Robbins

Kori Robbins

Library Relations Manager, FamilySearch Library
Kori Robbins, AG®, manages the team that oversees FamilySearch affiliates, which include libraries, museums, and archives. She holds a BA in Family History/Genealogy from Brigham Young University and is accredited in research in England. Alongside her husband, H.J., she tag teams... Read More →
avatar for Carmin Smoot

Carmin Smoot

Program Manager, Historical Collections, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah
avatar for Duane Wilson

Duane Wilson

Assessment Facilitator, Brigham Young University
I work as an Assessment Facilitator in the Assessment Department of the BYU Library.
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 2:30pm MDT
Level 2 East Prefunction

10:30am MDT

Leveling Up — Teaching Transferable Skills
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Employee development increases capacity, communication, and growth within any organization. Transferable skills are versatile competencies like communication, leadership, and time management that empower employees to succeed in current roles and future careers. Drawing on practical examples and interactive activities, the session highlights how transferable skills can be effectively taught and...
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Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Walton

Rebecca Walton

Acquisitions and Collection Analysis Librarian, Brigham Young University
Rebecca Walton is head of the Acquisitions Department of the BYU Library and co-convener of the ACRL ULS Mid-Level Managers Discussion Group. After 11 years as an individual contributor and 3 years as a section manager, she stepped into the role of a department head in 2020, in the... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Cascade C

10:30am MDT

Being a Library Superhero Without Burning Out
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
What do you see when you look in the mirror? Is there a superhero looking back at you? There should be! If you have any doubts, this session will help you feel the power of your profession. The first part of the session will focus on the image of the librarian in a vast array of media and over millennia. While the duties of a librarian have expanded and even altered over time, the core value of...
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Speakers
avatar for Cherie Willis

Cherie Willis

Librarian, Salt Lake City Public Library
I worked for the Utah State Archives for six years and over 29 for the Salt Lake City Public Library, so information really is my business and history is my passion. Those who provide free access to information are essential heroes in any age.
LW

Lorie Womack

Reference Librarian, Washington County Libary System
Lorie grew up in Northeastern Utah and began her library career there after attending college at Southern Utah University.  After which she  obtained her MLIS from the University of North Texas.  

She is now the Reference Librarian at the Washington Branch Library in Washingto... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Cascade D

10:30am MDT

From Meh to Major: Leveling up Your Library’s Social Media
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Karen Bowling (gen X) and Aubrey Durrant (gen Z) from the Smithfield Public Library will walk you through our history of social media at the library. From our initial struggles to our current successes, showing you how we leveled up our online presence and how it’s helped our library reach out to our community and beyond. We’ll offer practical design knowledge and strategic examples that can...
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Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Soldier Creek

10:30am MDT

Navigating AI-Generated Content in Library Collections
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
As materials created by AI continue to flood the marketplace, it is inevitable that librarians will encounter materials generated wholly or partially by AI. Libraries can prepare for this reality with selection guidelines and collection development policies that intentionally address AI generated materials. In addition to discussing AI guidelines and policies, we will share tips on identifying and...
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Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Cascade B

10:30am MDT

Strategic Communication: How to Get it Write
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Many of us only think about the importance of strategic communication in times of crisis, but creating a strategy for library communication is a key tool in connecting meaningfully with patrons. In this session, we'll discuss principles and strategies for communicating with patrons on a variety of issues, diving into real-life examples of success (and failure) and discussing the ultimate impact of...
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Speakers
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Cascade E

10:30am MDT

The Largest Publisher: Why the History of the Government Publishing Office Matters in the Information Universe
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Finding federal government information is often a considerable challenge, yet understanding the history of the Government Publishing Office, as the largest publisher in the world, can aid researchers in finding relevant information. This history predates its official formation in 1860 and includes the transition to a digital world. Historians and researchers will find in this presentation some of...
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Speakers
avatar for Brian Wages

Brian Wages

History and Political Science Librarian, Brigham Young University
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Hobble Creek

10:30am MDT

Brain Building & Trauma Informed Early Literacy Practices
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Understanding how children's brains grow and develop is a crucial part of early literacy. But for children who have undergone trauma or toxic stress, regular brain growth can be altered, leading to developmental delays. We will share insight into trauma informed practices at story time and other early literacy-based library programs. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal...
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Speakers
avatar for Caroline Macfarlane

