Providing Programming and Professional Development Solutions for Libraries
My name is Brian Johnston, and I am based out of St. Joseph, Michigan.
I provide support for libraries by helping them run programming and offering professional development opportunities for both new and experienced staff. I earned my Master's of Library and Information Science from Wayne State University and have nearly two decades of experience working in public libraries.
I have been a proponent of libraries for a long time, and I also understand both the challenges and opportunities that they are facing as we move further into the 2020s and beyond.
But I don't just help libraries. I can also help schools, senior centers, and other community organizations with their programming needs, too.
I can travel throughout the Midwest to help organizations of all sizes, and I can also consult with organizations online. Please review the information below to learn more!
Discover The Roving Librarian
Programming
Professional Development
Professional Development
- Technology Training: I have taught classes on many different topics, from computer basics to Microsoft Office products to using smartphones. I can teach these for patrons of all ages and can even teach them for your staff.
- Sports presentations: There aren't many libraries that offer presentations on sports topics, but this is one of my big
- Technology Training: I have taught classes on many different topics, from computer basics to Microsoft Office products to using smartphones. I can teach these for patrons of all ages and can even teach them for your staff.
- Sports presentations: There aren't many libraries that offer presentations on sports topics, but this is one of my biggest passions! Let me know what topic may interest you, or I can give suggestions.
- Popular Culture Presentations: Want a presentation on famous TV shows or musicians? Let's talk about what I can put together for you.
- Writing Workshops: I have written three books and would be happy to share my knowledge on topics from improving your writing to publishing your book.
- Other programs: I can also run trivia nights, book clubs, and story times. Whatever your theme is, I can create a program that your patrons will love!
Professional Development
Professional Development
Professional Development
- Working in a Public Library: For those who are new to working in a public library, I provide an overview of what they offer, some of the big issues facing them today, and how to be successful and to grow in the profession.
- Programming for Beginners: For those who are new to planning programs, I provide information that everyone needs to kn
- Working in a Public Library: For those who are new to working in a public library, I provide an overview of what they offer, some of the big issues facing them today, and how to be successful and to grow in the profession.
- Programming for Beginners: For those who are new to planning programs, I provide information that everyone needs to know and insights from well over a decade of planning, implementing, and running programs for all ages.
- Programming Ideas on a Budget: I'll provide innovative ideas that libraries with almost any budget can implement.
- Collection Development for Beginners: For those who are new to selecting library materials for purchase, learn about sources to consult when selecting materials, how to choose materials that are in demand in your community, and how to properly maintain the collection including weeding.
- The Reference Interview: Learn how to be prepared when your patrons come in asking a variety of questions. A simple question can often turn into an enlightening conversation!
- Readers' Advisory: Patrons frequently want our guidance in deciding what to read. Learn about sources you can consult to expand your knowledge and how to prepare for almost any readers' advisory question.
- Book Bans in the 2020s and Beyond: Book challenges are the biggest topic of conversation in the library profession today. Learn about what they are and why it's important to be prepared ahead of time.
- Working the Circulation Desk: Most library staff who work the front desk will encounter people from all walks of life and, at times, challenging situations. For those who are new to working the circulation desk, learn how to provide the best possible customer service, even in difficult circumstances.
- Social Media for Libraries: Are you having a hard time getting people to notice your social media posts? Learn about how to make posts that will engage your followers, including some "outside the box" ideas for getting them to interact with you.
- Creating a Positive Work Environment for Your Library: Learn about some ideas for keeping your library staff not only happy, but also engaged in their work. I'll also discuss the importance of teamwork and present ideas for getting your staff more involved in what the library does.
Contact Me
Professional Development
Contact Me
Are you interested in having me give any of the presentations that you see listed here, either for your patrons or your staff? Or you do just want to learn more?
CLICK HERE to go to a form where you can contact me.
I am based out of Southwest Michigan and can travel around the Midwest or do many of my presentations virtually.
If you want a f
Are you interested in having me give any of the presentations that you see listed here, either for your patrons or your staff? Or you do just want to learn more?
CLICK HERE to go to a form where you can contact me.
I am based out of Southwest Michigan and can travel around the Midwest or do many of my presentations virtually.
If you want a formal quote, please provide as many details as possible. I may be able to offer discounts if you can get nearby libraries or other organizations to schedule with me around the same time.
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