Sunshine & Stories from the Colorado State Library

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Polly Gallagher chats with Jeremy Krones, Grand County resident, East Troublesome Wildfire victim, and trustee on the Grand County Library District public library board. Together, they go through the immediate experience of a devastating wildfire in Grand County from October 2020 through the lens of resident and library leadership. Starting with the fateful day of the pre-evacuation order through to the final rebuilding of a home and celebration of community. Get prepared and stay safe.Content Notes: This episode discusses loosing a home to wildfire.Outline:00:20 – October 21, 2020, pre-evac to evac order in minutes 6:48 – The days that followed, from the eyes of an evacuee 8:55 – The days that followed, from the eyes of the library response 11:05 – Be aware of vocational awe 12:35 – Ducks in a row 16:02 - Moving forward  20:55 – Collectors of Memories 22:10 – Final thoughts 24:19 – Closing Resources:Local Emergency Alert Systems InciWeb Watch Duty – Wildfire Maps and Alerts Colorado Cultural & Historic Resources Task Force Vocational Awe

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Episode Summary: Join Kate Compton as she talks with Samantha Hager and Miranda Doran-Myers from the Colorado State Publications Library, who share the library’s mission of providing free, permanent access to Colorado state government documents. They highlight surprising and valuable resources—from historical collections to issue briefs, research guides, and kid-friendly materials—and offer tips for navigating government information. Get inspired to share the hidden gems the “State Pubs” have with your community.   Outline:01:06 - Meet the Team 05:38 - What is the State Publications Library? 08:45 - Not to miss tools and collections   12:43 – Mindset for searching 15:11 – Trends in document searches 18:29 – New initiatives and ways to collaborate   Resources: State Publications Website  State Publications Catalog State Publications Blog State Publications Topic Guides  Phone: 720-955-5230 Address: 180 Sheridan Blvd, Denver, CO 80226-8101 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 4:00 pm Email: [email protected]

