Here is a bit more information about the breakout session taking place at our 2022 Annual Seminar 'Redesigning the Future'.

1. Supporting digital transformation for public libraries
Led by Liz White and Becca Mytton, The British Library

In this workshop, we will give a presentation on new developments in the “Single Digital Presence” project, covering work on brand development with FCB Inferno, content strategy and technical build. We are currently recruiting to the team and the workshop will also provide an opportunity to introduce key colleagues to sector stakeholders in attendance. We will invite delegates to provide feedback and engage in a focused discussion about the project and where it is heading.

2. Post-Covid Mindsets
Led by Andrew McIntyre, Morris Hargreaves McIntyre (MHM)

Using the powerful Culture Segments model, engagement strategist, Andrew McIntyre, shares new insights on how people will interact with libraries and cultural institutions, in person and online, as we emerge from two years of Covid restrictions. This is an interactive workshop, and you can start now by segmenting yourself in 2 minutes using this link: www.mhminsight.com/segmentme

3. Set yourself up for success: Libraries Connected Peer Mentoring Scheme for Heads of Service
Led by Isobel Hunter, Libraries Connected & Penny Shapland Chew, RedQuadrant

As we emerge from the pandemic into an uncertain economic environment, library leaders need to reflect and be intentional about embracing new realities and co-creating the future. Mentoring in the 21st Century is an inclusive 2-way partnership that offers learning and support. Come and hear about the pilot Libraries Connected Peer Mentoring Scheme for Heads of Service (HOS), starting in July, join the discussion and decide if you would like to be part of the pilot.

Penny is a librarian and qualified coach, mentor and supervisor. In this one hour session, she will: explain the structure of the scheme (which has been developed with Heads of Library Services); share current trends in mentoring, answer questions and welcome discussion from participants.

4. Leading Libraries
Led by Sarah Mears, Libraries Connected

We’ll be showcasing the Transforming Leadership: Leading Libraries programme and outlining the four competencies model (leading for inclusion, dialogue, resilience and innovation) which was specially created for this programme by the Leadership Institute at the University of Birmingham. We will feed back on the evaluation and learning from programme and introduce the legacy materials available to all public library staff. We’ll be inviting discussion around diversity in leadership and the steps we need to put in place as a sector to support new and diverse leaders.

5. Future Funding
Led by Iain Moore and Victoria Dilly, Libraries Connected

As we near the end of our Arts Council England supported Future Funding programme, we share our learning from the programme. This includes the experiences of our pathfinder programme, the approach we have developed for library income generation and the Income Generation Guide that we will be launching in the summer. We will also outline our proposed next steps to support and discuss what would help you the most as the sector further develops its income generation plans.

6. How libraries can benefit from national reading campaigns
Led by Hayley Butler and Debbie Hicks, The Reading Agency

This session is facilitated by The Reading Agency experts in delivering high profile reading campaigns such as the annual World Book Night with its national reach and measurable impact. In the session we will explore how libraries can benefit from these national opportunities which increase access and engagement with reading for pleasure, build new strategic national and local stakeholder relationships and deliver real profile and impact.  The session will focus on strategic campaign priorities such as connecting with the third sector and other key partners, engagement opportunities with local communities, building an impact story for funding, working together for policy change as well as looking at how the digital and physical activation of these campaigns can work to grow membership and awareness of the power of libraries in the community. There will also be an opportunity to think about key priorities for future campaign content.