Free training: January 2025

Training opportunities for this month were compiled and shared by the Maine State Library. View and subscribe to the Maine State Library Continuing Education (CE) Calendar at: https://maine-msl.libguides.com/CECAL.

If you have a free program that you would like to have considered for next month, submit it by the 20^th here: https://www.maine.gov/msl/libs/ce/ce_program_submission_form.shtml

Questions or comments? Email: [email protected]

For upcoming WebJunction webinars check the WebJunction webinar calendar and visit the WebJunction Course Catalog for additional learning opportunities.

Event categories

ACCESSABILITY

• Jan 15: Talking Book and Braille Service: Improving Accessibility to Books (Nebraska Library Commission)

ASSESMENT/PLANNING

• Jan 6: Getting Your Grants Program “AI Ready” (Grantstation)
• Jan 6: Strategies, Systems and Shortcuts: Effective Content Marketing (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
• Jan 8: 12 Golden Rules of Nonprofit Finance (Propel Nonprofits)
• Jan 23: Expert Panel Discussion: Learning Trends 2025 (Training Magazine Network)
• Jan 29: Annual Reports: Simplifying the Process for Maximum Donor Engagement (Productive Fundraising)
• Jan 30: Key Financial Metrics Every Nonprofit Should Track for Long-Term Success (CharityVillage)

CAREERS (Staff)

• Jan 22: From Burnout to Well-Being for ECE Leaders and Their Programs (Early Childhood Investigations)
• Jan 23: What Gets in the Way of Excellence? (Niche Academy)
• Jan 27: 2025 is Your Year: How to Goal-Set for Success (GovLoop)

DEVELOPMENT & MANAGING CHANGE        

• Jan 15: Discover The Secrets to Motivating Millennials and Gen Z! (Training Magazine Network)
• Jan 16: Don't manage change—embrace it (WebJunction)
• Jan 28: How to Deal With Change at Your Agency (GovLoop)

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION

• Jan 30: Building community connections by hiring for cultural knowledge (WebJunction)

FUNDRAISING

• Jan 9: Nonprofit Website Audits & Best Practices for Fundraising Success (Bloomerang)
• Jan 22: Designing Inclusive Surveys for Effective Fundraising (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
• Jan 23: Fundraising Basics for Small Nonprofits: How to Make Your Grant Search More Effective (CharityVillage)

LEGAL

• Jan 14: Public Libraries Standing Up and Standing Together (Public Library Association-ALA)
• Jan 29: An Inside Look at the United States Code (FDLP)

MANAGEMENT

• Jan 9: Library Customer Data: Privacy vs. Personalization (RIPL)
• Jan 13: The Hidden Costs of Staff Turnover and How to Hire Right the First Time (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
• Jan 16: Flow-Based Leadership: Transform Your Team with Neuroscience-Backed Strategies (Training Magazine Network)

OUTREACH & PARTNERS

• Jan 15: Building Community: Strategies for Coming Together (Niche Academy)
• Jan 27: An Equation to Unleash Collective Impact and Foster Meaningful Collaboration (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
• Jan 29: An introduction to Do NASA Science LIVE for Service Members, Veterans and their Families (SciStarter)
• Jan 29: Adventures in Library Partnerships (Libraries Learn)

READERS’ ADVISORY

• Jan 8: Best New Teen Reads of 2024 (Nebraska Library Commission)
• Jan 21: Readers’ Advisory Roundtable (Connecticut Library Consortium)

REFERENCE

• Jan 14: Information to Support Research from the National Agricultural Library (FDLP)
• Jan 22: Copyright Confusion? Fair Use to the Rescue! (Niche Academy)

SCHOOL LIBRARIES

• Jan 7: Spark Joy, Achieve Growth: Student-Centered Literacy Strategies (edWeb)
• Jan 9: Teaching Copyright K-12: Ready to go and it’s all FREE! (Copyright & Creativity)
• Jan 14: Leading with Impact: Forging Connection Through Technology (Follett)
• Jan 16: New Escape Room Activities for C&C K-12 Lessons (Copyright & Creativity)
• Jan 21: The Science of Reading in Action: Misunderstandings of the Science of Reading (edWeb)

