MiALA 2026 Annual Conference: Full Schedule

5:30pm EDT

Opening Reception

Wednesday May 6, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm EDT

Join us for light hors d’oeuvres and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks as you kick off your MiALA Conference experience, held in The Gallery just outside the Grandview Ballroom in the Park Place Hotel’s conference center.Menu:The Market Station: Capicola | Hardwood Smoked Ham | Genoa Salami | Prosciutto | Assorted Domestic & Imported Cheeses | Seasonal Vegetables | Olives | Preserves | Honey...
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Wednesday May 6, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm EDT
Park Place Hotel and Conference Center

Food/Break/Social

8:30am EDT

Registration

Thursday May 7, 2026 8:30am - 5:00pm EDT

Grandview I

Thursday May 7, 2026 8:30am - 5:00pm EDT
Grandview I

Informational

9:00am EDT

Continental Breakfast

Thursday May 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT

Grandview I

Thursday May 7, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Grandview I

Food/Break/Social

9:45am EDT

President's Welcome

Thursday May 7, 2026 9:45am - 10:00am EDT

Grandview I

Presenters

Mary O'Kelly

Associate Dean (MiALA President-Elect), Western Michigan University

I am the Associate Dean of Libraries at Western Michigan University and serve as Vice President and President-Elect of MiALA. I am almost finished with a doctorate in organizational change leadership, focusing on change resistance and paradox mindset. My research interests range from... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 9:45am - 10:00am EDT
Grandview I

Informational

10:00am EDT

Keynote Address

Thursday May 7, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EDT

Grandview I

Building a Culture of Curiosity in Academic Libraries: Toward Resilience, Innovation, and ThrivingIn an era of rapid institutional change, academic libraries face persistent pressure to defend their relevance and navigate competing demands (shifting student populations, resource constraints, and questions of institutional identity and sustainability). Yet amid these external pressures, a more...
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Presenters

Steven M. Adams

Head of Public Services for Learning and Engagement, Northwestern University

Steven M. Adams has 26 years of experience as a librarian, educator, speaker, and workshop facilitator. He creates dynamic learning experiences that spark introspection and nurture group cohesion. Steven’s current research and workshop design projects explore the role of curiosity... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EDT
Grandview I

Keynote

11:00am EDT

Break

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am EDT

All Day Beverages: Coffee (regular & decaf) | Hot Tea | Iced Tea

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am EDT

Food/Break/Social

11:30am EDT

Crafting our Collective Compass: Collaborations to Advance Incarcerated Students' Academic Library Access

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT

Front

Feedback Survey

Learn about the statewide work of academic libraries supporting incarcerated students. This panel will share updates from the Michigan Consortium for Higher Education in Prison (MiCHEP) Library Affinity Group on efforts to establish standards for academic library access for students, examples of academic libraries supporting both new and established prison education programs (PEPs), and a...
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Presenters

Jessica Hronchek

Head of Collections and Access, Hope College

Cara Medvedenko

Liaison Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Cara Medvedenko is a Library Specialist at Grand Valley State University. After seven years in public libraries, she now brings her enthusiasm for user-focused service to GVSU’s library User Experience team where she supports virtual customer service and engages with users through... Read More →

Jen Fiero

Library & Information Commons Director, Jackson College

I've been a librarian since 2012 and a MiALA member since the first conference in 2016. I love being a community college librarian and I wear a lot of hats! I am new to the role of director and have been in this position for just over a year, but have been at Jackson College since... Read More →

Sarah Kolk

Research and Instruction Librarian, Calvin University

Crafting our Collective Compass Collaborations to Advance Incarcerated Students’ Academic Library Access (1) pptx

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Front

Panel

11:30am EDT

Exploring Autonomy in Academic Librarianship: Strategies from Early Career Librarians

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

Academic librarians with high autonomy generally view it as a key benefit of their role. For new librarians moving from a structured LIS program to an autonomous academic role, adjusting to this independent reality takes time. In this session, early career academic librarians will discuss their experiences with autonomy in their positions and provide ideas for pushing through the discomfort and...
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Presenters

Michelle Rau

Assistant Professor, Medical Librarian, Oakland University, William Beaumont School of Medicine

Michelle Rau is an Assistant Professor and Medical Librarian at Oakland University's William Beaumont School of Medicine, in Rochester, Michigan.

