BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//PLAN - ECPv6.15.19//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:PLAN
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://planfl.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for PLAN
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20220313T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20221106T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20230312T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20231105T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20240310T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20241103T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20270314T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20271107T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T123000
DTSTAMP:20260426T182636
CREATED:20260312T184642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T184644Z
UID:10000413-1776252600-1776256200@planfl.org
SUMMARY:More Than Alt-Text: Practical Accessibility for Library Workers
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is exclusive to PLAN member libraries. \n\n\n\nThis session introduces practical\, achievable steps library staff can take to improve the accessibility of their library’s digital content. Moving beyond the basics\, participants will learn how to create accessible documents and PDFs\, use clear structure and plain language\, improve readability\, make social media posts more inclusive\, and recognize common barriers on library websites and online forms. \n\n\n\nThe session also covers how to collaborate effectively with IT staff and vendors to support broader accessibility efforts. Attendees will leave with concrete strategies they can apply immediately to better serve all patrons. \n\n\n\nBy the end of this session\, participants will be able to: \n\n\n\n\nRecognize common accessibility barriers in library websites\, documents\, forms\, and social media content.\n\n\n\nApply practical techniques to create accessible documents and PDFs using clear structure and plain language.\n\n\n\nImprove readability and usability of digital content through formatting and design choices.\n\n\n\nIncorporate inclusive practices into social media and online communications.\n\n\n\nUse effective questions and documentation strategies when collaborating with IT staff and vendors about accessibility.\n\n\n\n\nAbout the presenter: Lindsay O’Neill designs accessible\, inclusive learning experiences for adult professional audiences\, with a focus on higher education and libraries. Through her consulting practice\, she helps institutions create compliant\, engaging online learning that blends strong pedagogy with practical implementation. Her expertise spans accessibility compliance\, inclusive course design\, online teaching strategy\, and eLearning development.
URL:https://planfl.org/event/more-than-alt-text-practical-accessibility-for-library-workers/
CATEGORIES:Technology Competencies
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260312T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260312T110000
DTSTAMP:20260426T182636
CREATED:20251217T143115Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T221203Z
UID:10000375-1773309600-1773313200@planfl.org
SUMMARY:Free Tools for (Professional & Personal) Success with Maurice Coleman
DESCRIPTION:Free digital resources are overlooked as digital divide “bridges” that can relieve professional and personal pain points. These powerful and diverse products can stretch library and customer dollars while providing similar functions to many popular and expensive programs. Get to know many (60+) useful and free tools\, programs\, and websites you can use to be thrifty and productive. We will discover and discuss resources and explore the true cost of “free” on the net. \n\n\n\nAbout the presenter: Maurice Coleman is a librarian\, educator\, keynote speaker\, and podcast host. Maurice uses his decades of practical experience to help people and organizations empower themselves with better leadership\, communication\, and technology skills to create positive change. He was recently certified as a Dale Carnegie Trainer.
URL:https://planfl.org/event/free-tools-for-professional-personal-success-with-maurice-coleman/
CATEGORIES:Technology Competencies
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260115T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260115T110000
DTSTAMP:20260426T182636
CREATED:20251217T142212Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T221309Z
UID:10000373-1768471200-1768474800@planfl.org
SUMMARY:Helping Customers (& Family and Friends) With Tech with Maurice Coleman
DESCRIPTION:Your customer comes in with a strange device they got for the holidays. They ask if they can access any library content\, such as e-books or Mango Languages\, on the device. Come to this workshop and empower yourself to deal with any new device or program. Learn simple principles\, strategies\, and techniques that will help you help your customers\, members\, family\, and friends better understand and use technology. \n\n\n\nAbout the presenter: Maurice Coleman is a librarian\, educator\, keynote speaker\, and podcast host. Maurice uses his decades of practical experience to help people and organizations empower themselves with better leadership\, communication\, and technology skills to create positive change. He was recently certified as a Dale Carnegie Trainer.
