GLMA Summer Institute 2025: Full Schedule

5:00pm EDT

Set Sail Kick-off: Conversation and Book Signing with Jerry Craft

Sunday June 15, 2025 5:00pm - 5:45pm EDT

Let's get this conference started with the amazing Jerry Craft! Come enjoy our conversation with him hosted by school lilbrarian, Darryl Hawkins. Jerry will be available to sign copies of his books afterwardsa at our Set Sail Kick-off Party!

Sunday June 15, 2025 5:00pm - 5:45pm EDT
Ballroom AB

GLMA Summer Institute

6:00pm EDT

Set Sail Welcome Reception & Authors Book Signing

Sunday June 15, 2025 6:00pm - 7:30pm EDT

Vendor Hall

Welcome to GLMA Summer Institute 2025 in Savannah, GA! Mingle with our amazing vendors, grab some snacks, and meet our five amazing authors and illustrator! Books will be available for purchase.
Authors/Illustrators
Jerry Craft
Shanna Miles
H.D. Hunter
Dave Valeza
Antwan Eady
- Complimentary drink ticket per person.
- Cash bar for our signature cocktails - "Freedom of Peach" and "ChatG&T"

Sunday June 15, 2025 6:00pm - 7:30pm EDT
Vendor Hall

GLMA Summer Institute

6:00pm EDT

T-Shirt Pickup at PowerUp Edu Booth

Sunday June 15, 2025 6:00pm - 7:30pm EDT

Vendor Hall

Did you register in time to get a conference t-shirt? Then make your way to the PowerUp Edu Booth (#1) to pick it up!

Sponsors

PowerUp Edu

Debbie Gaillard - debbie@powerupedu.comJamie Iannone - jamie.iannone@powerupedu.comJanelle DeVelvis - janelle@powerupedu.com... Read More →

Sunday June 15, 2025 6:00pm - 7:30pm EDT
Vendor Hall

GLMA Summer Institute

7:00am EDT

BREAKFAST on your OWN

Monday June 16, 2025 7:00am - 8:30am EDT

Hey there, why not treat yourself to a tasty lunch solo or with your pals? Don't forget to check out the awesome vendors in the area, too! Happy browsing!

Monday June 16, 2025 7:00am - 8:30am EDT

7:30am EDT

Registration

Monday June 16, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am EDT

GLMA Summer Institute

8:30am EDT

Opening Session!

Monday June 16, 2025 8:30am - 8:45am EDT

Ballroom AB

Monday June 16, 2025 8:30am - 8:45am EDT
Ballroom AB

GLMA Summer Institute

8:45am EDT

Morning Keynote with Amanda Hunt

Monday June 16, 2025 8:45am - 9:30am EDT

Ballroom AB

We'd love for you to join us for an exciting keynote with Amanda Hunt, The NextGen Librarian! It will be a wonderful way to kickstart your day with inspiration and lots of learning. Hope to see you there!

Presenters

Amanda Hunt

School Librarian

Amanda Hunt, aka TheNextGenLibrarian, is a 6th-8th middle school librarian in Texas and is the Secondary Lead Librarian for her district. She’s been a librarian for 14 years at both elementary and secondary campuses and an educator for years before that. She was the chair for the... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 8:45am - 9:30am EDT
Ballroom AB

Keynote Session

about Amanda Hunt, aka TheNextGenLibrarian, is a 6th-8th middle school librarian in Texas and is the Secondary Lead Librarian for her district. She’s been a librarian for 14 years at both elementary and secondary campuses and an educator for years before that. She was the chair for the Mavericks Graphic Novel Reading List Committee for TLA from 2021-2023 and serves on many committees still within TLA. She is also on the AASL Standards Committee for the new book releasing in 2025. Amanda is an Adobe Innovator and Trainer. Follow her across social media @thenextgenlibrarian

9:30am EDT

Vendor Hall/Morning Snack

Monday June 16, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Vendor Hall

Monday June 16, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am EDT
Vendor Hall

GLMA Summer Institute

10:00am EDT

Storytelling Beyond the Shelf: Empowering Creativity in the School Library

Monday June 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am EDT

Ballroom AB

Presenters

Amanda Hunt

School Librarian

Monday June 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am EDT
Ballroom AB

Adobe Creative Educator Training

11:10am EDT

Entrelibrarian: Connecting Curriculum Through Entrepreneurship

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT

Verelst

Explore a whole new side of librarianship with an entrepreneurship twist. Participants will hear from Media Specialist, DeAnna Espinoza (Partee ES, Gwinnett Co. Schools), and Computer Science Teacher, Erin Wood (Partee ES) on how they collaborate together with grade level teachers to bring Social Studies, Math, Science, and ELA standards together through one giant school project - the Blooming Business Festival. Session focuses on growing small ideas into big ones by leading from the library.

