We continue our closer look at the children's novels of 2016. Stay tuned for the short list and be sure to join the RI Mock Newbery Award Goodreads group, where the discussion is 24/7. Contact Danielle Margarida to join the Goodreads group or for more information.

Are you looking for some new tools to get you out of your presentation rut? Do you find yourself using Powerpoint again and again? This workshop, based off of Jennifer Thomas' first Media Smart LIbraries session last spring, will give librarians the opportunity to explore a few powerful presentation tools, empowering them to build upon their digital toolbox. We will work to develop powerful "advocacy statements" to help focus the topic of your presentation and inspire you to actively engage with stakeholders. Participants should bring their own device because there will be time to work individually and collaboratively to put the tools into action!

This workshop is part of the free one-day RILINK Fall PD conference. People wishing to register for the entire event, may do so, or they can register through OLIS and come just for this Media Smart Libraries workshop. Registration required.

Grant writer Jean Campbell will guide us through the steps to find and write a successful grant application. Grant applications come in many forms (single page to long and in-depth) and the session will cover as many as possible.

The GiveMe5 Media Teachers Lab is a time for film/media educators, school and public librarians, and others developing video programs to come together and share ideas, challenges and solutions with colleagues. Whether you're experienced, new to the work, or somewhere in between, the "open space" style of this event makes a place for you. In the "open space" format, each facilitator will each spend a few minutes describing their areas of expertise and related topics, and you will then be free to join the discussion(s) you feel will be most helpful for you. You may move among discussions.

Topics are expected to include (but are not limited to):

1. creating or revising curriculum; gaining expertise in editing
2. buying and using basic equipment; exploring possibilities with high-end equipment
3. learning to use a new online film education resource
4. making a case for a media education program.

If you are inspired to facilitate a discussion on your own topic, "open space" allows for that as well.

Our facilitators and key focus areas for this event:

Join the Providence Children’s Film Festival for this unique real-world workshop experience to learn about children’s independent films by participating as an actual juror for the 2016 PCFF. Librarians will hone their film discussion skills with members of the public by sharing critical comments after each short film (kids go first). You will be surprised to see what is “obviously good” to some reviewers is “downright disagreeable” to others…BUT be ready to explain. Great opportunity to think about new ideas for programming events that increase access to thoughtful films and exercise critical thinking skills and in a fun way. Popcorn for all.

This workshop is part of the Media Smart Libraries program which was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Grant # LG-07-14-0045-14

Back by popular demand! Stop motion animation is a fun way to create films and has the potential to be an engaging library program for children and teens. Learn the history of stop motion animation, watch some examples of films, and then get your hands wet by creating your own stop motion film. Facilitator Bonnie Epstein will bring all the equipment and objects you need to produce a film. A list of sample equipment, budget amounts and tips to run your own program will be provided.

This workshop is part of the Media Smart Libraries program which was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Attendance at this workshop could be applied to either the Access and Use or the Create and Collaborate digital badge.

Libraries are embracing the maker movement and here is your chance to find out the steps one librarian took to create a makerspace in her library. From proposal to budget, buy-in, material/equipment selection, activities, promotional efforts and access policies, you will learn the tips and tricks to starting a makerspace in your library. After an overview of the implementation process, participants will be able to ask questions, view student work, share their own experiences with makerspaces, and have plenty of time to play with different tools and materials. This workshop is intended for those thinking about starting a makerspace and those who are in their early stages of implementation.

This workshop is part of the Media Smart Libraries program which was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Attendance at this workshop could be applied to either the Access and Use or the Create and Collaborate digital badge.

We continue taking a closer look at the children's novels of 2016. This will be our last discussion before voting on January 18 at the Oaklawn Branch Library, Cranston. Stay tuned for the short list and be sure to join the RI Mock Newbery Award Goodreads group, where the discussion is 24/7. Contact Danielle Margarida to join the Goodreads group or for more information.

The Performer's Showcase is your chance to be introduced to educators/performers who want to be a part of the annual statewide Teen Summer Reading Program. In addition to observing the presentations, talk to multiple other program providers with table top displays. This is your opportunity to provide feedback and offer your recommendations for the 2017 slate of SRP programs offered statewide.

The booking meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 7 (snow date: February 14) at the Warwick Public Library.

Share ideas on how you perform outreach for your library. Share what seems to work for your library and its community. We will compile a list of ideas and resources to post on the OLIS website.

The Performer's Showcase is your chance to meet area educators/performers interested in being a part of the annual statewide Children's Summer Reading Program. In addition to observing the presentations, talk to other program providers with table top displays. This is your opportunity to provide feedback and offer your recommendations for the 2017 slate of programs offered statewide.

The booking meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 7 (snow date: February 14) at the Warwick Public Library.

Time to vote! Stay tuned for the short list and be sure to join the RI Mock Newbery Award Goodreads group, where the discussion is 24/7. Contact Danielle Margarida to join the Goodreads group or for more information.