The Ontario Library Association is Canada’s largest library organization and OLA’s Super Conference is Canada’s largest continuing education event in librarianship. The program is built brick-by-brick, time slot by time slot, by some twenty co-ordinators working with dozens more to identify the needs to be addressed in this time and this place. With expert speakers, engaging workshops, and valuable networking opportunities, you'll gain valuable insights and skills to enhance your personal and professional growth. OLA Super Conference 2025 will take place from January 29th to February 1st, 2025 and is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow library people and expand your knowledge in a fun and immersive environment. Don't miss out on this transformational experience!
Andrea Cecchetto
Markham Public Library, Canadian Federation of Library Associations/ Fédération canadienne des associations de bibliothèques, International Federation of Library Associations, North American Division
Laura Winton
Library Association of Alberta
Leslie Weir
Library and Archives Canada
Joseph Jeffery
Canadian School Libraries
Michelle Arbuckle
Ontario Library Association
Rina Hadziev
British Columbia Library Association
This is a Pre-Conference workshop. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
The CFLA National Forum is an opportunity for library people from across Canada to gather and discuss library advocacy at a national level. The morning's schedule is as follows:
May Chan
University of Toronto Libraries
Thomas Brenndorfer
Guelph Public Library
Elisa Sze
University of Toronto Libraries
Susie Jones
Vancouver Public Library
This is a Pre-Conference workshop and has an additional fee of $50 per participant to cover the cost of workshop materials and light refreshments. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. This pre-conference workshop will be taking place offsite at the University of Toronto, St. George campus. Attendees will be responsible for their transportation to and from this offsite pre-conference workshop.
Resource Description and Access (RDA) is an international cataloguing standard. With its 3000+ elements, the official RDA Toolkit supports many applications. Application profiles specify which elements to record in your catalogue. This workshop teaches participants about RDA through constructing an application profile. This “learning by creating” approach will deepen participants’ knowledge of RDA and strengthen appreciation for existing application profiles. Designed for cataloguing educators, supervisors, and trainers familiar with the official RDA Toolkit, this workshop is led by Canadian librarians connected with the RDA Steering Committee and Program for Cooperative Cataloging. With the original RDA Toolkit set to be decommissioned in May 2027, this workshop provides a timely bridge to the official RDA Toolkit. This is a full day, in-person workshop located at the University of Toronto downtown campus. Attendance is capped at 25 participants.
Vicki Whitmell
Library Leaders Institute
This is a Pre-Conference workshop. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
This session will help you to gain the advocacy skills that you need to craft persuasive messages and strategies that will influence politicians, decision-makers, colleagues and partners. You will learn to identify key issues and connect them to the priorities of others to ensure that your voice and your solutions are heard and acted upon.
This tour requires pre-registration and has an additional cost of $60 per participant.
This tour will leave from the Metro Toronto Convention Centre at 10:00AM and will return by 2:00PM. The tour will include two Toronto Public Library branches that are thriving in malls: Bridlewood and Maryvale. Please ensure that you bring some snacks with you as we will be not stopping for lunch. Some refreshments will be provided during the tour.
Erika Steffer
Steffer & Partners
Rani Pooran
International Finance Corporation, World Bank Group
This is a Pre-Conference workshop. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
Through facilitator presentation, individual reflection, dyads, small and large group interactions, participants will learn and practice strategies to strengthen their presence and impact in order to develop trust and bridge confidently with stakeholders inside their organizations and beyond.
Please note that this tour requires pre-registration.
Always wanted to see what happens at the Toronto International Film Festival library? Well, now is the time! TIFF is offering several opportunities for attendees of the OLA Super Conference to tour the TIFF Library. Please note that the TIFF Library is approximately 10 minutes' walk away from the conference centre.
For those unable to attend an official OLA Super Conference tour, you may still visit the TIFF Library during your time in Toronto. Library hours are from 10am-5pm Monday to Friday.
Tracy Munusami
Newmarket Public Library
Jessica Mulder
Toronto Public Library
This is a Pre-Conference meetup. Pre-registration is required.
Join OLA's Community-Led Libraries Committee for an Open Space Conversation focused on the wins and challenges of community-led library work from across the Province. In this pre-conference workshop, attendees will be able to connect, network, learn, and share information about community-led practices, collaboratively arriving at areas of discussion that have importance for them and their communities in a supportive and dynamic environment. By using an open space conversation method of engagement in the workshop itself, pre-conference attendees will be exposed to a community-led tool while engaging in the process of co-design and leadership.
Brock Hart
Overlap Associates
Steve Krysak
Overlap
This is a Pre-Conference workshop. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
Is your library's strategic plan gathering dust on a shelf? Transform your annual planning process by integrating the OKR (Objectives and Key Results) framework—a dynamic approach used by leading organizations to bridge the gap between lofty goals and day-to-day operations. In this engaging, two-hour workshop, we'll demystify OKRs and demonstrate how they can revolutionize the way libraries set goals, track progress, and achieve strategic alignment. Through interactive activities and real-world examples tailored to the library sector, you'll learn how to create meaningful OKRs that energize your team, foster accountability, and drive measurable results. Join us to discover how OKRs can make your strategic plan a living document that inspires action and delivers impact.
Winona McMorrow
Toronto Public Library
Daniella Levy-Pinto
National Network for Equitable Library Service
Laurie Davidson
Centre for Equitable Library Access
This is a Pre-Conference workshop. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. This pre-conference workshop will be taking place offsite at the Toronto Reference Library. Attendees will be responsible for their transportation to and from this offsite pre-conference workshop.
Join us for a practical and hands-on workshop on assistive and accessible reading technologies. This workshop will provide an overview of some key assistive and mainstream technologies that people with lived experience with various print disabilities use to access and read the content and resources that libraries offer. Led by people with lived experience of a disability, the workshop will offer demonstrations and hands-on learning of the sometimes complicated and confusing landscape of assistive and accessible reading technologies, including screen readers, switches, magnifiers, refreshable braille displays, ebook and audiobook readers and more. The workshop will also highlight some of the common accessibility barriers that exist to reading in both the digital and physical landscapes. This workshop aims to provide library staff with practical knowledge that they can take back to their library to better meet the reading needs of people with print disabilities in their own communities.
This is a pre-conference tour. Space is limited and registration is required.
The Penguin Random House head office is just a block away from the Convention Centre and they are inviting library guests to tour their 12th and 14th floor. There will also be time for a brief publishing Q&A.
*This is a walking tour - please dress appropriately.
Jade Nelson
The ArQuives
Roxy Moon
The ArQuives
This is a Pre-Conference workshop. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
The main goal of this workshop is to instruct attendees on how The ArQuives, Canada’s 2SLBTQIA+ Archive, plans and conducts engaging workshops and events for their patrons. This workshop will use past successful Zine workshops as a framework, with participants of this workshop will be able to create their own zines and take home a workshop toolkit zine. The demonstration will inform attendees why tailored programming that activates an organization’s collections is essential in strengthening community bonds. As a supplemental item, the zine offers an inclusive and adjustable toolkit for attendees to begin planning and implementing programming which activates their library collections and is tailored to the communities they serve.
Cristina Pietropaolo
Colleen Thumlert
University of Toronto
This is a Pre-Conference workshop. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
Learning through making develops a creative practice that stimulates the mind-body connection, while also building bridges to engage in creative ways to learn and teach. In this workshop for beginners, participants will make a commonplace notebook and a flagbook (materials provided). Commonplace books are collaged DIY notebooks, put together quickly with paper and glue, designed to be a customized place for brainstorming, note-taking, observations, ice-breakers, etc. Flagbooks are interactive and adaptable for a variety of purposes including creating a personal archive, a tool for teaching vocabulary, geography, and math, or an abstract piece of art. Taking time to step away from our screens and use our hands and minds in different ways allows us to build connections between materiality and content while also importantly, build connections/bridges to others as we work by ourselves but together; the process of bookmaking invites quiet reflection as well as conversation between makers.
Geoffrey Allen
Regina Public Library
Lisa Radha Vohra
Toronto Public Library
This is a Pre-Conference meetup. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
This session is open to staff who work in collections departments in public libraries. It is an opportunity for us to come together and discuss the many topics and issues common to our work. Come learn from your peers on many important theses that we deal with regularly: digital collections, staffing, processing, self/AI published works, non-print formats, and everything else we can fit into the time.
Michelle Gram Giesen
Story Drama Suite
This is a Pre-Conference workshop. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
In this interactive workshop, participants are guided through a Story Drama, or immersive storytelling experience, where they dramatize a picture book. The book “Dark Cloud” by Anna Lazowski, will be read in segments, where the storyteller stops periodically to use drama, movement, writing, and music exercises to investigate character perspectives and choices, build environments, and explore present themes. Participants will use movement, tableau, writing in role, role play, improvisation, poetry, large and small group collaboration, and more to experience the story rather than listen to it as passive audience members. The drama unfolds as the story unfolds. This workshop offers step-by-step guidance to successfully implement Story Drama into regular storytelling sessions for groups of all ages. Additionally, participants will be provided a collection of 15+ Story Drama exercises that elevate and activate storytelling using rich picture books, and a sample unit plan with Ontario Curriculum connections.
