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VAASL 2024 Annual Conference
                                                                                                       Welcome to the VAASL 2024 Fall Conference App! 
                                                                                       Telling Our Story through an incredible program of sessions and events.

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Wednesday, November 6
 

1:00pm EST

Innovative Ways to Engage Readers with Diverse Learning Styles
Wednesday November 6, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Allegheny C
Innovative approaches provide multiple access points into stories for readers of all learning styles. This interactive session, led by acclaimed authors Jo Watson Hackl and Landra Jennings, will utilize the VARK learning-style model as a starting point for equipping you with tools and techniques to use with your learners. Break-outs will be used during this multi-sensory session. Attendees will leave with hand-outs and resources.

Join us for this fun and informative session. Free swag and door prizes!
Speakers
avatar for Jo Watson Hackl

Jo Watson Hackl

Guest Presenter, Author
Jo Watson Hackl is the national best-selling author of SMACK DAB IN THE MIDDLE OF MAYBE (Random House Children’s Books/Yearling Adventure), which won the Southern Book Prize and is an Amazon Teacher’s Pick and a “Read Across America” selection representing the state of Mississippi... Read More →
avatar for Landra Jennings

Landra Jennings

Author
Landra Jennings is the author of middle-grade fantasy novels The Whispering Fog and Wand published by HarperCollins Clarion Books. Her novel The Whispering Fog is a 2024-2025 SC Junior Book Award Nominee and a current SC Battle of the Books selection. Landra holds an MFA in Writing... Read More →
Wednesday November 6, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Allegheny C
  Instruction   Literature

2:00pm EST

Using Picture Books to Enhance and Enrich the SSGS Curriculum
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Piedmont A
Librarians will learn about a collaboration between middle school library staff and 7th grade social studies teachers who explored different ways to use fiction and nonfiction picture books within daily social studies lessons. Librarians will walk away with a list of picture books and corresponding activities/lessons. Includes ideas for using picture books with all areas of secondary SSGS curriculum.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Larson

Melissa Larson

Librarian, BRAMBLETON MIDDLE SCHOOL
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Piedmont A
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature

2:00pm EST

Curricular Connections with YALSA's 2024 Outstanding Books for the College Board
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Liberty AB
Explore how selections from YALSA's 2024 Outstanding Books for the College-Bound enrich curricular content. From literature to science to history and more, these books offer diverse perspectives and themes aligning with high school academic subjects. Presented by a member of the selection committee!
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Castellano

Lisa Castellano

School Librarian, Norfolk Collegiate Upper School
This is my 14th year as a school librarian. I worked 10.5 years as a public middle school librarian and am now a librarian for a grades 6-12 independent school.
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Liberty AB
  Collection Development   Literature

2:00pm EST

I Will Survive...the Weeding and Genrefying
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Piedmont B
Come learn how to weed your collection with the goal of genrefying by hearing our tales of what worked and what didn't. We will explore genrefying fiction and nonfiction sections and can be applied to all levels.
Speakers
avatar for Elyse DeQuoy

Elyse DeQuoy

School Librarian, James Wood High School
avatar for Melissa Payne

Melissa Payne

librarian, James Wood High School
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Piedmont B
  Collection Development   Literature

3:00pm EST

Biliteracy in the Library
Wednesday November 6, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EST
Piedmont B
School libraries are a bridge to access, support, and develop biliteracy skills while instilling a love of reading and creating life-ready learners. Using the AASL Standards Framework for Learners, we will look at each domain with a biliteracy lens to guide our teaching, curation work, and school community engagement.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Hill

Jennifer Hill

School Librarian, Librarian, Holladay ES, Henrico County Public Schools
Hola! I am a school librarian at Holladay Elementary in Henrico County, VA.  I built the county's first biliterate library collection and we are home to a thriving library program that supports students in both English and Spanish languages.  I am a culturally-focused librarian... Read More →
Wednesday November 6, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EST
Piedmont B
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature   Professional Growth   Programming