TECHNOLOGY

• Jan 7: Social Media Boot Camp – Day One (Firespring)
• Jan 8: Social Media Boot Camp – Day Two (Firespring)
• Jan 9: Info2Go! Librarians Collaborating to Teach Critical Engagement with Artificial Intelligence (Idaho Commission for Libraries)
• Jan 13: Learning Tech Showcase: Simulations, AR/VR (Training Industry)
• Jan 15: Build Smarter Campaigns with AI-Powered Communication Strategies with TechSoup AI Services (TechSoup)
• Jan 21: AI-Powered Nonprofits: 2025 Report on AI Adoption Rates, Use Cases, and Outcomes (TechSoup)
• Jan 30: Increase Your Library Instruction Engagement and Interaction with Nearpod (ASERL)

TRAINING & INSTRUCTIONS

• Jan 8: Empowering Libraries to Support Caregivers: Essential Resources and Strategies (Indiana State Library)

At your leisure

Pre-recorded webinars to view at your convenience

Preparing for Program Challenges at your Public Library (Programming Librarian)
Learn best practices and strategies to support staff, board, and community through program challenges. Are you unsure how to handle a program challenge in your library?  Do you worry about having the right policies and procedures in place? Two public library directors will share their personal experiences with intellectual freedom challenges of programs.  Resources to assist in responding to challenges and crafting appropriate policies, procedures, and training will be provided.

Weathering the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Storm (EveryLibrary Institute)
As a library participating in the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) program, you know the potential risks of being audited. The ECF program is subject to strict compliance requirements, and any non-compliance can result in significant financial penalties. During this webinar, you will learn from experts in the field about the latest compliance requirements, best practices for avoiding common compliance pitfalls, and strategies for reducing your audit risk. Our speakers have a wealth of experience working with libraries like yours and are eager to share their knowledge.

Welcoming Immigrants Through Cultural Programming: Lessons from the Field (Infopeople)
At a time when so many immigrants and refugees are experiencing insecurity, fear, isolation, and hostility, public libraries can serve as centers of civility, hospitality, and inclusion. Learn more about how a group of California libraries and library workers are employing the arts and humanities to welcome newcomers from many cultural backgrounds to communities large and small, urban and rural, across the state. Incorporating practical tips and advice for working effectively with immigrant communities, we will also touch on topics such as virtual programming, building relationships with community partners, creative marketing, and using Design Thinking techniques to develop user-oriented programs. This webinar will be of interest to library workers with public programming responsibilities at all levels of their organizations, library administrators, and library support organizations looking for programming models.

Webinars

January 6

Strategies, Systems and Shortcuts: Effective Content Marketing (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
Content marketing is about telling stories that inspire your audience to act – and nonprofits have no shortage of them to share. But without a systematic approach, organizations often end up sinking too much time into ineffective content. This session will offer step-by-step guidance on creating a content marketing plan. You'll learn how to define goals, create content pillars, select your channels, and measure results over time.

Getting Your Grants Program “AI Ready" (GrantStation)
AI can be a powerful tool for your grants program, increasing productivity and efficiency by automating routine tasks, organizing data, and assisting in writing. But to leverage AI effectively, you need a strategic setup and the right foundation. In this TargetED session, Alice Ruhnke and David Gates will provide an in-depth introduction to using AI in grant development, emphasizing how to prepare your grants program to take advantage of AI technology. The focus will be on developing templates that will integrate smoothly with AI tools, allowing you to maximize their impact in the future. You’ll learn: foundational AI concepts and definitions; the benefits and challenges of using AI for grant proposals; and, how to create templates and structures that AI can use effectively. You’ll leave with a solid understanding of how AI can support your organization’s grant efforts and clear steps to get your grants program ready for AI integration.

January 7

Social Media Boot Camp – Day One (Firespring)
New Webinar Series! - Firespring’s first Social Media Boot Camp is a two-day webinar series that combines our Social Media 101, 102 topics, and includes more resources for you to elevate your social media presence. Attendees will receive a Social Media Boot Camp Workbook and get additional Q&A time with our experts each day. We’ll teach you practical tips and tools for extending your cause and mission via social media. We cover the basics of using social media for your nonprofit organization and give you handy tips for the most useful social media platforms for nonprofits. *Attend BOTH days and you’ll be entered in a giveaway to win a customized Social Media Strategy package, crafted by our experts!

