Keynote Speaker Bio:

Niigaan Sinclair is Anishinaabe from Peguis First Nation. He is an award-winning writer, editor, and professor of Indigenous Studies at the University of Manitoba. In 2022, he was named one of the most influential people in Canada by Maclean’s magazine.

Niigaan is a multiple nominee of Canadian columnist of the year (winning in 2018) and his commentary appears weekly on multiple platforms across Canada – from the pages of The Winnipeg Free Press to TV shows on CBC, APTN, and on his co-hosted podcast "Niigaan and the Lone Ranger."

His first book, Wînipêk: Visions of Canada from an Indigenous Centre (McClelland & Stewart, 2024), was a national bestseller that won the 2024 Governor General Award for Non-fiction. He is a former secondary school teacher who won the 2019 Peace Educator of the Year from the Peace and Justice Studies Association based at Georgetown University in Washington, DC.

Description:

While usually seen as the work of children’s librarians, sharing stories and jamming on musical instruments can be just as fun for adults! Join Austin Matheson and Brittany Lagasse as they discuss their experiences delivering successful adult programs like the Adult Storytime, Make Music Night, and Ukulele Jam at the Winnipeg Public Library. Broaden the scope of your adult programming and learn how story and music performance can attract new customers and create new avenues for collaboration and community at your library. No experience necessary!

Presenter Bios:

Following the completion of his Master of Information Studies degree in 2017, Austin Matheson held positions in BC as a Children’s Librarian, Community Engagement Librarian, and Manager of Collections & Technology, before starting with the Winnipeg Public Library in 2022. Now a Branch Head Librarian at the Westwood Library, Austin is passionate about developing creative programming and outreach opportunities at his branch, and encouraging others to do the same for the communities they serve. Additionally, Austin sits on the Manitoba Library Association’s Board as Communications Director, and is on the planning committee for the 2025 Manitoba Libraries Conference, where he works to connect libraries of all types and sizes across the province on the issues that matter to them most.

Brittany Lagassé has worked at the Winnipeg Public Library for over 15 years, mostly at the downtown branch. She has worked at the library's makerspace, the ideaMILL, since its opening in 2018. Outside of the library, Brittany is a musician and actor and she enjoys bringing her artistic skills to the makerspace and its programming. She's been the host of Make Music Night, an acoustic music jam for library patrons, for the past 6 years. She is also part of the team of staff of who run Library Happy Hour, a story time for adults, currently hosted at Little Brown Jug Brewing Co.

Description:

What is the role of the library collection in the current academic world, where students primarily look for online materials and circulation stats have plummeted? What are we collecting, and why? And where is it all going to go? This presentation offers a view from the front line of Canada's largest academic library.

Presenter Bio:

David Eden has been the Stacks Supervisor of Robarts Library since 2005. He manages a collection of over 4 million items. He received his MISt at the University of Toronto and also has a Masters' in Theatre History. He has worked at University of Toronto Library since 1995.

Description:

Gaynor Family Regional Library has worked hard to foster strong community partnerships in an effort to create a welcoming place for all. They are very proud of their partnership with the indigenous community, which includes an indigenous art installation recognizing the MMWWG2S through a mural that becomes a huge walk-in turtle. The installation has been used as a site for traditional ceremonies, dances, and teachings, all led by elders and the traditional artist that created it. There is also a healing garden at the center of the installation where the public can collect traditional medicines. 

This presentation will focus on the process of building partnerships based on trust and how the success of these partnerships can garner support from members of the indigenous community and library funders alike. 

Presenter Bio:

For the last 18 years, Ken Kuryliw  has managed the Regional Public Library out of Selkirk, Manitoba. Prior to that, he was a consultant and acting director at Public Library Services for 14 years, beginning with three years at Brandon University Library & Archives.

Description:

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming how libraries engage with information and manage digital collections. This session will demystify ChatGPT by explaining its capabilities, limitations, and practical applications for library services. Through a live demonstration, attendees will learn prompt refinement techniques and explore real-world AI applications. A case study on digital repositories will illustrate how AI is reshaping metadata creation and streamlining workflows. We will also address ethical concerns and strategies for responsible AI use. Join us for an engaging discussion on the evolving role of AI in libraries.

Presenter Bios:

Christopher Desrochers (www.christopherdesrochers.com) is a dedicated library leader and technology innovator with a strong track record of enhancing library services and resources. He holds a Master of Library and Information Studies from the University of Alberta and a Bachelor of Arts (Philosophy Major, Physics Minor) from the University of Manitoba. Prior to his current role as Branch Head Librarian at St. Vital Library (Winnipeg Public Library), Christopher managed technology and collections at Sault Ste. Marie Public Library, where he guided strategic collection development, modernized IT infrastructure, and championed accessibility initiatives. With experience in both public and school libraries, Christopher has consistently leveraged his technical expertise to improve operational efficiency and enhance user experiences. An adaptable problem solver and thoughtful leader, he is passionate about exploring emerging technologies, such as generative AI, to help libraries remain dynamic community hubs that foster learning, inclusivity, and curiosity. 

Mike Ellis has worked as tech support, as a developer-light, and as a librarian in academic and public libraries for the past twenty-five years. For the past decade, Mike has headed the Winnipeg Public Library's digital repository, pastforward.winnipeg.ca. The speed of cataloguing items in the digital collections has always been a limiting factor in collections growth. Mike has been experimenting with accelerating this process using AI and machine learning tools for the past decade.

