SDLA 2026 Pierre

SDLA 2026 Pierre

Welcome to SDLA 2024!

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8:30am CDT

Exhibits

Thursday October 1, 2026 8:30am - 8:50am CDT

Visit our exhibitors and enjoy snacks and refreshments

ALA
Bound to Stay Bound Books, Inc.
Clarivate
Compass Partners in Learning
EBSCO Information Services
Helpline Center
Learning Opportunities
Libby/Kanopy (Bronze Sponsor)
Mackin
Minitex (Bronze Sponsor)
MPLA
NDUS – Online Dakota Information Network (Silver Sponsor)
PaperPie
SD Discovery Center
South Dakota Public Broadcasting
South Dakota State Library & Accessible Library Services
South Dakota State Archives

Vendors:

Thursday October 1, 2026 8:30am - 8:50am CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Exhibits/Reception

9:00am CDT

Keynote: Ann Charles

Thursday October 1, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Ann Charles is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes award-winning mysteries that are splashed with humor, romance, paranormal, and whatever else sounds fun. A member of Sisters in Crime and Western Writers of America, she has a B.A. in English with an emphasis on creative writing from the University of Washington.

When Ann is not holed up in her writing lair working on her next book, she is hanging out with her family and basking in the Arizona sunshine.

Thursday October 1, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Keynote

10:00am CDT

Amplifying Your Library's Story: From Under the Radar to Through a Megaphone

Thursday October 1, 2026 10:00am - 10:40am CDT

This presentation will focus on our ideas and experiences of learning to share our library story. By overcoming obstacles such as time, hesitancy, or lack of ideas, everyone can become more creative and strategic advocates for our libraries. We will include resources and expert tips of how we can all amplify our library's story. We are school librarians, but our presentation would be useful and applicable to all libraries, such as how we talk to community members.

Speakers

Kris O'Brien

School Librarian

Kris O'Brien was an English teacher for 30 years but often dreamed of being a librarian. When the opportunity arose at Watertown High School, she jumped at the opportunity. Because she was the English chairperson for over 15 years and worked intricately with curriculum development... Read More →

Jean Kirschenman

Librarian, Brookings High School Library

Thursday October 1, 2026 10:00am - 10:40am CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

10:00am CDT

Everyday Advocacy and 2027 Legislative Update

Thursday October 1, 2026 10:00am - 10:40am CDT

This session will include a discussion on the current political landscape, update on potential 2027 legislative session matters, and a presentation on best practices in speaking with decision makers.

Speakers

Eric Erickson

Lobbyist - South Dakota Library Association Lobbyist, Cutler Law Firm, LLP

Thursday October 1, 2026 10:00am - 10:40am CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

10:00am CDT

Small Edits, Big Impact: Tips for improving South Dakota content in Wikimedia

Thursday October 1, 2026 10:00am - 10:40am CDT

Library professionals have the expertise to amplify and sustain the digital visibility of our communities. Join us for an interactive, mini-edit-a-thon designed to introduce you to editing in Wikipedia and Wikidata. With a curated list of South Dakota-specific entries in need of updating, we will focus on some low-barrier but high-impact contributions you can make, such as repairing article references, adding images from Wikimedia Commons to Wikipedia pages without them, enhancing details about local South Dakota topics in Wikidata, and more! Participants will leave with an editor profile, a toolkit that includes some low-barrier editing ideas, and a supportive community of local peers to continue the work.

Speakers

Sara Ring

Continuing Education Librarian, Minitex

Sara Ring is Continuing Education Librarian at Minitex where she develops and presents training for libraries and other cultural heritage organizations on standards for building digital collections and preserving them. AI applications in libraries, Linked data, library history, and... Read More →

Thursday October 1, 2026 10:00am - 10:40am CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

11:00am CDT

Creating Strong Teen Connections Through Teen Subscription Bags

Thursday October 1, 2026 11:00am - 11:40am CDT

Teens can be a difficult group to get into the library because of their busy schedules with school, activities, and work. Teen subscription bags are one thing that we use to bring the library to the teens. In this session, we will talk about how we run our teen subscription bag service at our library. We will talk about how to get started, how we get teens interested and signed up, how we choose books, and how we have adapted based on what we have learned over the years. We will also share ideas about ways to get teens to participate for their bags each quarter by giving something back to the library. Participants will gain access to templates that we use for all aspects of the program from registration to keeping track of books, to tracking participation. You will leave with all the resources you need to start your own teen subscription bag service at your library.