Please note that this tour requires pre-registration.
Always wanted to see what happens at the Toronto International Film Festival library? Well, now is the time! TIFF is offering several opportunities for attendees of the OLA Super Conference to tour the TIFF Library. Please note that the TIFF Library is approximately 10 minutes' walk away from the conference centre.
For those unable to attend an official OLA Super Conference tour, you may still visit the TIFF Library during your time in Toronto. Library hours are from 10am-5pm Monday to Friday.
Andrea Cecchetto
Markham Public Library, Canadian Federation of Library Associations/ Fédération canadienne des associations de bibliothèques, International Federation of Library Associations, North American Division
Vivian Lewis
McMaster University
Mary-Jo Romaniuk
University of Calgary
Pilar Martinez
Edmonton Public Library
Evviva Weinraub Lajoie
University of Buffalo
Katherine Klosek
Association of Research Libraries
Kim Silk
Brightsail Research
Diane Koen
North American Regional Division, IFLA
This is a pre-conference workshop and requires pre-registration.
Every library has an amazing story to tell about their contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Whether you are a small public library or a large consortium of academic libraries, your library is contributing. By telling your story, you are advocating and marketing the work that is making an impact on your community and inspiring others.
In this workshop, participants will learn how libraries can demonstrate progress on the UN Sustainable Development Goals through storytelling. We will begin with an explanation of the SDGs, followed by a description of the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) Library Map of the World. Next, three librarians will tell the story of how their library’s work advances the SDGs. Finally, IFLA Impact Trainer Kimberly Silk will guide participants in how they can tell their library’s story. Participants will receive resources for librarians who are interested in their story being curated for the Library Map of the World. Bring a draft or even a kernel of an idea to the workshop in order to work with others to flesh out the story.
Sarah Downey
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
This is a pre-conference workshop and space is limited. Please pre-register through this link to save your seat.
New to the library and information sector? Or in a technician, IT, HR, or policy role and finding your way through the library sector? Connect with sector leaders and others at the Sparking Forum, generously funded by the Maggie Weaver Legacy Fund. Gain leadership insights from the Fire-side Chat with Sarah Downey, President & CEO at Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).
Please note that this tour is now sold out. You are welcome to add your name to the waitlist.
For over a century, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) has played a fundamental role in shaping and celebrating Canadian culture. Now in its 101st year, the TSO’s commitment to musical excellence and ability to spark connection remain as strong as ever. With a storied history of acclaimed concerts and recordings, Canadian and international tours, and impactful community partnerships, the TSO is dedicated to engaging and enriching local and national communities through vibrant musical experiences.
The OLA's Special Libraries Committee presents this tour of the TSO Library as part of the OLA Super Conference 2025.
TOUR NOTES:
Leslie Weir
Library and Archives Canada
Sarah Downey
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
Vickery Bowles
Toronto Public Library
Join us for the opening evening of the OLA Super Conference, where Librarian and Archivist of Canada Leslie Weir will interview Sarah Downey, Executive Director of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and Vickery Bowles, City Librarian, Toronto Public Library (TPL).
Super Conference is celebrating its 30th year! There is much to celebrate, so let’s start your conference off right. Come and join your fellow conference attendees for a welcome reception after the opening keynote. A great way to meet new people and see familiar faces.
Convention centre carpets and heavy publisher catalogues will do a number on your body! Join us for yoga and ease into your day with some gentle stretches. Librarian and yoga instructor Justine Cotton will guide you through gentle poses and mindful breathwork to boost your energy and mood for the day ahead. Everyone is welcome (no yoga experience required) and mats will be provided - simply wear comfortable clothes and bring some water to drink. No registration required.
Jessica Babineau
University Health Network
Zack Osborne
Unity Health Toronto
Ewan Gibson
Humber Polytechnic
Valerie Benigno
Humber Polytechnic
Shannon McGrady
Orangeville Public Library
Rachel Tkachuk
Port Colborne Public Library
Join us for two special Shop Talks:
Community Connect: Creating Effective Library Partnerships with Local Support Agencies
Learning Hard Truths: Building a Bridge to Reconciliation One Book at a Time
Allison Jones
Greater Victoria Public Library
Lindsey Krabbenhoft
Vancouver Public Library
Delia Filipescu
Greater Victoria Public Library
Jérémie LeBlanc
Université Saint-Paul
Venez découvrir les défis d’avoir une petite équipe avec une très grande collection dans la bibliothèque Jean-Léon-Allie. Depuis la pandémie, l’université Saint-Paul, est passé d’une semaine de travail de 28h pour les employées à temps plein sauf que notre bibliothèque est ouverte 7 jours par semaine pendant les sessions d’automne et hiver. De plus, notre collection qui a plus d’un demi-million de volumes circule plus que jamais avec le partenariat entre bibliothèque de l’Ontario (Collaborative Futures) et les demandes de numérisations. Cette présentation s’inclinera sur les défis et les réajustements que nous avons dû faire pour continuer nos services avec le moins d’interruptions possible.
Beth Côté
Saskatoon Public Library
Chris Cooper
Saskatoon Public Library
Amal Hussien
University of Toronto
Benjamin Walsh
University of Toronto
Selena Mann
OCULA EDI CoP
Jessica Shiers
Algonquin College
Library workers are invited to a two-part discussion (Thursday morning and Friday morning) about how you and your institution respond to world shaping events like Israel’s military actions in the occupied Palestinian territories. As libraries deliver core services - information literacy, collections development, library space, etc. - should library workers be free to reflect on troubling global realities in their work product and speak to these concerns in their day-to-day work lives?
The following themes will be used as discussion prompts:
This conversation will be governed by the Chatham House Rule.
Learning Objectives
Katia Oltmann
Jenny Kay Dupuis
Author, Published with High Water Press
Kelly Nielsen
Brantford Public Library
Sarah Waddell
Brantford Public Library
Jo-Anne Petropoulos
Elizabeth Obermeyer
McMaster University
Laura Banfield
McMaster University
Libraries employ numerous types of employees. Often the tendency is to divide these employees into two groups: librarians and library staff, which conflicts with the goals of expanding the diversity of library employees and building bridges to create more inclusive workplaces. We seek to explore the need to find a balance between grouping individuals collectively and recognizing their unique role differences.
Laura Winton
Canadian Federation of Library Associations/ Fédération canadienne des associations de bibliothèques
Andrea Cecchetto
Markham Public Library, Canadian Federation of Library Associations/ Fédération canadienne des associations de bibliothèques, International Federation of Library Associations, North American Division
Nathalie Soini
Queen's University Library
Audrey Kennington
Barrie Public Library
Timothy King
ICTC-CTIC
Marie Belanger
Canadian Centre for Cyber Security
Cheryl Hayes
Cyber Legends
Debra Popa
KnowledgeFlow Cybersafety Foundation
Alison Pitcher
MacEwan University
Adele Lamphier
Toronto Public Library
Max Hare
Toronto Public Library
Anne O'Shea
Craft Strategic
Joy Muller
Seneca Polytechnic Libraries
Jacqueline Kreller-Vanderkooy
University of Guelph Library
Jennifer Peters
Seneca Polytechnic
Talia Chung
University of Ottawa
Mindy Thuna
University of Toronto Libraries
Catie Sahadath
Ontario Tech University
Are you contemplating a leadership role in an academic library but unsure if it’s the right path for you? Join us for a discussion where we will explore the opportunities and challenges of leadership in academic libraries. This session aims to provide insights, share experiences, and offer practical advice to help you make an informed decision about pursuing a leadership role.
Academic library leaders from the University of Ottawa, University of Guelph, Seneca Polytechnic, Ontario Tech, and University of Toronto will share their diverse experiences—both positive and challenging—to provide you with a glimpse into leadership in an academic library.
This session will include a panel of current academic library leaders and group discussion.
Ky Graham
Pickering Public Library
Joel Sutherland
Pickering Public Library
Shahin Dashtkian
Pickering Public Library
Taylor Moore
Centre for Effective Practice
Anne Dabrowski
Centre for Effective Practice
Drawing on insights from CULC’s member libraries, CULC’s Safety and Security Toolkit provides practical strategies to help public libraries large and small more effectively manage and respond to safety and security incidents.
Part 1: In the first half of this session, members of CULC’s Safety & Security team will provide an overview and update of the toolkit since the launch in February 2024 as well as highlight examples of how libraries have implemented various strategies in their efforts to manage safety and security.
Part 2: The second half of the session will invite participants to further engage in interactive, small group, discussions to learn, share, and network on topics such as tools and strategies, staffing and staff development, space layout and design, advocacy, and cultivating community partnerships.