3:00pm EST

Tell Your Story with Twine
Wednesday November 6, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EST
Liberty AB
Learn how to use Twine as a way to create interactive stories. This can be used with all subjects and is an easy way to integrate computer science standards! Please be sure to bring your own device as we will be spending the session writing our own Choose Your Own Adventure Stories!
Speakers
avatar for Emily Cissell

Emily Cissell

Librarian, Thornburg Middle School
Wednesday November 6, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EST
Liberty AB
  Instruction   Literature   Technology

3:00pm EST

Read This Book Before You Quit Your Teaching Job
Wednesday November 6, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EST
Patriot AB
This book is a firsthand account of stories about teaching in Washington, DC. It details shocking and sometimes funny accounts of the modern classroom. It is a must read for teachers, educators, and stakeholders. Sometimes learning how teachers overcome the worst classroom experiences can encourage new teachers to stay and become better in the profession. It is a must read for the next staff book club, professional development or educator panel.
Speakers
avatar for TR Dozier

TR Dozier

Author/Education Consultant (Librarian and Teacher)
I have worked as a teacher and librarian of all grade levels in Washington, DC and Virginia for more than 20 years. I love school talk, both good and bad. My passion is helping educators, students, and families find strategies for success in the modern school.
Wednesday November 6, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EST
Patriot AB
  Literature
 
Thursday, November 7
 

10:00am EST

Empowering Growth: Bridging High School and Middle School Libraries
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Liberty AB
This session explores strategies for seamless vertical alignment, enhancing student literacy, research skills, and a love for reading. This session delves into collaborative approaches, shared resources, and curriculum integration, fostering a cohesive learning journey from middle to high school.
Speakers
LT
avatar for Beth Ebenstein Mulch

Beth Ebenstein Mulch

Librarian, Alexandria City High School Library
@KingSt_Library
avatar for Khris Hutson

Khris Hutson

Library Media Specialist, Alexandria City Public Schools
I am a library media specialist at Francis C. Hammond Middle School in Alexandria, VA.  I was fortunate enough to trade one best job in the world (middle school ELA teacher) for this best job in the world.  My areas of focus include shenanigans and attracting new and reluctant readers... Read More →
LB
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Liberty AB
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature   Professional Growth   Programming

10:00am EST

Literature and Primary Sources: The Perfect Pairing for Student Learning
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Tidewater AB
Based on our book, "Literature and Primary Sources: The Perfect Pairing for Student Learning" we will explore ways for librarians to pair literature with primary sources in the library or in collaboration with language arts, English, and ELL classes. We will include ideas for selecting literature as well as finding and choosing primary sources.
Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Newland

Rebecca Newland

Librarian, Oakton High School
I spent the 2013-14 and 2014-15 school years as the Teacher in Residence at the Library of Congress. Before that I was a middle school librarian in Virginia Beach City Public Schools. I am currently a librarian at Oakton High School in the Fairfax County Public Schools.
avatar for Tom Bober

Tom Bober

Librarian-Author Keynote
Tom Bober is a school librarian at Captain Elementary in St. Louis, MO. He is a Library Journal Mover and Shaker, former Teacher in Residence at the Library of Congress, and author of the books Building News Literacy, Elementary Educator's Guide to Primary Sources, as well as his... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Tidewater AB
  Instruction   Literature

10:00am EST

Reading Makes Cents: Featuring STEM Focused Library Lessons
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Piedmont C
Reading Makes Cents is a K-8 financial literacy program sponsored by VA529 and the Virginia Council on Economic Education that provides free books and student recognition. New titles include “Water Day”, “Pa, Me, and Our Sidewalk Pantry”, and “The Fabulous Fannie Farmer.” Featuring lesson plans, an annotated bibliography, and door prizes.
Speakers
avatar for Lynne Stover