Spark Joy, Achieve Growth: Student-Centered Literacy Strategies (edWeb)
Educators don’t have to choose between joyful literacy experiences and rigorous literacy instruction for their students. With the right classroom practices, literacy can be both joyful and rigorous! Join renowned author and educator Dr. Ernest Morrell for this edWebinar as he shares research-based, student-centered practices for creating joyful and rigorous literacy classrooms that empower all students. Bringing both his extensive experience and personal passion for the topic, Dr. Morrell will show how educators can keep students motivated and excited as they grow essential literacy skills and learn to tackle challenging texts. Attendees will explore effective strategies and new ideas for creating literacy classrooms that increase both engagement and academic learning for today’s students.

January 8

Empowering Libraries to Support Caregivers: Essential Resources and Strategies (Indiana State Library)
Caregivers often face overwhelming physical, emotional, and mental challenges while balancing caregiving with their own well-being. In this session, librarians will learn how to support caregivers by connecting them with trusted health resources from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other key organizations. Participants will explore effective strategies for making libraries welcoming, resource-rich spaces for caregivers and gain practical tools to help prevent caregiver burnout within the community. Join us to strengthen your library’s role as a supportive hub for caregivers, fostering resilience and connection.

Best New Teen Reads of 2024 (Nebraska Library Commission)
Brief book talks and reviews of new titles recommended to school and public librarians, covering both middle and high school levels, that were published within the last year.

12 Golden Rules of Nonprofit Finance (Propel Nonprofits)
Nonprofit financial health can seem like an elusive, nuanced, and subjective judgment call. In this webinar we will break it all down to 12 Golden Rules of nonprofit finance to keep your organization healthy. From budgeting to operating reserves, if you follow these rules, you’ll be on your way to a better understanding of nonprofit financial health. This session is a great introduction for those who are new to nonprofit finance.

Social Media Boot Camp – Day Two (Firespring)
New Webinar Series! - Firespring’s first Social Media Boot Camp is a two-day webinar series that combines our Social Media 101, 102 topics, and includes more resources for you to elevate your social media presence. Attendees will receive a Social Media Boot Camp Workbook and get additional Q&A time with our experts each day. We’ll teach you practical tips and tools for extending your cause and mission via social media. We cover the basics of using social media for your nonprofit organization and give you handy tips for the most useful social media platforms for nonprofits. Now it’s time to use social media to stand out from the crowd. You’ll learn a few advanced social media tips and tricks, elevate your social media presence through micro strategies and activate your advocates. *Attend BOTH days and you’ll be entered in a giveaway to win a customized Social Media Strategy package, crafted by our experts!

January 9

Info2Go! Librarians Collaborating to Teach Critical Engagement with Artificial Intelligence (Idaho Commission for Libraries)
This presentation will feature three Boise State University faculty librarians who are engaged in directly teaching students how to critically engage with artificial intelligence (AI). While many librarians are engaging with AI, and even teaching about it, Boise State librarians are leading the way on their campus by 1) creating a for-credit information literacy and AI course, 2) integrating AI literacy into the general education curriculum, and 3) developing an asynchronous course with campus partners that is available to the entire campus. Presenters will discuss strategies for using information literacy principles to critically and ethically engage with generative AI in higher education.

Library Customer Data: Privacy vs. Personalization (RIPL)
Customer privacy and confidentiality are core public library values. Our default is to not make use of our customer behavior data, in spite of the fact that it would allow us to personalize and market targeted services. Where is the middle ground between maximum privacy and maximum personalization that respects our commitment to privacy while allowing us to use data to guide service design and delivery? There is not one perfect answer, but this webinar will explore the topic in theory and in practice. Interact with colleagues to find your comfort zone along the privacy vs. personalization continuum, both personally and in your organization.

Nonprofit Website Audits & Best Practices for Fundraising Success (Bloomerang)
Unlock your nonprofit’s fundraising potential with our upcoming webinar on website audits! This session focuses on optimizing your website to drive donations and improve donor engagement. Ken Miller, CFRE will walk you through best practices for assessing your site’s functionality, design, and donor experience, ensuring your website becomes a powerful fundraising tool. Learn how to identify and fix common issues, streamline the giving process, and create an engaging online platform that inspires generosity. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your nonprofit’s digital fundraising strategy!