Participants are encouraged to come prepared to share their own strategies and experiences in managing safety and security within their libraries, as well as feedback and ideas on how to further build out the content of the toolkit to ensure it remains a "living document", that is relevant to public libraries across the country.
Daniella Levy-Pinto
NNELS
Lindsay Tyler
Centre for Equitable Library Access
Jess Albert
ECW Press
Carl Thompson
Counting Opinions
Ryan Patrick
Counting Opinions
Lindsay Thompson
Counting Opinions
Frank Biss
Counting Opinions
Colin Calhoun
Durham District School Board
Chris Lee
Durham District School Board
Debbie Vert
Durham District School Board
Jason Himsl
Ministry of Education
Marie Henein
Henein Hutchison Robitallle LLP
In this session, Marie Henein will offer practical advice on how to build a meaningful career on your own terms. This session is designed for individuals at any stage of their career, and will offer valuable takeaways on maintaining professional integrity, building confidence, and growing your career with purpose.
Ixchel Faniel
OCLC
Katie Vlanich
Windsor Public Library
Emily Anderson
Essex County Library
Linda Ludke
London Public Library
Meagan Wilkinson
Orillia Public Library
Vanessa Lewis
Gale
Elspeth Brown
University of Toronto
Nick Field
University of Toronto
Elio Colavito
University of Toronto
Carly Ziegler
Gale
James Turk
Centre for Free Expression
Vickery Bowles
Toronto Public Library
Sonia Bebbington
Ottawa Public Library
Pilar Martinez
Edmonton Public Library
Claire Li
Mississauga Library
Fawzia Raja
Mississauga Library
Sandra Tang
Mississauga Library
Kim Davidson
Toronto District School Board (and CIVIX)
Diana Maliszewski
Toronto District School Board (& AML & CSL)
Steven Kraus
Ontario Library Service
Sean Meades
NORDIK Institute
Jesse Roberts
Ontario Library Service
Crystal Bergstrome
Bracebridge Library
Leah Perron
Bracebridge Library
Kathleen Atkinson
YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka
Shelley Brook
Town of Innisfil
Jennifer Lloyd
Town of Innisfil
Amy Eastwood
Innisfil ideaLAB & Library
Michael Shires
University of Regina
Kate Cushon
University of Regina
Gillian van der Ven
University of Regina
Kenneth Leung
City of Mississauga
Amanda French
Toronto Public Library
Rima Hasan
City of Mississauga
Time to update your LinkedIn profile? Join us at the Career Centre (on the Expo floor this year!) to have your professional headshot taken. Light retouching will be done by photographers. BYO lipgloss and hair brush. No appointment necessary, but this only happens on Thursday January 30th and there are a limited number of spots. Photographers will be onsite from 9:30am - 5:00pm. Donations to the I Read Canadian fund are welcome.
Brittany Dunk
Oshawa Public Libraries
Margaret LaTour
Oshawa Public Libraries
Carmen Ho
Toronto Public Library
Michelle Siddiqui
Toronto Public Library
Joel Babcock
Toronto Public Library
Jeannette Fong-Lim
Toronto Public Library
Susan Haigh
Canadian Association of Research Libraries
Camille Callison
University of the Fraser Valley
Vivian Lewis
McMaster University
Pilar Martinez
Edmonton Public Library
Robin Kear
University of Pittsburgh
Katherine Scott
Toronto Metropolitan University
Sarah Marcotte
SickKids Foundation
Karen Munro
University of Victoria Libraries
Courtney Lundrigan
University of Victoria Libraries
Evette Berry
Calgary Public Library
Janice Parker
Calgary Public Library
Navneet Alang
Toronto Star
When Elon Musk purchased what was then called Twitter in 2022, the idea of a billionaire buying up an infuential online platform was significant itself. But the move that eventually turned Twitter into X also had a wider symbolic resonance. From the vantage point of 2025, it augured a shift in both social media and the landscape of information.
If X is now filled with significantly more conspiracy theories, so-called “AI slop,” and outright bigotry, so too is the internet at large. The re-election of Donald Trump also makes it clear that we live in competing realities that are incommensurate and often in competition.
What this means for the organization of information and notions of truth are difficult enough questions on their own. But if online spaces were and area also arenas for finding and creating community, how does one do so amidst this changed informational landscape? How does one produce a community of scholars, librarians, or business leaders when social media has become balkanized? In this talk, Navneet Alang explores the possibility of produce personal and professional community in an online world that now seems irrevocably changed.
Leslie Weir
Library and Archives Canada
Jennifer Schofield
Library and Archives Canada
Jasmine Bouchard
Library and Archives Canada
It’s an exciting time at LAC! Join Leslie Weir, Librarian and Archivist of Canada, and her colleagues to learn more about exciting initiatives such as the landmark Ādisōke facility that will open next year in the heart of Ottawa, our innovative work with artificial intelligence, and everything else we’re doing to improve access to our collections.
Jada Watson
University of Ottawa
In May 2015, a radio consultant referred to women as the “tomatoes” of the otherwise all-male country music salad when he advocated a practice of limiting their songs on country radio playlists. This statement sparked immediate debate in the country music industry and planted the seed of an idea to study representation in the country music industry in the mind of musicologist Dr. Jada Watson. Drawing on skills developed in her Master of Information Studies degree, Watson embarked on a journey to investigate this so-called “tomato theory” that has led her to study radio programming, popularity charts, algorithmic recommender systems, award eligibility criteria and the cyclic relationship that emerges between of these systems. Through her public-facing research program SongData, Watson centers her work on addressing systemic inequity and working with industry partners to advocate for meaningful change in the US and Canadian industries. In this talk, Watson will bring us on a journey from MIS to SongData and share how she uses her information degree to hold the industry accountable.
Drawing on insights from CULC’s member libraries, CULC’s Safety and Security Toolkit provides practical strategies to help public libraries large and small more effectively manage and respond to safety and security incidents.
Part 1: In the first half of this session, members of CULC’s Safety & Security team will provide an overview and update of the toolkit since the launch in February 2024 as well as highlight examples of how libraries have implemented various strategies in their efforts to manage safety and security.
Part 2: The second half of the session will invite participants to further engage in interactive, small group, discussions to learn, share, and network on topics such as tools and strategies, staffing and staff development, space layout and design, advocacy, and cultivating community partnerships.
Participants are encouraged to come prepared to share their own strategies and experiences in managing safety and security within their libraries, as well as feedback and ideas on how to further build out the content of the toolkit to ensure it remains a "living document", that is relevant to public libraries across the country.
Tanya Kyi
School of Creative Writing, University of British Columbia
Lori Ledingham
Bruce County Public Library
Stephen Wood
Bruce County Public Library
Lindsay Bontje
Humber Polytechnic
Kimberly Daniels
Humber Polytechnic
Aliya Dalfen
Humber Polytechnic
Samantha Gibbon
University of Waterloo
Sarah Martin
University of Waterloo
Fiona Inglis
Wilfrid Laurier University
Elizabeth Yates
Brock University
Andrea Cecchetto
Markham Public Library, Canadian Federation of Library Associations/ Fédération canadienne des associations de bibliothèques, International Federation of Library Associations, North American Division
M.J. D'Elia
LLEAD
Rachel Frick
OCLC
Eva Jurczyk
University of Toronto Libraries
Ruthanne Price
Vaughan Public Libraries
Karen Luk
Vaughan Public Libraries
Jennifer Murley
Blue Mountains Public Library
Karen Cubitt
Town of Collingwood
Ryan Gibbons
Town of the Blue Mountains
Ashley Kulchycki
Collingwood Public Library
Get to know fellow conference attendees while learning a new craft in this no-stress fabric bookmark making drop-in, taking place over the lunch break! Let's be honest, networking can sometimes be awkward, but it doesn't have to be. Lyndsey and Mandy are two library assistants who connected through their shared love of threadwork years before they both worked for Western University. They know from personal experience how much easier it is to talk to new people when you are stitching. Come and eat your lunch, make an embroidered bookmark, and some new friends! No sewing experience or extra materials needed, they will bring everything you need and will teach you what you need to know. All are welcome.
Kathleen Oakey
Sheridan College
Bennett Steinburg
University of Toronto Scarborough Library
Kirsta Stapelfeldt
University of Toronto Scarborough Library
Digital special collections can serve as powerful tools to "enrich, capture, store and disseminate" community conversations (R.D. Lankes). However, partnerships with communities raise complex legal, ethical, technical and professional questions that can easily frustrate even the best intentions. The University of Toronto Scarborough Library's Digital Scholarship Unit partners with diverse internal and community groups to create unique digital collections using the openly-licensed U of T Scarborough Partnership & Engagement Framework. Our poster provides practical tools for co-creating digital objects in common-shareable formats, examples from our experience, and guidance about using frameworks like U of T Scarborough's to support mutually beneficial, non-extractive collections development.
