Uncovering Dirt: An Introduction to Historical Research

August 1, 2024

Learn how to support your customers’ research into the "dirt" that is historical evidence. We will identify online primary sources in repositories such as public libraries, special collections, and archives around the world. We’ll discuss promoting primary source literacy for customers through guidance on the perspective and “truth” of a source, and discuss the purpose of secondary sources in providing context. You’ll be able to explore the who, what, where, when, and why of different historical events through practice questions to provide successful research support.

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Integrating the Arts with STEM Programming 2.0

July 11, 2024

Discover why the arts are a natural and important addition to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, and why libraries should be involved in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, ARTS, Math) programming. We’ll explore great online resources for programming ideas and see examples of fun, easy-to-do STEAM activities that libraries can use to engage patrons of all ages in lifelong learning. This webinar is co-sponsored by the Eastern Shore Regional Library (ESRL).

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Let's Read About Maryland

May 29, 2024

From corporate capitalism's imprint in Baltimore's nineteenth century streetscape to the local impacts of globalism, this training will help you feel a little more confident when patrons request recommendations for books on local topics. Discover ten or so incisive and fascinating books on local history and take a deep dive into the issues that they raise. Library: Enoch Pratt Free Library State Library Resource Center.

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Sensory Programming 101

May 15, 2024

Explore strategies for developing and implementing Sensory Play activities in Children's Programming. What is sensory programming? Who is it for? Why should libraries do sensory programming? If you've ever found yourself asking these questions, this session is for you. Join us for Sensory Programming 101 to get answers and an introduction to the basics and the important role of sensory programming in libraries.

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Save a Story! DIY Oral History Interviewing

May 1, 2024

The first step many genealogists take to preserve their family history is interviewing and recording the stories of their living ancestors. Join us for Save a Story! DIY Oral History Interviewing on capturing successful do-it-yourself oral histories of those treasured storytellers in your family. You will learn how to plan a guided interview, prompt a speaker with prepared questions, and record the interview for safekeeping, using easily accessible equipment such as a smartphone, audio recorder, or video camera--or borrow a Pratt Oral History Kit coming this fall and keep Take and Make instructions for DIY interviewing.

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EAIG - Emerging Adult Interest Group

April 17, 2024

Do you want to support teens aging out of services? Are you interested in learning more about Emerging Adults? Then check out this new interest group with the Maryland Library Association!

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Researching the History of a House

March 27, 2024

Just because a house isn't a famous landmark, doesn't mean it doesn't have a rich history. Researching the history of a house can be as time consuming as genealogy, but can be an exciting exercise for both librarians and patrons. Learn how to use resources such as city directories, newspapers, maps, land records, historical registers, and architectural surveys to research the history of a house, even if it no longer exists.

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LGBTQ History and Culture Through a Black Lens

November 29, 2023

Learn the history of the LGBTQ community with emphasis on highlighting the experiences and contributions of Black people. Program will conclude with tips on how to handle book challenges and be an effective ally.

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An Introduction to Copyright and Intellectual Property in Libraries

November 15, 2023

Does the word copyright give you anxiety? Don't let it! This presentation will cover the basics of copyright law and how it interacts with librarianship. Participants will practice conducting several fair use analyses and be given tools and hints to help when faced with copyright concerns. Lastly we will discuss current events in the world of copyright and the changing landscape of the public library.

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Integrating the Arts with STEM Programming in the Library

May 17, 2023

Art, like science, technology, engineering, and math, is a way of knowing. Like them, art develops personal creative and critical thinking skills for the exploration of new ideas and possibilities. Libraries can tap into the interests, abilities, and learning styles of a wider spectrum of their patrons by introducing and integrating art lessons into their STEM programming - to 'produce STEAM'!

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Teen Library Services Glow Up

April 26, 2023

Providing the best customer service to teens isn't always easy, and is an ever-evolving topic of discussion. We'll take a deep-dive into the developmental needs of teens, how to develop good relationships with them, and best meet their needs through library programs and services. This session includes key tips for interacting with teens, providing inclusive programs and services, and advocating for teens in your library space.

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The Neurobiology of Reading Difficulties and How Reading Interventions Can Help, presented by Dr. Tzipi Horowitz-Kraus, Kennedy-Krieger Institute

April 17, 2023

Reading is a very complex human ability. Because reading is a relatively new skill in human evolution, the brain uses networks for reading that were originally formed for other things. When kids have trouble reading, it's because their brain isn't using the correct parts or pathways. This webinar will talk about how reading works in our brains and what happens biologically for kids who have trouble reading. We'll also talk about ways to help kids read better by using different parts of their brains.

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Picking up STEAM: Ideas for Children's Computer Science Programming

April 12, 2023

Approaching computer science and coding as a children's librarian can be intimidating. Our presenters will demonstrate how to engage tech-curious children with approachable and flexible library programming.

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Intro to SLRC Services

March 29, 2023

Join us for an introduction to SLRC services. Learn about Maryland's inter-library loan system, SAILOR databases, Public Programs, Librarian training, the collection, and our reference support services. We'll tell you how to find out more, and how to connect with us to help your customers.

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Virtual Browsing in the Maryland Department Stacks

March 15, 2023

From the Civil War to true crime, from architectural history to life on Smith Island, this training will help you feel a little more confident when patrons request recommendations for books on local topics. Take a virtual walk through the stacks with a Maryland Department librarian, stopping for 30 or so short book talks. Maybe you'll even find something to put on your own reading list.

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Getting the most from Sailor Databases

November 2, 2022

The Sailor Database project provides access to resources for all public libraries and public K-12 schools in the state of Maryland. This webinar will include an introduction to the Sailor Database project and its resources, as well as the selection process. We'll also discuss some of the new resources available such as Maryland Legal Forms, Peterson's Test and Career Prep and National Geographic Kids. We'll wrap up with an overview of the marketing materials, webinars and other support available for librarians and customers.

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