Tag Archives: Technology

Microsoft Teams for Libraries – 1 LEU

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Join us for an insightful webinar designed specifically for libraries on how to use Microsoft Teams as an effective communication tool at all levels of your organization. Learn from Emily Ellis, Director of Greenwood Public Library, as she shares her 18 years of experience transitioning staff from tools like Google Docs and Trillian to Teams.

Topics include:

  • Streamlining communication with department-specific Teams and special project channels.
  • Best practices for staff training and a smooth rollout.
  • How to use Teams for transparency, quick access to information, and efficient project management.

Believing strongly that some change is good, Emily Ellis has 18 years of experience working with an amazing staff who is adverse to “new” – especially technology. While serving as Assistant Director she somehow managed to get her building of 30+ employees to not only start using Microsoft Teams, but embracing it as a positive…over the course of a year. Now as Director of Greenwood Public Library, she is dedicated to finding other “new” ideas that improve communication, efficiency, and productivity within her building.

Date Recorded: 5/27/2026

Format: Archived YouTube Video

Presenter: Emily Ellis, Executive Director / Greenwood Public Library

Resources:

 

AI Literacy for Librarians: Understanding and Teaching AI – 1 LEU

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artificial intelligence robot with lightbulb and written notes for AI ideasEquip library staff with foundational AI knowledge to support patrons. Cover AI fundamentals, common misconceptions, and practical applications, enabling librarians to educate and guide users effectively.

Presenter Dr. Treg Hopkins is the Co-Founder of Connectable, an Indiana-based nonprofit committed to enhancing adult education programs across more than 20 states through advanced data systems and artificial intelligence. As a Certified Quantitative Methodologist, his research focuses on neurodiversity, aging, and the role of technology in these areas. Hopkins has extensive leadership experience, serving on multiple boards and advising nonprofits and government entities on strategic planning. His expertise in library innovation includes serving on a long-term library planning board and previously delivering a keynote address at the Indiana Library Federation’s FOIL conference.

Date Recorded: 10/8/2025

Format: Archived YouTube Video

Presenter: Dr. Treg Hopkins / Co-Founder of Connectable

 

AI for Librarians Saving Time and Boosting Efficiency – 1 LEU

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robot with the letters ai for artificial intelligenceDiscover how AI can automate repetitive tasks, improve workflow efficiency, and enhance library services. Explore tools for automated metadata tagging, chatbots for patron assistance, and AI-driven content curation to free up time for high-value tasks.

Presenter Dr. Treg Hopkins is the Co-Founder of Connectable, an Indiana-based nonprofit committed to enhancing adult education programs across more than 20 states through advanced data systems and artificial intelligence. As a Certified Quantitative Methodologist, his research focuses on neurodiversity, aging, and the role of technology in these areas. Hopkins has extensive leadership experience, serving on multiple boards and advising nonprofits and government entities on strategic planning. His expertise in library innovation includes serving on a long-term library planning board and previously delivering a keynote address at the Indiana Library Federation’s FOIL conference.

Date Recorded: 9/10/2025

Format: Archived YouTube Video

Presenter: Dr. Treg Hopkins / Co-Founder of Connectable

 

Libraries in the age of AI: Bridging Technology and Society – 1 LEU

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woman sitting in chair next to robot who represents artificial intelligenceTechnology evolves at an exponential pace—a concept that can be challenging to grasp. Modern public libraries play a vital role in helping patrons navigate and adapt to these rapid societal changes. We provide access to digital literacy tools, cutting-edge technology, and resources for cultural adaptation and inclusion.

As artificial intelligence continues to advance, the coming decade could bring transformations comparable to those witnessed over the past century. To prepare, it is crucial to understand the various types of AI models and their applications. Equally important is a shift in our perspective: from focusing solely on local issues and linear projections to embracing a global outlook that acknowledges exponential growth. Such growth will transcend national borders and impact humanity on a universal scale.

MIT Predicts society will fall by 2040, futurist Ray Kurzweil predicts we will be living in abundance. Either way, I think we are in for a wild ride.

Date Recorded: 1/29/2025

Format: Archived YouTube Video

Presenters: Michael Acsbok, Associate Director of Information Technology and Nicaris Daniels-Porter, IT Support Technician / East Chicago Public Library

 

Introduction to IN.GOV websites – 1 LEU

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image of the seal of Indiana with the buffalo and the man chopping down a tree with a sunset over the grassy hillThis webinar is an overview of the in.gov websites. Information covered is how to begin, the process of building your website and a library who has already made the switch.

Date Recorded: 9/2/2025

Format: Archived YouTube Video

Presenters: Brett Edstene (IOT), Clarissa Rodda (Tyler Technologies) and Rich Weiland (Adams Public Library System)

Resources

 

AI Powered Research and Data Analysis – 1 LEU

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image of person in profile with data connections in back of headLearn how AI tools assist with data analysis, research automation, and text summarization. Demonstrate AI applications like ChatGPT, semantic search engines, and data visualization tools to streamline workflows.

Presenter Bio:  Dr. Treg Hopkins is the Co-Founder of Connectable, an Indiana-based nonprofit committed to enhancing adult education programs across more than 20 states through advanced data systems and artificial intelligence. As a Certified Quantitative Methodologist, his research focuses on neurodiversity, aging, and the role of technology in these areas. Hopkins has extensive leadership experience, serving on multiple boards and advising nonprofits and government entities on strategic planning. His expertise in library innovation includes serving on a long-term library planning board and previously delivering a keynote address at the Indiana Library Federation’s FOIL conference.

Date Recorded: 8/27/2025

Format: Archived YouTube Video

Presenter: Dr. Treg Hopkins / Co-Founder of Connectable

Resources:

 

AI in Libraries Transforming Information Access – 1 LEU

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Artificial Intelligence button with letters AIExplore how AI enhances library services, including automated cataloging, AI-driven search tools, and personalized recommendations. Discuss ethical considerations and best practices for implementation.

Presenter Bio:  Dr. Treg Hopkins is the Co-Founder of Connectable, an Indiana-based nonprofit committed to enhancing adult education programs across more than 20 states through advanced data systems and artificial intelligence. As a Certified Quantitative Methodologist, his research focuses on neurodiversity, aging, and the role of technology in these areas. Hopkins has extensive leadership experience, serving on multiple boards and advising nonprofits and government entities on strategic planning. His expertise in library innovation includes serving on a long-term library planning board and previously delivering a keynote address at the Indiana Library Federation’s FOIL conference.

Date Recorded: 7/30/2025

Format: Archived YouTube Video

Presenter: Dr. Treg Hopkins / Co-Founder of Connectable

Resources:

 

The Bridge – Noble County Public Library’s Makerspace – 1 LEU

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image of the bridge imagine explore manufactureFind out how The Bridge Makerspace evolved at the Noble County Public Library.

 

Date Recorded: 11/8/2023

Format: Archived YouTube Video

Presenters: Derrick Leatherman, IT Services Manager and Austin Smith, Technology Coordinator / Noble County Public Library

Resources:

  • Bridge Checkout form pdf
  • Glowforge setting sheet link (as of 12-2023)
  • Prices for materials (as of 12-2023)
  • Software mentioned – Blender / Canva / Pinshaper / Thingiverse / Tinkercad / Silhouette Studio
  • The Bridge machines mentioned – Cameo / Epson Eco Tank / Form 2 / Heat Press / Plotter Printer / Resin Printer / Toner Printer (white) / X-Carve (no longer in The Bridge)