Raphael Adjei
University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC)- Institute of Journalism (IJ)
Lydia Nyantakyi-Baah
University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC)- Institute of Journalism (IJ)
Faustina Barfi
University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC)- Institute of Journalism (IJ)
Emma Boyes
Mikaela Gray
University of Toronto Libraries
Jen Cyr
Region of Waterloo Library
Heather Woodley
Region of Waterloo Library
Maria Marioncu
Region of Waterloo Library
Candice Dahl
University of Saskatchewan
Libraries can become more welcoming places for all when they reflect, understand, and connect with their communities of users. Though recruiting a more diverse student body into the profession of librarianship is seen as one way to build these bridges, efforts to do so are not always successful. It is therefore encouraging that the student body of the undergraduate library internship course at *** has become more diverse since the course was first offered 2017, as many who register are exploring librarianship as a potential career path. Learn what factors might be influencing participation and consider how academic librarians’ connections with undergraduates could encourage greater inclusion of underrepresented backgrounds (e.g. minoritized groups, STEM disciplines) in librarianship. Ideally these efforts will help position libraries to connect with more diverse communities in informed and meaningful ways.
Aleksandra Blake
Carleton University Library
Joel Rivard
Carleton University Library
Our poster will explore the collaboration between two academic library departments—Access Services and Research Support Services—as they strive to make evidence-based decisions and better understand the types of questions received at their respective service points. The poster will provide an overview of each department, discuss the intersecting services as well as discuss how the following information is collected and for what purpose. The data includes: 1. Scholars Portal virtual chat data 2. LibInsight Research Help Desk data 3. Shared mailboxes: o AskTheLibrary email data o LibraryServices Jira Tickets The presentation will also highlight ways in which decisions were made to better serve our students and ensure a balanced workload for staff. Finally, we will focus on how to move forward with this information and determine actionable next steps.
Christina De Longhi
Centre for Effective Practice
In recent times, ‘undervalued and underutilized’ has become a refrain for many health science librarians and their skill sets. At this Ontario knowledge translation organization, a team of health science librarians are embedded in knowledge translation work and act as a cornerstone in the bridge between evidence and practice for Ontario’s primary care sector. Team members utilize their professional expertise at the forefront of knowledge translation and in the creation of practical and educational clinical tools for primary care. This poster will address the ways in which librarians have excelled in both supportive and leadership roles in an Ontario-based knowledge translation organization as highly valued and utilized members of embedded teams.
Maggie Gordon
Queen's University
Carling Spinney
Queen's University Library
Many libraries have FAQs in some form, whether that’s a web page, a LibGuide, or a knowledgebase. The fact is, users have questions about library services and resources, and we have the answers! FAQs can serve as an excellent tool for asynchronous reference, forging connections to other services within the broader reference ecosystem in academic libraries. But how can we ensure FAQs are held to the same standards as conventional forms of reference? At Queen’s University Library, we recently conducted an overhaul of our FAQ. As part of this project, we wanted to ensure that our FAQ answers met the same standards that we would apply to other typical forms of reference (chat, in-person, email, etc.). To get a better understanding of our goals, we conducted a literature review to determine how other academic libraries were treating FAQs. While there is a fair amount written about best practices and continuous improvement – focusing on either the initial implementation or user experience – FAQs tend to be siloed from other forms of virtual reference, such as chat and email, and are not explicitly held to the same professional standards. To bridge this gap, we mapped RUSA Guidelines for Behavioral Performance of Reference and Information Service Providers (2023) to our new FAQ knowledgebase, including methods to incorporate each standard of inclusion, approachability, engagement, searching, evaluation, and closure into FAQs. Whether you’re curious to learn how you can improve an existing knowledgebase, start fresh, or a mix of the two, stop by this poster and learn more about applying these practices to your own FAQs!
Nicholas Worby
University of Toronto Libraries
Mona Makinejad
University of Toronto Libraries
Morgan Gariepy
Toronto Public Library
Danielle Lum
Toronto Public Library
Mabel Rodriguez
Dufferin-Peel CDSB
Sarah Ferreira
Loyola Catholic Secondary School - Dufferin-Peel Catholic School Board
Jamie Hardie
Hardie and Company Branding, Advertising and Design
Effective visual communication means understanding the mechanics of how the eye really works. Get tips that can make your graphics and display efforts work even harder to get noticed. These are ideas that you are probably totally unaware of. Regardless of the size of your library, you'll come away from this poster session with insights and affordable, straight-forward ideas that are easy to implement.
Jackie Stapleton
University of Waterloo Libraries
Tanya Snyder
University of Waterloo Libraries
Agnes Zientarska-Kayko
University of Waterloo
Please note that this tour requires pre-registration.
Always wanted to see what happens at the Toronto International Film Festival library? Well, now is the time! TIFF is offering several opportunities for attendees of the OLA Super Conference to tour the TIFF Library. Please note that the TIFF Library is approximately 10 minutes' walk away from the conference centre.
For those unable to attend an official OLA Super Conference tour, you may still visit the TIFF Library during your time in Toronto. Library hours are from 10am-5pm Monday to Friday.
Eric Nearing
Wellington Catholic District School Board
Julia Gilmore
Scholars Portal
Courtney Waugh
Western University
Shelby Thaysen
University of Toronto
Dan Scott
Laurentian University
Nancy Collins
U of Waterloo
Timothy Ireland
University of Waterloo
Michael R. Clark
U of Waterloo, Coordinator, Accessibility and Information Resources
Grace Judge
W. Ross Macdonald co-op student
In the fall 2024, the University of Waterloo and W. Ross Macdonald School for the Blind in Brantford, initiated a pilot project. In this project, a low-vision student from W. Ross would have a co-op work term in the University of Waterloo Library. This session includes how this project came to fruition and includes some of the expected and unexpected challenges. What are appropriate co-op tasks that would create a positive and meaningful experience for all parties involved? Our aim is to take our accessibility skills to the next level by obtaining feedback directly from one of our key stakeholders. We will also share contact information for everyone interested in reaching out to W. Ross Macdonald school for a potentially similar experience.
Laurie Davidson
Centre for Equitable Library Access
Alexandra Kohn
McGill University, Copyright Librarian
Victoria Owen
University of Toronto
Pam Bolan
Seneca Polytechnic
Elyse Hill
Seneca Polytechnic
Laural Raine
Toronto Public Library
The value of the library reaches far beyond traditional statistical reporting measures, such as the number of visits and books circulated - it profoundly touches peoples lives. While measuring the impact of libraries on people's lives is challenging, it is increasing important in advocating for the value of libraries in our communities. Toronto Public Library partnered with the Danish firm Seismonaut to measure this previously unquantifiable value using an innovative new methodology called the Experience Impact Compass. The Experience Impact Compass methodology combines quantitative data and qualitative stories to provide an empirical, evidence based approach that assesses impact across the four dimensions of Emotional, Social, Intellectual and Creative Impact. In this session, learn about the study results as well as how this new approach can help us collectively as a library sector to build a new language for describing the value of library services.
Simona Dinu
Connect to Grow
What sparks you? We all know public libraries are changing. They have become places and spaces that bring people together with the promise of something for everyone. However, keeping up with a vast array of services means change at a pace that can leave people with a lot of what ifs.
What if I have to be on the desk all day? What if I don’t have time? What if I’m not respected?
A healthy organization nurtures the growth and development of its people and – when done intentionally – can help to answer these questions. Using concepts rooted in neuroscience, psychology and leadership development, you will discover how we all play a role in creating a strong culture rooted in vulnerability and shared purpose.
Chloé LaDuchesse
Autrice
Hors des grandes villes, point de salut? S’il est vrai qu’il est plus difficile de cultiver une vie littéraire dynamique dans les communautés de petite taille, Chloé LaDuchesse, établie à Sudbury, en Ontario, y trouve son bonheur depuis bientôt dix ans. La littérature est un écosystème où chaque maillon – auteurices, maisons d’édition, médias, organismes de diffusion, milieu de l’éducation, public – est crucial. Dans cette conférence, elle parlera de sa propre expérience, discutera des défis et des succès de son milieu, présentera quelques initiatives inspirantes et démontrera que l’unicité de nos lieux de vie peut vite se transformer en atout. Les participant·es seront invité·es à partager les façons qu’elles et ils promeuvent le plaisir de lire chez leurs publics respectifs.
Valerie Forgues
Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada
Samantha Tai
Kitchener Public Library
Daniel Brett
Brock University
James Steeves
Peel District School Board
This fast-paced session of lightning talks will have you fully up to date on the trends and innovations that technology is bringing to our libraries.
Come and listen to the perspectives of CEOs on the hot-button issues and opportunities facing our public libraries and communities, as well as the pressing issues and joys that come from being a library leader.