Presenters

DeAnna Espinoza

Media Specialist

DeAnna Espinoza is the Library Media Specialist at Partee Elementary School in Snellville, GA. She received her MLIS from Valdosta University while working for Gwinnett County Public Library. It was there that she realized she had a passion for teacher librarianship. After receiving... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT
Verelst

Instructional Strategies, STEM/STEAM

11:10am EDT

Table Talk: Librarian Edition

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT

Scarbrough 5

Let’s be honest, sometimes the best PD comes from a simple, unscripted conversation! Join a dynamic, interactive session designed to spark meaningful discussions among school librarians about the diverse roles we play in our schools. Tables will feature conversation prompts on key topics such as instructional collaboration, collection development, programming, and advocacy, encouraging participants to exchange ideas, share strategies, and build valuable professional connections that last throughout the conference and beyond. This session offers a welcoming space to network, reflect, and leave with fresh inspiration, practical resources, and stronger professional networks.

Presenters

Lindsey Keown

Media and Educational Technology Instructor, Fulton County Schools

Lindsey Keown has dedicated the past decade to public education, spending seven years as a middle and high school classroom teacher and three in the middle school library. Her librarianship centers around fostering a love of reading, sparking creativity and innovation in both students... Read More →

Ashley Gordon

Media and Educational Technology Instructor

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT
Scarbrough 5

Leadership

11:10am EDT

12-15 Year Olds Need Books! It's Time for Young Teen Lit

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT

Percival

Librarians know that books for 12-15-year-olds are hard to find. Middle grade is too young and YA is too mature. Join a seasoned middle school librarian and #youngteenlit advocate to talk about the 5 Criteria for Young Teen Lit and how librarians are advocating for change. We will have a lively discussion about books we love and books we want to see published.

Presenters

Marcia Kochel

Teacher Librarian, Druid Hills Middle School

I am a middle school librarian who has grown frustrated with the publishing landscape that designates books as middle grade (ages 8-12) and young adult (grades 9-up). I published a “Manifesto in Support of Middle School Books” on SLJ’s Teen Librarian Toolbox in 2024. This led... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT
Percival

Reading/Literacy, Leadership

11:10am EDT

Author Panel: Shanna Miles and H.D. Hunter

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT

Ballroom AB

Join us for an engaging author panel featuring acclaimed YA writers Shanna Miles and H.D. Hunter, hosted by Lauren Mobley. These dynamic authors will share their creative journeys, explore the power of diverse storytelling, and talk about their latest books. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired and gather fresh ideas for your library program!

Presenters

Shanna Miles

Author and Teacher Librarian

Born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, Shanna Miles considers herself a dyed-in-the-wool Southern girl. She lives in Georgia with her family. When she’s not working as a high school librarian, she can be found writing. Visit her online at shannamiles.net or on Twitter at... Read More →

H.D. Hunter

Author

Hugh “H.D.” Hunter is a storyteller, teaching artist, and community organizer from Atlanta. He’s also the winner of several indie book awards for multicultural fiction. Check out Hugh’s work at thesoutherndistrict.com and follow him at @hd_tsd.

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT
Ballroom AB

Reading/Literacy, Student Engagement

11:10am EDT

Best New Titles for Fall '25 Book Talk

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT

Sloane

This presentation will preview new and upcoming titles for pre-K through high school, that librarians won't want to miss putting on their shelves.

30-minute booktalk and a 15-minute show and tell of in-person book samples with a book giveaway to conclude the presentation.

Presenters

Kathy Mackle Tiffany

Bookseller

Kathy is a veteran bookseller for the last 20 years and lifelong book lover that's been working closely with Librarians the last several years, helping them find the best resources for their schools.