Caroline Macfarlane

Children’s Librarian, Provo City Library

Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am MDT
Cascade A

11:30am MDT

Lunch & Beth Brower Keynote
Wednesday May 20, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm MDT
Beth Brower Author Keynote: Striking Matches, Lighting Candles"The written word plays a role of significant illumination in the human experience. Those who work in the world of books are in a position to enlighten, lift, and encourage. Beth Brower shares a collection of thoughts about the importance of this work—be it only the striking of a momentary match or helping to light a torch that grows...
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Speakers
avatar for Beth Brower

Beth Brower

Author
Beth Brower is a writer. Immersed in the current volume of The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, Beth has also published The Q, The Beast of Ten, and a trilogy entitled The Books of Imirillia. She writes a monthly St. Crispian’s Gazette based on characters from her Emma M. Lion... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm MDT
Ballroom BC - Level 2

1:15pm MDT

A Decade of Deployment: Impacts of 3D Printing Services at Marriott Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
In 2013, University of Utah’s Marriott Library purchased its first 3D printer. Over the past decade, the Creativity & Innovation Services department expanded 3D offerings to include self-service 3D printers, an online 3D printing service, 3D scanning tools, and training materials for all of the above. In this session, we will present a timeline on the development and deployment of each service,...
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Speakers
GH

Greg Hatch

Head of Creativity & Innovation, J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Cascade A

1:15pm MDT

Genealogy and Local History for All: Strategies for Every Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Libraries play a vital role in preserving the stories of their communities. This session will explore practical ways to develop or enhance a local and family history section in your library—whether you're just getting started or looking to expand existing resources. Learn how to identify valuable local materials, collaborate with community partners, and create engaging displays and programming...
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Speakers
CB

Cherie Bush

FamilySearch
Booth(s)-221, 223, 225, 227, 320, 322, 324, 326 Provider of tools and resources for records preservation and online access.
avatar for Sandra Joseph

Sandra Joseph

FamilySearch
avatar for Kori Robbins

Kori Robbins

Library Relations Manager, FamilySearch Library
Kori Robbins, AG®, manages the team that oversees FamilySearch affiliates, which include libraries, museums, and archives. She holds a BA in Family History/Genealogy from Brigham Young University and is accredited in research in England. Alongside her husband, H.J., she tag teams... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Hobble Creek

1:15pm MDT

Diversity Audits: Equitable Collection Management
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
A balanced Library collection provides windows, mirrors and sliding doors. However, traditional weeding practices, primarily based on circulation statistics, often erase underrepresented voices. The best way to combat homogenous collections is to perform regular diversity audits! Michael Biggs and Lexi Johnson have collaborated on auditing SLCPL Collections for diverse authors several times over...
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Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Cascade E

1:15pm MDT

Due for Review: The Art of Constructive Feedback
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Feedback is essential to professional growth—but it’s also one of the hardest skills to practice well. In this session, we’ll explore ways to both give and receive feedback to strengthen communication, trust, and collaboration. Participants will learn ways to accept feedback about their institution, leadership, or individual performance without defensiveness—focusing on trends, context,...
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Speakers
avatar for Carla Gordon

Carla Gordon

Provo, UT, Provo City Library

Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Cascade C

1:15pm MDT

Makerspaces in the Library: How to Start, Train, and Run a Makerspaces in a Multi-Branch Library System
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Libraries have always been more than books. As we move into the future it will be more important than ever that we embrace being a library of things, including modern makerspace equipment including 3D printing, Laser Cutters, Electronics Projects, Woodworking Tools, Sewing, AV equipment, and Others. Since 2018 the Libraries in Southern Utah have provided tools and training to their patrons in...
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Speakers
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Cascade D

1:15pm MDT

Six (or Seven) Strangers: Creating Cultural Connection in a Small Town
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
The Smithfield Public Library has been partnering with our city Arts Council since April 2024, when six (or seven) strangers met in a small conference room at City Hall. Our partnership has now resulted in two seasons of a summer concert series and an immersive Christmas Storybook Festival, as well as several other fun events, a bunch of new friendships, and a ton of high fives! Learn how a...
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Speakers
avatar for Shawn Bliss