Brooke Windsor
Stratford Public Library
Ever wondered how someone else constantly comes up with new and exciting programs or services? Are you stuck in a creative rut or struggling to catch up with other libraries? The last decade has seen a surge in research concerning creativity and innovative thinking. Creativity can be taught even when someone’s brain does not naturally follow pathways associated with the function. This session will dive into where creativity originates, exercises to encourage it, and how to bridge those methods into library programs and services. Once we have delved into the science of creativity, it will be time to build your skills by performing a variety of activities that turn theory into reality. You will leave with a head full of techniques to encourage the flow of new ideas, steps to turn those ideas into innovative programs or services, and of course plenty of hands-on exercises with practical takeaways.
Sarah Raughley
Lakehead University
Sade Smith
Nadia Hohn
Toronto District School Board
Liselle Sambury
Sambury Creative Inc
Carlos Anthony
Millennial X Productions Inc/ Creative Compass Inc
Julie Thompson
Julie Thompson Books
Emilia Main
University Health Network
Rouhi Fazelzad
University Health Network
Melanie Anderson
University Health Network
Ani Orchanian-Cheff
University Health Network
Jael Richardson
Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD)
Catherine Hernandez
Author & Screenwriter
Mabel Rodriguez
Dufferin-Peel CDSB
Thursday's education program will close with a conversation between two Ontario treasures: Jael Richardson, author and Executive Director of the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) will interview best-selling author and screenwriter Catherine Hernandez. Novels Scarborough, The Story of Us, Crosshairs, and Hernandez's latest, Behind You delve into powerful conversations about community and the ways we heal. Discover how real-life events shape novel-writing and how fiction can help readers and writers navigate matters of humanity and social justice in this must-see discussion.
The Ontario College and University Library Association (OCULA) AGM is open to all OCULA members. Registration for the conference is not necessary to attend.
The Ontario School Library Association (OSLA) AGM is open to all OSLA members. Registration for the conference is not necessary to attend.
This session is now sold out. You are welcome to add your name to the waitlist in case a space becomes available.
OLA has secured a limited number of seats at a live Because News taping taking place at the CBC, right across the street from the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC). The taping will take place between 6:30-8:30PM. Confirmed attendees will receive details in their email inboxes in January.
Join us as we celebrate library award winners, including the Public Library Ministry Awards, OLA Awards, and public libraries receiving accreditations.
This is a ticketed event.
Time to celebrate! It’s the 30th anniversary of the Super Conference and we welcome you to join us at our annual Thursday social night social. Here is where we have in store this year. There is a little bit of something for everyone.
Just looking to connect with others over a drink? We’ll also have a lounge and bar setup for those looking to relax and chat. Think of a pub with different rooms to hang out in depending on what you like and enjoy.
Convention centre carpets and heavy publisher catalogues
will do a number on your body! Join us for yoga and
ease into your day with some gentle stretches. Librarian and yoga instructor Justine Cotton will guide you through gentle poses and mindful breathwork to boost your energy and mood for the day ahead.
Everyone is welcome (no yoga experience required) and mats will be provided - simply wear comfortable clothes and bring some water to drink. No registration required.
Sam Helmick
American Library Association
Chris Moore
Pickering Public Library
Zaman Kazi
Hamilton Public Library
Sam Vettraino
Western University
Maren Goodman
Western University
Devon Stolz
University of Toronto Libraries
Ashley Booth
Regina Public Library
Benjamin Walsh
University of Toronto
Jessica Shiers
Algonquin College
Library workers are invited to a two-part discussion (Thursday morning and Friday morning) about how you and your institution respond to world shaping events like Israel’s military actions in the occupied Palestinian territories. As libraries deliver core services - information literacy, collections development, library space, etc. - should library workers be free to reflect on troubling global realities in their work product and speak to these concerns in their day-to-day work lives?
The following themes will be used as discussion prompts:
This conversation will be governed by the Chatham House Rule.
Learning Objectives
Shelley McKay
Hamilton Public Library
June Dickenson
Brampton Public Library
Michelle Gravelle
Seneca Polytechnic
Karen Del Monte
Seneca Polytechnic
The path towards creating a culture of institutional assessment is not a straight one; it winds through many obstacles and opportunities along the way. How can we unify assessment approaches in an organization where each department operates differently? How can we effectively map a student's journey through postsecondary education? What is the most impactful way for us to tell our story? Join us for this interactive discussion as we use the game of Snakes & Ladders as an analogy to map the evolution of our quality assurance processes, identify opportunities and challenges with various assessment methods, and strive to build a culture of institutional assessment.
Elgin Pecjak
Meaford Public Library
Lynne Fascinato
Meaford Public Library
Ashley Trusler
Meaford Public Library
Morgan Irvine
Greater Sudbury Public Library
Endie Commanda
Greater Sudbury Public Library
Carla Marano
Windsor Public Library
Mary-Lou Gelissen
Windsor Public Library
Erica McKenzie
Windsor Public Library
Chelsea Humphries
Memorial University
Justine Cotton
Brock University
Heather Kessler
Northern Secondary School
Juli Mori
Northern Secondary School
Vicki Whitmell
Library Leaders Institute
Nadia Hohn
Toronto District School Board
Leonarda Carranza
SilviaArgentina (SA) Arauz Cisneros
LAEN- The Latinx, Afro-Latin-America, Abya Yala Education Network
Sahar Golshan
No organizational affiliation
Derek Mascarenhas
University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
David Luinstra
Sir Sandford Fleming College
Public and academic libraries share many common goals but also face unique challenges. In an era of specialization, we risk becoming increasingly isolated as we focus on our parochial interests and concerns. While not unique, it is unusual for professionals to "cross the aisle" and experience life on both sides of the professional spectrum. Drawing from almost a decade in each sector, this session explores what each can learn from the other to enhance services, foster collaboration, and meet the needs of diverse user groups. As a "switch hitter", I have learned valuable insights and gained a fresh perspective on the strengths and areas of improvement of each “side”, and how these lessons can be applied to address blind spots, break out of our silos, and challenging traditional mores and conventions. Join us for a dynamic conversation on how we can bridge the gap between academic and public libraries to create a stronger, more unified approach to librarianship.
Joseph Jeffery
Canadian School Libraries
Jennifer Casa-Todd
Canadian School Libraries
Maryse Laflamme
Library and Archives Canada
Juliya Borie
University of Toronto Libraries
Susan Bond
University of Toronto
Kaelen Bennett
University of Toronto
Jennie Hamilton
Hamilton Public Library
Kat Drennan-Scace
Hamilton Public Library
Vanessa Marion-Merritt
Hamilton Public Library
Caleb Domsy
Humber Polytechnic
Vanessa Colaiacovo
Humber College Libraries
Dorcas Adjei
University of Guelph-Humber, Library Services
Amy Weir
Humber Polytechnic & University of Guelph-Humber Library
Dakota Smith
London Public Library
Tirthesh Jani
Barrie Public Library
Shaun McDonough
Richmond Hill Public Library
Alison Clarke
Brampton Library
Joyce Cheung
Toronto Public Library
Max Hare
Toronto Public Library
Ana Malespin
Toronto Public Library
Leah Fiore
Toronto Public Library
Tiffany Luk
Toronto Public Library
Tammy Csajaghy
Burlington Public Library
Emma Burkholder
Burlington Public Library
Trish MacGregor
Stratford Public Library
Victoria Yang
Toronto Public Library
Virgilio Medina
Aurora Public Library
Jennie Hamilton
Hamilton Public Library
Jamila Hastick
Carleton University MacOdrum Library
Charmaine De Castro
OLA Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Committee
Allyson Aritcheta
Toronto Public Library
Lindsay Zier-Vogel
Author, Grant Writer, Arts Educator
Author, community-based educator, and creator of the internationally-acclaimed Love Lettering Project, Lindsay Zier-Vogel will share her experience using placemaking and community-building practices in libraries and classrooms across the country. Using her debut picture book, Dear Street, as the basis for engagement, Lindsay will explore the transformative power of writing letters to things we love about where we live, and how this practice can empower students, caregivers, librarians and educators. By reflecting on what works in our communities, we can celebrate and protect the spaces we share, and engage more deeply with our surroundings.
Autumn Piette
Seneca Polytechnic
Fiona Inglis
Wilfrid Laurier University
Joanna Blair
Wilfrid Laurier University
Stephanie Lindsay
CAMH Library
David Fewer
University of Ottawa
In 2024, Canadian copyright law has seen notable developments in case law and policy. Courts have addressed key copyright concepts such as authorization, the overlap between fair dealing and the protection of digital locks, and the scope of moral rights. On the policy front, the government is consulting on reforms to the Copyright Act to address new challenges from artificial intelligence. Key issues include text and data mining, infringement in outputs, and the ownership of AI-generated works, with stakeholder positions polarized between fostering innovation and protecting authors' rights.
Farzana Doctor
Author & Psychotherapist
Library work can be both rewarding and overwhelming. Burnout and vicarious trauma are common. Much of the problem is systemic – underfunding, oppression, global crises. So what can we do to sustain ourselves while doing this valuable work? In this Health Library Spotlight, activist, social worker, and author Farzana Doctor will present practical ideas on how to rethink and reduce burnout, and bring more self and community care into our lives. There will be time for Q&A and book signing.