Lynne Stover

Teacher Consultant, JMU Center for Economic Education
Lynne Farrell Stover is currently a Teacher Consultant at the James Madison University Center for Economic Education.  Prior to this, she spent thirty-three years in public education where she enjoyed various teaching assignments including classroom teacher, gifted education specialist... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Piedmont C
  Instruction   Literature

10:00am EST

Meet the Authors - Elementary
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Tidewater CD
Ten Virginia and DC Authors who write for Elementary Readers will present information about their Author Visits and answer questions. One participant will win a free virtual author visit from one of the presenting authors.
Speakers
avatar for Laura Murray

Laura Murray

Author
I am very excited to be connecting with the wonderful librarians at VAASL this year! I am the author of the VRC award-winning – THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL picture book series and the BRAND NEW GINGERBREAD MAN GRAPHIC NOVELS for YOUNG READERS series. The Gingerbread... Read More →
avatar for Tracey Kyle

Tracey Kyle

Picture Book Author
Tracey Kyle is the author of six rhyming picture books, including PEPE AND THE PARADE and THE LUCKY GRAPES: A NEW YEAR'S EVE STORY.  She taught Spanish for 30 years at the secondary level and enjoys sharing her love of the Spanish language and culture with kids. Her next book, PEPE... Read More →
avatar for Laura Renauld

Laura Renauld

Children's Author
avatar for Debra Shumaker

Debra Shumaker

Author, MidAtlantic SCBWI
I write fiction and nonfiction picture books with both heart and humor. Two of my books, FREAKY, FUNKY FISH: ODD FACTS ABOUT FASCINATING FISH and PECULIAR PRIMATES: FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT THESE CURIOUS CREATURES are rhyming nonfiction with lots of back matter. They are published... Read More →
avatar for Cynthia Cliff

Cynthia Cliff

Author/Illustrator, SCBWI Mid-Atlantic
I am a self-taught illustrator and author who grew up in a tiny historic village in rural Virginia surrounded by farms and woodlands. This upbringing provided me with a love of history, nature, and folklore—themes that find their way into my whimsical, folk-art inspired story telling... Read More →
avatar for Alyssa Colman

Alyssa Colman

Author
Alyssa Colman is the author of Where Only Storms Grow (2025), The Tarnished Garden, and The Gilded Girl, which won the 2021 Northern Lights Book Award for middle grade fantasy and was a Bank Street Best Book of the Year. Publishers Weekly called the story “a thoughtful and imaginative... Read More →
avatar for Dionna Mann

Dionna Mann

Author, SCBWI
Salutations!My name is Dionna L. Mann. I'm an independent researcher and children’s book author who loves uncovering inspiring human-interest stories hidden within African American history. As a work for hire author, I've written 20 children's books, both fiction and nonfiction... Read More →
avatar for Leah Moser

Leah Moser

Author
Leah Moser is a children’s book author living in Northern Virginia. With degrees in Elementary Education and Psychology, Leah has spent years as a classroom teacher. She loves sharing her passion for picture books with her husband, three daughters, dog, and readers of all ages... Read More →
avatar for Kim Norman

Kim Norman

With nearly 20 years experience, Kim Norman has spoken to more than a quarter of a million students across the U.S. all of whom now know that dogs are her favorite pets. She’s the author of more than 20 children's books published by Penguin/RandomHouse, Macmillan, Candlewick, Scholastic... Read More →
avatar for Erica Perl

Erica Perl

Author, Erica S. Perl
I am the author of more than forty books for young readers, including middle grade novels (White Bird: A Novel, with R.J. Palacio), picture books (How Carrot Met Cookie, The Three Little Guinea Pigs), chapter books (Craftily Ever After series, Arnold and Louise series), and early... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Tidewater CD
  Instruction   Literature   Programming

