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. 

Please note: This is a TWO-PART webinar series taking place Wednesday, February 26 and Thursday, February 27, 2025. Please only register if you can attend both parts. By registering here, you are registering for both dates. 

Description

Today’s teens face major life changes and a tremendous amount of social and emotional pressure. We have seen some of the emotional fallout from the isolation and trauma that came from the pandemic. For those on the autism spectrum, these effects are even more pronounced.

Libraries are an incredible resource for teens and can serve as critically important safe spaces for those suffering from mental health crises. 

In this webinar, the presenters will explore techniques for updating our collections and adapting our services to ensure we are both representing the experiences of these teens and serving them day-to-day. They will show how our programming can promote empathy and compassion among all library users. Using examples from their own library, the presenters will share different ideas for programs and services and insights on how you can develop your own.

This webinar will be split into two sessions, with one session focusing on mental health and one focusing on neurodiversity.

Learning Outcomes

After participating in this event, attendees will:

• Gain a better understanding of the fundamentals of neurodiversity and mental health
• Understand how representation in stories can improve teens' mental health
• Have specific strategies for creating and implementing mental health and neurodiversity-oriented programs in their libraries
• Understand how to assess the specific mental health and neurodiversity needs of their community and tailor programs and services accordingly

Presenters

Adriana White is an autistic librarian, writer, and public speaker. She is a staff editor for the website "A Novel Mind" and a 2021 recipient of the Walter Grant from We Need Diverse Books. She holds a Master's in Education and an MLIS with a certificate in Storytelling. Adriana is currently an Adult Services Librarian for the San Antonio Public Library. You can find more information on her website, adrianalwhite.com.

Ashleigh Torres is a librarian who is passionate about mental health advocacy in libraries. She is currently the branch supervisor of the Winters Community Library in Yolo County, California. She is the chair of the Youth Services Interest Group for the California Library Association. Find more mental health resources and topics for libraries on her social media @ashbrarian.

Accessibility Information

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