Paul Takala
Hamilton Public Library
Vickery Bowles
Toronto Public Library
Linda Hazzan
Toronto Public Library
Jon MacDonald
London Public Library
Ellen Hobin
London Public Library
Dijia Qin
Hamilton Public Library
Michael Ciccone
London Public Library
Steve Till-Rogers
Toronto Public Library
In the past year, a number of library systems have fallen victim to cyberattacks, including three large urban library systems in Ontario - Toronto, London and Hamilton. These attacks severely impeded each system’s ability to deliver library services for months. Staff from these systems will discuss the attacks, the incredible work their staffs did in quickly adjusting to their new realities and continue to provide services The session will be offered in two parts.
Part One will focus on the behind-the-scenes work at the point of the attack and in addressing the ongoing aftermath, focusing on initial response by administrators, IT staff actions, and the importance of a coordinated internal and external communication plan.
OCULA Lightning Strikes Talks are presentations prepared by students with an interest in academic libraries who are either currently enrolled in a Master's program in library/information studies or library technician program at an Ontario university or college.
Loren Fantin
Internet Archive Canada
Inness Campbell
Vancouver Public Library
Andrea Mills
Internet Archive Canada
Last year, a new partnership between Vancouver Public Library (VPL) and Internet Archive Canada (IAC) launched an initiative to digitize rare and historical books from VPL's non-circulating collection. This project included the installation of a Scribe machine - specialized digitization equipment developed by Internet Archive - the public 3rd floor of VPL's central branch. This collaboration not only enhances access to unique materials centered on the history of British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest but also contributes to the broader movement for digital rights for libraries. The initiative reflects core library functions: preserving knowledge and culture while providing open access to information. In this session, we will explore the various stages of the project - from obtaining Board approval to clearing access rights - and how libraries can play a crucial role in ensuring equitable participation in the digital era.
Amanda Lepage
Saskatoon Public Library
Beth Côté
Saskatoon Public Library
Mark Reinelt
Okanagan Regional Library
Samidha Kalia
Whitby Public Library
Jaclyn Derlatka
Whitby Public Library
Preethi Gorecki
MacEwan University
Scott Jones
Conestoga College/Mohawk College
Nan Davies
Toronto Public Library
Nalini Battu
Toronto Public Library
Kate Gibbings
Ontario Tech University and Durham College
Lydia Thorne
Ontario Tech University and Durham College
Nadya Lim-Douglas
Ontario Tech University and Durham College
Kaelan Caspary
Ontario Tech University and Durham College
Using a retrospective look at our academic library’s Science Literacy Week programming from 2019 to present as our focal point, this session will discuss working collaboratively, across teams of librarians and library technicians, to execute an intensive week-long annual outreach event. We have experimented with active and passive programming ideas and external partnerships, engaging college and university populations simultaneously. In this session we will share the programming criteria and strategies we have refined. We will discuss challenges that can also serve as opportunities, such as staff capacity issues leading to improved inter-team collaboration. In this workshop, participants will analyze case study examples and brainstorm strategies to use at their own libraries to navigate common pitfalls and implement successful outreach programs. Finally, the discussion will open up questions about how we, in our workplaces, strategically impart knowledge to build bridges between different teams and library staff with varying levels of experience.
Michal Utko
Okanagan Regional Library
Danielle Hubbard
Okanagan Regional Library
Kim Davidson
Toronto District School Board
Ken Boyd
CIVIX
Daniel Schueler
City of Mississauga
Haider Rizvi
Mississauga Library
Alex MacCutchan
Toronto Public Library
Erin Scuccimarri
Innisfil ideaLAB & Library
Anne Smith
Board Chair
Jason Reynar
Lerners LLP
Lynn Dollin
Mayor
Andy Fenos
iDesign 365 Ltd
Daniel (Zhao) Yu
Caution Tape Robotics
Tommy Sunthorn
Vaughan Public Libraries
Kaitlyn Vecchio
Tina Liu
McGill University
Gabriele Davey
London Health Sciences Centre & St. Joseph’s Health Care, London
Lisa Manax-Skikos
London Public Library
Dakota Smith
London Public Library
Kate Kingswell
London Health Sciences Centre & St Joseph’s Health Care, London
Aimee Sparzynski
Middlesex County Library
Plan to join the reading community at this special interview with acclaimed Mohawk author Alicia Elliott. This year the winning adult title for the First Nation Communities READ program is And Then She Fell, a jarring novel about Indigenous reality, mental health, and motherhood. Alicia will be interviewed by Danielle Big Canoe Snake, the librarian at the Rama First Nation Public Library and one of the amazing jury members who read through dozens of books to eventually decide on the FNCR selected title. Expect insight and likely a lot of laughter as these two formidable women talk books and the power of culture to transform and heal.
Janice Hill
Queen's University
Callie Hill
Tsi Tyónnheht Onkwawén:na
Karen Lewis
Tyendinaga Territory Public Library
In North American Indigenous cultures, corn, beans, squash are planted with intent to ensure each plant is cultivated to maximum potential. The concept of this agricultural technique is integral to what Janice, Karen, and Callie are accomplishing in Tyendinaga. The three sisters have combined their superpowers (academia, community engagement, and grassroots activism) to support one another for over three decades.
Join this session to learn how three sisters work together to advocate, preserve, and enhance Kanyenkehaka culture in their territory by creating the Kanhiote - Tyendinaga Public Library, Tsi Tyónnheht Onkwawén:na, and Ohahase Education Centre.
Carmen Ho
Toronto Public Library
Jennifer Gal
Hamilton Public Library
Meghan Tinmouth
Hamilton Public Library
Chelsie Abraham
London Public Library
Sarah Kasprzak
London Public Library
In the past year, a number of library systems have fallen victim to cyberattacks, including three large urban library systems in Ontario - Toronto, London and Hamilton. These attacks severely impeded each system’s ability to deliver library services for months. Staff from these systems will discuss the attacks, the incredible work their staffs did in quickly adjusting to their new realities and continue to provide services The session will be offered in two parts.
Part Two focuses on ensuring library users could continue to access physical and digital services by devising business continuity plans to enable the continuation of service to its members. At this session, each system will present their respective approaches, share what strategies they would recommend, and what they would do differently, including initial priorities and consideration, maintaining open doors, borrowing services and other vital services.
Rob Elliott
Counsel Public Affairs
Devan Sommerville
Counsel Public Affairs
Wendy Burch Jones
Ontario School Library Association & Toronto District School Board
Come hear from OLA's government relations specialists, Devan Sommerville & Rob Elliott from Counsel of Public Affairs, together with 2024 & 2025 Ontario School Library Association President, Wendy Burch Jones as they provide a comprehensive update on the Save Our School Libraries Campaign. Learn about our advocacy efforts on your behalf, how our petition is gaining public support, the latest news from the new Minister of Education's office, and how our school library media coverage is turning heads. Come and listen to the latest news, voice your concerns, and ask your questions about what's next.
Madeleine Bognar
OCAD Univeristy
Lynne Serviss
McMaster Libraries
Catie Sahadath
Ontario Tech University
Michael Myers
Seneca Polytechnic
From public/academic library collaborations to AI, from JSTOR to storytime, this fast-paced session of academic-focused lightning talks will invigorate, rejuvenate, and surprise!
Sarah Gauthier
Hamilton Public Library
Chad Roglich
Hamilton Public Library
In recent years, public libraries have faced increasing challenges as societal issues have made these spaces more vulnerable to incidents. Libraries are witnessing serious situations, including opioid overdoses, violence, and verbal intimidation, which can undermine the sense of equity within these public spaces. In response, Hamilton Public Library developed a three-part “Step System” to manage and address incidents. This system aims to create a proactive presence on the floor while ensuring continuous communication between staff, management, and Senior Leadership about the ongoing activities at the Central Branch. Learn how to design a similar system for your library and discover the key lessons Hamilton Public Library learned during its first winter implementing this strategy.
Amanda Robinson
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Government of Canada
Jaclyn Tyson
Caledon Public Library
Darrel Sultana
Caledon Public Library
Facing a digital dilemma: a sluggish, often unresponsive physical file server and, a lackluster intranet site with limited functionality, the Caledon Public Library embarked upon a transformative technology and engagement journey. CPL’s IT and Communications teams were juggling multiple on-premises servers and wrestling with storage limitations on hosted web servers. It was clear that a significant tech overhaul was needed, but a fundamental question remained on how to involve and rally staff to accept and adopt a complex and disruptive technological change? The answer was simple but powerful: involve everyone. By actively seeking input from all staff members and using creative marketing strategies to build excitement, the library transformed these challenges into opportunities. What could have been a daunting process became an engaging and collaborative journey, resulting in a successful upgrade that everyone embraced—and have actively utilized to improve productivity and collaboration.