11:00am EST

Telling Your Story
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Allegheny AB
Award-winning author Larry Issa, a Virginia native, shares his insights on self-expression and indie publishing, highlighting the innovative picture books he's crafting. Discover how his engaging author visits, and interactive classroom activities, bring his stories to life, inspiring young minds and fostering creativity.
Speakers
avatar for Larry Issa

Larry Issa

Author/Book Designer, Get Back in the Book!
This extraordinary tale, written by Larry Issa, features stunning illustrations by Emma Chadwick. More than transporting young readers to faraway places, Get Back in the Book! shows them the powerful and positive impact of books and storytelling.Come say hello to Larry Issa, a multi... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Allegheny AB
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature

11:00am EST

New Choices for Virginia Libraries: New Circulation System, Fundraising Options, and More with Mackin!
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Piedmont B
No matter what your school library goals and budget are, Mackin is here to support you! In this session, you’ll learn about a couple of brand-new options from Mackin. MackinVISION is our new, state-of-the art whole school-library management system. Come see an alternative to your current system with the tools and reporting your library needs without all the additional fees. We will also discuss Love My Library, a new fund-raising option where 100% of the funds raised benefit your school community. Bob and Todd will also answer any Mackin questions you may have.
Speakers
avatar for Todd Harold

Todd Harold

Mackin
For over 37 years, Mackin has provided library and classroom materials for grades PK-12. Known the world over for exemplary service and a stringent attention to detail, we have access to over 18,000 publishers and an available collection of more than 3 million printed titles.The development... Read More →
avatar for Bob Stapf

Bob Stapf

Educational Sales Consultant, Mackin
For over 40 years, Mackin has provided PK-12 libraries and classrooms with access to over 4.2 million print and digital titles. The 23-time, multi-award-winning digital content management system, MackinVIA, along with divisions Mackin Classroom, MackinMaker, Mackin Learning, and the... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Piedmont B
  Collection Development   Literature   Programming

11:00am EST

When Creativity Met Collaboration
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Allegheny C
The author and illustrator of The When Pencil Met series will hold a session about creativity and collaboration, discussing the creation process behind When Pencil Met Eraser, When Pencil Met the Markers, and When Glitter Met Glue. They will also share some fun activities and lessons that extend the themes of the books to the library and classroom!
Speakers
KK
avatar for Germán Blanco

Germán Blanco

Germán Blanco is a self-taught illustrator/graphic designer who resides in South Florida. As a child, he always enjoyed doodling, which he didn't know could eventually turn into a career. His work has a fun and quirky style derived from years of watching cartoons and reading comic... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Allegheny C
  Literature

12:00pm EST

100 (or more) NEW Books for Middle and High School Readers!
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Colony ABC
This session will be full of booktalks for MG and YA literature to be added to your middle and HS libraries. All books discussed have been published within the last year, and personally read by the presenters, so come hear about some great new and upcoming titles! Favorites will be discussed and questions about any titles on the list are encouraged. We'll give you the lowdown - highlights and dirt!
Speakers
avatar for Jenny Ashby

Jenny Ashby

Librarian, Drew Middle School
When I was thinking about applying for my first library job my dad said "Any literate person can be a librarian!" and that seemed like good advice to me. I didn't know what I was getting into 32 years ago but now I know it's the best job in the school! I read a lot, take a lot of... Read More →
avatar for Janice Raspen

Janice Raspen

Acquisitions Librarian, Chesterfield County Public Schools
I love books and reading and libraries. Looking forward to sharing some thoughts about MG and YA books with you.
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Colony ABC
  Collection Development   Literature

12:00pm EST

Elemental Cross-Curricular Connections: Overlapping Lesson Music and Children's Literature
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Allegheny AB
Come to hear a veteran music teacher who is an Orff-Schulwerk specialist and a librarian who is a former classroom teacher, share the myriad ways that children's literature and music lesson an and should overlap to enhance student understanding in multiple content areas. Participants will leave with specific lesson idea, books lists, and activities to take back to their learning spaces.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle O'Hara

Michelle O'Hara

Lower School Teaching Librarian, The Potomac School
I am an elementary school librarian, former classroom teacher, and lover of all things cozy, reading-related, and dark chocolaty.
avatar for Tara Clayburn
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Allegheny AB
  Instruction   Literature   Professional Growth

1:00pm EST

Diverse Literature: VA READS in the Library
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont B
Come explore VA READS. Learn about our diverse picture books while we share activity suggestions and provide recommended book pairings. You will walk away ready to share these books with your K-6 students.

