The Massachusetts Library System is pleased to announce that we have contracted with ALA to provide our members with access to their live webinars.  These webinars are free to MLS members who register through our calendar.  Please do not register directly with ALA. Members who register directly with ALA are responsible for paying their registration fee. 

Please help us keep MLS sponsored training free for all members. If you are unable to attend the live webinar, please cancel your registration. A cancellation link can be found in your confirmation email, or you may contact Sarah Donnelly at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org to cancel. 

Description

Are you looking for new and effective ways to help New Americans? Explore the invaluable resources and services offered by three prominent German libraries tailored specifically for refugee and immigrants communities. In this session, participants will learn how the libraries of Frankfurt, Cologne, and Bremen, Germany serve an ever growing number of non-native populations from around the world. Discover how these institutions actively engage with diverse cultural backgrounds through multilingual collections, passive displays, language programs, community partnerships, and specialized services designed to meet the needs of newcomers. 

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the enriching experiences and resources avaiable at these libraries and how they might apply them at their library. Learn how these institutions serve as essential hubs for information and community building, offering a welcome environment where individuals from all backgrounds can connect, learn, and grow. From navigating bureaucratic processes to exploring cultural heritage resources, this webinar will highlight the transformative impact of library services in supporting the journey of refugees and immigrants as they integrate into German society. Don't miss this opportunity to explore innovatitve approaches and success stories that underscore the pivotal role of libraries in promoting social cohesion and cultural exchange.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this webinar, the participant will be able to:

• Consider avenues of communication with local immigrant and refugee groups
• Explore potential local and government partnerships that can expand library services and address target population's needs
• Identify the benefits of cultural education and sharing the community through library events and partnerships with local immigrant and refugee groups

Who Should Attend

This webinar is for public library staff, especially those working with youths, adults, and community populations and can influence and impact services, displays, procedures, and staff training as well as the well-being of the target audience of immigrant and refugee populations. 

Presenter

Jessica A. Curtis is an adult reference librarian at the Westerville Public Library in Ohio and an adult learning specialist. She is an active member and frequent presenter for the Ohio Library Council. She specializes in creating user-friendly classes for emerging technology and library services. She holds a BA from the Ohio State University and an MLIS from Kent State University. 

Accessibility Information

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.