Janelle Lyons

Librarian for English Language and Literature and Student Success, Wayne State University

Delaney Jorgensen

Assessment Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Exploring Autonomy Academic Librarianship pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Boardman

Presentation

11:30am EDT

Fit to Print: How to Create a Student-Led Research Journal

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT

Torch/Leelanau

Feedback Survey

The Journal of Student Research at Indiana University East (JSRIUE) was initially founded in 2017. In 2025, I had the option to turn the production of the journal into an honors-level class and lead students through the process of bringing articles to publication. This presentation will provide a model for other librarians who choose to launch a research journal on their campuses, as well as...
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Presenters

KT Lowe

Associate Librarian for Instruction and Outreach, Indiana University East

I'm an instructional librarian with a deep interest in how people access and process information, especially from nontraditional sources. I look at fake news, sure, but I also look at how protest music carries messages to various communities. I also love chocolate and can talk... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Torch/Leelanau

Presentation

11:30am EDT

Illuminating Digital Learning: A Library-Led Faculty Development Journey

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT

Park

Feedback Survey

This session explores the design and implementation of a year-long, library-facilitated faculty learning cohort focused on digital literacy and digital learning. Co-led by a librarian and a campus administrator, the cohort supported faculty across various disciplines in designing multimedia assignments using Adobe Express. The presenter will share insights on the planning, collaboration, funding,...
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Presenters

Katie Edmiston

Arts, Media & Design Librarian, Central Michigan University

Illuminating Digital Learning pptx

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Park

Presentation

11:30am EDT

Navigating Rough Terrains: Empowering Liaisons in Collection Decisions

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT

Courtyard I & II

Feedback Survey

This session explores strategies to increase subject liaison engagement in collection development decisions through data-driven approaches. Librarians from both mid-size and large institutions will share strategies to help subject liaisons make informed collections decisions using data, collaborative discussion, and subject expertise. We will discuss challenges that librarians may face while doing...
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Presenters

Tiler Jewell

Research & Collection Development Librarian, Saginaw Valley State University

Alex Hauser

Business Librarian, Michigan State University

EmpowerLiasions Presentation pptx

Thursday May 7, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Courtyard I & II

Presentation

12:15pm EDT

Birds of a Feather Lunch

Thursday May 7, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm EDT

Grandview I

Birds of a Feather is an informal lunch event where you can meet new people, casually chat about your interests, and engage with a number of MiALA Interest Groups (IGs). Many tables will either have a theme or be hosted by a specific individual or interest group and anyone can eat at any table that interests them. There will be 11 tables hosted by IGs that would love to meet you as well as several...
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Thursday May 7, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm EDT
Grandview I

Food/Break/Social

1:20pm EDT

From One-Shots to Syllabi: Charting the Possibilities of Credit-Bearing Information Literacy Instruction

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 2:05pm EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

This panel will present the perspectives of four librarians developing different types of credit-bearing information literacy instruction for a variety of disciplines, as well as their department head providing an administrative perspective. Each librarian will describe the origin of their project, how it has evolved, and their personalized approach to developing credit-bearing instruction to...
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Presenters

Samantha Minnis

Humanities Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Cayla Dwyer

Science Liaison Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Mary Ruge

Liaison and Instruction Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Hello! My name is Mary Ruge and I have over thirteen years of experience working in libraries, both public and academic. I am currently serving as a tenure-track library liaison with Grand Valley State University Libraries in Allendale, Michigan.

My research interests include comics, contemplative pedagogy, and open access resources because they are cool ways to promote equity and inclusion in academia. I've taught many programs about comics and zines for all ages in both public and academic library settings, and am passionate... Read More →

Gayle Schaub

Student Success Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Hazel McClure

Head of Research, Instruction and Outreach, Grand Valley State University

Let’s talk about high-impact practices and information literacy, planning information literacy instruction with the ACRL’s Framework for Information Literacy Instruction in Higher Education in mind, collaboration with faculty, disrupting perfectionism, mindfulness in libraries, emergent strategy in library instruction, or teaching information literacy in professional writing contexts. Or cats, birds, gardening, cooking, or books. I live and work on the banks of the... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 2:05pm EDT
Boardman

Panel

1:20pm EDT

MeL Map: 20 Years of Connections Between Wayne State and Michigan Libraries

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 2:05pm EDT

Park

Feedback Survey

For 20 years, the Michigan eLibrary (MeL) has united Michigan libraries from coast to coast, big to small, and public to academic. As IMLS funding finds itself staring down the barrel of a gun, it's more important than ever that we share the impact that funding has on our patrons. The MeL map is a showcase of MeL transactions since 2006 between Wayne State University libraries and its statewide...
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Presenters

Vaughn Xavier Haynes

Graduate Student Assistant, Wayne State University

Graduate Student Assistant at Wayne State. Please hire me!

Theresa Hovey

Library Associate Senior, Wayne State University

MiALA Presentation Compressed pptx

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 2:05pm EDT
Park

Presentation

1:20pm EDT

The CAPS Matrix: A Values-Driven Framework for Strategic Alignment in Academic Libraries

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 2:05pm EDT

Front

Feedback Survey

The CAPS Matrix provides a values-driven strategic planning framework for academic libraries navigating rapid change. By mapping strategic priorities (rows) against four operational domains, Collections, Authorship, Programming, and Spaces (columns), libraries can ensure all functional areas align with core values. This flexible, adaptable structure helps libraries maintain their 'True North'...
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Presenters

Mary O'Kelly

Associate Dean (MiALA President-Elect), Western Michigan University

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 2:05pm EDT
Front

Presentation

1:20pm EDT

When Cost-Per-Use Isn’t Enough: Solving the Small Department Dilemma

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 2:05pm EDT

Courtyard I & II

Feedback Survey

We all want to ensure departments across campus have access to the resources they need. And using data to make resource allocation decisions is responsible. But how do you ensure smaller departments aren’t placed at a disadvantage when metrics like cost-per-use are utilized? This presentation explores one academic library’s experience setting up a rubric to evaluate electronic resources that...
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Presenters

Johanna Boyle

Collections Management Librarian, Grand Valley State University

I joined GVSU in February 2025, coming from a background in public libraries. I'm an Returned Peace Corps Volunteer in Morocco (2013-2015, youth development) and I like gardening, my dog, and playing French horn (not very well).