Description:

Public libraries are committed to providing accessible services for all patrons, but often face challenges in acquiring the knowledge and resources needed to effectively support individuals who are not able to read regular print due to a disability. That’s where CELA comes in. This session will help you understand how CELA supports libraries in providing services and technologies that better support patrons with print disabilities. 

It will also provide an overview of CELA and the role that public libraries play in offering our service. Focused heavily on accessible reading devices and technologies, librarians will learn how to help patrons access these tools and how they can lend out devices. Additionally, Tara Glaspey from South Interlake Regional Library will share insights from a successful project offering pre-loaded DAISY players via inter-library loan, discussing challenges, successes and key lessons to guide other libraries in implementing similar programs.

Presenter Bios:

Jessica Desormeaux is the Communications and Access Specialist at the Centre for Equitable Library Access. She is involved with the coordination of online services—including the CELA website, newsletters and training videos—and supporting public libraries as part of the Member Services team. Jessica believes libraries are vital cornerstones of equity, providing inclusive and accessible services that empower people of all ages, abilities, socioeconomic backgrounds, and cultural identities. She deeply values the dedication of library staff who work tirelessly to serve their communities. In her role, Jessica supports public libraries through outreach and assistance, ensuring they can offer accessible services for patrons with print disabilities. She is proud to contribute to CELA’s mission of supporting public libraries and championing the fundamental right of Canadians with print disabilities to access media and reading materials in the format of their choice.

Tara Glaspey is a dedicated library professional with close to eight years experience at the Stonewall Branch of the South Interlake Regional Library. Currently in the Senior Library Clerk position, she is well on her way to completing the Library and Information Technology program with RRC Polytechnic. Tara takes pride in being one of the leads in the "Audio Books Made Easy Program" initiative, a program funded by the Manitoba Accessibility Fund, which launched in her library in early 2024. She is committed to improving accessibility and raising awareness at the public library level which drives her commitment to providing essential service to patrons with print disabilities. Tara believes in the importance of making library resources available to everyone and has reveled in the delight this adaptive technology has brought to her patrons.

Description:

Access to justice can take many forms. As the Director of Manitoba Law Library, Linda Fontaine works to support self-represented litigants and the public through plain language legal materials and referral services. Karen Sawatzky has collaborated to create Legal Information for Incarcerated Manitobans, a project that brings legal information into provincial prisons and advocating for the information rights prisoners are due. Through her work with the Prison Libraries Committee, Ashley Huot engages in ongoing advocacy for incarcerated people’s rights to information and creative programming. 

Highlighted are recent projects such as the development of a Prison Libraries Working Group with Manitoba Corrections to strategize advocacy for prison libraries, and the creation of the Joe Big George Collection, a collection of Indigenous books and authors supporting Indigenous prisoners’ access to their histories, culture, and languages.

Presenter Bios:

Trained as a library technician, Linda Fontaine has experience in law firm and general academic libraries. She is currently growing into her role as Director of Legal Resources at Manitoba Law Library. It is through the support of colleagues, and her own studious and curious nature that Linda has been able to flourish in a career as a legal information professional.

Ashley Huot is an academic librarian, artist, and editor. She has a background in supporting vulnerable communities through community development initiatives and arts education. She brings this experience to her work as Chair of the Prison Libraries Committee, which provides and advocates for prisoners’ rights to information and the creation and sharing of knowledge.

Karen Sawatzky has spent the majority of her career in law libraries. After working at two different firms, she became director of the Manitoba Law Library, retiring in 2024. She is co-lead of the Legal Information for Incarcerated Manitobans (LIIM) project, in partnership with the Prison Libraries Committee of MLA. In her spare time, Karen trains for triathlon just for the fun of it.

Description:

Please register for the library tour of the ideaMILL makerspace at the Millennium Libraryhere: https://conference.mla.mb.ca/library-tours/

The tour is within walking distance of the RBC Convention Centre, and participants must be able to walk on some uneven sidewalks and up stairs. There will be an elevator available at the library as well.
Library tour participants will need to go through security gates at the library.

There is a maximum of 25 registrants per library tour. There will be a waiting list in case of any cancellations.

Please meet promptly at the front door of the RBC Convention Centre at the York Street entrance.

Description:

Learn to apply empathy-based leadership skills and tips to build team morale in your library. This workshop is designed for leaders and supervisors but can be useful for anyone. Session includes some small group activities.

• Learn empathy-based skills that will positively impact employee morale

• Understand that empathy is not acquiescence

• Gain awareness of the value in knowing and caring for oneself

• Develop the ability to provide thoughtful responses to challenging situations

• Understand the importance of fostering joy in the workplace

Presenter Bios:

Sarah Giesbrecht has been the Branch Head Librarian at WPL’s St. John’s Branch for over 2 years. She previously worked in academic libraries including at the University of Winnipeg and the University of Northern BC. She earned her MLIS and MAS degrees at UBC, a subject master’s at U of T, and her bachelor’s at York University. Her main priorities are community engagement and partnerships within Winnipeg’s diverse North End. In her free time, Sarah enjoys quoting Star Trek and building LEGO.