Speakers
avatar for Ami Schroder

Ami Schroder

Librarian, Fairfax County Public Schools
In addition to being a school librarian, I am the co-founder of VA READS and love to talk about diverse books for all ages!#VAREADSTwitter: @anilawc Insta: schroderrific
avatar for Amy Hurley

Amy Hurley

Librarian, Fairfax County Public Schools
I have been a librarian in Fairfax County for ten years. I am currently the chair of the VA READS picture book committee. Insta: librarylitlady
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont B
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature

1:00pm EST

A Book for Every Reader: How One District Succeeds with Digital
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Patriot AB
Learn everything you didn’t know you needed to know about district-wide implementation of a digital reading platform. From curating content to managing budget, training staff and promoting across the district, you’ll get an inside look at successful strategies to get students reading ebooks and audiobooks at every grade level.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Hailey

Amy Hailey

Supervisor, Arlington Public Schools
avatar for Jody Brookshire

Jody Brookshire

Strategic Account Executive, Sora
Jody Brookshire is a dedicated e-learning and digital content Educational Account Executive with more than 23 years in the industry. Her background includes supporting districts with digital content, 21st Century technology initiatives, STEM & Robotics, and full implementation of... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Patriot AB
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature   Technology

1:00pm EST

So Many Books, So Little Time
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont A
Join me for a fast paced, exciting journey through a treasure chest of great titles. During the session I will share some of the most recently published as well as soon to be published titles. The session will include books for all grade levels, a list of books that were shared as well as some book giveaways straight from the publishers! Don't miss out on a fun session all about books!
Speakers
avatar for Laurie Bolt
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont A
  Collection Development   Literature

1:00pm EST

Our Story in Code
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Liberty AB
This session will focus on how Librarian Jamie Symons and Katie Novinger Instructional Technology Specialist collaborate to bring coding and computer science alive in the Elementary School Library. They will share their story and model and give participants a hands-on opportunity to explore the tools and resources they use with students.
Speakers
avatar for Jamie Symons

Jamie Symons

Librarian, Manassas City Public Schools
avatar for Katie Novinger

Katie Novinger

Instructional Technology Specialist, Manassas City Public Schools
This is my third year serving as the Instructional Technology Training Specialist (ITTS) for Round Elementary School.  Prior to transitioning into my current role, I spent eight years as a classroom teacher.  I'm passionate about incorporating coding and computer science into the... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Liberty AB
  Instruction   Literature   Technology

2:30pm EST

Dynamic Diverse Books for Your Library
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Tidewater CD
Step into the world of diverse books with the founders of VA READS! Join us and walk away with a wish list of over 75 book titles! We will share all the amazing diverse middle grade (upper elementary and middle school) titles we read over the past year. We'll share our faves as well as those that miss the mark.
Speakers
avatar for Ami Schroder

Ami Schroder

Librarian, Fairfax County Public Schools
In addition to being a school librarian, I am the co-founder of VA READS and love to talk about diverse books for all ages!#VAREADSTwitter: @anilawc Insta: schroderrific
avatar for Katie Bruechert

Katie Bruechert

Middle School Librarian, Fairfax County Public Schools-Thoreau Middle
I have twenty-three years of experience as an educator, including twelve years as an elementary school librarian. Currently, I'm in my second year as a middle school librarian. I've served on the 2024 John Newbery Award Committee, co-founded VAREADS, and I'm currently the VAREADS... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Tidewater CD
  Collection Development   Literature
 