Marcia Masters

Acquisition & Collection Data Analysis Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Mi ALA 2026 Presentation When Cost Per Use Isn't Enough Solving the Small Department Dilemma pptx

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 2:05pm EDT
Courtyard I & II

Presentation

1:20pm EDT

Creating Connections Through Slow Librarianship

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 3:00pm EDT

Torch/Leelanau

Feedback Survey

Academic librarians face constant pressure from rapid change and endless to-do lists. Slow librarianship offers a values-driven alternative to the culture of busyness, centering intentionality, equity, and relationship-building over speed. This workshop introduces practices that resist toxic productivity and foster sustainability. Through reflection, zine-making, and discussion, participants will...
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Presenters

Ashley Rosener

Open Education and Scholarly Communications Librarian, Grand Valley State University

MiALA Workshop on Slow Librarianship pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 1:20pm - 3:00pm EDT
Torch/Leelanau

Workshop

2:15pm EDT

MiALA Interest Groups: Making Colleague Connections to Illuminate Our Way

Thursday May 7, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Park

Feedback Survey

Join us for a panel discussion about making colleague connections through MiALA Interest Groups (IGs). Panelists will include MiALA members from multiple institutions in a variety of roles. Participants will learn more about the experience of creating and running a MiALA IG and the benefits of being a member, including the importance of connections, mentoring, and networking. Learning...
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Presenters

Jennifer L. Dean

Library Director, University of Michigan-Flint

I talk a lot but I'm a good listener. Chances are I'm open to talking about anything you are! At work, I like talking about how and why things happen in organizations. I also play and teach bassoon and love animals - I have four dogs and a cat.

Elizabeth Kenney

Associate Dean for Libraries & Learning Support Services, Schoolcraft College

Christina Radisauskas

Library Director, Aquinas College

Mary O'Kelly

Associate Dean (MiALA President-Elect), Western Michigan University

Beth Wallis

Associate Dean of University Libraries, Oakland University

Rochelle Zimmerman

Director of Library Services, Northwood University

IG panel slide always on subtitles pptx

Thursday May 7, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Park

Panel

2:15pm EDT

Connecting Library Work to the Dimensions of Belonging

Thursday May 7, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

This presentation explores the TIES Center's ten dimensions of belonging: Present, Invited, Welcomed, Known, Accepted, Involved, Supported, Heard, Befriended, and Needed, providing a foundation to advance campus belonging initiatives. This presentation provides an introduction to belonging in higher education before going through the ten dimensions, connecting them to library work. With this...
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Presenters

Jon Jeffryes

Associate Dean for Curriculum, Research, and User Services, Grand Valley State University

Jon Jeffryes is the Associate Dean for Curriculum, Research, and User Services at Grand Valley State University Libraries in Michigan. In this role Jon also acts as Strategic Lead for Communications for the University Libraries and the Coordinator of the Libraries IDEA Exchanges... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Boardman

Presentation

2:15pm EDT

Reparative Work in Academic Special Collections and Archives: An Ethnographic Case Study

Thursday May 7, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Front

Feedback Survey

Over the past few years, reparative work has become a topic of discussion in library and archival work, largely in the context of metadata and description. This ethnographic study interrogates what reparative work looks like in a broader sense, as it may impact the work of collection development, reference and technical services, preservation and conservation, as well as description and...
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Presenters

Jesse Johnston

Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Michigan School of Information

Nazelie Doghramadjian

PhD Candidate, University of Michigan School of Information

Thursday May 7, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Front

Presentation

2:15pm EDT

The Packaging Reuse Project: Creating Connections with Mutually Beneficial Partnerships

Thursday May 7, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Courtyard I & II

Feedback Survey

The Packaging Reuse Project is a collaboration between the library’s resource sharing department and eight different locations on campus, allowing for a unique connection between different departments. This presentation will discuss how the project was started, issues we encountered, and how the project currently operates, as well as highlight ways that attendees can collaborate and connect...
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Presenters

Brenna Wade

Public Services Librarian, Hillsdale College

I am a Public Services Librarian at Hillsdale College. My main job responsibilities include resource sharing, reference, library instruction/information literacy, and outreach/marketing. I am very interested in seeing how all of the different aspects of librarianship interact and... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Courtyard I & II

Presentation

3:15pm EDT

Academic Libraries as a Science Communication Hub

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

Academic libraries act as a hub for science communication, supporting the dissemination of knowledge, facilitating discussion, and encouraging informed decision-making. To highlight some of the science communication work done, this poster describes the education, research, and outreach support offered by two librarians in differing positions and stages in their careers. Through sharing these...
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Presenters