Nadine McCaughan (MLIS;BED;BA) is currently the Branch Head Librarian of Charleswood Library. She has worked at Winnipeg Public Library since 2003, except for a short stint with the City of Winnipeg Employee Development Branch, where she enjoyed training a variety of staff. She is a certified teacher and worked overseas teaching English as Another Language and also substitute taught in Winnipeg schools until she fell in love with the library. Her priorities include programming, community outreach, and striving to be a good supervisor for outstanding staff. She loves physical fitness, playing music, trying new things (like presenting at the MLC) and, (of course) reading.

Description:

Strong library systems are supported by strong boards, and part of being a strong board is understanding the roles, responsibilities, and expectations placed on you as a board member. Being a library board member is a vital role, and having a clear understanding and confidence in that role can enhance library service in your community, as well as strengthen your relationship with staff, local council, and potential partners in your community. 

This workshop will provide participants a clearer understanding of roles and responsibilities as board members, and is for both new and returning board members.

Presenter Bio:

Meagan Richards is a member of the Public Library Services (PLS) team, where she is one of three library consultants supporting public libraries across the province. Before joining PLS in 2019, Meagan worked in public libraries in both Manitoba and Saskatchewan, including two of the three Parkland Regional Library systems in Canada. She brings experience in library management, programing, purchasing, and policy development. Since joining PLS, Meagan has collaborated with provincial and national organizations, including the National Network for Equitable Library Services and the Centre for Equitable Library Access, to support public libraries. Meagan is passionate about visiting libraries and learning about the innovative ways they are serving and improving their communities.

Description:

Claire & Shirley are two Indigenous librarian interns at a large Canadian university as well as MLIS students. In addition to the hands-on immersive education they receive at the university library, Claire & Shirley have taken it upon themselves to visit and learn from libraries in Winnipeg and the surrounding area. 

To date they have visited 22 different libraries or archives. Through this visiting they have increased their understanding of the local public, academic and special libraries of different sizes. As Indigenous women visiting is a natural part of how they conduct themselves, especially within academia. Through visiting they have cultivated abundance through relationships. Reciprocally, the public, academic and special libraries are learning from Indigenous women. 

They are learning how they could also bring Indigenous folks into the space. By exposing the UML Indigenous Librarian Internship to so many libraries/librarians it has sowed seed that perhaps they might be able to do this also.

Presenter Bios:

Claire Settee is Anishinaabe, Swampy Cree, and Scottish. She is a new MLIS student and one of the Indigenous librarian Interns at the University of Manitoba. She loves Lake Winnipeg, herbalism, and Indigenous Studies, and is interested in integrating them into her work. Her goals include completing her MLIS, and reclaiming her culture and language, and having a wholesome career in librarianship. 

Shirley Delorme Russell is a proud Métis woman and humble Anisinaabekwe. She is ½ way through her MLIS and is one of the Indigenous Librarian Interns at the University of Manitoba. She is the momma of two beautiful adults. She was previously a teacher and a history nerd, working for a school division and the Manitoba Métis Federation. She hopes to use her MLIS to further interest and use of Manitoba Indigenous history.

Each Lightning Round will run approximately 7 minutes.

1) Hold on to Your Seat - Or Don't!

Description: 

Sometimes, offhand comments about seemingly trivial details can shine a light on what is really important for patrons. For us, it was our library’s outdated and uncomfortable chairs: both staff and students talked (and joked) about them… Until we caught on and understood that we could make a big difference in our student population’s use and enjoyment of our study spaces if we made them more comfortable. Hold on to your seat – or don’t – because we will tell you how we made replacing our chairs a priority, got institutional support, involved students in selecting the replacement model, and hopefully saved a few backs along the way.

Presenter Bio:

Lise Brin has been the Head Librarian at the Université de Saint-Boniface since 2022.

Marie-Andrée Guy is an instruction librarian at the Université de Saint-Boniface. She lives in the RM of Ritchot and has a young family so wanted to be involved with the board for the public libraries.

2) Acorns to Oaks Pre-Kindergarten Program

Description:

The inter-generational Acorns to Oaks Pre-K program was developed in collaboration with early childhood educators and is designed to help children aged 3 to 5 develop essential skills to prepare for Kindergarten. It has been a popular and successful ongoing program for three years.

Presenter Bio:

Angela Lovell is the Branch Admin for the Manitou Branch of South Central Regional Library. She has been in this role since Manitou became part of SCRL in 2018 but has a long association with the Manitou library and was its first librarian when it opened in 1990 until 1991. Since then, she has served on the Manitou Library Board for many years until rejoining the staff in 2016. She especially enjoys being involved in children's programming and chatting with patrons about their favourite reads.

3) Go for the Green

Description: 

Interested in supporting the environment and don't know how? Join this lightning talk for some practical tips and ideas to engage your community! 

Presenter Bio:

The Green. It. Mean. It. Team at Winnipeg Public Library has been providing environmental programming and resources since 2018. Team members are:Reegan Breu, Digital Literacy and Virtual Services Librarian / Grower of Green Choices Guide. Stephanie George, Branch Head Librarian of St. James-Assiniboia Library / Creative Conservationist. Nadine McCaughan, Branch Head Librarian of Charleswood Library / Wizard of Wrangling Programs. Andrew McCulloch, Branch Head Librarian of Henderson Library / Do-It-Yourself Dynamo. 