Natasha Kwiatkowski
ArcelorMittal
Amy Greenberg
Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL)
Catherine Steeves
Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL)
Fawzia Raja
Mississauga Library
Jennifer MacDonald
City of Mississauga
Ken Cheung
Markham Public Library
Jenny North
Markham Public Library
Janice Anderson
University of Ottawa
Mary Kapusta
Calgary Public Library
Vicki Stevenson
Rideau Lakes Public Library
Linda Zaleski
OurDigitalWorld
Jess Posgate
OurDigitalWorld
Daniel Clarkson Fisher
Markham Public Library
Library book bikes are a contemporary outreach development that not only increase access to library resources and services but also generate a tremendous amount of popular enthusiasm for public libraries. In fact, the number of library book bike programs in North America has been increasing, so much so that the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services now celebrates "Book Bike Week" every year during the first week of August. And yet, the scholarly and professional writing that has been done on them is very far from extensive. This poster presentation seeks to address this gap by providing a history and typology of library book bike programs, and drawing out insights from a fairly comprehensive literature review. It will also identify some of the problems, both obvious and subtle, with library book bike programs, as well as the as yet untapped possibilities for them in the future.
Sadaf Ullah
Unity Health Toronto
Talin Boghosian
Unity Health Toronto
Celina De Lancey
Western Libraries
Jacqueline Cato
Western Libraries
Erin Bourgard
FIMS Graduate Library
Abigail Faseruk
Western Libraries
Isadore Auerbach George
Southwark Libraries
Deborah Meert-Williston
Western University
Arielle VanderSchans
Western University
Connie Sutherland
Western Libraries, University of Western Ontario
Joanne Paterson
Western Libraries, Western University
Arielle VanderSchans
Western University
Yeliz Baloglu Cengay
University of Toronto
Emily Hector
McMaster University Library
Anna Flak
McMaster University Library
Katie Harding
McMaster University Library
Kimm Culkin
West Grey Public Library
Lynne Serviss
McMaster Libraries
Susan Munn
University of Toronto
Grace Hook
Hamilton Public Library
Meaghan Nichols
Hamilton Public Library
Donald Taylor
Simon Fraser University
Melissa Poremba
Hillfield Strathallan College
Jonelle St. Aubyn
Louise Arbour Secondary School - Peel District School Board
Punam Dhaliwal
Louise Arbour Secondary School - Peel District School Board
Jessica Desormeaux
CELA
Denise Scott
CELA
Erin Scuccimarri
Innisfil ideaLAB & Library
Jason Reynar
Partner
Heather Cunningham
University of Toronto
Siu Hong Yu
University of Waterloo
Michael/Michelle Rogowski
N/A
Carolyn Pecoskie
Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec (BAnQ)
Samidha Kalia
Whitby Public Library
Megan Garza
Markham Public Library
Tommy Sunthorn
Vaughan Public Libraries
Jordan Bulbrook
Stratford Public Library
Kanta Kapoor
Milton Public Library
Dave Hook
Mississauga Library
Sepideh Mckensy
Toronto Public Library - Library Impact Ontario
Randy Boyagoda
Writer & Professor, University of Toronto
In this session, writer and professor Randy Boyagoda, the University of Toronto’s advisor on civil discourse, considers the state and stakes for civil discourse on campus and beyond. He does so by way of situating the question of civil discourse itself — of how and why we should think out loud together, to advance knowledge, pursue truth, and contribute to the common good - in contemporary and historical terms. He brings a special focus on the mission and work of universities in relation to civil discourse, at a time when universities confront a host of other challenges to their standing and purpose.
Nadia Caidi
University of Toronto
Karen Devonish-Mazzotta
TDSB and York U.
Cette session fait état d’une réflexion sur la lecture publique en français pour les jeunes en milieu minoritaire, avec les identités complexes que ces jeunes naviguent. Nous partagerons les résultats de deux ans d’étude sur les habitudes de lecture en français chez les jeunes Ontariens (de 13 à 18 ans). Nous détaillerons l'approche participative qui consiste en quatre ateliers de co-design dans le grand Toronto auxquels plus de cinquante jeunes francophones ont participé entre Septembre 2023 et Octobre 2024. Nous examinerons ce que lire (ou non) en français signifie pour ces jeunes locuteurs et apprenants, le rôle de la lecture dans leur engagement dans la diversité francophone, et comment les bibliothèques peuvent optimiser leurs services en milieu minoritaire. Cette session se veut interactive, et mettra l’accent sur les facteurs qui déterminent l'accès, la découverte et l’appropriation d’oeuvres en contexte linguistique minoritaire, et les enjeux pour les bibliothèques scolaires et publiques.
Emilia Main
University Health Network
Adam Doan
University of Guelph
Kailey Fallis
University of Guelph
Matt Van Ast
University of Guelph
In 2024, the University of Guelph transitioned to OpenAthens, an authentication service that provides access to the library's subscription-based content, replacing the EZproxy system. This session offers insights and best practices for institutions considering a similar migration. We will explore the motivations for this change, including the elimination of server maintenance and local configurations. Additionally, we'll discuss the available OpenAthens authentication options and the approach we took for a login hub. The presentation will cover the project management process and the essential preparatory steps needed for a seamless integration. We will also detail the integration with platforms like Alma, SpringShare, and Ares while emphasizing our user-focused approach and the role of our link generator tool in simplifying access. Finally, we will share unexpected challenges encountered during the go-live process and the significant efficiencies gained for the Electronic Resource Management Team, particularly in reducing EZproxy related tickets.
Rebecca Murray
Library and Archives Canada
Michael Nyby
W Ross Macdonald School for the Blind
Kelly Lauzon
Airdrie Public Library
Sharon Day
Edmonton Public Library
Looking for tools to support your library’s mission to protect intellectual freedom? Seeking to build your confidence in protecting your users’ freedom to read? Interested in contributing to future materials to support libraries across Canada? Join members of the Freedom To Read Week Campaign and the CFLA’s Intellectual Freedom Committee to review the new-and-improved CFLA Intellectual Freedom Toolkit and to actively dream up what else you need to support freedom to read in your library. This interactive session will go beyond show-and-tell to engage attendees in the exercise of on-the-spot material creation. The results of this session will be taken away and built on by members of the Freedom to Read Week Campaign and the CFLA’s Intellectual Freedom Committee.
Andrea Wheeldon
Brighton Public Library
What is your library doing about TikTok, Meta and X? As social media changes, will you change along with it? This session is about taking stock of what is important in our communications, strengthening those parts that are the most within our control, and preparing for a changing future. Plus I'll be sharing what my plan is for our small library with a one-person communications team!
Nancy Cooper
Ontario Library Service
The First Nation Communities READ program has been celebrating Indigenous literature for 21 years. Chosen by a jury of First Nation Public Librarians, the selected titles in the Children’s and Young Adult/Adul categories represent the very best in Indigenous literature today. Join Nancy Cooper, First Nation Consultant at the Ontario Library Service and First Nation Communities READ coordinator for an engaging and thought-provoking collection development session for Children’s librarians and other interested professionals.
Cecilia Cheung
Bloorview School Authority
Mona Cheema
Bloorview School Authority
Heather Kanabe
Telling Tales
Evette Fisher
Readers Advisory Divas and Dudes
Tim Gain
Readers Advisory Divas and Dudes
Krisztina Riez
Readers Advisory Divas and Dudes
Rosalyn Steele
Readers Advisory Divas and Dudes
Margot Stokreef
Readers Advisory Divas and Dudes
Janet Murie
Orca Book Publisher
Ashley Prince
The Blue Mountains Public Library
Nicole Adams
Oshawa Public Library
Jennifer La Chapelle
Clearview Public Library
Lianne Fortin
Library and Archives Canada
Jessica Roy
Toronto Public Library
Danielle Hubbard
Okanagan Regional Library
Michal Utko
Okanagan Regional Library
Carol Off
Broadcaster, Journalist, Author
We’re all aware of the toxic divisions in our society right now, stirred and amplified by politicians, Big Tech and click-baiting media. But there’s a growing movement that seeks to counter the rage-farmers and the chaos agents. These are people at the grassroots level who want to recover civil society and take back the conversation. While those at the top – seeking power and money – drive wedges between us, bridge-building shows us the path forward.
For those that are finishing their conference experience please join us to celebrate our 30th Anniversary (and Executive Director Michelle Arbuckle's birthday)! Connect with your colleagues and share stories of your conference experience to cap off an amazing week.
Leslie Weir
Library and Archives Canada
Joseph Jeffery
Canadian School Libraries
Pre-registration is required.
Intended for school library professionals, the eighth biennial Treasure Mountain Canada symposium (TMC8) will open with an address from Librarian and Archivist of Canada Leslie Weir.
Treasure Mountain Canada is organized by Canadian School Libraries (CSL). TMC8 is presented in partnership with the Ontario School Library Association (OSLA) and The Association of Library Consultants and Coordinators of Ontario (TALCO).
Joseph Jeffery
Canadian School Libraries
Pre-registration is required.