Shawn Bliss

Director, Smithfield Public Library
Hello! I'm a director of a small-town library in Cache Valley, and I work with a staff of ten amazing people! Four of us are at ULA this year! In a previous life, I worked for the Utah State Library as a bookmobile librarian for 16 years. I loved it very much but I love being a director... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Soldier Creek

1:15pm MDT

The Library Next Door: Creating an Off-Site Teen Center
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
In 2023, Grand County Public Library opened a Teen Center off-site. This move has resulted in the amazing opportunity to provide teen services while allowing teens to behave like teens. We've been able to partner with numerous community organizations to reach an often-overlooked (and often unappreciated) population. During this session we will discuss the logistics of making it happen and what...
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Speakers
avatar for Carrie Valdes

Carrie Valdes

Library Director, Grand County Public Library
I have been the Director of the Grand County Public Library in Moab, UT since 2007 although I have worked at the library for almost 24 years. I have a MLS from the University of North Texas and a Bachelor’s in Human Resources. I have lived in Utah all my life (except for a brief... Read More →
CW

Christina Williams

Grand County Public Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:05pm MDT
Cascade B

1:15pm MDT

Library Instruction Roundtable (LIRT) Meeting
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm MDT
Business meeting for members of the Library Instruction Roundtable (LIRT), or attendees who are interested in LIRT.
Speakers
TP

Toni Pilcher

Library Instructor, Brigham Young University
avatar for Angela Beatie

Angela Beatie

Social Science Librarian, Weber State University
Wednesday May 20, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm MDT
Silver Creek

2:05pm MDT

Afternoon Break
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:05pm - 2:30pm MDT

Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:05pm - 2:30pm MDT
Ballroom A - Level 2

2:30pm MDT

Your Librarian Is In: Office Hours Outside of the Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 2:55pm MDT
“Your Librarian Is In!” In this session, two subject librarians share our experiences of holding office hours out of the library, on site where our liaison departments are housed. We discuss the origins, benefits, challenges, and related statistics of the arrangement. We feel that holding office hours outside of the library has improved our services and strengthened our relationship with...
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Speakers
avatar for Betsy Hopkins

Betsy Hopkins

Nursing Librarian, Brigham Young University
Betsy Hopkins is the Nursing Librarian at Brigham Young University. She is interested in the use of metrics in research evaluation and preparing students to succeed in today's complex information environment. She has curated exhibits on Florence Nightingale and early Utah women in... Read More →
avatar for Maggie Marchant

Maggie Marchant

Economics, Finance & Data Librarian, Brigham Young University
I am the Economics, Finance, and Data Librarian at Brigham Young University.  I started my current role in the fall of 2021 and love the opportunity to work with and help students and faculty.  I also love getting to work and constantly learn with great colleagues at BYU and throughout... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 2:55pm MDT
Cascade B

2:30pm MDT

Are You Lost? Developing a MAP (Metadata Application Profile) for Your Institutional Repository
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 2:55pm MDT
Utah State University (USU) Libraries has recently created a Metadata Application Profile (MAP) to successfully map and crosswalk metadata fields in DigitalCommons to DublinCore and DataCite. We created this MAP to help authors and librarians better understand our records in DigitalCommons; this MAP ensures consistency and readability with other Institutional Repositories. In this presentation, we...
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Speakers
avatar for David Advent

David Advent

Utah State University, Scholarly Communication Librarian
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 2:55pm MDT
Soldier Creek

2:30pm MDT

Projects, Interns, and Hourly Wages: A Panel About Student Employees in Libraries and Archives
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
Librarians from USU and BYU will share their experiences with student employees in libraries & archives. Attendees will learn how we’ve worked with hourly employees, interns, graduate students, and more. We’ll talk about the importance of experiential learning to student success and how to grow the understanding and appreciation of archives and librarianship in Utah.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Daybell

Paul Daybell

Special Collections Librarian, Utah State University
avatar for Karen Glenn

Karen Glenn

Head, Archival Processing Section, Brigham Young University
avatar for Jen Kirk

Jen Kirk

Government Information Librarian, Utah State University
avatar for Paul Robbins

Paul Robbins

Math, Statistics, and Construction Management Librarian, Brigham Young University
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
Cascade C