Friday, November 8
 

8:00am EST

Comics and Manga in the Classroom - Beginner Session
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Piedmont A
For years, comic books and graphic novels were dismissed as mere recreational reading, often relegated to a less serious status. However, emerging research reveals their true value: they engage struggling readers, enhance skills for accomplished ones, and effectively teach all subjects, not just English. Join us to explore their crucial role in education and discuss integrating them into curricula.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Cissell

Emily Cissell

Librarian, Thornburg Middle School
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Piedmont A
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature   Programming

8:00am EST

WONKA: Movie Magic Library Lessons
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Piedmont C
Book-based blockbusters have to potential of engaging students as they learn about fictional characters navigating their world, making decisions, and solving problems. Featuring Willy Wonka, (as well as other Roald Dahl books that have been made into movies), this interactive session includes library-ready lessons, an annotated bibliography and door prizes.
Speakers
avatar for Lynne Stover

Lynne Stover

Teacher Consultant, JMU Center for Economic Education
Lynne Farrell Stover is currently a Teacher Consultant at the James Madison University Center for Economic Education.  Prior to this, she spent thirty-three years in public education where she enjoyed various teaching assignments including classroom teacher, gifted education specialist... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Piedmont C
  Instruction   Literature

8:00am EST

Meet the Authors - Secondary
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Tidewater CD
Five Virginia and DC Authors who write for Middle School and High School Readers will present information about their Author Visits and answer questions. One participant will win a free virtual author visit from one of the presenting authors.
Speakers
avatar for Erin Teagan

Erin Teagan

author
Erin Teagan is the author of the Luciana series, American Girl’s 2018 Girl of the Year, The Friendship Experiment (HMH), and Survivor Girl (Clarion, 2019). She has a background in science and worked in drug research for more than ten years. She uses many of her experiences from... Read More →
avatar for Terry Jennings

Terry Jennings

Author
I am a Cuban American author of children's books. I am the author of The Little House of Hope, a book about an immigrant family who shares their home with other immigrants to give them a leg up in their new country. The Definitely Dominguita series is a chapter book series about a... Read More →
avatar for Edie Hemingway

Edie Hemingway

Author
I am co-author of two Civil War novels, both licensed by Scholastic Book Fairs and optioned for films. My middle grade novel, Road to Tater Hill (Delacorte Press), won a Parents’ Choice Gold Award and was listed on Bank Street College’s Best Books List and several state lists... Read More →
avatar for Jen Furlong

Jen Furlong

Author, MPC Publishing
Author of award-winning YA series The Unimaginables: Hidden City, Tattooed Angel, Magick Squared. Meredith’s World Series (middle-grade humorous adventures) Meredith at The Met, Meredith for Congress. Children’s picture book: Mrs. Cheesely Loves Cheese. Co-Author of Antagonists... Read More →
avatar for Heather Murphy Capps

Heather Murphy Capps

Author, SCBWI Mid-Atlantic
I’m an award-winning author of upper middle-grade books. I write historical fiction and use magical realism—topics I love to talk about, especially with young readers and educators.
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Tidewater CD
  Literature   Programming

11:00am EST

Does Diversity Matter? (Hint: Yes!)
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Tidewater CD
Who gets to write what, and why? One author's point of view about creating books for young people - the roadblocks, readers' responses, and why this is so important for all voices to be heard.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Yee

Lisa Yee

Author - Keynote
Lisa Yee’s groundbreaking Millicent Min, Girl Genius, featuring one of the first Asian American protagonists in contemporary literature, debuted in 2003. Her most recent novel, Maizy Chen’s Last Chance, has garnered numerous awards including a Newbery Honor, National Book Award... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Tidewater CD
  Collection Development   Literature   Programming