URL:https://planfl.org/event/helping-customers-family-and-friends-with-tech-with-maurice-coleman/
CATEGORIES:Customer Service,Technology Competencies
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260114T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260114T150000
DTSTAMP:20260426T182636
CREATED:20251029T155922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251029T155923Z
UID:10000354-1768399200-1768402800@planfl.org
SUMMARY:Staying Ahead: Technology Shifts and Their Impact on Libraries with Laura Solomon
DESCRIPTION:Technology changes fast-and libraries need to know which shifts matter most. In this webinar\, you’ll explore the latest emerging tech trends and how they could reshape library services in the near future. From evolving tools to changes in patron expectations\, discover what’s coming\, what’s worth watching\, and how to stay prepared. You’ll leave with a clearer picture of how today’s innovations might influence tomorrow’s libraries. \n\n\n\nABOUT THE PRESENTER \n\n\n\nLaura Solomon\, CPACC\, MCIW\, MLS\, is the Library Services Manager at the Ohio Public Library Information Network and a W3C-certified front-end web developer. With nearly three decades of experience in web development and design\, Laura has honed her expertise in both public libraries and as an independent consultant\, specializing in Drupal development and in website accessibility. \n\n\n\nRecognized as a 2010 Library Journal Mover & Shaker\, she has authored books on social media and content marketing tailored for libraries\, as well as about library website design. She has dedicated many course hours to learning how to make websites accessible\, ensuring that digital spaces are inclusive for all users. \n\n\n\nLaura is a frequently-requested speaker for public library organizations\, sharing her passion for bringing the fun of technology to audiences and equipping libraries with the tools to better serve their virtual customers.
URL:https://planfl.org/event/staying-ahead-technology-shifts-and-their-impact-on-libraries-with-laura-solomon/
CATEGORIES:Technology Competencies
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251210T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251210T123000
DTSTAMP:20260426T182636
CREATED:20251204T150441Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T144229Z
UID:10000364-1765366200-1765369800@planfl.org
SUMMARY:AI in Libraries
DESCRIPTION:Artificial intelligence isn’t just a tech trend — it’s becoming a powerful partner in how libraries connect people\, ideas\, and information. From smarter search results and on-the-fly translations to creative tools that spark learning and storytelling\, AI is opening exciting new possibilities for library services. \n\n\n\nAs 2026 approaches\, the pace of change is picking up. Generative AI\, retrieval-augmented search\, and locally hosted models are giving libraries fresh ways to enhance discovery\, improve efficiency\, and support patrons in entirely new ways — but they also bring big questions about privacy\, ethics\, and readiness. \n\n\n\nIn this lively\, skills-focused session\, we’ll look at what’s next for AI in libraries and how to get ready for it. You’ll leave with a toolkit of emerging tools worth exploring\, and a clear picture of the trends shaping how libraries will lead — not just adapt — in the years ahead. \n\n\n\nAbout the Presenter: Kira Smith has been a dedicated Virtual Reference Specialist with Florida’s Ask A Librarian service for over 15 years. A recipient of multiple Exemplary Reference Awards\, Kira is passionate about guiding people to the information they need. In addition to her work in virtual reference\, she freelances as a research consultant for journalists\, providing expert insights and fact-finding services. Kira also regularly hosts webinars\, sharing her knowledge and experience in the fields of online reference and information literacy. \n\n\n\nHer diverse background includes experience as an elementary school teacher and a certified childbirth educator\, adding depth to her understanding of teaching and communication. With a love for technology\, education\, and travel\, Kira continually seeks innovative ways to enhance learning experiences and connect with people around the world.
URL:https://planfl.org/event/ai-in-libraries/
CATEGORIES:Technology Competencies,Webinar
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240327T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240327T150000
DTSTAMP:20260426T182636
CREATED:20231117T213529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231117T213531Z
UID:10000088-1711548000-1711551600@planfl.org
SUMMARY:Trends in Emerging Tech with Laura Solomon
DESCRIPTION:With so much new technology coming at us so fast\, it can be difficult to keep up. \n\n\n\nJoin Laura Solomon for an exploration into emerging technology trends\, and how these trends might (or might not) re-shape library services. \n\n\n\nLaura Solomon is the Library Services Manager for the Ohio Public Library Information Network and a W3C-certified front-end web developer. She has been doing web development and design for more than twenty years\, in both public libraries and as an independent consultant. She’s written three books about social media and content marketing\, specifically for libraries\, and speaks nationally on both these and technology-related topics. As a former children’s librarian\, she enjoys bringing the “fun of technology” to audiences and in giving libraries the tools they need to better serve the virtual customer. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you can’t attend the live webinar\, register anyway and you’ll receive a link to the webinar recording a few days after the event.