2:30pm MDT

Overcoming Information Nihilism: Coaching Patrons from "Everything is Fake" to Hopeful Skepticism
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
In an era of record-low trust in media and the proliferation of "AI slop," many library patrons have moved beyond healthy skepticism into information nihilism—the belief that because some information is biased, no information can be trusted. This shift presents a unique challenge for librarians: How do we teach critical thinking and evaluation skills without accidentally fueling deep-seated...
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Speakers
avatar for Nena Schvaneveldt

Nena Schvaneveldt

Associate Librarian, University of Utah Eccles Health Sciences Library
avatar for Angela Beatie

Angela Beatie

Social Science Librarian, Weber State University
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
Cascade E

2:30pm MDT

Creative Connections: Getting in the Door for School Outreach and What To Do When You're There
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
Hear about ideas, challenges, creative solutions, and successes for public library outreach to elementary and secondary schools! We will provide general overviews and best practices for school outreach, including Salt Lake County Library's systemwide programs and how they can be scaled down for small library systems. We will also explore the challenge of getting in the door and making connections...
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Speakers
avatar for Kaitlyn Gundlach

Kaitlyn Gundlach

Outreach Librarian, Salt Lake County Library
EW

Elizabeth Weaver

Salt Lake County Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
Cascade A

2:30pm MDT

Mind the Gap: Designing Programs for a Changing Population
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
Explore how the Pleasant Grove Library has created successful programs to meet the community's changing needs. Using three case studies we will discuss how we discovered the gap in our programming, what need the program is filling, and how it was developed and adjusted.
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
Cascade D

2:30pm MDT

You Can't Outgrow the Library: Providing Storytime to Big Kids (K-2)
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
Orem Library's focus on inspiring lifelong learning and creating enriching opportunities has led us to create a monthly storytime for patrons in grades k-2. This presentation will reflect on our best practices and learning opportunities over the past three years of stories, songs, STEAM, yoga, games, and critical thinking in the hopes that other libraries might consider how to provide regular...
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Speakers
avatar for Katie Young

Katie Young

Associate Librarian (Children's), Orem Public Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm MDT
Hobble Creek

2:55pm MDT

User Scheduled Media Production Studios at the Marriott Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:55pm - 3:20pm MDT
The Marriott Library (University of Utah) has three media production studios as part of their ProtoSpace emerging technologies and digital scholarship hub. This presentation is part of an article under submission entitled User scheduled media production studios in academic libraries: A case study. This is a follow up article to my publication: Podcasting services in academic libraries: A case...
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Speakers
RJ

Robert J. Nelson

University of Utah
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:55pm - 3:20pm MDT
Soldier Creek

3:30pm MDT

Coordinating Large Projects – A Report on the Outcome of an Exhibition with Many Stakeholders
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 3:55pm MDT
The BYU library recently did a gallery exhibition on the renovation of the Salt Lake Temple. This project took roughly three years to plan. It included four main curators but also a large variety of organizations, student contributors, and stakeholders as we navigated legal concerns, developed content, sought permissions, and accessed materials. In this session we will take you through the...
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Speakers
avatar for David Pixton

David Pixton

Engineering & Technology Librarian, Brigham Young University
avatar for Paul Robbins

Paul Robbins

Math, Statistics, and Construction Management Librarian, Brigham Young University
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 3:55pm MDT
Cascade B

3:30pm MDT

Grateful, Mindful and Well-Watered: Strategies to Promote Mental Health for Library Workers
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Eighty-one percent of employees nationally report that they will look for future workplaces that support mental health. The Eccles Health Sciences Library at the University of Utah, in cooperation with the campus WellU program, encourages wellness among its faculty and staff with innovative “challenges” offering an insurance incentive for activities that promote good mental health. The...
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Speakers
avatar for George Strawley

George Strawley

Engagement Specialist, Network of the National Library of Medicine Region 4
As an engagement specialist with the Network of the National Library of Medicine, George Strawley, M.L.I.S., works on funding and training aimed at increasing and enhancing access to reliable health information. George is a member of the NNLM Telehealth Interest Group. He works for... Read More →
avatar for Samantha Nunn

Samantha Nunn

Program Manager, NNLM Training Office
Samantha Nunn is the Program Manager for the Network of the National Library of Medicine Training Office at the University of Utah.
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Cascade A