Teaching Copyright K-12: Ready to go and it’s all FREE! (Copyright & Creativity)
Are you tasked with teaching copyright to K-12 students? Do you lack resources or want to fill in gaps in your knowledge to be more comfortable teaching students? Do you want to know how to use this FREE online curriculum—2X winner of AASL's Best Digital Tool award? Join our C&C Ambassadors (fellow teachers!) as they share their experiences teaching with our positive, FREE resources—lessons, slides, videos. Learn how to teach the essentials of copyright, fair use, Creative Commons, public domain, and more with C&C’s award-winning, K-12 curriculum.

January 13

The Hidden Costs of Staff Turnover and How to Hire Right the First Time (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
Turnover is costly, but those costs can be mitigated with a streamlined hiring process. When the process becomes an afterthought rather than an informed, strategic process, the true costs can be catastrophic. In this session we'll expose common hiring pitfalls that cost organizations more than they realize and learn easy solutions to avoid them. We'll also explore the pros and cons of leveraging AI in the hiring process.

Learning Tech Showcase: Simulations, AR/VR (Training Industry)
Explore new realms of possibilities in learning and development during this Training Industry Learning Tech Showcase, where we will explore the power of simulations, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). You will learn how these advanced tools can improve engagement, reduce costs and increase knowledge retention. Watch live product demonstrations showcasing how immersive technologies can provide low-risk, authentic, hands-on experiences to your training programs. Engage with product experts during interactive Q&A sessions to get answers to your questions about applying simulations, AR/VR into your organization.

January 14

Information to Support Research from the National Agricultural Library (FDLP)
The webinar will present an overview of freely-available research tools and collections provided by the NAL to support a wide range of disciplines and research types from STEM and the sciences, to food and culture, to history and art. Attendees will increase their awareness of NAL tools and collections that connect users to information on food, agriculture, and the related sciences.

Public Libraries Standing Up and Standing Together (Public Library Association-ALA)
Following a polarized political season and threats to de-fund public agencies, the Public Library Association (PLA) has heard a range of concerns from our members and a desire for community and peer sharing. From increased book challenges to potential adverse legislation to supporting diverse staff and patrons, library workers are feeling isolated and overwhelmed by what lies ahead. But you are not alone! Standing up for libraries and library workers will demand persistence and strategic action from all of us. Join PLA for a virtual town hall to connect with colleagues and hear from PLA member-leaders on how they are staying focused but flexible during these times of transition.

Leading with Impact: Forging Connection Through Technology (Follett)
Join Blake Hopper, an inspiring assistant principal and former school librarian, as he shares his journey of transforming school culture through intentional leadership and innovative technology. With a unique perspective shaped by hands-on experience, Blake will show how creating a supportive and inspiring environment can positively impact both students and staff. In this engaging session, explore practical ways to integrate technology that not only boosts academic success but also strengthens collaboration and connection across your school community. Packed with actionable insights, real-world examples, and a focus on the power of meaningful leadership, this webinar is your road map to building a school students are excited to return to every day.

January 15

Talking Book and Braille Service: Improving Accessibility to Books (Nebraska Library Commission)
Reading is for everyone, which is why Nebraska’s Talking Book and Braille Service (TBBS) provides free audiobooks, audio magazines, and braille to individuals with a visual or physical impairment, or reading disability. Learn more about our service and the history of the organization from TBBS Director Gabe Kramer. Then, get the details on how TBBS is planning to partner with Nebraska public libraries in 2025 from Marketing and Outreach Coordinator Miranda Shreves.

Build Smarter Campaigns with AI-Powered Communication Strategies with TechSoup AI Services (TechSoup)
This interactive workshop teaches participants how to use AI tools like ChatGPT or Jasper to craft personalized donor communication campaigns. Attendees will engage in a hands-on exercise, drafting email templates and social media posts using AI tools with live feedback from experts. They will also learn about how TechSoup’s AI Services can enhance donor engagement and overall impact for nonprofits.

Building Community: Strategies for Coming Together (Niche Academy)
Join Jamie LaRue to learn strategies for coming together with community. Many communities have been grappling with political division and conflict. How can the library be a more positive and unifying influence? Part of the solution is "turning outward" to see our services as part of a web of social assets to provide coordinated responses to community needs. But to make this real we need to build narratives founded on human story, on evidence, and individual and social value.

