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.

Participants will discuss picture books from the reading and viewing list, focusing on the Caldecott Medal criteria. The book list is posted on the Mock Caldecott website.

The program will conclude with a picture book giveaway!

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.

Ready to change up your Summer Reading Program? We’ll take a look at the latest research on summer learning programs and how your program can maximize impact.

We’ll discuss:

• Organizing your program. The who, what, and how of tracking reading, and the prize dilemma.
• Planning with intention. Summer reading programs strive to stem summer learning loss, but what does your summer reading program aspire to achieve?
• Inclusion. Developing a summer reading program for all abilities.
• Evaluating your program. Examining what worked, how you met your goals, and how to demonstrate your success to library stakeholders.

Please bring an example of a component of your summer reading program that works very well for your community and an example of a component of your summer reading program that you would like to improve upon.

Feel free to bring your lunch to enjoy during our discussion!

Registration required.

Intended Audience: Children's Librarians

Get ready to Build a Better World! We’ll highlight our favorite ideas from the manual and share original ideas for SRP programming, decorating, promoting, and developing community partnerships.

Please come prepared to share at least one favorite aspect of your summer reading program and one new idea you’re excited to try this summer.

Feel free to bring your lunch to enjoy during our discussion!