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT
Sloane

Reading/Literacy, Student Engagement

11:10am EDT

Fantastic Fairs - Hype, Profit, & Focus on the Fun!

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT

Vernon

Attendees will get a vision of how to promote, and run the book fairs to increase both profit and fun. Idea-sharing and brainstorming will give us all a starting point to make our 25-26 fairs better than ever.

Presenters

Bridget Bryson

Teacher Librarian, Forsyth County Schools

Bridget is in her 4th year as a teacher librarian, finishing up her masters degree and excited about being an official media specialist soon! When she took over, the media center was a quiet, unused zone. Focus number one was to make it the hub of the school. There’s little she... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 11:10am - 11:55am EDT
Vernon 2 W Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

Student Engagement, Reading/Literacy

12:00pm EDT

LUNCH on your OWN

Monday June 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT

Hey there, why not treat yourself to a tasty lunch solo or with your pals? Don't forget to check out the awesome vendors in the area, too! Happy browsing!

Monday June 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT

1:30pm EDT

Broadcasting Brilliance: Mastering Live School News with Canva & Streamyard

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Verelst

In this session, teachers will learn to create engaging live school news broadcasts using Canva for visuals and Streamyard for streaming. Participants will gain hands-on skills in designing professional-looking graphics, producing live broadcasts, and engaging students with real-time updates, enhancing communication and school community connection.

Presenters

Janni Buggs

Media Specialist

Janni Buggs is a third year elementary school media specialist in Atlanta Public Schools. Prior to becoming a medias specialist Janni was an ESOL teacher serving both elementary and middle school students. She loves finding innovative ways to impact students’ lives, creating library... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Verelst

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Student Engagement

1:30pm EDT

From Storytime to Showtime: Digital Creations for Elementary Minds

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Ballroom AB

Step into a world where imagination meets innovation! From Storytime to Showtime explores how young learners can transform traditional storytelling into dynamic digital creations. This engaging session empowers educators with tools, strategies, and inspiration to guide elementary students in bringing their stories to life through multimedia projects such as animated videos, digital comics, narrated slideshows, and more. Participants will discover age-appropriate platforms and creative workflows that enhance literacy, foster collaboration, and build 21st-century skills. Whether you’re new to digital storytelling or looking to level up your classroom tech integration, this session will leave you energized and equipped to help students take their ideas from storytime to showtime.

Presenters

Amanda Hunt

School Librarian

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Ballroom AB

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Student Engagement

1:30pm EDT

How Digital Can Support a Positive Reading Culture

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Sloane

Join your Sora by OverDrive representative to explore how digital tools can transform your reading culture and engage every student, including reluctant readers. Discover strategies for supporting struggling readers, curating content for easy discovery, and promoting reading engagement across your community. Plus, dive into the data to see how reading goals and milestones can spark excitement and foster a lifelong love for reading.

Presenters

Jody Brookshire

Account Executive, Sora by OverDrive

Jody Brookshire is a passionate Educational Account Executive with over 29 years of experience in the e-learning and digital content industry. Throughout her career, Jody has demonstrated a deep commitment to championing literacy in K-12 schools by leveraging digital content, 21st-century... Read More →

Sponsors

Sora

Jody Brookshire - jbrookshire@overdrive.com

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Sloane

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Reading/Literacy

1:30pm EDT

Innovating Together: AI Tools for Transformative School Library Services

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Scarbrough 5

AI can be harnessed to streamline tasks and elevate services in the school library. Explore how it can make work more efficient and allow for more personalized patron assistance and initiatives. Discuss incorporating AI concepts into instruction. Learn to build your social capital with stakeholders to support advocacy and collaboration.

Presenters

Dr. Jessica Thompson

Lecturer/Program Coordinator, University of West Georgia

Dr. Jessica Thompson has worked in education since 1999 and has developed a love of learning and sharing knowledge with her students. She is a lecturer in the University of West Georgia’s School Library program. She is interested in all things school library related, promoting a... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Scarbrough 5

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Instructional Strategies

1:30pm EDT

Write, Read, Tech: Boosting Literacy in the Digital Age

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Vernon

This session aims to enhance literacy by combining writing, technology, and creative arts. Participants will explore tools like Book Creator, Canva, and Adobe to engage students in reading through writing and illustrating. They will gain practical strategies to inspire creativity, improve literacy, and foster a love for learning through digital storytelling.