Intended for school library professionals, the eighth biennial Treasure Mountain Canada symposium (TMC8) will include table talks and papers by school library learning leaders, as well as spotlight speakers Dr. Keith Curry Lance and Dr. Dianne Oberg. Symposium participants put their heads together to inspire the future work on Canadian School Libraries.
Treasure Mountain Canada is organized by Canadian School Libraries (CSL). TMC8 is presented in partnership with the Ontario School Library Association (OSLA) and The Association of Library Consultants and Coordinators of Ontario (TALCO).
The Ontario Library Board Association (OLBA) AGM is open to all OLBA members. Registration for the conference is not necessary to attend. Registration is required for the rest of the day's programming.
Kate Graham
Researcher and Writer
Pre-registration required.
It’s easier to follow than to lead, so why do people do it? What drives the people who step forward to lead teams, organizations, and movements? What are some of the unique and emerging challenges facing those in leadership roles in 2025? This session focuses on the evolving role of Library Board Trustees when it comes to leading bravely in undeniably challenging times. It begins with an examination of our present context: some of the social, economic, political and cultural shifts underway that influence what is expected of leaders today. The session then explores key contemporary challenges facing library boards, and what this means for the role of Trustees — including opportunities for sharing and learning from peers in the room. For those who bravely choose to step up and lead, for their library and for their community — well, this session is for you.
Rebecca Hunt
Temiskaming Shores Public Library
Tara Wong
Oakville Public Library
Jeff Knoll
Oakville Public Library
Pre-registration required.
Many Library Boards across the province have entered into Memorandums of Understanding with their municipality to solidify their working relationships. Some are complex in their details, while others are more broad in context.
What are some things to consider when entering into an MOU? Are you looking to change the relationship?
This session will contain an interactive portion where you will be able to look at an example of an MOU and discuss the positives and negatives of an MOU. If your Library Board has an MOU with the municipality, bring it along!
Pre-registration is required.
Lunch will be provided to all attendees of the Library Trustee Boot Camp. Vegetarian and gluten free options will be available. If you have additional dietary restrictions please email superconference@accessola.com
Matthew MacDonald
Sault Ste. Marie Public Library
Melissa Robertson
Orillia Public Library
Pre-registration is required.
As a Library Board, you are the employer and required to make a safe work environment for their CEO and Library Employees.
What happens when patrons arrive with complex needs and a social worker is needed? How are you as a Board supporting your staff through these complex environments? Should you conduct a risk assessment to respond to those needs?
Learn from some other library systems about how they are dealing with these social issues arriving at the front steps of their Library.
Jodie Delgado
Springwater Township Public Library
Brandon Fratarcangeli
Ontario Library Service
Kelly Bernstein
County of Brant Public Library
Fred Gladding
County of Brant Public Library
Adrian Graham
Springwater Public Library
Pre-registration is required.
In the 4-year Board cycle on the Governance Hub, Board Self-Evaluation is an objective within this year. A Board self-assessment will identify the strengths of your Library Board's Governance and identify opportunities to strengthen your Board.
This builds upon the concept of succession planning to ensure that your Board turnover isn't 100%, but there is a mixture of new board members to provide new insights and returning board members with institutional memory to maximize the contributions of your Board.
If you have identified voices or expertise that you are missing in your current board, perhaps you could organize a Board recruitment drive during the municipal election to advocate for those needs. By having a recruitment session you can give community members an idea of what a Board Members does and does not do. Highlighting the process of applying to the Library Board will ensure that you have the broadest selection of candidates to make the strongest Library Board to continue to improve what you are able to deliver for your community.
Margaret LaTour
Oshawa Public Libraries
Brittany Dunk
Oshawa Public Libraries
In celebration of this year’s theme of “Building Bridges”, we propose sharing new storytelling tools and ideas to enhance engagement and foster a deeper curiosity with reading. Libraries excel at connecting tools like apps, technology, and other non-traditional resources with storytelling so children and families can discover new ways of reading and learning that are exciting and that help to build critical early literacy skills. Our presentation will demonstrate new ways of connecting children and families with storytelling through movement, music, and story building activities while blending in resources like Novel Effect, Magna Tiles and robotics into Story Time. We believe this combination of traditional story telling with innovative technology and out of the box activities is the perfect formula for modern day Story Times.
Virtual attendees have the option to view this livestream or can take advantage of the On-Demand Content Library.
M.J. D'Elia
LLEAD
Andrea Cecchetto
Markham Public Library, Canadian Federation of Library Associations/ Fédération canadienne des associations de bibliothèques, International Federation of Library Associations, North American Division
Whenever we face significant change, most of us panic. It’s true. We feel control and certainty slip away. We fret about the additional workload. We foster concerns about our competence. We fabricate likely catastrophes. Make no mistake – change can be unsettling. But what if we could cultivate habits that help us re-establish our agency, foster resilience, and learn through these important transitions? Drawing parallels from the stories of real-world inventors, this session explores how thinking like an inventor can help us navigate change and build more adaptive library organizations. Discover how strategies like stoking curiosity, harnessing creativity, and collaborating widely will give you the confidence and courage to thrive in your changing context. Inventive leadership is the breakthrough perspective you need.
Virtual attendees have the option to view this livestream or can take advantage of the On-Demand Content Library.
Laural Raine
Toronto Public Library
The value of the library reaches far beyond traditional statistical reporting measures, such as the number of visits and books circulated - it profoundly touches peoples lives. While measuring the impact of libraries on people's lives is challenging, it is increasing important in advocating for the value of libraries in our communities. Toronto Public Library partnered with the Danish firm Seismonaut to measure this previously unquantifiable value using an innovative new methodology called the Experience Impact Compass. The Experience Impact Compass methodology combines quantitative data and qualitative stories to provide an empirical, evidence based approach that assesses impact across the four dimensions of Emotional, Social, Intellectual and Creative Impact. In this session, learn about the study results as well as how this new approach can help us collectively as a library sector to build a new language for describing the value of library services.
Virtual attendees have the option to view this livestream or can take advantage of the On-Demand Content Library.
Jael Richardson
Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD)
Catherine Hernandez
Author & Screenwriter
Thursday's education program will close with a conversation between two Ontario treasures: Jael Richardson, author and Executive Director of the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) will interview best-selling author and screenwriter Catherine Hernandez. Novels Scarborough, The Story of Us, Crosshairs, and Hernandez's latest, Behind You delve into powerful conversations about community and the ways we heal. Discover how real-life events shape novel-writing and how fiction can help readers and writers navigate matters of humanity and social justice in this must-see discussion.
Virtual attendees have the option to view this livestream or can take advantage of the On-Demand Content Library.
Steve Till-Rogers
Toronto Public Library
Paul Takala
Hamilton Public Library
Dijia Qin
Hamilton Public Library
Michael Ciccone
Jon MacDonald
London Public Library
Linda Hazzan
Toronto Public Library
Vickery Bowles
Toronto Public Library
In the past year, a number of library systems have fallen victim to cyberattacks, including three large urban library systems in Ontario - Toronto, London and Hamilton. These attacks severely impeded each system’s ability to deliver library services for months. Staff from these systems will discuss the attacks, the incredible work their staffs did in quickly adjusting to their new realities and continue to provide services The session will be offered in two parts.
Part One will focus on the behind-the-scenes work at the point of the attack and in addressing the ongoing aftermath, focusing on initial response by administrators, IT staff actions, and the importance of a coordinated internal and external communication plan.
Virtual attendees have the option to view this livestream or can take advantage of the On-Demand Content Library.
Carmen Ho
Toronto Public Library
Meghan Tinmouth
Hamilton Public Library
Jennifer Gal
Hamilton Public Library
Sarah Kasprzak
London Public Library
Chelsie Abraham
London Public Library
In the past year, a number of library systems have fallen victim to cyberattacks, including three large urban library systems in Ontario - Toronto, London and Hamilton. These attacks severely impeded each system’s ability to deliver library services for months. Staff from these systems will discuss the attacks, the incredible work their staffs did in quickly adjusting to their new realities and continue to provide services The session will be offered in two parts.
Part Two focuses on ensuring library users could continue to access physical and digital services by devising business continuity plans to enable the continuation of service to its members. At this session, each system will present their respective approaches, share what strategies they would recommend, and what they would do differently, including initial priorities and consideration, maintaining open doors, borrowing services and other vital services.
Virtual attendees have the option to view this livestream or can take advantage of the On-Demand Content Library.
Carol Off
Broadcaster, Journalist, Author
We’re all aware of the toxic divisions in our society right now, stirred and amplified by politicians, Big Tech and click-baiting media. But there’s a growing movement that seeks to counter the rage-farmers and the chaos agents. These are people at the grassroots level who want to recover civil society and take back the conversation. While those at the top – seeking power and money – drive wedges between us, bridge-building shows us the path forward.
Virtual attendees have the option to view this livestream or can take advantage of the On-Demand Content Library.
Denise Scott
CELA
Jessica Desormeaux
CELA