Eli Wachter (they/them)

Data Visualization Librarian, Michigan State University

Eli Wachter joined the Michigan State University Libraries as the university’s first Data Visualization Librarian in July 2025. They provide consultation services, workshops, and course-embedded instruction sessions on topics related to data visualization and immersive content creation... Read More →

Jodi Coalter (she/her)

Life Sciences Librarian, Michigan State University

Jodi Coalter is the Life Sciences Librarian at Michigan State University. She holds her Masters in Library and Information Science, a Graduate Certificate in Data Management, both from Wayne State University, and a second Masters in Applied Entomology from the University of Maryland... Read More →

2026 MiALA SciCommPoster pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Academic, Public, or a Secret Third Thing? Where Library Users Are Really Going to Access Scholarly Work.

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

While academic libraries offer access to hundreds of thousands of publications, usage can often be less than what we might hope. This poster dives deep into a sample set of academic titles available through Queer Liberation Library, compared to public and university libraries as well as MeL. Usage statistics invite us to consider where library users are really accessing academic works and if...
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Presenters

Amber Dierking

Liaison Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

AI as Wayfinder or Deceiver? Google Lens and Human Catalogers in Describing Detroit's Murals

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

This poster reports findings from a small-scale study comparing Google Lens' assisted and human-only descriptive metadata creation for murals in Detroit. AI-supported workflows aided visual identification and reduced initial descriptive effort but introduced epistemic friction, including misidentifications and non-authorized terminology, requiring verification. Results position Google Lens as...
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Presenters

Joan E. Beaudoin, PhD, MLIS, MA

Associate Professor, School of information Sciences, Wayne State University

Hello! In my current position I teach and perform research on metadata, information organization, digital libraries, digital preservation, museum informatics, and the access to and use of visual information. Prior to this I performed archaeological fieldwork, taught art history, and... Read More →

Sarah Offerman

MLIS Candidate, School of information Sciences, Wayne State University

I am a MLIS candidate at Wayne State University (graduating this week!), with a background in conservation and collections work. I currently work in patron services at a public library, where my interest in how people navigate information systems is shaped by daily interactions with... Read More →

Beaudoin Offerman MiALA poster pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Building Community on Knowledge Commons: Strategies for Spreading the Word about an Open Access Platform

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

Knowledge Commons is a non-profit project centered in the College of Arts and Letters at Michigan State University. Knowledge Commons includes five key components: KCWorks (an open access repository built on InvenioRDM), profiles, groups, sites, and a Mastodon server, hcommons.social. Particularly focusing on KCWorks, this poster will demonstrate the strategies the team has used to promote and...
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Presenters

Larissa Baca

User Engagement Manager, Knowledge Commons, Michigan State University

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Citation and Acknowledgement of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

As generative AI use becomes more prominent in higher education, librarians can take a proactive, practical approach and lean on their expertise in achieving transparency, maintaining academic honesty, and avoiding plagiarism, by teaching the citation and acknowledgment of generative AI tools. This poster will demonstrate existing templates used to acknowledge generative AI use in research and...
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Presenters

Rebecca Hill Renirie

Research and Instruction Librarian, Central Michigan University

Rebecca Hill Renirie is a tenured Associate Professor and Research and Instruction Librarian for STEM and Medicine for Central Michigan University Libraries. She provides research support and information literacy instruction for the College of Medicine as well as the School of Engineering... Read More →

Renirie MIALA Poster 2026 pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Did ChatGPT Write This Job Description? The Changing Landscape of Academic Library Job Descriptions

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

Feedback Survey

In 2025, ACRL adopted AI competencies to support the needs of academic libraries and AI integration. This poster reviews current academic library job postings in response to the explosion in artificial intelligence. Libraries are creating positions with responsibilities to meet the new and emerging needs of students. Examining job announcements ranging from 2022-2026, collected from national job...
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Presenters

Sara Klink

Assistant Director of Library Services, Stark State College

Melissa Bauer

Online Learning Librarian, Kent State University

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Different Platforms Report Researcher Output in Different Ways

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

In this poster presentation, we will show the differences we have found in what types of research are reported in the various bibliometric data reporting platforms. We will also show how the same researcher could appear to have drastically different output when searched in different places. We will demonstrate why you must carefully investigate the data which is captured and shared by a system...
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Presenters

Amy Seipke

Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematics Librarian, University of Michigan- Dearborn

Jeneen Jadallah

Computer Science Student and CIS Mathematics, University of Michigan- Dearborn

MiALA Poster (3) pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Leveraging Early Librarian Status for Optimal Strategic Career Advancement

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

Early career librarians (within five years of entering the profession) can strategically accelerate advancement by reframing their status as an asset. Part-time roles provide flexibility for publishing, presenting, and leadership development., as well as gaining experience in multiple disciplines of the profession. Targeted programs through the American Library Association and the Association of...
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Presenters

LaCharmine Jefferson, M.B.A, M.L.I.S

Research & Instruction Librarian, Wayne State University

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Librarian Perspectives on the Factors Influencing Research Confidence and Competence Among Tenure-Track Academic Librarians: A Pilot Study