Discover The Secrets to Motivating Millennials and Gen Z! (Training Magazine Network)
Generations? You’re not alone! According to Deloitte, 2024 was the first year that 75% of the workforce consisted of Millennials and Gen Z. These younger generations often face just as much difficulty understanding and aligning with older generations as the reverse, creating a two-way disconnect that can impact workplace harmony and productivity. Join us for an eye-opening webinar that explores what truly drives Millennials and Gen Z to thrive at work. Backed by FindMojo’s groundbreaking research and over 10,000 data points from the Motivators Assessment, you’ll uncover actionable strategies to foster collaboration across generations and build a more cohesive, motivated workforce.

January 16

Don't manage change—embrace it (WebJunction)
Trying to make changes at your library can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you get people on board? What do you do when you encounter resistance? Change management plans can help, but too often they frame the change as a problem to manage rather than an opportunity to reach for a shared vision. In this webinar, you will: Learn strategies for effective, positive change-making; Examine how shifting your mindset to center growth and strengths can help you positively reframe change; Explore approaches to leadership, collaboration, and power-sharing that meaningfully engage impacted groups; Plan for and address change anxiety and resistance.

Flow-Based Leadership: Transform Your Team with Neuroscience-Backed Strategies (Training Magazine Network)
Leadership can be the make-or-break factor in team performance and business success. But what sets extraordinary leaders apart? In this webinar, we'll explore how neuroscience and flow-states can revolutionize the way you create and lead high-performing teams. Learn the latest science-backed techniques for developing a leadership style that is both brain-based and results-driven. Discover the secrets behind the flow state—what it is, how to cultivate it, and how it transforms workplaces into environments of productivity, creativity, and deep engagement. Participants will gain access to a proven framework for flow-based leadership and walk away with actionable strategies to implement immediately. By the end of this webinar, you’ll have a toolbox of practical tactics to elevate your leadership, improve team morale, and drive sustained performance. Join us to learn how to take your leadership to the next level using the power of neuroscience and flow!

New Escape Room Activities for C&C K-12 Lessons (Copyright & Creativity)
Copyright & Creativity is excited to launch its new Escape Room activities which are designed to supplement classroom instruction and reinforce the copyright concepts covered in C&C’s K-12 lessons. During this webinar, we will share the development process and how to access and play the Escape Rooms.  We'll also break out by grade level bands to delve deeper and go though the activities in detail.  When registering, please indicate which grade level band you are interested in exploring in depth.

January 21

Readers' Advisory Roundtable (Connecticut Library Consortium)
Join us for our Readers' Advisory Roundtable to talk about poetry collections. We'll have as our guest a representative from the CT Poetry Foundation to review new ways to share our poetry collections. The Readers’ Advisory (RA) Roundtable seeks to provide a welcoming platform on which to share information about new and forthcoming titles and to help members stay current on innovative ways to provide RA. No prior knowledge of RA is necessary to attend. All are welcome.

AI-Powered Nonprofits: 2025 Report on AI Adoption Rates, Use Cases, and Outcomes (TechSoup)
Gain exclusive insights from our recent survey of over 1,000 nonprofits exploring how AI is reshaping the sector. This webinar will unpack the latest findings on how organizations like yours leverage AI to drive efficiency, enhance engagement, and achieve measurable outcomes. From exploring real-world use cases to understanding adoption trends and overcoming challenges, this session will provide actionable insights to help your nonprofit harness the power of AI for greater impact. Whether considering AI for the first time or looking to optimize your current solutions, join us to learn how to position your organization for success in 2025 and beyond.

The Science of Reading in Action: Misunderstandings of the Science of Reading (edWeb)
The Science of Reading movement has produced several benefits for both educators and students—and yet it has also come with many misconceptions. These misconceptions about the Science of Reading can be quite problematic and even offset many of the benefits gained from Science of Reading-aligned practices. In this edWebinar, award-winning researcher, professor, and author Dr. Sharon Vaughn will explore and debunk several of the most common misconceptions around the Science of Reading.

January 22

Designing Inclusive Surveys for Effective Fundraising (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
This workshop is designed for nonprofit professionals eager to enhance their survey design skills with an inclusive, practical approach. Together, we’ll dive into techniques for crafting questions that invite honest responses from a broad audience. From identifying biases to ensuring accessibility, this session will show how even small adjustments can make a big impact on the quality and representativeness of your data. We’ll look at real examples, share effective strategies, and tackle common pitfalls in survey question design. You’ll walk away with a clearer sense of how to frame questions that not only respect but empower all voices in your community.

