(via Lindsay O’Neill, Linday O’Neill Consulting LLC)
Registration is open for the ALA LearnRT (Learning Round Table) webinar “Crafting a Memorable Staff Development Day”.It will take place on Tuesday, October 7, from 12:00 to 1:00 PM CDT.
Description
Design a meaningful library Staff Development Day to celebrate growth, learning, and community building. This webinar will guide you through creating an engaging and inclusive full-day experience that balances professional development with meaningful staff recognition. Drawing from evidence-based practices in adult learning and event management, we’ll explore essential planning frameworks, strategies for managing multiple learning tracks, and methods for integrating recognition moments that enhance rather than interrupt the learning flow.
This webinar is ideal for library administrators, training coordinators, managers, and librarians who want to elevate staff development initiatives. Topics covered include strategic event planning, curriculum development, employee recognition, and fostering meaningful connections through structured activities. You’ll leave with actionable templates, timeline frameworks, and creative ideas to make your next Staff Development Day educational and memorable. Whether you’re revamping an existing program or planning your first staff development event, this webinar will provide you with practical tools for success.
About the Presenters
Rita Baguio Christensen is the Administrative Director of Equity & Organizational Development at the Salt Lake City Public Library, with 22 years of experience managing innovative library services and program development in public and academic libraries. Christensen served on the American Library Association (Randolph) Caldecott Award Selection Committee (2022-2024), the Children’s Literature Association of Utah Picture Book Committee (2018-2023), and is a Utah Library Association Past President (2021-2022). Armed with a Master of Library and Information Sciences degree and currently pursuing an Executive Master of Public Administration at the BYU Marriott School of Business, Christensen’s diverse skill set spans strategic leadership, equity initiatives, program management, staff development, and financial governance. With a strong background in public speaking and advocacy, she excels in cross-functional collaboration, data analysis, and creative problem-solving. Christensen’s capabilities extend to instructional design, project management, and technology integration, complementing her foundational knowledge in library sciences and information management.
Carol Ross serves as Employee Experience Manager at the Salt Lake City Public Library, where she transforms workplace culture through innovative design and strategic leadership. With over 25 years of experience in creative direction and brand strategy, Carol manages employee onboarding programs, internal events, and organizational communications. Previously serving as the Library’s Creative Director from 2019 to 2024, she spearheaded external campaigns and the beloved annual Summer Reading Challenge branding. Her portfolio spans from directing environmental graphic design projects and building creative teams to her earlier decade as Art Director at Salt Lake Community College, where she elevated the institution’s visual identity through initiatives including the iconic 12-foot SLCC letter installations across campuses, the award-winning SLCC Magazine, and major events like Commencement and the annual President’s Art Show. Carol’s blend of creative vision and people-focused leadership brings enthusiasm to every project, making her an invaluable voice on workplace innovation and employee engagement strategies.
Please register here. More information about the ALA Learning Round Table is available here.