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

New tenure-track librarians often find themselves at sea when presented with the scholarship requirements of their faculty positions. While existing research has covered the reasons librarians may be or feel underprepared to engage in scholarship, as well as the varied support measures offered to build their confidence and competence, this poster investigates librarians? perceptions of the most...
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Presenters

Elizabeth Heitsch

Research and Instruction Librarian, Central Michigan University

Elizabeth MiALA 2026 poster pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

One Question, Three Perspectives: Views on AI Among LIS Students, Faculty, and Librarians

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

Generative AI is altering information work and learning, but campus groups often tackle it from separate vantage points. This poster outlines a survey comparing AI perceptions among LIS students, academic librarians, and LIS faculty at the same institution: Wayne State University. Themes include usefulness, risk, trust, self-efficacy, and policy preferences. Results will inform targeted training...
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Presenters

Vaughn Xavier Haynes

Graduate Student Assistant, Wayne State University

Graduate Student Assistant at Wayne State. Please hire me!

MiALA AI Poster pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Participatory Design for MLIS Coursework in Computing

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

How can MLIS programs better prepare students for computational thinking and computer programming in libraries? This participatory design project integrates library perspectives, examples, and datasets into introductory programming coursework, with the intention of creating course materials that align with the interests and needs of library students.

Presenters

Evan Gomish

Reference Assistant, University of Michigan

MiALA2026ConferencePoster pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Why We March: From the Civil Rights Movement to Black Lives Matter

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

Why We March, Special Collections pop-up exhibition is an excellent example of integrating library collections in the classroom and in course work. The exhibitions do not have to be one offs but can also be used as educational tools in the classroom. The poster explores the various elements that went into developing a successful collabortive program between the teaching faculty and the library.

Presenters

Erik Ponder

African and African American Studies Librarian, Michigan State University

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Poster

3:15pm EDT

Sponsor Tables

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT

Grandview I

Be sure to visit our Sponsor Tables during the Poster Session:

OCC Library Services and Technology Program
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Midwest Collaborative for Library Services (MCLS)
EBSCO Information Services
GALE Cengage Learning
Clarivate
JSTOR (ITHAKA)

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Grandview I

Sponsor Tables

4:15pm EDT

AI-Supported Curation of Zero-Cost Materials for a New Course

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

Academic librarians support course materials through OER, course guides, and reserves. This lightning talk shares a case study in which a newly hired instructor partnered with library staff to create a zero-cost, multimedia set of course resources. By combining open textbooks, library ebooks, podcasts, and expert video content, the collaboration supported Universal Design for Learning, broadened...
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Presenters

LuMarie Guth

Business Librarian, Western Michigan University

Bradford Dennis

Education and Human Development Librarian, Western Michigan University

Bio:
Professor Bradford Dennis has been an education and human development librarian at Western Michigan University since 2002. He supported the planning and successful opening of the Swain Education Library and served as head of this branch. He then moved into an instruction and outreach... Read More →

AI Supported Curation of Zero Cost Course Materials for a New Instructor (1) pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Boardman

Lightning Talk

4:15pm EDT

'Baby Bargain Basement Librarians' and 'Has Beens': Surveying Ageism in Research Libraries

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT

Park

Feedback Survey

This presentation is a preliminary analysis of survey data (n = 550) gathered on ageism in academic and research libraries. The survey tries to tease out details of people’s experiences with ageism by investigating responses to general questions, including whether people self-reported experiencing ageism or specific forms of ageism, and an analysis of comments. This initial survey snapshot can...
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Presenters

Jodi Coalter (she/her)

Life Sciences Librarian, Michigan State University

Gennifer Iverson

Communication, Media Studies, and Journalism Librarian, Michigan State University

Evalyn Stow (she/her)

Archivist for Collections, Michigan State University

Evalyn Stow is the Archivist for Collections at Michigan State University, where she works in both the Special Collections and the University Archives. She holds an MS in Information Studies and an MA in Women's, Gender, & Sexuality Studies from the University of Texas at Austin... Read More →

Eli Wachter (they/them)

Data Visualization Librarian, Michigan State University

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Park

Presentation

4:15pm EDT

Ask Us: Creating an Auto-Triaging Contact Form

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT

Courtyard I & II

Feedback Survey

Presentation Slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/e/2PACX-1vQPMwiKqLHpuWDXYrn_YTqZsBkcvxpLK4_NKubbBWnJFMJg-ylO3rpRJA9AM0ZsyIMIhUj8aABVqPPL/pub?start=false&loop=false&delayms=60000This presentation will describe the process the MSU Libraries undertook to create an auto-triaging contact form using Drupal Forms and the LibAnswers API, effectively combining the workflows of two...
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Presenters

