These upcoming webinars are open for registration. If you can’t attend a live session, all WebJunction webinars are recorded and available for free at https://learn.webjunction.org/.

The Power of Small: How Rural Libraries Help Their Communities Thrive
Thursday, April 18, 2019 ♦ 3:00 pm Eastern /  ♦ 60 minutes
Registration: https://www.webjunction.org/events/webjunction/power-of-small.html

All libraries provide vital services to their communities, but libraries that serve small, rural populations have the potential to go beyond providing information and access—they can inject the vitality that will help their communities thrive. Addressing the challenges faced by rural areas may seem daunting to a library with few staff and limited resources, but any tiny library can find more ways to support the needs of their community by thinking strategically and creating new connections with their stakeholders, patrons, and other library staff. Learn how small library director and 2018 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, Allie Stevens, applied the concept of growth mindsets to set her priorities, use resources and volunteers smartly, and avoid burnout as a solo librarian. Follow her lead to turn your library into a powerhouse for your community.

The Library as Social Connector: Forging Community Connection
Thursday, April 25, 2019 ♦ 3:00 pm Eastern /  ♦ 60 minutes
Registration: https://www.webjunction.org/events/webjunction/library-as-social-connector-webinar.html

Strong social cohesion is a crucial factor in a community’s resilience in times of stress and disruption. Unfortunately, studies show that our communities are experiencing a steady erosion of social cohesion, pointing to an increase in loneliness, depression, and separation because of too much time spent online and too little time spent in community. Libraries have the position and the power to rebuild social bonds, offering that sense of community and shared place that humans crave. Active learning programs that bring people together for participatory, shared experiences are a boost to community strength, but they could go even further to amplify social connection and build social infrastructure. Join us as we explore library programs through the lens of social possibilities and devise strategies to be more intentional about forging stronger community bonds.