From Burnout to Well-Being for ECE Leaders and Their Programs (Early Childhood Investigations)
Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and on the verge of burnout? Discover how to regain control and find stability through self-care, systems, and support. In this free webinar, presented by early childhood leadership coach and experienced program leader Beth Cannon, you’ll learn how to safeguard yourself and your program from the brink, ensuring long-term success without sacrificing your well-being. If you’re ready for a clear path to stability—both personally and professionally, Beth will share actionable strategies for realigning with your values, nurturing yourself and your relationships, and creating systems that withstand the pressures of operating a program. If you’re ready to prevent burnout and take back control, this session is your first step toward building a sustainable, balanced, and thriving environment for yourself, your staff, and your school.

Copyright Confusion? Fair Use to the Rescue! (Niche Academy)
Definitive answers about fair use are tough to find, as most copyright decisions are determined by the courts. Yet, library patrons seek guidance about their use of copyrighted materials more frequently than sometimes the reference desk can handle. So, how do librarians provide appropriate guidance to their patrons without risking inappropriate giving of legal advice? Sara Wolf will give librarians strategies for helping patrons make their own use decisions.

January 23

Fundraising Basics for Small Nonprofits: How to Make Your Grant Search More Effective (CharityVillage)
Join us for a free webinar to learn how to make your grant search more effective. For staff and volunteers who are new to fundraising, finding grants to fund your initiatives can be challenging, particularly for small organizations lacking a grant writer. This webinar is designed to guide organizations unfamiliar with the grant application process. In our session, we’ll explore strategies that will help you find grant programs that will maximize your grant writing success.

Expert Panel Discussion: Learning Trends 2025 (Training Magazine Network)
Join us for the next Learning from The Leading Edge webinar as we explore Learning Trends for 2025. This expert panel will share their insights on the transformative learning technologies poised to shape the future, including: AI Everywhere: Pocket assistants, computer companions, and wearable intelligence; XR at the Moment of Need: Extended reality revolutionizes hands-on training when and where it matters most; Blending Theory and Practice: The rise of spaced repetition, experiential learning, and personalized tutoring; Practical Strategies for 2025: Overcome barriers to adoption and scale impactful learning experiences effectively; Bring your questions and join this dynamic conversation with leaders at the forefront of learning science and cutting-edge technology. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights and prepare for the new year of learning innovation!

January 27

An Equation to Unleash Collective Impact and Foster Meaningful Collaboration (Nonprofit Learning Lab)
Often, in our community work, our efforts do not add up to the change we seek. We keep working on the problem with increasing frustration, wondering if a solution is possible. Join us to learn about an equation that cultivates a collaboration that unleashes a community. In our session, we will address the nature of relationships that lead to a collaborative atmosphere, how best to utilize technology to serve the work of collaboration, why collaboration unleashes a community, and how to faithfully foster the journey of a shared community vision.

2025 Is Your Year: How to Goal-Set for Success (GovLoop)
What’s stopping you from making this year your best yet, professionally? While we all have full calendars and inboxes, your career advancement depends on you setting aside time to figure out your goals. If you don’t define and plan for your goals, how can you expect to achieve them? Join us online to hear from a management expert about how to set yourself up for success this year. You’ll learn: how to identify goals that map back to your long-term management aspirations, how to document your plan and keep yourself accountable, and how to encourage your teams to prioritize goal setting.

January 28

How to Deal With Change at Your Agency (GovLoop)
Change is extremely stressful for many people. As we enter a new year with a new administration, change is on the horizon for all public servants in one way or another. So, how can you best manage change? How can you embrace times of transition at your agency and the public sector at large? Join us to hear from a change management expert about protecting your well-being and work output while navigating uncertain times. You’ll learn how to: manage day-to-day stress and things out of your control, focus on big-picture goals and mission, and ask for or provide clarity to team members during change.

January 29

Annual Reports: Simplifying the Process for Maximum Donor Engagement (Productive Fundraising)
Join fundraising master trainer, Chad Barger, ACFRE, ACNP for a workshop focused on simplifying the process of creating a nonprofit annual report.  Chad will review the evolution of annual reports over the last 20+ years and provide multiple real life examples of what is working today.  The focus of the session is on designing an annual report that donors actually want to read.  Participants will leave the workshop with templates and samples to make implementing the best practices a breeze at their nonprofit organization.