Speakers

Cassi Pietz

Youth Services Librarian, Yankton Community Library

I was a high school English teacher for 17 years before joining the library world. I have been the Youth Services Librarian at the Yankton Community Library for a little over 4 years. I am a member of the SD Teen Choice committee. I love reading just about every genre except alien... Read More →

Thursday October 1, 2026 11:00am - 11:40am CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

11:00am CDT

Library Safety and Active Shooter Responses in SD Libraries

Thursday October 1, 2026 11:00am - 11:40am CDT

This session will focus on practical strategies for maintaining safety in library settings, including how staff can prepare for and respond to active shooter situations. The presentation is relevant for any library that serves the public, with particular value for public and academic libraries.

Speakers

Trooper Dillon Axtell

Thursday October 1, 2026 11:00am - 11:40am CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

11:00am CDT

Creating Connections through Community Reads

Thursday October 1, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Discover how community's wide reading programs can spark meaningful conversations around challenging topics, shine a light on underrepresented voices, and build lasting partnerships with local organizations. Kim will share insights from Siouxland Libraries' One Book Siouxland initiative, while Cara will highlight K.O. Lee Aberdeen Public Library's "All Aberdeen Reads," two powerful examples of how reading together can bring a community closer.

Speakers

Kim Koblank

Supervising Librarian, Siouxland Libraries

Cara Perrion

Thursday October 1, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

12:00pm CDT

Keynote: Christine Wevik

Thursday October 1, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT

Christine Mager Wevik is an award-winning author known for her chilling paranormal mysteries and compelling true crime books.

Her writing explores the dark, unseen corners of human experience, from a woman who sees memories in old houses to highlighting real-life cold cases.

Thursday October 1, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Keynote

1:00pm CDT

Lunch and Awards

Thursday October 1, 2026 1:00pm - 1:40pm CDT

The SDLA Annual Awards are presented each year at the conference. The seven awards offered are:

Librarian of the Year
New Librarian of the Year
Support Staff of the Year
Distinguished Service Award
Trustee of the Year
Friend of the Library Award
Intellectual Freedom Award

Speakers

Amber Wilde

Thursday October 1, 2026 1:00pm - 1:40pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Meal

2:00pm CDT

Selecting and Cataloging in the Age of AI

Thursday October 1, 2026 2:00pm - 2:40pm CDT

Join us to learn and share tips in recognizing AI-generated materials available from common vendors. A discussion of collection development policy and cataloging methods to address AI will follow.

Speakers

Laura Kroeker

Courtney Ludwig

Thursday October 1, 2026 2:00pm - 2:40pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

2:00pm CDT

Strong School Libraries: The 3 Pillars in Action

Thursday October 1, 2026 2:00pm - 2:40pm CDT

What does it truly mean to be a "strong" school library in South Dakota? In this practical and inspiring session, participants will explore a clear framework built around three essential pillars: The Professional, The Program, and The Place. Through reflection, real-world examples, and ready-to-use tools, attendees will identify strengths already present in their libraries and uncover strategic next steps to amplify impact.

Speakers

Scottie Bruch

School Library Coordinator, South Dakota State Library

Scottie Bruch is the South Dakota State Library Training Coordinator. She has experience in both the public and school library and also in the classroom with a history as a middle school reading and social studies teacher, the Assistant Director and Teen Services Coordinator at the... Read More →

Thursday October 1, 2026 2:00pm - 2:40pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

2:00pm CDT

The Heart of Hospitality

Thursday October 1, 2026 2:00pm - 2:40pm CDT

In this interactive 50-minute course, we'll explore how hospitality goes beyond service to create memorable, meaningful experiences for our guests. Through discussion, real-life examples, and practical insights, we'll examine the difference between transactional service and true hospitality-- where connection, empathy, and excellence intersect.

Participants will:
… Reflect on personal and observed hospitality wins.
… Discover how small actions, like using a guest's name, can leave a lasting impression.
… Explore strategies for balancing efficiency with genuine care.
… Learn core principles, including "The Siouxland Way" and how they shape our culture.

We'll also dive into practical techniques such as First Contact Resolution, effective roving, and the importance of merchandising to create a welcoming environment. Whether you're new to the concept or just need a refresher, this session will equip you with the tools to consistently deliver exceptional experiences. Come ready to participate, reflect, and share!