4) Telling Your Library's Story: Measuring and Communicating Impact that Matters

Description: 

In this lightning session you will hear how impact can be measured, and what impact stories are best suited to different audiences (and why). The session will also explore opportunities for libraries to collaborate on collective impact initiatives as both a way to share resources and tell their stories more effectively.

Presenter Bio:

Nicole is fully bilingual with over 25 years’ experience in executive positions leading cultural organizations. At Nordicity, Nicole provides strategic advice, leads the development and implementation of sector, organizational, and program design reviews; needs and feasibility assessments; stakeholder engagement; economic and qualitative reports as well as strategic and business planning. Prior to joining Nordicity, Nicole was the Executive Director of the Strategic Policy Branch in the Department of Sport Culture, Heritage and Tourism Manitoba where she led research, analysis, and development of legislative, policy, and program options in the areas of creative industries, performing arts, heritage, public libraries, multiculturalism, and sport. This included the development of a new arts and sport fund, the establishment of new funding regulations and measures of success for public libraries, and a comprehensive assessment of sport, culture and heritage grant levels against inflation over a twenty-year period. 

5) Dad & Me at the Library: Early Literacy Programming for Male Caregivers

Description: 

When you picture the caregivers that attend your library’s storytime programs, who do you see? Facing a lack of dads and male caregivers at children’s programming, Austin Matheson discusses how he planned, implemented, and marketed the Dad & Me Storytime program at the Westwood Library, and the long-term benefits of inviting male caregivers to early literacy programming.

Presenter Bio:

Following completion of his Master of Information Studies degree in 2017, Austin Matheson held positions in BC as a Children’s Librarian, Community Engagement Librarian, and Manager of Collections & Technology before starting with the Winnipeg Public Library in 2022. Now a Branch Head Librarian at the Westwood Library, he is passionate about developing creative programming and outreach opportunities at his branch, and encouraging others to do the same for the communities they serve. Additionally, Austin sits on the Manitoba Library Association’s Board as Communications Director, and is on the planning committee for the 2025 Manitoba Libraries Conference, where he works to connect libraries of all types and sizes across the province on the issues that matter to them most.

6) Expanding Bilingual Collections: How CPF Manitoba Can Support Libraries

Description:

Public libraries play a key role in ensuring access to French-language materials, especially for families engaged in French Immersion and French Second Language (FSL) programs. However, many libraries face challenges in expanding their bilingual collections and programming due to limited resources or lack of community connections. This brief presentation will highlight how CPF Manitoba can support libraries in enhancing their French-language materials and programming, making bilingual resources more accessible to families and fostering a stronger connection between the library, schools, and the Francophone community.

Key Discussion Points:

• Why bilingual collections matter – The growing need for accessible French materials in libraries.

• How CPF Manitoba can help – Support through curated book lists, partnerships, and funding guidance.

• Programming opportunities – Ideas for bilingual storytimes, cultural events, and parent workshops.

• Building connections – How CPF-MB can serve as a bridge between libraries, schools, and Francophone organizations to enhance French-language offerings.

Takeaway for Libraries: By partnering with CPF Manitoba, libraries can:

• Strengthen their bilingual collections and programming.

• Offer more engaging and relevant French-language experiences for families. 

• Connect with local French-language advocates and educators to expand their impact.

This session will provide actionable next steps for libraries looking to integrate more bilingual materials and programming with CPF-MB’s support.

Presenter Bio:

Joel Martine serves as the Executive Director of Canadian Parents for French – Manitoba (CPF-MB), an organization dedicated to promoting French Second Language (FSL) learning opportunities for youth across the province. With a strong background in project management and community engagement, Joel is passionate about fostering bilingualism and supporting Official Language Minority Communities (OLMCs).

Through CPF-MB’s FSL Early Years Little Library Project, Joel has worked closely with Manitoba libraries and CPF chapters to provide accessible, high-quality French-language resources to young learners. This initiative reflects CPF-MB’s commitment to empowering communities by promoting literacy and cultural appreciation through the French language.

Description:

When was the last time you read a book by a Queer, racialized author? Or saw one on your library's shelves? Diverse representation is crucial for making people feel seen, heard, and celebrated. In this session, explore the significance of 2SQTBIPOC (Two-Spirit, Queer, and Trans Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) stories and learn how the 2SQTBIPOC Library at Matter Queer Space Manitoba Inc. is creating inclusive spaces to uplift and celebrate these voices.

Presenter Bios:

Carla Taylor (she/they), co-founder and current President of Matter Queer Space Manitoba Inc., is also one of the original founders of the 2SQTBIPOC Library. A queer, Indigenous community healer, Carla is deeply committed to  advocating for marginalized communities and fostering inclusion.

Nix Cristobal Calma (they/them/siya), co-founder and current Vice-President of Matter Queer Space Manitoba Inc., is a visual artist. As a racialized trans, non-binary person, Nix recognizes the transformative power of art and literature in representing and celebrating diverse identities. 

Bre Cristobal Calma (they/them), co-founder and current Secretary/Treasurer of Matter Queer Space Manitoba Inc., is a community educator specializing in 2SLGBTQIA+ awareness and mental health. As a non-binary person, Bre is dedicated to creating inclusive spaces that authentically represent and support equity-deserving communities.

Description:

Across the country library workers have been facing similar issues including workplace violence and harassment as well as high workloads and burnout. We will share our experiences as union activists involved with our local and present the work being done at the CUPE National Library Workers committee. We will have time for a discussion on building connections between our workplaces and sharing strategies.  