URL:https://planfl.org/event/20240327solomon/
CATEGORIES:Essential Library Competencies,Technology Competencies,Webinar
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240221T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240221T150000
DTSTAMP:20260426T182636
CREATED:20231117T213004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240112T172218Z
UID:10000087-1708524000-1708527600@planfl.org
SUMMARY:Useful AI Tools with Laura Solomon
DESCRIPTION:Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the world\, and libraries can take advantage of AI tools to improve a wide variety of library services\, from providing personalized recommendations to answering complex questions. \n\n\n\nWe’ll discuss a variety of AI tools\, including those for marketing\, research\, transcription\, writing and more.  \n\n\n\nThis class is perfect for any librarian or library staff member who is interested in learning more about the usefulness of AI. \n\n\n\nLaura Solomon is the Library Services Manager for the Ohio Public Library Information Network and a W3C-certified front-end web developer. She has been doing web development and design for more than twenty years\, in both public libraries and as an independent consultant. She’s written three books about social media and content marketing\, specifically for libraries\, and speaks nationally on both these and technology-related topics. As a former children’s librarian\, she enjoys bringing the “fun of technology” to audiences and in giving libraries the tools they need to better serve the virtual customer. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you can’t attend the live webinar\, register anyway and you’ll receive a link to the webinar recording a few days after the event.
URL:https://planfl.org/event/20240221solomon/
CATEGORIES:Essential Library Competencies,Technology Competencies,Webinar
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230929T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230929T090000
DTSTAMP:20260426T182636
CREATED:20230602T142629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230928T172523Z
UID:10000076-1695974400-1695978000@planfl.org
SUMMARY:Exploring the Magic of IFTTT to Help Streamline Your Digital Life with Chad Mairn
DESCRIPTION:Register for live webinar or recording \n\n\n\nIFTTT (If This\, Then That) is a versatile automation platform that empowers you to connect and streamline your digital life. It puts the Internet to work for you by generating simple connections with online products that you use every day. In this webinar\, we will: \n\n\n\n\nUnderstand the Internet of Things and see how they will change the world.\n\n\n\nLearn how to use and customize IFTTT to connect with a variety of products and services.\n\n\n\nGain insights from real-world examples of how individuals and businesses have successfully leveraged IFTTT to simplify their digital workflows and enhance productivity.\n\n\n\nExplore other automation tools like Zapier\, Hootsuite\, Buffer\, and others.\n\n\n\n\nChad Mairn is an Information Services Librarian\, Assistant Professor\, and is the founder of the Innovation Lab at St. Petersburg College. While an undergraduate studying Humanities at the University of South Florida (USF)\, Chad was awarded a Library of Congress Fellowship for helping archive personal papers and other items in the Leonard Bernstein Collection. During his Library and Information Science graduate work\, also at USF\, Chad became a technology liaison between the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Florida public libraries. \n\n\n\nPLAN webinars are free for all Florida library staff and volunteers.
URL:https://planfl.org/event/exploring-the-magic-of-ifttt-to-help-streamline-your-digital-life-with-chad-mairn/
CATEGORIES:Leadership,Technology Competencies,Webinar
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230908T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230908T120000
DTSTAMP:20260426T182636
CREATED:20230602T142422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230602T142424Z
UID:10000075-1694170800-1694174400@planfl.org
SUMMARY:Unleashing the Power of ChatGPT in Libraries with Chad Mairn
DESCRIPTION:Register for live webinar or recording \n\n\n\nIn this webinar\, learn about the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on libraries and education. In this session\, we will study the potential of ChatGPT\, a cutting-edge language model developed by OpenAI\, and how it can be harnessed effectively in various library and academic contexts. This webinar aims to equip you with the knowledge and practical insights necessary to integrate ChatGPT seamlessly into your daily life and educational practices. We will: \n\n\n\n\nGain an understanding of AI and its evolution into an inherent feature of machines.\n\n\n\nExplore the capabilities of ChatGPT\, ranging from generating human-like text for chatbots to automated content creation\, and beyond.\n\n\n\nWitness real-world examples of how ChatGPT can be integrated into library services.\n\n\n\nEngage in collaborative brainstorming to uncover innovative ways to leverage this technology in your libraries and classrooms\, ultimately enhancing the learning experience.\n\n\n\n\nChad Mairn is an Information Services Librarian\, Assistant Professor\, and is the founder of the Innovation Lab at St. Petersburg College. While an undergraduate studying Humanities at the University of South Florida (USF)\, Chad was awarded a Library of Congress Fellowship for helping archive personal papers and other items in the Leonard Bernstein Collection. During his Library and Information Science graduate work\, also at USF\, Chad became a technology liaison between the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Florida public libraries. \n\n\n\nPLAN webinars are free for all Florida library staff and volunteers.
URL:https://planfl.org/event/unleashing-the-power-of-chatgpt-in-libraries-with-chad-mairn/
CATEGORIES:Leadership,Technology Competencies,Webinar
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR