Do You Want to Cook? How to Create Fun and Interactive Cooking Programs

Have you always wanted to host cooking programs at your library but don’t know where to begin? Join Dagmar as she guides you through the basics of designing and executing cooking programs on a budget—even without a kitchen! From international cuisine to cupcake decorating, the only limit is your creativity.

 

Dagmar has been a Programmer at the Kenton County Public Library since 2019. Originally from Puerto Rico, she transitioned from a career in Business Management to library programming and has hosted popular cooking events, including the fan-favorite

"Cooking with Dagmar."

 

Escape Rooms for Teens

Escape rooms are fun, popular, and a great way to build observation, problem-solving, and collaboration skills among teens. Learn how to get started and pick up tips, tricks, and resources to create engaging escape room programs.

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Amber Pulley is a Youth Librarian at the Monfort Heights Branch of Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Libraries. She has facilitated over seven teen escape rooms.

 

40 Programs in 40 Minutes!

Looking for teen program ideas for Summer Reading 2025 and beyond? This fast-paced session delivers 40 creative ideas in just 40 minutes. Use these flexible, teen-approved activities individually or combine them for longer programs.

 

Steve Moser is the Teen Services Librarian at the Trotwood Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. He has been working with teens in libraries since 2004 and co-founded the Teen Think Tank, which connects and inspires librarians nationwide.

 

The Secret Science of Art

 

Transform art projects into science lessons and vice versa! This session explores creative ways to combine art and science to inspire curiosity and engagement.

 

Jess is a Youth Services Assistant with a passion for libraries and community art. She designs programs, oversees teen volunteers, and manages collections while pursuing her creative interests outside of work.

 

Hands-On Arts & Crafts Experiences to Color Your World on a Tight Budget
 

Discover arts and crafts projects that require little to no cost. Try hands-on activities, and take home handouts with additional ideas for engaging programs on a budget.

 

Alice is a recently retired Children’s Librarian from the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library. With over 40 years of experience, they specialize in affordable programming and have presented at numerous workshops.

 

Creativity Belongs to Everyone! You Belong at the Contemporary Arts Center

Learn about the Contemporary Arts Center’s free field trips, educator resources, and innovative approaches to engaging creativity. Break art stereotypes and discover how to inspire your community.

 

Krista King-Oaks, a former public librarian, now serves as the School Outreach Program and Tours Manager at the Contemporary Arts Center. With 15+ years of experience, Krista specializes in connecting libraries and museums to foster creativity and collaboration.

 

Let’s Kick Off Summer Reading Right!

Kickoff events can set the tone for a successful Summer Reading program. Learn strategies, explore the pros and cons, and gather fun ideas for 2025 and beyond.

 

Elyse is the manager of the Miami Township Branch in Clermont County and chairs the Summer Reading Committee.

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Creative Showcases: Engaging Patrons through Art Competitions and Exhibitions

Showcase your patrons’ creativity with Tiny Art Shows, Creator Competitions, and more. Learn how to plan events, create rules, recruit participants, and make your library a hub for artistic expression.

 

Morgan Lockard-Ellis is the Branch Manager of the Fort Thomas Branch of the Campbell County Public Library. She specializes in multi-generational programming and has worked in public libraries since 2014.

 

Concerts @ The Library

Host concerts at your library! Learn the benefits, logistics, budget tips, and where to find local musicians to create a vibrant event series.

 

Stella is the Community Events Liaison at Boone County Public Library. With experience in arts education, events, and programming, she is passionate about creating engaging library experiences.

 

Family Art Workshops 101

Learn from past Family Art Workshops at MidPointe Library, gather new ideas for upcoming events, and hear the story of Herbert the Dinosaur!

 

Ally is the Youth Programming Coordinator for the MidPointe Library System. Since 2014, she has been creating programs that inspire families and engage communities.

 

Playart: Simplify Storytime with Process Art & Community Partners

Simplify and enhance storytime by embracing process art, experimenting with mediums, and partnering with community organizations to expand your offerings without extra work.

 

Lauren Brandstetter is the Children’s Librarian at the Covington Branch of the Kenton County Public Library. With a Master’s Degree in Library Science from the University of Kentucky, Lauren brings experience in education and programming from various settings.