Emilia Marcyk

Head, Reference & Discovery Services, Michigan State University

Sruthin Gaddam

User Experience & Accessibility Librarian, Michigan State University

Pronouns: he/him/his

Cameron Johnson

Operations Manager, Reference & Discovery Services, Michigan State University

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Courtyard I & II

Presentation

4:15pm EDT

FLITE BITES: Fueling Study and Combatting Food Insecurity

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT

Torch/Leelanau

Studying hungry is hard! This session will explore the academic library space moving from information center to active engagement in combatting a known issue on college campuses: food insecurity. It will discuss the proposal development, need for cross-campus collaboration, and the reception and obstacles along the way. Learning Objective(s): 1) Understand the challenges of food insecurity among...
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Presenters

Lauren Vogt

Student Engagement Librarian, Ferris State University

[2026 MiALA] FLITE BITES Pantry Presentation pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Torch/Leelanau

Presentation

4:15pm EDT

Reimagining Reference: Training Undergraduates as Peer Research Consultants

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT

Front

Feedback Survey

Our institution’s library developed a training program for peer research consultants: undergraduate students who assist their peers with library research. This presentation shares our process for designing the training curriculum, including how we adapted reference skills for peer-level delivery, challenges encountered, consultant feedback, and lessons learned. Attendees will gain practical...
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Presenters

Malyn Berger (they/them)

Applied Sciences Librarian, Western Michigan University

Malyn is the Temporary Applied Sciences Librarian at Western Michigan University, holding an MLIS from Wayne State and an English BA from Albion College. After beginning in law school, they traded litigation for literacy following a work-study position in Drexel’s legal library... Read More →

Micaela Carignano (she/her)

Natural Sciences Librarian, Western Michigan University

Carrie Leatherman (she/her)

Social Sciences Librarian, Western Michigan University

Reimagining Reference Final pptx

Reimagining Reference Session Resources pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Front

Presentation

4:30pm EDT

Promoting AI Literacy (Without Promoting AI)

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:30pm - 4:45pm EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

This lightning talk introduces the AI Literacy Compass—a values-first, harm-aware framework for working with AI instruction as a librarian. Beginning at True North (learning, equity, integrity, environment, labor), then moving through literacy, boundaries, and practice, the session addresses complex librarian and campus attitudes, from principled refusal to uncritical, shortcut-focused use....
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Presenters

Jen Fiero

Library & Information Commons Director, Jackson College

Promoting AI Literacy pdf

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:30pm - 4:45pm EDT
Boardman

Lightning Talk

4:45pm EDT

Preparing the Next Generation of Researchers on Using AI in Evidence Synthesis

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:45pm - 5:00pm EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

The use of AI tools in evidence synthesis is expanding rapidly, and librarians are frequently asked by researchers for guidance on selecting the best AI tools to enhance their work. This session will introduce some of the available AI tools and where they fit in the evidence synthesis process, resources for critically appraising their use, and the possibilities and potential pitfalls of...
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Presenters

Andrea Kepsel

Health Sciences Librarian, Michigan State University Libraries

Jessica Sender

Head, Health Sciences, Michigan State University

Preparing Next Gen Researchers Using AI in Evidence Synthesis pptx

Thursday May 7, 2026 4:45pm - 5:00pm EDT
Boardman

Lightning Talk

5:00pm EDT

Interest Group Leaders Meet-up (Invitation Only)

Thursday May 7, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT

Minerva's Restaurant (Park Place Hotel)

IG Leaders Meet-Up - By Invitation OnlyMinerva's Restaurant, 5-6 PM, Thursday May 7The IGCC is hosting a meet-up for IG Leaders attending the MiALA Annual Conference 2026. Drop in anytime from 5-6 PM on Thursday, May 7 at Minerva's Restaurant in the Park Place Hotel. You will have the opportunity to meet your IGCC liaison in person, meet other interest group leaders, and discuss your IG's...
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Thursday May 7, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Minerva's Restaurant (Park Place Hotel)

Food/Break/Social

6:30pm EDT

Dine-Arounds

Thursday May 7, 2026 6:30pm - 9:00pm EDT

Park Place Hotel Lobby

Experience Traverse City one table at a time—join a dine-around and connect with colleagues over great local food!Dine Around restaurants will be:amicalIndia GardenMama Lu'sPoppycock'sRed GingerThe Flying NoodleThe Little FleetAll reservations are at 6:30 p.m. (except for a second reservation at 7 p.m. at Red Ginger), and all reservations are under the name MiALA. Groups will meet in the hotel...
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Thursday May 7, 2026 6:30pm - 9:00pm EDT
Park Place Hotel Lobby

Food/Break/Social

8:00am EDT

Registration and Breakfast

Friday May 8, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am EDT

Grandview I

Friday May 8, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am EDT
Grandview I

Food/Break/Social

9:00am EDT

MiALA Membership Meeting

Friday May 8, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Grandview I

Friday May 8, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT
Grandview I

Informational

10:00am EDT

Formalizing Systematic Review and Evidence Synthesis Support: Boundary Setting as Self-Care

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 10:15am EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

Librarians at Central Michigan University (CMU) Libraries and CMU’s Covenant HealthCare College of Medicine collaborated to summarize, categorize, and publicize the evidence synthesis and systematic review services available to CMU students, faculty, residents and medical education partners, resulting in the creation of a 3-tier service model and accompanying LibGuide. In addition to informing...
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Presenters