An Inside Look at the United States Code (FDLP)
This webinar will provide an inside look at the maintenance and publication of the United States Code, the official codification of general and permanent Federal statutory law. The Office of the Law Revision Counsel within the U.S. House of Representatives is responsible for maintaining the U.S. Code. Learn more about the Office and how it goes about the process of updating the U.S. Code to incorporate new laws enacted by Congress. Some historical background will be given to explain why the U.S. Code looks as it does today. We will also explore a few features of the U.S. Code website and learn about how notes added by Code editors can give important context to the statutory text beyond what is printed.

What Gets in the Way of Excellence? (Niche Academy)
We all know our meetings are too long and largely not impactful, that we cut corners when hiring, and that we waste time responding to low-value emails. Yet we keep doing it day after day. There are reasons. But only after you understand them can you overcome these barriers to success. Best-selling author and Stanford Business School lecturer David Dodson will provide practical and actionable steps you can take to break down the barriers to reaching your potential and get you on the path to success.

Adventures in Library Partnerships (Libraries Learn)
Join Beth Warren, Manager of Strategic Partnerships for the Denver Public Library, to learn why partnerships are beneficial to libraries, and how you can apply partnership principles to your work. The session will cover the building blocks of successful partnership development, creating a partnership framework, practical tips for finding mission-aligned partners in your community, and managing those partnerships effectively. Participants will then “choose our adventure” in partnership land- using Denver Public Library’s partnership examples to demonstrate different models for success in your own library and community.

An introduction to Do NASA Science LIVE for Service Members, Veterans and their Families (SciStarter)
Join us for a special presentation of Do NASA Science LIVE on January 29, 2025 at 7 pm ET! NASA Citizen Science, SciStarter, The Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Association for the Advancement of Participatory Sciences invite you to try something new: meet NASA scientists and work on real NASA science live with us. You’ll hear first-hand from a veteran whose involvement in NASA projects helped him build confidence and skills, even become a leader on a research project. Learn about NASA science projects that invite you to help advance real scientific research, anytime, anywhere, while connecting to a supportive community.

January 30

Key Financial Metrics Every Nonprofit Should Track for Long-Term Success (CharityVillage)
Join us for a free webinar to learn how to take control of your nonprofit’s finances with the key metrics every leader should know. For nonprofit leaders, financial health isn’t just about managing day-to-day operations—it’s about ensuring long-term stability and growth. In this webinar, we’ll explore the key financial metrics that every nonprofit should track to strengthen financial oversight, improve decision-making, and secure ongoing donor support. From the Operating Reserve Ratio to the Fundraising Efficiency metric, you’ll learn how these critical insights can help your organization remain resilient in times of uncertainty. Whether you’re preparing for 2025 or looking to optimize your current financial strategy, this session will equip you with actionable tools to achieve lasting financial success. Don’t miss this opportunity to take control of your nonprofit’s financial future!

Increase Your Library Instruction Engagement and Interaction with Nearpod (ASERL)
LibraryLinkNJ and the LibraryLinkNJ Technology Advisory Group (L-TAG) are delighted to share the success of the recently concluded “AI Ambassadors” program, a transformative AI training series tailored for tech-savvy library staff from multitype libraries across New Jersey. The AI Ambassadors program consisted of three insightful virtual sessions and a dynamic in-person event, attracting a diverse group of 20 participants eager to explore the realms of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The series covered a spectrum of topics, providing participants with a robust foundation in AI concepts, hands-on experiences with cutting-edge AI tools, and practical insights into integrating AI applications within library settings. The AI Ambassadors program successfully trained over 80 library staff members on the fundamentals of artificial intelligence. The workshops covered AI basics, effective tool usage, and productivity benefits. The program emphasized continuous learning, with Ambassadors sharing their experiences and providing feedback for future sessions. The goal is to demystify AI and empower library staff to utilize AI tools effectively, adapting to the evolving landscape of modern librarianship.

Building community connections by hiring for cultural knowledge (WebJunction)
Staffing demographics rarely match those of the communities they serve. Learn how valuing specific knowledge, skills, and abilities during the hiring process can develop a staff ready to serve a diverse community. Hear from Cultural Liaison Library Assistant staff representing Hispanic and Tribal communities, including the results of their efforts to build connections with and share stories of these communities. Attendees will be challenged to reconsider some common hiring practices and how to make them more inclusive. Hear a success story from a library that identified cultural knowledge gaps and worked with community stakeholders during the job posting and selection process.