Presenter Bio:

Kim Tuesday is a librarian working at Winnipeg Public library. She is the recording secretary for CUPE Local 500's Community Services unit and a member of the CUPE National Library Workers Committee.

Maya Martinez-Alper is a library service worker at Winnipeg Public Library and previously worked at WPL's Community Connections. She is the area Vice President for Libraries in CUPE 500's Community Services unit.

Description:

This session, designed for public libraries, will focus on the importance of building and maintaining relationships with potential community partners. Strong relationships are crucial for the growth and development of every organization, and for libraries, these connections can lead to partnerships that align with the library’s goals and objectives. Cultivating such relationships is a key step toward achieving the library’s vision and fulfilling its mission. 

Presenter Bio:

Oluwatofunmi Oyebola is part of a team of library consultants working for the Government of Manitoba, providing professional guidance to public libraries across the province. She supports library administrators and library boards in delivering effective and efficient library services by providing professional advice. Since starting in her role in 2022, Oluwatofunmi has actively promoted sector development by fostering partnerships and communication with public libraries, drawing on her decade of experience working with academic and school libraries.

Anne-Marie Williot is a trilingual multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter hailing from rural Quebec, and now based in Winnipeg. A honed poet and performer, she writes and sings in a deliciously melodic blend of old and new sounds, often evocative of candle-lit cafes. In recent years, the accordion has become her main instrument. In 2020, she released her latest album, entitled Cheval Géant.

Ian Cherry is a bass and low brass specialist, originally from Halifax. He has been playing in the Winnipeg jazz and reggae scenes for the last 18 years. He has joined forces with Anne-Marie over the last six years and has recently released a solo experimental album called Cry Havoc.

Description:

The Merritt Library in rural British Columbia became known for the chick hatching and the Giving Garden, a vegetable garden that became key to summer reading club programming and offered vegetables to the community free of charge. These programs created new connections with our patrons, staff, and other libraries, as well as creating opportunities to build new relationships with community organizations. In a conversation with the former branch head who began both programs, learn how it started, the successes, and the lessons to help make your nature-focused programming a success.  

Presenter Bio:

Meg Gregory is a public librarian currently living in Treaty 1 Territory and working for the Winnipeg Public Library. She is a third generation settler with Scottish and Irish descent, and the great granddaughter of a residential school Survivor. Meg was raised on the unceded territory of the St’at’imc Nation and benefited from countless generations of the St’at’imc People who have cared for the land. 

Meg has worked in rural and urban public libraries in British Columbia and Manitoba since completing her MLIS in 2017 at Western University, and has benefited from the company of many excellent coworkers. Meg is passionate about people-centred service and the public library as a space where anyone is welcome free of charge. She plans to pursue a PhD to support the continual evolution of public libraries, but currently devotes her time to creativity, reading, and family.

Description:

Library provision guidelines have evolved far beyond traditional area-per-capita measures, encompassing everything from staff complements and collections to technology, training, and user seating across varied space types. In this session, two consultants from Nordicity's library practice will explore the current state of provision guidelines in Canada, best practices for establishing meaningful, localized targets, and why effective measurement and target setting are essential for all libraries to meet diverse and changing community needs.

Presenter Bios:

Nicole Matiation is fully bilingual with over 25 years’ experience in executive positions leading cultural organizations. At Nordicity, Nicole provides strategic advice, leads the development and implementation of sector, organizational, and program design reviews; needs and feasibility assessments; stakeholder engagement; economic and qualitative reports as well as strategic and business planning. Prior to joining Nordicity, Nicole was the Executive Director of the Strategic Policy Branch in the Department of Sport Culture, Heritage and Tourism Manitoba where she led research, analysis, and development of legislative, policy, and program options in the areas of creative industries, performing arts, heritage, public libraries, multiculturalism, and sport. This included the development of a new arts and sport fund, the establishment of new funding regulations and measures of success for public libraries, and a comprehensive assessment of sport, culture and heritage grant levels against inflation over a twenty-year period. 

Gaeby Abrahams specializes in strategic planning, community engagement, and organizational development in GLAMs (galleries, libraries, archives, and museums) and the wider arts and culture sector. With over a decade of experience in the cultural sector, Gaeby brings expertise in facilitating collaborative processes and guiding organizations through evidence-based processes to articulate their core values and strategic priorities. She has led major projects across Canada, including library master plans, cultural strategies, and governance reviews, combining her skills in research, community and interest-holder engagement, and actionable strategy development. Gaeby is passionate about helping libraries and cultural organizations thrive by aligning their services with community needs and shared principles.

Description:

The UN Sustainability Goals are paired with picture books and activities to create school-wide climate action in elementary schools. This session will highlight how school libraries can be catalyst for climate action in their schools by promoting these monthly book-conversation-action connections. 

The UN Sustainability Goals are paired with picture books and activities to create school-wide climate action in elementary schools. This session will highlight how school libraries can be catalyst for climate action in their schools by promoting these monthly book-conversation-action connections. 

Presenter Bio:

Suzanne Simpson is a Teacher-Librarian in Louis Riel School division at Ecole Provencher and Ecole Varennes. She loves reading, growing food and flowers, making things from scratch, and spending time on the wild edges of nature. 

