Crystal Maldonado

1. Do not actually use books to build a fire. 2. Be an amazing librarian, teacher, or book enthusiast. 3. Connect readers with books that feature characters like them. Pay special attention to marginalized readers, and those who might otherwise be left behind. 4. Remind readers that through reading, we can discover so much about society, including who we are and our place in this world. 5. Let the reader spend time with the books that spark joy, curiosity, empathy, self-discovery. 6. Enjoy the fire.* Recording

Teen Mental Health Programming During a Pandemic Recording

The teen librarians from the Lewiston and Portland Public Libraries in Maine will share their successes in partnering to provide a virtual author visit series focusing on teen mental health called "Read Your Mind." Join us to learn about the silver linings of pandemic programming for teens and how to take advantage of them at your library. Read Your Mind is a monthly, virtual series focusing on teen mental health & wellness. Featuring YA authors and community health experts, we explore complex and common health concerns through the vehicle of Teen books.

Author Conversation with Brittney Morris Recording

The teen librarians from the Lewiston and Portland Public Libraries in Maine will share their successes in partnering to provide a virtual author visit series focusing on teen mental health called "Read Your Mind." Join us to learn about the silver linings of pandemic programming for teens and how to take advantage of them at your library. Read Your Mind is a monthly, virtual series focusing on teen mental health & wellness. Featuring YA authors and community health experts, we explore complex and common health concerns through the vehicle of Teen books.

InstaBrain: The New Rules for Generation Z with Sarah Weise Recording

Based on her bestselling book InstaBrain: The New Rules for Marketing to Generation Z, Sarah presents a new set of rules for engaging this influential (and very different!) generation. Learn key trends about what makes this generation tick, and how you can reach and engage them effectively. One of the most captivating parts of this talk is the videos directly from teens completing tasks on their phones, and the analysis behind why they're doing what they're doing. 

By coming to this talk, you'll learn: - Why Gen Z is so different from Millennials - Effective strategies to reach and engage with Gen Z - Behavioral trends that set this generation apart - Learning and research strategies for this generation

Voices of the Wart and Weft: RI Indigenous Teen Voices Anthology & Fellowship Recording

In summer 2021 the West Warwick Public Library partnered with the Cranston Public Library and the Tomaquag Museum to facilitate a writing workshop for Indigenous teens from New England and across the country. This grant funded project offered teens the opportunity to learn the craft of writing and culminated in their work being included in an anthology that will soon be available nationwide as an e-book and in paperback. Learn how you might develop a similar project amplifying teen voice and creating opportunities for underserved youth in your community.