Surviving and Thriving Through Library Challenges

Registration Link: 

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LsYnCrm6TdSeQUy2j0EJXg

Program Description:

Library workers face many challenges in all facets of the workplace. With book challenges and protestors at programs, it can be difficult to serve our community’s needs. Join two experienced Idaho librarians as they share how to navigate challenges to inclusive programming and collection development while maintaining mental health. Denise Neujhar, District Young Adult Librarian at the Community Library Network in Kootenai and Shoshone Counties, Idaho and Mandi Harris (Cherokee Nation), an Information Science doctoral student at the University of Washington and former children’s librarian will share their experiences and thoughts, as well as their own individual survival strategies. We will share resources for programming, collection development, dealing with book challenges, personal protection, and mental health. Together, we can all help our communities and library workers thrive.

Presenters:

Denise Neujahr received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Adolescent Studies in 2001. She received her Master of Library and Information Science degree in 2005 from San Jose State University. Denise has been working in the Youth Services departments of libraries since 1998. She has worked at the Whittier Public Library, the Monrovia Public Library, and at a branch in the County of Los Angeles District. She currently is the District Young Adult Librarian for the Community Library Network in Idaho. Responsibilities include planning and implementing programs for 6th through 12th graders, providing outreach to schools, and partnering with other organizations in the community, such as the Kootenai Juvenile Detention Center and the North Idaho Pride Alliance.  Denise appreciates working for a library organization that celebrates diversity and is an inclusive and welcoming place for all people in the community. She resides in North Idaho with her husband, two children, and two black cats.