Description:

In a lively, round-robin style, "Staff Picks" is readers’ advisory with lightning rounds mixed in. Sounds exciting? It is – for viewers and library staff alike! Pre-recorded and shared on YouTube, viewers leave each themed session with 15+ recommended reads. Join four library staff who’ve been involved with this program since its beginning as they share the hows and whys of the program and the lessons learned along the way. Leave feeling inspired to DIY at your library. 

Presenter Bios: 

Reegan Breu is a Digital Literacy and Virtual Services Librarian. A large portion of her 20-year career as a librarian in public and special libraries has involved helping people connect to and feel comfortable with technology. She also works to make digital spaces welcoming and inclusive. Reegan works behind-the-scenes with Staff Picks. Her TBR pile always grows after her colleagues deliver their captivating book talks. 

Courtney Campbell is a Section Head at idealMILL.  As a fan of taking the road less travelled, Courtney completed degrees in music and education as well as a diploma in photojournalism before completing her MLIS in 2016. After working in public and academic libraries in various roles across Canada, she came to her current position as the ideaMILL Librarian at the Winnipeg Public Library where she uses her creative skills daily in the makerspace!   

Karli Fisher is a Branch Head at Harvey Smith Library. She was born in Saskatchewan, grew up in Ontario, got her first library job in British Columbia, and now works as a Branch Head in Manitoba. Her favourite book genres are horror, mystery, and thriller, and anything by Stephen King, Agatha Christie, Kaira Rouda, and Andy Weir. 

Meg Gregory is a Branch Head at Pembina Trail Library. She is a third-generation settler with Scottish and Irish descent, and the great granddaughter of a residential school Survivor. Meg was raised on the unceded territory of the St’at’imc Nation and benefited from countless generations of the St’at’imc People who have cared for the land. Meg has benefited from the company of excellent colleagues while working in rural and urban public libraries in British Columbia and Manitoba since completing her MLIS in 2017 at Western University. She is passionate about people-centered service and the public library as a space where anyone is welcome free of charge. Meg currently devotes her time to creativity, reading, and family, and plans to pursue a PhD to support the continual evolution of public libraries.

Description:

This  workshop will guide public library professionals through the essential next steps after developing a strategic plan. Participants will start by briefly reviewing the strategic planning process, then move on to breaking down their plan into actionable, manageable goals. 

We will focus on creating a detailed workplan, identifying key data points that can be leveraged for grant writing, and ensuring that the plan aligns with community needs. Finally, attendees will learn how to effectively review and adjust their strategic plan annually to ensure ongoing relevance and success. 

This interactive session will provide participants with the tools and confidence to turn their strategic vision into actionable results. For best results, bring your most recent strategic plan. 

Presenter Bio:

Jen Kendall has worked professionally in public libraries since 2015. She has experience developing programs, creating strategic plans, and managing shared collections to serve diverse communities in a variety of libraries. In addition to her regular work, she is now focused on helping libraries create strategic plans and actionable workplans to ensure effective service delivery and long-term success.

Description: 

This workshop will explore the features of an interactive read-aloud based on current, evidenced-based research. By participating in this workshop, you will elevate your instructional strategies to nurture students' foundational literacy skills, comprehension, and vocabulary development. You will explore how the interactive read-aloud can be the hook and the anchor for oral language development.

Come and enjoy a fun, interactive session! Leave with new read-aloud techniques, titles, ideas, and a protocol for planning your next interactive read-aloud!

Special Activity: Please bring your favorite read-aloud book or two to the session. We will use these books to collaboratively plan an engaging read-aloud experience, tailoring strategies to your chosen text and discussing how to make the most of it with students.

Presenter Bios:

Erica Hildebrand has worked in education for over 15 years, gaining experience as a classroom teacher, Literacy and Numeracy Support Teacher, and Literacy Consultant in both private and public schools. She is currently a Literacy Instructional Coach with Frontier School Division, where she is dedicated to bringing words to life and creating authentic learning experiences that inspire students and teachers. Erica holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Manitoba and worked on her Master's in Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning there as well. She is deeply passionate about student learning, committed to ensuring that all students have access to high-quality literacy instruction and enriching text experiences that foster growth, engagement, and a love for learning.

 Andrea Edwards has dedicated over 30 years to the field of education, working both internationally and in Canada as a classroom teacher and Literacy Support Teacher. Currently serving as a Literacy Instructional Coach with Frontier School Division, Andrea combines her passion for student learning with her expertise in literacy instruction. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The University of Lethbridge, where she specialized in Children’s Theatre, and a Master of Teaching from the University of Calgary, focusing on Language Acquisition. Drawing on her background in drama, Andrea brings stories to life, creating dynamic learning experiences that engage students and foster a love for reading. Committed to providing all students with access to quality literacy instruction, she ensures that every child has the opportunity to explore rich and diverse texts.

Description:

Do any of the books in your library have the wrong call numbers on their spines? A call number that doesn't match the catalogue entry? How would you know? And how would you ever find them again? While conducting an inventory of a COVID-emptied library, University of Winnipeg library assistant Laurie Lam accidentally uncovered a startling problem and a potential solution. She alerted her supervisor, and further tests led them to believe that approximately one out of every 500 books in their libraries was mislabeled. Find out how staff in the Circulation Department pooled their skills and developed a process that has already led to the recovery of more than 700 lost books.