Presenters

Kendra Grays

Media Specialist, Clayton County Public Schools

Kendra Grays has spent the last 10 years in education, including eight years in public education and two in higher education. An avid reader and passionate literacy advocate, Kendra Grays believes literacy is the foundation of all learning. With four years as a School Librarian and... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Vernon 2 W Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

Reading/Literacy, Digital Resources/Tech Tools

1:30pm EDT

Beyond Books: Library Programming for Every Purpose

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT

Percival

Discover innovative strategies designed to draw a range of students into your library spaces. Expand the reach of your programming with varied approaches to librarianship. Gain practical tools to take into your library in August, transforming libraries into inclusive, dynamic spaces that inspire creativity, connection, and learning.

Presenters

Lindsey Keown

Media and Educational Technology Instructor, Fulton County Schools

Bridget Bryson

Teacher Librarian, Forsyth County Schools

Monday June 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:15pm EDT
Percival

Student Engagement, Reading/Literacy

2:25pm EDT

District LMSOTY Winners - Elementary

Monday June 16, 2025 2:25pm - 3:10pm EDT

Percival

Monday June 16, 2025 2:25pm - 3:10pm EDT
Percival

GLMA Summer Institute

2:25pm EDT

District LMSOTY Winners - Middle & High

Monday June 16, 2025 2:25pm - 3:10pm EDT

Verelst

Monday June 16, 2025 2:25pm - 3:10pm EDT
Verelst

GLMA Summer Institute

3:15pm EDT

Vendor Hall

Monday June 16, 2025 3:15pm - 3:45pm EDT

Vendor Hall

Monday June 16, 2025 3:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Vendor Hall

GLMA Summer Institute

3:45pm EDT

Adobe: Clicks & Tricks: Quick Wins with Adobe Express for Busy Librarians

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT

Ballroom AB

Pressed for time but hungry for creativity? This fast-paced, idea-packed session is designed for school librarians who want maximum impact with minimal prep. Explore ready-to-roll projects using Adobe Express that support reading promotion, info lit skills, and even hallway advocacy. We’ll spotlight simple remixable templates, design tricks, and creative hacks your students will love and your teachers will thank you for. Bonus: All resources shared are FREE and customizable to fit your library!

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Ballroom AB

Digital Resources/Tech Tools

3:45pm EDT

Podcasting Made Easy

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT

Vernon

Dive into Adobe Podcast, a free web-based tool that makes it easy for students to produce polished podcasts using only their laptops or Chromebooks. AI magic lets students edit audio by simply copying, pasting, and deleting text. Speech enhancement and transition music make their finished products pop!

Presenters

Andy Spinks

Library Media Specialist, Campbell High School

Andy has worked in school libraries and educational technology since the “late 1900s,” primarily as a high school librarian. He served as President of GLMA in 2013 and received the GLMA Intellectual Freedom Award in 2021. He was a finalist for the SLJ/Scholastic School Librarian... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Vernon 2 W Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Student Engagement

3:45pm EDT

Candy Crush Searching

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT

Verelst

Students have smartphones but they don't know how to actually do searches. Instead of assuming the students can jump on an assignment, let's teach students about Boolean logic using candy to get their attention. Discuss strategies to formulate research questions and teach students to evaluate information on the fly.

Presenters

Robbie Barber

Teacher Librarian, Tucker High School

Dr. Barber is an electrical engineer from Georgia Tech who wandered into a school library. As a teacher-librarian, she works with high school students and teachers to find the best resources, use technology, and locate the perfect book. Dr. Barber teaches classes on using research... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Verelst

Instructional Strategies, Student Engagement

3:45pm EDT

In the Club, We All Fam: Student Book Clubs from the Library

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT

Sloane

Want to inspire a lifelong love of reading among students? This session will focus on running engaging and inclusive book clubs designed specifically for student audiences. Learn how to choose titles that resonate with various age groups, create safe and dynamic discussion spaces, and incorporate creative activities to keep students excited about reading. We’ll also discuss strategies for promoting your book club, fostering peer-led discussions, and addressing challenges like time constraints and varied reading levels. Walk away with fresh ideas and ready-to-use tools to help your student book clubs thrive!