Speakers

Daniel Neeves

Assistant Library Director, Siouxland Libraries

Daniel Neeves began his career with Siouxland Libraries in 1999 as a shelver and quickly discovered a passion for libraries and the communities they serve. Since then, he has worked at multiple branch locations, driven the bookmobile, and held a variety of positions throughout the... Read More →

Leah Tanis

Thursday October 1, 2026 2:00pm - 2:40pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

3:00pm CDT

Exhibits

Thursday October 1, 2026 3:00pm - 3:20pm CDT

Visit our exhibitors and enjoy snacks and refreshments

ALA
Bound to Stay Bound Books, Inc.
Clarivate
Compass Partners in Learning
EBSCO Information Services
Helpline Center
Learning Opportunities
Libby/Kanopy (Bronze Sponsor)
Mackin
Minitex (Bronze Sponsor)
MPLA
NDUS – Online Dakota Information Network (Silver Sponsor)
PaperPie
SD Discovery Center
South Dakota Public Broadcasting
South Dakota State Library & Accessible Library Services
South Dakota State Archives

Thursday October 1, 2026 3:00pm - 3:20pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Exhibits/Reception

3:30pm CDT

Children's Book Awards Committee

Thursday October 1, 2026 3:30pm - 4:10pm CDT

The South Dakota Children's Book Awards are our own annual "kids' choice" literature awards. The books are chosen to encourage reading and fill information gaps. Divided by reading level - Prairie Bud (PreK-1st), Prairie Bloom (2nd-3rd), and Prairie Pasque (4th-5th)- students vote on nominated titles to find THE BEST BOOK in SOUTH DAKOTA! In less than an hour, we'll showcase all 30 2026-2027 titles across the Bud, Bloom, and Pasque categories with SDCBA BINGO! We'll also discuss ways to build excitement around these books, potential programming, and refresh your reader's advisory toolkit. This session will leave you inspired - and ready to share these books in a whole new way.

Speakers

Lisa Martin

Madison Public Library

Thursday October 1, 2026 3:30pm - 4:10pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

3:30pm CDT

Partnering for Strong Communities: SDPB and Libraries

Thursday October 1, 2026 3:30pm - 4:10pm CDT

Join SDPB to discover how our free educational tools and community engagement resources can help you build a "South Dakota Strong" library. In this session, we will explore free, high-quality educational resources and outreach opportunities from SDPB and PBS on topics like SD history and culture, Native American studies, local art, science, literacy, and more. We will discuss practical ways SDPB can collaborate with your library on events and programming to maximize your impact for patrons of all ages and interests. Learn how to leverage statewide resources to meet your local needs and strengthen the connection between your library and your community.

Speakers

Steven Rokusek

Education Specialist, South Dakota Public Broadcasting

Steven develops resource materials for specific content areas and then provides in-service training (workshops) at schools and education conferences across the state for both educational staff and parents. He also creates a weekly electronic education newsletter for teachers/pare... Read More →

Marcy Drew

Brittany Neiles

Thursday October 1, 2026 3:30pm - 4:10pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

3:30pm CDT

Starting a Podcasting Studio in an Academic Library

Thursday October 1, 2026 3:30pm - 4:10pm CDT

This presentation explores how a small academic library created an affordable podcast studio to support information literacy, digital scholarship, and creative learning. Attendees will learn about planning, equipment selection, implementation, and promotion strategies, as well as lessons learned, common challenges, and practical tips for building sustainable audio production services on a limited budget.

Speakers

Lynn Klundt

Reference and Instruction Librarian, Northern State University

Lynn Klundt is a reference and instruction librarian who manages the electronic resources and provides reference services and information literacy instruction for Williams Library. She is the library's liaison to the School of Education and coordinator for the library's creation... Read More →

Thursday October 1, 2026 3:30pm - 4:10pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

4:30pm CDT

"We Value Your Privacy/Accept All Cookies:" How to Inoculate Yourself and Your Patrons from Online Trackers

Thursday October 1, 2026 4:30pm - 5:10pm CDT

Today's Internet is overflowing with advertisements, cookies, account sign-ups, spam, and other seemingly innocuous items that end up tracking your every move. Safely navigating the online sphere without sacrificing your data may seem impossible, but with a short set-up and some helpful tips, you can become a pro-privacy pro! By attending this session, you will: (1) learn and understand how websites attain user information and track movements; (2) be able to set up any computer with privacy-focused web browsers and ad-blocker tools; and (3) become capable of teaching basic cybersecurity to patrons and coworkers. (Attendees, please bring your work laptops and/or phones with you for quick, in-person setup.)

