Library 2.0 Virtual Conferences

Plans are underway for the 10th Annual Library 2.0 Worldwide Virtual Conference. Once again, three mini-conferences will be held throughout 2020, in March, June and October.

Library 2.020 Wholehearted Libraries: Soft Skills for 21st Century Information Professionals

Date: Tuesday, March 10, 2020
Time: Noon to 3 p.m. Pacific Time
Location: Online

This conference is being organized in partnership with iSchool Associate Professor Michael Stephens.

Abstract: We should bring our hearts to work, and qualities such as open-mindedness, emotional intelligence, and reflective action are all part of this process. Services steeped in humanism, compassion, and understanding should be the cornerstone of what we do, and why we do it, for all members of our communities, including the underserved. Not only do libraries need high tech, they also need staff who approach their work with a wholehearted attitude.

This one-day conference will explore the human side of 21st Century information work. We will define what soft skills are, how and when to use various soft skills, types of training that can improve soft skills, and how to share emotionally engaging stories. Learn what libraries are doing now to extend services; create welcoming spaces; and engage users with soft skills such as compassion, empathy, creativity, curiosity, and finding balance. Sessions will focus on how we can nurture a positive mindset in our employees, use the power of stories to promote understanding, and extend our reach into our global communities. Soft skills are heart skills.

Registration is now open! Please register in advance to ensure you get the links to the recorded sessions. Visit the conference website for more information and to view the call for proposals.

Save the Date

Please mark your calendars for the June and October conferences.

• Wednesday, June 17, 2020, for “Small, Rural and Independent Libraries” — This conference is being organized in partnership with Jim Lynch, staff writer for TechSoup
• Wednesday, October 14, 2020, for “Sustainability in Libraries” — This conference is being organized in partnership with Rebekkah Smith Aldrich, executive director of the Mid-Hudson Library System

Join the Library 2.0 network (it’s free) to stay updated about these conferences and other professional development options. All three Library 2.020 conferences are three hours long, beginning at noon Pacific Time. More information will be posted as the conference dates near.