Presenter Bios: 

In 1978, the librarian at Alberta’s Fort Macleod Public Library needed emergency surgery, and left a teenaged Laurie Lam in charge. There was no looking back. Lam went on to do her BA at the University of Winnipeg while working part-time at the Manitoba Health Organizations Library (located in an old bank vault) and the Winnipeg Public Library’s former Centennial branch. After graduation, she became a cataloguing assistant at the University of Winnipeg Library (while publishing her first short story and launching a women’s theatre collective called Les Dolles). She earned her MFA in Screenwriting from LA’s American Film Institute, where the library was a refuge from the Simpson murders, the Menendez trial, and the Northridge earthquake. She then spent 25 years as Producer for the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, with responsibility for its library and archives. Since retirement, she’s returned part-time to the University of Winnipeg Library’s Circulation Department. 

Chris Mailloux studied Library and Information Technology, and has more than 15 years’ experience in libraries throughout Canada. At the Winnipeg Public Library, he started as a shelver and became an LA3, aiding in the day-to-day running of a branch children’s department, something he still considers a career highlight. He also had the pleasure of working for the University of Manitoba as a circulation assistant in several of their satellite libraries. He is currently an employee at the University of Winnipeg, where he enjoys the role of Reference and Circulation assistant. 

As the active lead for the inventorying of the library’s physical collection, he takes an immense amount of pride and pleasure in helping to ensure that the collection’s physical status matches its online status. In his pre-library life, he sold real estate with his family in Central America, and computer products to the same institutions where he now works.

Description:
Chimwemwe Undi is a writer and lawyer based on Treaty 1 territory in Winnipeg, Manitoba.Her debut poetry collection, Scientific Marvel (House of Anansi Press, 2024) received the 2024 Governor General’s Literary Award in Poetry.

She is a former Winnipeg Poet Laureate (2023/2024), and Parliamentary Poet Laureate for 2025 and 2026.

She practices professional regulation and labour law at Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP.

Description:

As public libraries grow and change programming has become an important part of the library experience. While story hour and summer reading programs are common, adding adult and teen programming can be a challenge. How do you plan and execute innovative programming like Nerf Battles, while keeping everything affordable and accessible for both staff and patrons? 

The presentation covers the following:

-        How to brainstorm new and interesting programs

-        Where and when to run programming 

-        Charging for programs, and the pros and cons of registration versus drop in programs

-        Promoting and advertising your programs and making use of existing community resources

-        Atmosphere of the program, offering refreshments, background music and making the program as welcoming as possible

-        Aftermath of the program including stats and photos and what you would change next time

The one of the key takeaways from this presentation is that library programs don't have to be related to books or literacy but can fill a need in the community. Rather than discussing how to run a specific program, attendees will hopefully have tips that they can implement in many programs at their libraries or ways to improve their existing programs. 

Presenter Bio:

Jess Martens has worked at South Central Regional Libraries for 12 years, the last 4 as Branch Administrator of the Winkler Library.  She has also spent some time as the program coordinator for all of SCRL

Description:

Are your library’s files a mess? Do onboarding and staff training feel like a game of information hide-and-seek? Are staff are stuck in silos with few opportunities to collaborate? Did someone with 25+ years' experience just retire and take all their know-how with them? Is staff morale feeling low? A Knowledge Management project may be just the boost your library needs.  

Learn about Winnipeg Public Library’s ongoing journey to improve its own operational health through the application of KM principles and practices. Attendees will leave with an understanding of what KM is – and isn’t, why KM is something libraries of all types should prioritize, and an example plan to kick start a KM project at their library. 

Presenter Bios:

Rémi Fontaine joined Winnipeg Public Library in 2004 as Page. He eventually worked his through the many roles of the public library as a Circulation Assistant, Information Assistant, Assistant Branch Head, before finishing his MLIS at Western University in 2017 and becoming Virtual Services Librarian then Branch Head Librarian for the Cornish Library. In his current role he strives to provide exceptional library services to his community, just as those before him have for over 100 years.

Monique Woroniak joined Winnipeg Public Library in 2007 and has worked in Outreach Services, Youth Services, and as an Information/Reference Librarian. She is a former Dalhousie-Horrocks National Leadership Lecturer and recognized as an advocate for Indigenous-centred and anti-oppressive librarianship. In her current position she is focused on organizational information and knowledge management and their potential to improve the work-life of library staff. 

Please register for the library tours of the "Great Library" at the Manitoba Court House and the library at the Manitoba Legislature here: https://conference.mla.mb.ca/library-tours/ 

The tour is within walking distance of the RBC Convention Centre, and participants must be able to walk on some uneven sidewalks and up stairs. There will be an elevator available at the library as well.
Library tour participants will need to go through security gates at each library stop.

There is a maximum of 25 registrants per library tour. There will be a waiting list in case of any cancellations.

Please meet promptly at the front door of the RBC Convention Centre at the York Street entrance.

Description:

The University of Manitoba’s Indigenous librarian internship program is going into its third year, and we will be giving an update on how it's going so far. Overall, our story includes how we became librarian interns, and what we have learned, experienced and worked on so far. 

Our goal for this presentation is to share about how this program has cultivated abundance in our professional lives and relationships. This program depends on mentorship, contributes to wider goals of Indigenizing librarianship in Canada and promoting decolonization and reconciliation through it. We have been grateful to have been mentored by a librarian that has extensive experience, and that has been dedicated to a genuine and reciprocal mentor/mentee relationship. This has given us many opportunities that have increased our expertise in this field, and has already created a solid foundation for us as our career continues to develop. 

