Children's Programming

This session will present strategies to create a coding-based library program. Grant will discuss the use of coding tools like the Sphero and Code-a-Pillar, as well as online games that can be found on Code.org and codecademy.com. Learn easy processes to develop a coding program that is fun and interesting for your patrons! This session will also cover pitfalls and strategies to get around potential issues. There will also be hands-on time with some of the websites and gadgets discussed.
Learning Objectives:

• Identify resources available for a coding program.
• Learn how to plan and execute a coding program.
• Recognize how and why to engage children in coding.

Tech help can be a tricky area of public library service. In our efforts to ensure the library  remains relevant to the public we embrace helping our users with technology. We point to this as success and evidence of the library’s relevance and empowering mission. But that goal of individual empowerment often comes at the cost of obscuring systemic complexity. What does that obfuscation cost us as a community? In this session we will explore this issue and discuss Strathcona County Library’s approach to creating room for the discussion of politics and ethics within our tech programs. 

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This presentation outlines the successful implementation of the Google CS First club in Olds, Alberta. The program is a partnership between the public and school libraries that introduces computer science to kids in a fun and interactive after school program that anyone can run in their own library. Teachers, parents, and librarians alike have used CS First. No computer science experience needed! Instructional videos guide students through each activity, allowing you to work with students individually and encouraging them to help each other. We will show you how to start your own program and outline best practices for a successful program.

FLL and FFLjr are STEM programming using Lego Mindstorm robots as part of an international movement.

Presentation for the 2018 MLA conference sharing an overview of the TD Summer Reading Club and program ideas from the 2017 English language Library Award winners.

The Cochrane Public Library is no stranger to hosting large events. With the massive success of our Medieval Day, the Library knew that it was capable of putting on big programs for the community, even with only 5000 sq. feet to work with! So, when the opportunity came around to apply to be the host for the 2017 Book Bash Canadian Literature Festival, we knew we were up to the challenge! From conception to completion, we will discuss the insa nd outs of plannign large events including: writing a winning grant application, staying organized (and sane!) during the planning process, how to book Fred Penner, and post-event evaluation.

Value-added programming for new parents/caregivers. When a parent manages to get the baby packed into the car, drives around looking for a parking spot and get settled in the library as the good bye songs begin, there is little reward for the effort.
If we can layer and expand the program to offer a more fulfilling experience, while at the same time allowing families to practice self-care, we just might bring a little extra joy into the community as a whole. 
my teenagers would roll their eyes and say "hippie dippy babytime" when I talk about my job at home and I loved this and decided to use it as the title for my presentation. I like to think of libraries as holistic literacy co-ops!!

In the spring of 2017, the Calgary Public Library launched an ambitious project to revitalize Alberta’s oldest public library, the Memorial Park branch. Learn about some of the exciting ways in which CPL is animating its spaces, trialing new services, and fostering community dialogue. Take home scalable ideas to revitalize your own library.
Learning Objectives:

• Explore new services and programs being trialed at Memorial Park
• Identify creative, scalable ways to engage with patrons