Presenters

Rachael Welsh

Librarian

Rachael Welsh is a passionate educator and storyteller. Over her 17-year career in education, she has taught English and Theater on the high school level and has been a librarian in both elementary, middle, and high school programs. She has served on committees for the Texas Library... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Sloane

Reading/Literacy, Student Engagement

3:45pm EDT

The Science of Reading on the Sesame Street Block

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT

Scarbrough 5

Discover the ways Sesame Street, Reading Rainbow and other PBS Learning Media resources can enhance classroom instruction. Engage young readers with research-based strategies and nostalgic characters to spark a love for reading in every child.

Presenters

Valerie Wilson

Education Outreach Specialist

Valerie Wilson is a certified transformational speaker, mentor, educator, and coach. Her passion for educating and mentoring youth is seen through her commitment to ensure kids have equitable access to the support they need for academic and life success. With over 18 years of experience... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Scarbrough 5

Reading/Literacy, Student Engagement

3:45pm EDT

Counseling Collaborations

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT

Percival

Learn how to build a working relationship with your counseling department by collaborating on SEL themed displays and book lists, as well as supporting student mental health needs.

Presenters

Whitney Beem

Media and Educational Technology Instructor

Whitney has spent almost 10 years in library after leaving the science classroom. After teaching 8th grade Physical Science for 6 years, Whitney transitioned to a middle school librarian. She recently transferred to Innovation Academy High School where she helps to support teachers... Read More →

Monday June 16, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Percival

Student Engagement

6:00pm EDT

Riverboat Cruise & Awards Ceremony

Monday June 16, 2025 6:00pm - 9:00pm EDT

Savannahh Riverboat Cruises

The 2025 Awards Ceremony will be hosted on the Savannah River Queen which is docked at River Street Market Landing. The event includes dinner, dancing, and the awards presentation. The price is included with registration; however, attendees MUST RSVP. Capstone Publishing and Jim Boon will offer one complimentary drink ticket per person Cash bar will be available.
Boarding Time: 6PM
Sailing Time: 7PM
Returns to Dock: 9PM

Sponsors

Capstone

Capstone/PebbleGo

Jim is a Georgia native and has been serving Georgia schools as a publishers for 32 years. Proud father of twin daughters. Currently residing in Athens Ga.

Monday June 16, 2025 6:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Savannahh Riverboat Cruises 9 E. River St. (Take hotel elevator to River St. level. Riverboat will be to the right on the Savannah River.)

GLMA Summer Institute

7:00am EDT

BREAKFAST on your OWN

Tuesday June 17, 2025 7:00am - 8:30am EDT

Hey there, why not treat yourself to a tasty lunch solo or with your pals? Don't forget to check out the awesome vendors in the area, too! Happy browsing!

Tuesday June 17, 2025 7:00am - 8:30am EDT

8:30am EDT

Morning Keynote with Author John Schu

Tuesday June 17, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am EDT

Ballroom AB

Join us for an exciting keynote with author, John Schu! It will be a wonderful way to kick start your day with inspiration and lots of learning.

John Schu has made a career out of advocating for the people and things he cares about most: kids, books, and the people who connect them. He is the children’s librarian for Bookelicious and the New York Times best-selling author of Louder Than Hunger; This Is a School, illustrated by Veronica Miller Jamison; This Is a Story, illustrated by Caldecott Honor artist Lauren Castillo; Ruthie Rose’s Big Idea, illustrated by Holly Hatam (publishing in March 2025); and The Gift of Story: Exploring the Affective Side of the Reading Life. John Schu lives in Naperville, Illinois

Presenters

John Schu

Tuesday June 17, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am EDT
Ballroom AB

Keynote Session

9:15am EDT

Vendor Hall & John Schu Book Signing

Tuesday June 17, 2025 9:15am - 10:30am EDT

Vendor Hall

Presenters

John Schu

Tuesday June 17, 2025 9:15am - 10:30am EDT
Vendor Hall

GLMA Summer Institute

10:35am EDT

More Than Words: Creative Expression for Secondary 21st Century Learners

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT

Ballroom AB

Today’s students need more than just the ability to read and write—they need to create, communicate, and think critically in a rapidly evolving digital world. More Than Words dives into the power of creative expression as a catalyst for deeper learning in secondary classrooms. This session will showcase innovative strategies and digital tools that allow students to demonstrate understanding, voice perspectives, and engage with content through multimedia, visual storytelling, podcasting, video production, and other 21st-century formats. Educators will leave with practical ideas to foster creativity, support diverse learners, and elevate student voice in any subject area. Join us to reimagine what meaningful expression looks like beyond the traditional essay.