3:30pm MDT

Remix the Future: A ULA Listening & Design Session
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Help shape the future of the Utah Library Association. In this interactive session, participants will reflect on current challenges, share ideas, and collaborate in small groups to “remix” those ideas into actionable possibilities. Input gathered will inform ULA programming and future conferences, with a focus on building stronger structures, deeper connections, and collective impact across...
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Speakers
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Hobble Creek

3:30pm MDT

Cultivating Outreach Connections
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
This panel brings together librarians from academic and public libraries to provide a broad perspective on outreach efforts. We define outreach as connecting with library users outside the physical space of the library or outside the ways that library users typically interact with the library. As such, outreach is a huge undertaking. In this panel we will focus on how building connections and...
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Speakers
avatar for Amber Lowe

Amber Lowe

Outreach Librarian, Provo City Library
I started working at the Provo City library in 2000 as an Adult & Teen Reference librarian. After over twenty years at the reference desk, I moved over to being an Outreach librarian and I am so happy I did. I absolutely love taking the library out into the community! I look forward... Read More →
avatar for Mariah Lucas

Mariah Lucas

Outreach Librarian, Provo City Library
avatar for Maggie Marchant

Maggie Marchant

Economics, Finance & Data Librarian, Brigham Young University
I am the Economics, Finance, and Data Librarian at Brigham Young University.  I started my current role in the fall of 2021 and love the opportunity to work with and help students and faculty.  I also love getting to work and constantly learn with great colleagues at BYU and throughout... Read More →
JT

Jessica Tuwun

Brigham Young University
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Cascade E

3:30pm MDT

Innovating for Impact: Social Innovation in Utah’s Libraries
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Social Innovation in Libraries explores how libraries harness their role as civic connectors to creatively and inclusively address community challenges. By collaborating with local organizations, entrepreneurs, and residents, libraries serve as laboratories for testing new approaches to digital equity, literacy, workforce development, and community wellbeing. Today’s libraries are redefining...
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Speakers
DN

Daniel Neville-Rehbehn

Salt Lake City, UT, Salt Lake City Public Library
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Cascade D

3:30pm MDT

Unsung Heroes of the Catalog: Metadata Maintenance, Enhancement, and Remediation
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Quality metadata is vital to the patron experience, but metadata creation is only one part of the metadata lifecyle. Patrons may not know what metadata maintenance, enhancement, and remediation are, but they do notice when they need to be done. In this panel, five librarians from BYU’s Cataloging and Metadata department will discuss the steps they have taken to upgrade the patron experience at...
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Speakers
KY

Katie Yeo

Brigham Young University
Katie Yeo is the 19th and 20th Century Americana Catalog Librarian at the Brigham Young University Library in Utah. She is also a former solo librarian at the Utah State Hospital Library. She is passionate about topics such as metadata accessibility and inclusive cataloging.
avatar for Abby Beazer

Abby Beazer

Digital Metadata Librarian, Brigham Young University
avatar for Jessie Christensen

Jessie Christensen

Romance Languages Catalog Librarian, Brigham Young University
avatar for Nicole Lewis

Nicole Lewis

Provo, UT, Brigham Young University

Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Soldier Creek

3:30pm MDT

Parental Perceptions of Censorship in Utah
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Utah has also been one of the more active states in legislating for the removal of books from school libraries. Signed in 2024, Utah’s HB 29 requires that a book be immediately removed from all school libraries if 3 districts deem the book as containing sensitive content which has led to the removal of 19 titles from school libraries. This dramatic rise in censorship begs researchers to ask...
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Speakers
avatar for Rachel Wadham

Rachel Wadham

Teacher Librarian, Brigham Young University
I have been a librarian in the Harold B Lee Library at BYU for 28 years.  I've served in many professional capacities in library organizations including the American Library Association, the Utah Library Association, and the Children's Literature Association of Utah.  I have written... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:20pm MDT
Cascade C

3:55pm MDT

Under New Management: Mistakes Made and Victories Won as a New Unit Manager
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:55pm - 4:20pm MDT
Under New Management: Mistakes Made and Victories Won as a New Unit Manager.
Speakers
SW

Sadie Webster

Serials Manager, Brigham Young University
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:55pm - 4:20pm MDT
Cascade B
 
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