We have been met with multiple challenges and obstacles being Indigenous women in a colonial institution, and reflecting on this outlines the way that our mentor and the Indigenous campus community has been vital to our ongoing wellness and success. Our relationship network has grown, which has enabled us to share knowledge with our community. 

Finally, as we learn more about librarianship and information science from a diversity of perspectives, our interests, goals, plans and dreams grow. We are thinking about how to integrate the knowledge and experiences taken from this program to care for ndinawemaaginadog (all of our relatives).

There are more exciting opportunities coming up for us as we complete the rest of our degree and this internship program. We have learned some important lessons about how to navigate this program, and encourage other institutions to support one at their library. .

Presenter Bios:

Shirley Delorme Russell is a proud Métis woman and humble Anisinaabekwe. She is halfway through her MLIS and is one of the Indigenous Librarian Interns at the University of Manitoba. She is the momma of two beautiful adults. She was previously a teacher and  history nerd, working for a school division and the Manitoba Métis Federation. She hopes to use her MLIS to further interest and use of Manitoba Indigenous history.

Claire Settee is Anishinaabe, Swampy Cree, and Scottish. She is a new MLIS student and one of the Indigenous librarian Interns at the University of Manitoba. She loves Lake Winnipeg, herbalism, and Indigenous Studies, and is interested in integrating them into her work. Her goals include completing her MLIS, and reclaiming her culture and language, and having a wholesome career in librarianship. 

Description:

The Bibliothèque Ritchot municipal Library occupies spaces in three Manitoba communities. This presentation by our Board will focus on their unique experiences running bilingual public libraries within three schools, how this collaboration can lead to better experiences for stakeholders, the variety of activities our branches offer in the evening, as well as some challenges that the library has faced over the years.

Presenter Bios:

Marie-Andrée Guy is an instruction librarian at the Université de Saint-Boniface. She lives in the RM of Ritchot and has a young family so wanted to be involved with the board for the public libraries.

Isabelle Hadley, Bibliothèque Ritchot Library, Board of Directors, member. Isabelle Hadley is a School Psychology Masters student and child development researcher at the University of Manitoba. She lives in the RM of Ritchot and through her position on the library board, wants to ensure that all families have access to equitable library spaces.

Tanya Lemoine, Bibliothèque Ritchot Library, Board of Directors, chair. Tanya Lemoine is a teaching professor at the Université de Saint-Boniface in the Faculty of Education. She holds a Master’s in Language, Literacy and Curriculum. She has lived in the RM of Ritchot for over 25 years.

Monique Robert, Bibliothèque Ritchot Library, Library Director. Monique Robert is a retired teacher who also holds a diploma in Library and Information Sciences from Red River College. She is the director of the three libraries in the RM of Ritchot.

Description:

This presentation will lay out the argument from my recent book, Solving Names, arguing that libraries are active participants in Canadian cultural politics, and not merely neutral facilitators of a "common sense" or "objective" political world view. I will discuss libraries relationships to intellectual freedom/free expression, safety and security, and the identity politics of class, race, and gender, from a politically committed perspective.

The takeaway is to understand libraries not as neutral institutions but as politically active participants.

Presenter Bio:

Sam Popowich has been an academic library for over fifteen years. He is the author of two books on the politics of libraries, Confronting the Democratic Discourse of Librarianship (2019) and Solving Names: Worldliness and Metaphysics in Librarianship (2024). He holds an MLIS from Dalhousie University and a PhD in Political Science from the University of Birmingham. He has worked in library technology at University of Ottawa, University of Alberta, and University of Winnipeg.

Description: 

Burnout among library workers is nothing new but it’s still not something we talk about enough. Join two long-time public librarians as they share their own experiences with burnout and the choices they’ve made to help in recovery. You will learn what burnout is - and is not, how to identify it and how to make choices that support a healthy engagement with your workplace.

Presenter Bios:

Carolyn Minor has worked with Winnipeg Public Library since 2005 as an Information / Reference Librarian and a Section Head in Special Services at Millennium Library. In her current position, she is responsible for purchasing adult non-fiction materials for the WPL system. She also serves as the Chair of the CELA (Center for Equitable Library Access) Board of Directors. 

Monique Woroniak joined Winnipeg Public Library in 2007 and has worked in Outreach Services, Youth Services, and as an Information / Reference Librarian. She is a former Dalhousie-Horrocks National Leadership Lecturer and recognized as an advocate for Indigenous-centred and anti-oppressive librarianship. In her current position she is focused on organizational information and knowledge management and their potential to improve the work-life of library staff.  

Description:

Municipalities and libraries are seeking ways to establish,  enhance, or expand library services. Regionalization  offers a way to bring them together, allowing them to  pool resources and create more effective and  comprehensive services for their residents.  Several library regionalization initiatives are currently  underway across the province in 2025. This presentation  will cover the regionalization process, provide updates on  the progress of the projects, and include an open Q&A session. 

Presenter Bio:

Meghan Hansen is one third of the team of library consultants at Public Library Services. Over more than a dozen years at the Manitoba Legislative Library, she held various roles, including cataloguing, collection development, reference, and preservation, before moving across downtown Winnipeg to her current position in 2022.  

She enjoys visiting libraries and communities across the province to support public library development.