Presenters

Amanda Hunt

School Librarian

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT
Ballroom AB

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Student Engagement

10:35am EDT

Findability: The Art of Access

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT

Sloane

Findability enhances students' ability to discover engaging texts or new books in their areas of curiosity or passion. Participants will receive examples of organized non-fiction sections, ideas for integrating findability into Dewey, structured action plans, classification suggestions, vertical approaches to findability, and examples of effective signage and labeling.

Presenters

Nicole Solanki

Library Media Specialist

Amanda Fox

Library Media Specialist

Carrie Card

Library Media Specialist

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT
Sloane

Reading/Literacy, Student Engagement

10:35am EDT

Soft Censorship: Identifying Its Impact Across School Levels

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT

Vernon

Soft or self-censorship is when we modify our book choices based not on our selection policy but on our school or community climate. Join us as a panel of elementary, middle, and high school librarians discuss soft-censorship. We will go over how to identify soft-censorship and how each of us handles it.

Presenters

Robbie Barber

Teacher Librarian, Tucker High School

Dr. Sarah Sansbury

Library Media Specialist

Nan Trowell Brown

Library Media Specialist

Nan Trowell Brown is a library media specialist in metropolitan Atlanta with 22 years of school library experience, including 15 years in middle school. Nan has served as an advocacy coordinator for GLMA since 2010, including presentations to state legislative committees and GLMA... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT
Vernon 2 W Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

Reading/Literacy, Student Engagement

10:35am EDT

Storytelling Reimagined: iMovie & Clips in Action

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT

Percival

Participants will learn to enhance student engagement through storytelling and technology. They’ll gain strategies for guiding students in creating a digital interpretation of Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears using Apple Clips or iMovie, integrating textual evidence, visuals, and narration to analyze key ideas and foster creativity.

Presenters

Dr. Darcel Hogans

Media Specialist

Dr. Hogans is an Apple Learning Coach, media specialist, and instructional technology consultant with over 25 years of experience in K-8 education. She played a key role in helping her school become the first Apple Distinguished School in Metro Atlanta and specializes in storytelling... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT
Percival

Reading/Literacy, Digital Resources/Tech Tools

10:35am EDT

Junior Librarians to the Rescue!

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT

Verelst

With the ever growing list of duties and tasks, how do School Librarians successfully check off their to-do list? With the assistance of Junior Librarians! Learn how to recruit and train students to assist with library duties. **Primarily elementary level but can be implemented across grade levels.*

Presenters

Tiffany Brown

School Librarian, FCSS

Ms. Tiffany Brown is an innovative educator and lead collaborator in the educational field, with over 18 years of experience in the K-12 educational setting. She currently serves as a Media Specialist with the Fannin County School system, in which she was nominated as Teacher of the... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT
Verelst

Student Engagement, Instructional Strategies

10:35am EDT

Smooth Sailing with Stress-Free Author Visits

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT

Scarbrough 5

Join best-selling author and veteran teacher, McCall Hoyle, and veteran elementary library media specialist and winner of the GLMA Elementary Judy Serritella Exemplary Media Program, Tracy Scaglione, for a deep dive into hosting stress-free author visits guaranteed to engage students, satisfy teachers and administrators, and promote schoolwide literacy initiatives. Attendees will leave with resources, including suggested timelines, tips and tricks for success, lists of Georgia authors, and more.

Presenters

McCall Hoyle

Author/Educator

McCall Hoyle is a best-selling author, a middle school reading teacher, and a former school librarian. Her books have been nominated for state and national awards, including the ALA Schneider Family Book Award, and are the recipients of awards such as the William Allen White Children’s... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 10:35am - 11:20am EDT
Scarbrough 5

Student Engagement, Reading/Literacy

11:25am EDT

Control Your Destiny

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT

Scarbrough 5

Participants will leave with increased comfort and skills with the Destiny online catalog system.

