I present workshops, webinars, and conference sessions for libraries and professional organizations on technology, AI, digital literacy, intellectual freedom, and teaching technology to adults. My presentations focus on making complex topics approachable, practical, and relevant to the everyday work of libraries and the communities they serve.
Featured Talks
Building Tech Confidence: Helping Adults Overcome Being “Bad at Technology”
Many adults approach technology convinced they simply aren’t “good at it.” This session explores where that lack of confidence comes from and how instructors can create more supportive learning experiences. Attendees will learn practical strategies for reducing frustration, building independence, and help both patrons and colleagues develop lasting confidence with technology.
AI Literacy for Library Staff
Generative AI is becoming an increasingly common part of library work, bringing both useful possibilities and important questions. This session introduces the fundamentals of generative AI, including how these tools work, effective prompting, hallucinations and bias, privacy concerns, and responsible use. Attendees will leave better prepared to evaluate AI tools and make informed decisions about when and how to use them.
The Library Staff Tech-Help Toolkit
Providing technology help at the library often means troubleshooting unfamiliar problems on the spot. This session gives library staff a practical framework for approaching technology questions with confidence, from identifying the real problem and troubleshooting systematically to communicating solutions clearly, documenting what works, and knowing when to escalate or ask for help.
Intro to AI: The Good, the Bad, and the Weird*
AI is already part of the tools library staff and patrons use every day. This approachable session helps staff in any role understand what AI can do, where it falls short, and how it may affect library service. We’ll look at practical uses for planning programs, creating content, and supporting patrons, while addressing concerns about bias, misinformation, privacy, and responsible use. No technical background is needed. Attendees will leave better equipped to answer questions about AI and make thoughtful choices about using it in their work.
Judged by the Covers: Meet the Challenge – Organize, Advocate, Overcome (as a panel or workshop) *
Libraries are increasingly facing challenges to materials, displays, programs, policies, and even library governance. This panel brings together library professionals with firsthand experience to explore how libraries can prepare for and respond to organized challenges, special-interest campaigns, and other threats to intellectual freedom. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and access to the Judged by the Covers Toolkit, featuring resources to help libraries organize, advocate, and respond with confidence.
*Offered as a panel presentation or workshop and is subject to panelist availability. I serve as the primary contact for booking inquiries and coordination.
Additional Topics
- Before the Challenge Comes: Building an Intellectual Freedom-Ready Library
- Creating Sustainable Staff Technology Training
- Designing Better Technology Classes for Adults
- Digital Freedom: Intellectual Freedom in the Age of Algorithms
- Digital Privacy and Security for Library Staff
- Handling Frustrated Patrons During Technology Help
- Helping Patrons Navigate AI
- Helping Staff and Patrons Recognize Scams, Deepfakes, and Digital Deception
- Managing a Library Makerspace as a Team
- Supporting Staff Through Technology Change
- Tech Help Sessions That Actually Help
- Technology Help Boundaries for Library Staff
Looking for something different? Presentations and training can also be tailored to the needs, goals, and experience level of your organization and audience.
What Attendees Are Saying
“I have already used several of the techniques you shared. I have also passed your ideas along to my staff, and we’re already seeing more satisfied library patrons.”
– PLA Conference Attendee
“It was one of the most useful webinars I’ve listened to, and I’ve watched a lot of library-related webinars!”
– Webinar Attendee
“You had a lot of great points and very useful information that I plan to pass on to my staff.”
– ALA Conference Attendee
Interested in Having Me Speak?
Looking for a speaker, webinar presenter, workshop facilitator, or staff trainer? I’d be happy to discuss your organization’s needs and how I can tailor a presentation or training session for your audience.