12:00pm EST

Helping Your School Be Equipped with Book Selections and Science of Reading
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Allegheny AB
As new book and reading requirements unfold, we’ll first share how you can instantaneously get Book Resumes to increase confidence in your collections and purchases. Second, we’ll review share how to use TeachingBooks to identify popular picture books by phonetical classifications to reinforce literacy instruction.
Speakers
NG
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Allegheny AB
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature   Professional Growth   Programming

12:00pm EST

Meet Them Where They Are: Using Instagram in the Library
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Piedmont B
How do you promote your library when everyone is glued to their phones? Meet them where they live by utilizing Instagram. This session is perfect for those who have no time, those who have tons of time, those who are just starting out, and those who have reached influencer status.
Speakers
avatar for Erinn Harris

Erinn Harris

Librarian, Woodson High School
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Piedmont B
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature   Professional Growth   Programming   Technology

12:00pm EST

Finding Story in VA's Hidden History (and Helping Students Love Research)
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Piedmont C
A cataclysmic Depression-era drought that devastated Virginia farms. Steely horsewomen. Penny auctions. Rainmakers. The Bonus Army. Author L. M. Elliott - winner of the Scott O’Dell Award (2024) and VLA’s Cardinal Cup (2023) - shares stunning, forgotten history from her O’Dell-winning BEA AND THE NEW DEAL HORSE and its research treasure hunt.
Speakers
avatar for Laura Elliott

Laura Elliott

YA/MG historical fiction author, self
L. M. Elliott was a Washington, D.C. magazine journalist for 20 years before becoming a New York Times bestselling author of over a dozen historical and biographical fictions. Her YA/MG novels have won the Scott O'Dell, VLA Cardinal Cup, and Grateful American Book Prize for historical... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Piedmont C
  Instruction   Literature

12:00pm EST

Reading as a Revolutionary Act
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Tidewater CD
Join author Samira Ahmed for a candid discussion about the ongoing attacks on the freedom to read, the role of libraries as lighthouses of our democracy and why art is revolutionary. She will share personal stories of being "cancelled" and banned including work she's doing with Authors Against Book Bans and invites you to share your experiences as well.
Speakers
avatar for Samira Ahmed

Samira Ahmed

Author - Keynote
Samira Ahmed is the New York Times and indie bestselling author of numerous works for young people including Love Hate & Other Filters, Internment, Hollow Fires, This Book Won’t Burn, the Amira & Hamza duology and Ms. Marvel: Beyond the Limit. She was born in Bombay, India and grew... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Tidewater CD
  Literature   Professional Growth

1:00pm EST

Comics and Manga in the Classroom - Advanced Session
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont A
Join us for a collaborative session to analyze comics as historical artifacts, explore their history, and create lesson plans using comics and manga for all subjects. This working session will involve brainstorming ideas and reviewing my planning process for teaching with comics. Bring your device and get ready to collaborate!
Speakers
avatar for Emily Cissell

Emily Cissell

Librarian, Thornburg Middle School
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont A
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature   Programming

1:00pm EST

VRC High School Titles for 2024-2025
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Tidewater CD
Come learn about the new VRC high school titles for this year as well as how to join the committee, and nominate titles. Come with some of your favorite reads of the year to share with others!
Speakers
avatar for Elyse DeQuoy

Elyse DeQuoy

School Librarian, James Wood High School
avatar for Megan Watson

Megan Watson

English Teacher, LCPS
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Tidewater CD
  Collection Development   Literature

1:00pm EST

Building an Engaging Unit: Exploring the Primary Virginia Readers' Choice Book List
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Allegheny C
Discover how to develop engaging lessons around the primary 2024/2025 Virginia Readers’ Choice book list. This session will provide practical strategies, creative ideas, and collaborative approaches to enhance student learning and foster a love for reading. Perfect for building a comprehensive and exciting unit around 10 different books!
Speakers
avatar for Emily Underwood

Emily Underwood

School Librarian, Henrico County Public Schools
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Allegheny C
  Instruction   Literature
 
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