Elizabeth Heitsch

Research and Instruction Librarian, Central Michigan University

Rebecca Hill Renirie

Research and Instruction Librarian, Central Michigan University

Tamara Sawyer

Knowledge Services Manager, Central Michigan University

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 10:15am EDT
Boardman

Lightning Talk

10:00am EDT

Active Learning Strategies: A Show and Tell

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Park

Feedback Survey

Do you have an active learning information literacy activity, lesson plan, or method you’ve used to great effect in class? Do you miss your elementary show and tell? This session gives you a chance to share your great work without putting together an entire presentation. Participants will have the option to spend two or three minutes describing your work in this unconference style session, no...
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Presenters

Samantha Minnis

Humanities Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Mary Ruge

Liaison and Instruction Librarian, Grand Valley State University

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Park

Presentation

10:00am EDT

Library of Things: Powered by Enthusiasm, Not Dollars

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Front

Feedback Survey

This session will discuss how a mid-sized university launched a Library of Things with no grant funding, only a small portion of the budget, and a lot of enthusiasm and creativity. It will show libraries how to frame a timeline, prioritize purchasing, and market the beginning of a new endeavor. Learning Objective(s): 1) Evaluate the suitability of implementing a Library of Things within the...
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Presenters

Lauren Vogt

Student Engagement Librarian, Ferris State University

David Scott

Outreach and User Engagement Librarian, Ferris State University

I coordinate FLITE's marketing efforts, work reference, manage our virtual chat service, and just recently retired from officiating high school sports. Want to yell at the ref, at least learn the rules!

[MiALA 2026] LoT Presentation (Final) pdf

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Front

Presentation

10:00am EDT

The Patchwork Quilt of Reparative Description: Short History and Modern Projects

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Courtyard I & II

Feedback Survey

Modernizing gallery, library, archives, and special library (GLAMS) records to include accurate tribal names, replacing derogatory terminology, identifying married women as individuals, giving equal respect (and space) in your classification system to all religions and classes of people, all fall under the umbrella of reparative cataloging in description! Learning about visionary librarians of the...
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Presenters

Rebecca R. Daly, MLIS

Metadata and Cataloging Librarian, Northern Michigan University

Rebecca has worked in academic libraries in the Upper Peninsula for over a dozen years. She loves her well-rounded position at NMU: cataloging, instructional sessions, and collection development! A spinster/singleton librarian with two cats, lots of plants, and books. She enjoys researching... Read More →

Reparative Description Resources for Cataloging & Archives pdf

Ramirez ThisIsAmerica 202105 pdf

Start with Conscious or Conscientious Cataloging.docx pdf

Examples of adding a local field.docx pdf

Reparative Description (1) pptx

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Courtyard I & II

Presentation

10:00am EDT

Library Scholars in Community: A Workshop for Building Connections

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT

Torch/Leelanau

Feedback Survey

This workshop will connect library folks working on a scholarship or writing project to MiALA’s most valuable resource - its members! If you are working on (or thinking about working on) a scholarly or written work, this workshop is for you. You will get a chance to bounce ideas off of other library folks, connect with your potential audience, leverage the experience of the group, and meet...
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Presenters

Caitlin Benallack

Information Literacy Librarian, Michigan State University

I am an information literacy librarian at Michigan State University. I primarily work with first year composition courses and make instructional videos.

When I am not being a librarian, I like to sew, quilt, and take ballet classes.

Dylan McGlothlin

Humanities Librarian, Western Michigan University

Library Scholars in Community A Workshop for Building Connections pdf

Friday May 8, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Torch/Leelanau

Workshop

10:15am EDT

Analysis of Bibliometric Data Reporting Possibilities of Various Research Reporting Systems

Friday May 8, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

In an effort to fully represent the research output of our faculty in all departments equally we examined how they are currently being represented within various bibliometric data reporting systems. In this session we will explain why we chose to do this project, how we outlined this work, what challenges we encountered and how we overcame them. We will also talk about what we learned from the...
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Presenters

Jeneen Jadallah

Computer Science Student and CIS Mathematics, University of Michigan- Dearborn

Amy Seipke

Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematics Librarian, University of Michigan- Dearborn

Presentation pdf

Friday May 8, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am EDT
Boardman

Lightning Talk

10:30am EDT

Navigating Tension Between Academic Freedom and Standardization in a LibGuides Streamlining Project

Friday May 8, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

As early adopters of SpringShare’s LibGuides, Central Michigan University librarians have been creating guides for nearly two decades. To combat the resulting unwieldy collection of over 400 guides, four librarians formed an ad hoc committee to administer the Streamlining LibGuides Project. While the project made significant headway, it also encountered notable resistance and delays. Presenters...
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Presenters

Jennifer J. Rundels

Research and Instruction Librarian, Central Michigan University

Elizabeth Heitsch

Research and Instruction Librarian, Central Michigan University

Friday May 8, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am EDT
Boardman