Presenters

Darryl Paul

Media Specialist

Darryl Paul just finished his 12th year in the Northview High School library. Darryl transitioned to the library following two years teaching Social Studies at Greene County High School. Darryl holds dual passion for reading/research and the technology that facilitates access to the... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT
Scarbrough 5

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Reading/Literacy

11:25am EDT

Curate, Collaborate, Create, Communicate: Transforming Learning with Wakelet in the Library

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT

Verelst

Explore how Wakelet empowers students and educators to harness the 4 Cs of future-ready learning through seamless organization, collaboration, and creativity in the library.

Presenters

Deborah Zeman

High School Librarian, Hebron HS/LISD

Deborah Zeman is a High School Librarian in DFW. She is the TxLA Publisher Liaison, Chair of the SPOT Reading Committee, former ALA CORE - SF Notables Committee, former Cybil Award YA Reading List Committee member 2023 & former member of the 2024 Best Graphic Novels for Children List... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT
Verelst

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Instructional Strategies

11:25am EDT

GPB and GALILEO Proudly Present: All the Write Stuff! Write Here in Georgia! Topics, Tools, and Techniques for Inspiring Writing Skills

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT

Vernon

GPB and GALILEO provide a comprehensive collection of free online resources that help educate students throughout the writing process and empower them to share their unique perspectives and competencies via the written word. You’ll definitely want to write home about this session, during which we will share our favorite free resources for supporting aspiring authors everywhere and model how GALILEO and GPB can help you foster a passion for writing in your own schools and media centers.

Presenters

Russell Palmer

Exhibitor/Vendor

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT
Vernon 2 W Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Reading/Literacy

11:25am EDT

Stitching Connections: Weaving Sewing into Your Makerspace

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT

Percival

Unlock the magic of sewing in your MakerSpace! Discover creative programming ideas, collaborate with community experts, and inspire service learning. Transform your library into a hub where students develop lifelong skills, foster creativity, and connect through hands-on projects that make a lasting impact.

Presenters

Meggan Ford

School Librarian, Johns Creek HS

Meggan Ford is a high school media specialist in the Atlanta metro area. She is a national speaker with a passion for creativity and innovation. Currently, she serves as the President-Elect for Georgia Library Media Association. She is an ISTE-certified educator and Adobe District... Read More →

Lindsey Keown

Media and Educational Technology Instructor, Fulton County Schools

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT
Percival

MakerSpace, Student Engagement

11:25am EDT

BYOBF: Build Your Own Book Festival and Author Centered Events

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT

Ballroom AB

Presented by the co-founder of NTTBF, Dr. Rose Brock shares a snapshot of the ALA award winning North Texas Teen Book Festival and offers how-to advice for school librarians interested in designing and developing a youth centered festival or author centered events of their own.

Presenters

Rose Brock

Professor of Childrens's and YA Literature and School Library Studies, Sam Houston State University

Dr. Rose Brock is an associate professor at Sam Houston State University where she teaches children's and YA literature in the Library Science and Technology Department and the cofounder of NTTBF, the North Texas Teen Book Festival, the largest library run book festival for young... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT
Ballroom AB

Reading/Literacy, Student Engagement

11:25am EDT

Design on a Library Dime!

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT

Sloane

Presenters

Trona Peoples

Library Media Specialist, Henry County Middle

Trona Peoples, Library Media Specialist at Clayton County Public Schools, discovered her passion for education after a stint in bilingual sales post-graduation from The University of Georgia. Known as Peeps, The Library Lady, she fosters a love for reading, writing, and learning in... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:25am - 12:10pm EDT
Sloane

Student Engagement, MakerSpace

12:15pm EDT

Lunch at the Hyatt Sponsored by Mackin

Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm EDT

Ballroom AB

Sponsors

Mackin

Gladys Autry - gladys.autry@mackin.com

Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm EDT
Ballroom AB

1:15pm EDT

Vendor Hall

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:15pm - 1:35pm EDT

Vendor Hall

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:15pm - 1:35pm EDT
Vendor Hall