Speakers

Abbie Steuhm

Research & Scholarship Librarian, Dakota State University

Thursday October 1, 2026 4:30pm - 5:10pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

4:30pm CDT

“Let’s Get Sociable”: Programs to Beat the Loneliness Epidemic

Thursday October 1, 2026 4:30pm - 5:10pm CDT

Many of our patrons are lonely, and the library is the perfect place to get them socializing. This presentation will cover the impact of the loneliness epidemic, as well as four low-budget program ideas that bring community members together in an entertaining way. These programs will focus on both active and more passive social opportunities, allowing your library to cater to the introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between. (The programs I will be discussing are Speed Friending, BINGO Mingle, Silent Book Club, and Bring Your Own Craft Night!)

Speakers

Mikaela Neubauer

Community Services Coordinator, Brookings Public Library

My name is Mikaela Neubauer (she/her), and I've been the Adult Programming Coordinator at the Brookings Public Library since 2019. I have my MLIS from Emporia State University, and I am the vice-chairperson of the SDLA Support Staff Section, as well as a member of the MPLA Communications... Read More →

Thursday October 1, 2026 4:30pm - 5:10pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

4:30pm CDT

Planning with Purpose: Programming and Community Partnerships

Thursday October 1, 2026 4:30pm - 5:10pm CDT

In recent years, the Yankton Community Library has had great success with a few of our program series, including Neighborhood Walking Tours, Planning with Purpose, and Adult Field Trips. Neighborhood Walking Tours allowed us to visit and learn more about the history of older and unique structures in several Yankton neighborhoods. We covered several steps involved with end-of-life planning with our Planning with Purpose series. And weâ€™ve been able to get behind-the-scenes tours of larger locations in Yankton with our Adult Field Trips. These low to no-cost programs were possible through community partnerships and helped our participants develop a better idea about the resources and services available in our community. These partnerships make the library more visible and improve program attendance and social media engagement.

Speakers

Kelly O'Dea

Library Assistant, Yankton Community Library

[she/her]I have a Siberian Husky who is three years old. Love reading horror, thrillers, fantasy and historical monographs.

Linda Dobrovolny

Thursday October 1, 2026 4:30pm - 5:10pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Session

5:30pm CDT

Academic/Health/Special Libraries Section Meeting

Thursday October 1, 2026 5:30pm - 5:50pm CDT

Annual meeting of the SDLA Academic/Health/Special Libraries section.

Speakers

Lynn Klundt

Reference and Instruction Librarian, Northern State University

Lynn Klundt is a reference and instruction librarian who manages the electronic resources and provides reference services and information literacy instruction for Williams Library. She is the library's liaison to the School of Education and coordinator for the library's creation... Read More →

Thursday October 1, 2026 5:30pm - 5:50pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Meeting

5:30pm CDT

Public Library/Trustees Section Meeting

Thursday October 1, 2026 5:30pm - 5:50pm CDT

Annual meeting of the SDLA Public Library/Trustee section.

Thursday October 1, 2026 5:30pm - 5:50pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Meeting

5:30pm CDT

School/Library Media Section Meeting

Thursday October 1, 2026 5:30pm - 5:50pm CDT

Annual meeting of the SDLA School/Library Media section.

Speakers

Doris Ann Mertz

Thursday October 1, 2026 5:30pm - 5:50pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Meeting

6:00pm CDT

SDLA General Business Meeting

Thursday October 1, 2026 6:00pm - 6:20pm CDT

Agenda TBA

Speakers

Krista Ohrtman

Abby Edwardson

Thursday October 1, 2026 6:00pm - 6:20pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Meeting

6:30pm CDT

Dine-Arounds

Thursday October 1, 2026 6:30pm - 7:50pm CDT

There will be a local host to meet and dine with you at one of the four locations: Red Rossa (Italian), Creekside Bar and Grill (Bar/Grill), Guadalajara (Mexican), and Richie Zs (BBQ).

Sign-ups will be located at the registration desk!

Speakers

Abby Edwardson

Thursday October 1, 2026 6:30pm - 7:50pm CDT
Ramkota Pierre 920 W. Sioux Avenue Pierre, SD 57501

Meal

8:00pm CDT

Dessert @ Archives

Thursday October 1, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm CDT

Join us for coffee and cookies and the newly remodeled Archives. Tours are available from 8-8:30 and 8:30-9. Sign up for the tour here: https://forms.gle/aZCw5K8XGHnWGfL16

Speakers

Kim Smith

Librarian, South Dakota State Archives

Thursday October 1, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm CDT

Exhibits/Reception