Lightning Talk

11:00am EDT

More than Crafting: How F.U.N. Committee Fostered Resilience and Collaboration

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 11:15am EDT

Park

Feedback Survey

Academic librarians are no strangers to burnout and workplace siloing. Through its Fundamental Understanding of Needs (F.U.N.) committee, one library re-centered core values of academic librarianship and fostered resilience to burnout and siloing by revitalizing social and wellness-focused events building relationships, belonging, and recognition. This presentation shares strategies for...
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Presenters

Lee Parker

Instruction and Outreach Librarian, Central Michigan University

Ariel Wiborn

Course Reserve and Copyright Specialist, Central Michigan University

MiALA Presentation pdf

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 11:15am EDT
Park

Lightning Talk

11:00am EDT

A Critical Analysis of AI Fatigue in Libraries

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT

Boardman

Feedback Survey

As AI becomes increasingly embedded in library tools and research support, librarians face growing tension between ethical concerns, environmental impact, and student needs. This panel brings together four librarians with varying relationships to AI, examining how “AI fatigue” shapes daily practice and institutional decision making. Panelists will explore ethical lenses, societal pressures,...
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Presenters

Jesus Espinoza

Student Success and Engagement Librarian, University of Michigan

Naomi Binnie

Digital Learning and Engagement Librarian, University of Michigan

Sheila Garcia Mazari

Online Learning Librarian, University of California Santa Cruz

Sheila (she/her) is the Online Learning Librarian at UC Santa Cruz and is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is a former Publicly Funded University Representative of the MiALA Board and currently serves as co-chair of the MiALA Advocacy Committee.

Kelleen Maluski

Engagement Librarian, SAGE Publishing

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Boardman

Panel

11:00am EDT

Digital Archaeology: Using Artificial Intelligence to Extract and Understand Cultural Heritage Materials

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT

Courtyard I & II

Feedback Survey

Much of our cultural legacy remains hidden in documents that traditional OCR cannot read and digital platforms struggle to surface. This session explores how one library is using emerging AI models to extract text from heavily degraded documents and historic handwriting, combined with modern development approaches to present these materials in new ways. Designed for librarians, archivists, and...
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Presenters

Paul Gallagher

Associate Dean for Resources and Digital Strategy, Western Michigan University

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Courtyard I & II

Presentation

11:00am EDT

Reflecting Your Campus: Using Diversity Audits to Inform Collection Development

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT

Front

In this session, we discuss our process for conducting a diversity audit, and the collection development strategies we developed following the audit. Diversity audits assist librarians in creating data that will inform collection development policies to better fit the diversity of their campus demographics. As centers of campus life, it is crucial that academic libraries reflect the diversity of...
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Presenters

Josie Columbus

Access Services Associate, University of Michigan-Dearborn

Natalie Hagopian

Business & Economics Librarian, University of Michigan-Dearborn

Diversity Audit Presentation pptx

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Front

Presentation

11:15am EDT

Sensory Experiences at the Michigan State University Libraries: Reaffirming Inclusion and Belonging

Friday May 8, 2026 11:15am - 11:30am EDT

Park

Feedback Survey

This lightning presentation will detail the Library's new sensory room and sensory kits, designed and created to better meet the needs of our neurodiverse students and visitors. It will briefly cover our research, planning and process. Equipment selected for the sensory room and kits will be showcased and policies and procedures detailed. Feedback from users will also be shared. Learning...
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Presenters

Heidi Schroeder

Accessibility Coordinator, Michigan State University

Heidi Schroeder (she/her) has been a librarian at the Michigan State University Libraries since 2007 and its Accessibility Coordinator since 2015. In her role, she implements and oversees a variety of library accessibility initiatives/projects and serves as library liaison to MSU's... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 11:15am - 11:30am EDT
Park

Lightning Talk

11:30am EDT

The Good Soldier: Understanding Organizational Citizenship Behavior

Friday May 8, 2026 11:30am - 11:45am EDT

Park

Feedback Survey

Join us for a brief session on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). Known as 'good soldiers,' workers who engage in OCB are the people in our workplaces who take the initiative to engage in behaviors that may not be recognized or part of their job description but are considered essential to cultivating a positive work environment. Learn more about OCB, relevant literature, and how to care...
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Presenters

Jennifer L. Dean

Library Director, University of Michigan-Flint

2026 MiALA Dean Good Soldier pptx

Friday May 8, 2026 11:30am - 11:45am EDT
Park

Lightning Talk

12:00pm EDT

Boxed Lunch

Friday May 8, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT

Grandview I

Menu: Roast Beef & Cheddar with Lettuce & Whole Grain Wheat BreadShave Ham & Swiss with Lettuce, Tomato & Whole Grain Wheat Bread Turkey Wrap with Crispy Bacon, Roasted Red Pepper, Swiss, Lettuce, Tomato, & Sun-Dried Tomato TortillaVeggie Wrap with Herb Cream Cheese, Field Greens, Julienned Peppers & Carrots & Sun-Dried Tomato Tortilla All boxed lunches include: Package of Potato Chips |...
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Friday May 8, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grandview I

Food/Break/Social