GLMA Summer Institute

1:40pm EDT

Adobe: Picture This: A Mini Photowalk Into Generative AI & Visual Literacy

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT

Ballroom AB

Step outside the library and into the creative wild. In this interactive session, we’ll hit the streets of downtown Savannah (briefly!) for a mini photowalk, capturing images that will serve as composition and style references in Adobe Express’s Generative AI tools. Along the way, we’ll explore how visual storytelling and photography can build deeper connections to content areas. We’ll also unpack strategies for teaching ethical and responsible use of generative AI - because school librarians are key to helping students navigate creation with care. You’ll leave with hands-on experience, a curated prompt bank, and ideas for replicating this with your own students using just a phone, a story, and a lens. *All smartphone users welcome but make sure to download the Adobe Express app ahead of time*

Presenters

Amanda Hunt

School Librarian

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT
Ballroom AB

1:40pm EDT

21st Century Skills: Media Literacy in the Age of AI

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT

Scarbrough 5

Media Literacy is an essential skill in today's fast-paced world, empowering students to critically evaluate information, recognize bias, and engage responsibly with the digital content they encounter. Through real-world examples and approachable techniques, educators will explore digital media, often influenced by artificial intelligence, shapes information consumption and behavior - and discover ways to guide students in navigating these complexities.

Presenters

Christopher Heintz

Exhibitor/Vendor

Chris began his career in education as a high school Social Studies teacher in Chicago. Since then, he's served in various roles in education management helping teachers navigate the complex world of assessments, data, and curriculum & instruction. Throughout it all, he's been dedicated... Read More →

Sponsors

Britannica Education

Christopher Heintz - cheintz@eb.com

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT
Scarbrough 5

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Instructional Strategies

1:40pm EDT

GALILEO K-12 Update

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT

Vernon

Attendees will learn of the latest updates and expected changes to the K-12 interface of GALILEO. This includes authentication, design and UI, user testing with students, ebooks and other resources, training and more.

Presenters

Joy Woodson

Assistant Director, Marketing Communications, GALILEO

Joy joined GALILEO as an assistant director in charge of marketing communications efforts in 2019. At GALILEO, she also leads an ambassador committee and a K-12 advisory group. Joy has an MBA in marketing and MPA in nonprofit management both from Georgia State University. She also... Read More →

Sponsors

Galileo

Joy Woodson - joy.woodson@usg.edu

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT
Vernon 2 W Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

Digital Resources/Tech Tools, Reading/Literacy

1:40pm EDT

A "Specials" Media Center

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT

Sloane

Are you a School Library Media Specialist who is on your school's specials rotation? I would like to share some resources and ideas that have worked for me in my media center over the last 3 years.

Presenters

Jennifer Harrison

School Librarian, Griffin-Spalding County Schools

Jennifer Harrison was born and raised in Griffin, GA. She is married and has been married for 20 year and has two children, a 13 year old son and a 17 year old daugther. She has been teaching for 19 years. 16 of those years were spent in the classroom in grades second, fourth, and... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT
Sloane

Instructional Strategies, MakerSpace

1:40pm EDT

Multimodal Literacy Experiences in the Media Center

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT

Verelst

With a renewed emphasis on multi-modal literacy experiences and applications, it is imperative we bridge literacy and technology in meaningful ways. In this session, participants will leave with innovative ideas of how to implement media experiences, literacy choice boards, reading incentives, and literacy leader sessions in their own school.

Presenters

Samantha Palmer

Media Specialist, DECATUR COUNTY SCHOOLS

Samantha Palmer serves as an Instructional Technology leader and Media Specialist coaching teachers and students in the new Media Hub and STEM center at Hutto Elementary in Decatur County, GA. Having earned her Specialist degree in Instructional Technology and Library Media she balances... Read More →

Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:40pm - 2:25pm EDT
Verelst

Reading/Literacy, Digital Resources/Tech Tools

2:30pm EDT

Closing Session & Door Prizes

Tuesday June 17, 2025 2:30pm - 3:00pm EDT

Ballroom AB

How well did you do on your Goosechase adventure? Come say your farewells and collect BIG prizes as we disembark this year's "Cruisin' with Librarians"!

Tuesday June 17, 2025 2:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Ballroom AB

GLMA Summer Institute