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 211: The Beginner's Mindset: Finding Clarity in Library Values Episode Summary: Kieran Hixon, CSL's Small and Rural Library Senior Consultant, has a conversation with Sharon Morris focusing on the concept of the "beginner's mindset" and how core library values are learned and sometimes conflict. Outline:00:19 Who is Sharon Morris?  01:21 The Beginner’s Mindset & "Aha" Moments 03:32 Learning Core Values: Privacy vs. Service 06:37 Structure and Responsibility 07:37 Defining Moments & Conflicting Values 10:20 Values Conflict: Consistency vs. Service 14:39 Practicing the Beginner's Mindset 17:25 Déjà Vu and Library Excellence 19:15 Growth from Frustration ("Fertilizer") 21:48 Closing Tell us what you think!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 210: Weeding Together: The Collection Crew Approach with Len Bryan Episode Summary: Join Suzi Tonini as she talks with Len Bryan, Partner of Library Services at Cherry Creek Schools, about transforming weeding from a dreaded solo task into an empowering collaborative experience. Len shares his innovative "collection crew" model, the "ugly weed" method for visual weeding, and why building relationships should come before touching a single book in a new library.   Outline: 00:56 - Why weeding creates "The Great Library Divide" 06:23 - The collection crew concept: collaborative weeding  10:01 - The "ugly weed" method: visual scanning techniques  14:20 - Logistics that matter 21:03 - Communication strategies 25:20 - Why new librarians should focus on relationships first  28:18 - Weeding wins Resources: Collection Crew Invitation for Principals (Cherry Creek Schools Library Services) Collection Crew Process (Cherry Creek Schools Library Services) Curate Shared Foundations Book (book available from ALA) FAQs for Weeding Libraries (Cherry Creek Schools Library Services) Weeding: Essential Library Collection Maintenance (slide deck presentation) Weeding: Essential Library Best Practices (Cherry Creek Schools slide deck presentation)  "Weeding: The Great Library Divide, Embracing Collection Maintenance with Enthusiasm"  (Knowledge Quest blog post) The Weeding Handbook: A Shelf-by-Shelf Guide, Second Edition (book available from ALA) Contact Len Bryan: [email protected] Follow Len on Bluesky Tell us what you think!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 209 Nursery Rhymes and Reason with Mary Lanni Episode Summary: Kate Compton chats with Mary Lanni, the Youth Literacy and Outreach Specialist from Douglas County Libraries. Mary shares insights from her upcoming book on nursery rhymes in storytime, exploring their historical roots, cultural implications, and why they matter for early literacy. They dive into questions about inclusivity, evolving trends, and practical tips for creating welcoming storytimes in today’s diverse communities. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation as a way to reflect on your own storytime offerings.  Outline:  00:19 - Meet Mary 01:22 - Why we need a closer look 02:51 - Common themes 07:25 - Why we sing nursery rhymes  09:28 – New trends 14:25 – Resources  14:14 - What's next? 21:54 - Closing  Resources:  CLEL Everychildreadytoread.org www.imaginationlibrarycolorado.org www.maryrlanni.com YouTube and Spotify (@MaryLanniReads) Storytime Solidarity Tell us what you think!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 208: I'm on the Library's Board, Now What!?Episode Summary:  Polly Gallagher sits down with trustees Scarlett Ponton, President of Nederland Community Library Board & recipient of the 2025 CAL Outstanding Library Trustee Award, and Jennifer Tibbets, Grand County Library District Trustee, as they reflect on what the role of a library trustee is in a Colorado public library. They reflect on what that first board meeting is like, how to prepare, and what the role of a trustee is and projects to oversee.   Outline 00:00 – Introduction 03:13 – Role of the board 03:58 – Key concerns of the board 07:39 – Board projects 09:22 – Everyone is not an expert 11:34 – Meeting preparation 13:09 – Preparing to be a trustee 15:43 – Asking questions 18:27 – Ongoing professional development 20:21 – Beyond the local 22:24 – Why volunteer for your library board 24:17 – Closing  Resources: Public Library Leadership  (CSL) resource page Colorado Public Library Board & Trustee Handbook Colorado Public Library Standards:           Administration & Governance           Budget & Finance          Community Engagement          Evaluation & Planning Is your library board of trustees seeking in-person trustee training on Governance & Administration, strategic planning support, or other support? The Colorado State Library Leadership Team provides these services and more at no cost to your library! Find out more today.  Contact Polly at [email protected] or (720) 879-1549 Tell us what you think!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 207: Library Joy at the Colorado Talking Book Library Episode Summary:  Kate Compton chats with Lorrie Spoering, the wonderfully passionate Reader Advisor Librarian from the Colorado Talking Book Library (CTBL). Lorrie shares how CTBL keeps the joy of reading alive for folks who can’t access traditional print—whether due to vision loss, dyslexia, or even paper allergies (yes, that’s a thing!). With a national connection and a treasure trove of audiobooks, players, Braille, and large print, CTBL is like a magical book genie—minus the lamp. And the best part? It’s all free! Outline:  00:18 - Meet Lorrie Spoering  01:43 - What is CTBL?  03:57 - Helping someone get signed up 06:15 - What do patrons receive?  07:23 - What are patrons looking for? 10:27 - What else should we know?  14:14 - Outreach  15:30 - Closing  Resources:  Colorado Talking Book Library CTBL Application To reach Lorrie Spoering with any questions about CTBL’s services, please email [email protected]. Tell us what you think!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine & Stories Episode 206: Unearthing CSLP Summer Program ResourcesEpisode Summary:  The Collaborative Summer Library Program’s 2026 program manual is now live! So the Kates chat about all things summer from toolkits, printables and all that CSLP has to offer to fun ways to interpret this summer’s theme of “Unearth a Story” and the America 250 - Colorado 150 celebrations.  Outline 00:00 – Introduction 00:28 – What is CSLP? 01:28 – Tools  03:33 - Access 05:29 - Learning Opportunities   08:19 – Rules of Use 11:32 – The Theme and Program ideas 19:13 – Another take? 150/250 25:04 – Closing  Resources: Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP)CSLP Professional Development - Summer Symposium and other webinarsCSLP Official Summer Library Programming Group (Facebook)Colorado Youth Services Library Network mailing listWhere to See the Dinosaurs of Colorado History Colorado: America 250 - Colorado 150 CommissionAmerica250 Colorado Tourism Office - Colorado PassportCO State Library's "Stories of Colorado" collection"Reimagining School Readiness: Dinosaurs" (CSL Kit) Colorado folks, for access to CSLP's 2026 "Unearth a Story" program manual, please contact Kate Brunner at [email protected]. For all other states and territories, please reach out to your CSLP Representative. Tell us what you think! If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government.   

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine & Stories Episode 205: Compassionate Makerspace ProjectsEpisode Summary: Suzi Tonini chats with Carin Barrett, Teacher Librarian at Berthoud High School, about implementing compassionate makerspace projects that connect students with their community through service. Learn how Carin's students create items like fleece blankets, stuffed animals, birthday cards, and port pillows for organizations ranging from sex trafficking victim support groups to Meals on Wheels. Discover practical strategies for funding projects through Donors Choose, recruiting student volunteers, finding community partners, and balancing makerspace activities with everyday library responsibilities while building empathy and providing meaningful volunteer opportunities for students.00:00 - Introduction 00:44 - Carin’s inspiration for compassionate making 02:29 - Carin’s first compassionate makerspace project 03:54 - Logistics: finding funding for materials and getting students involved   09:53 - Strategies for learning about community needs/finding project ideas 15:00 - Tips for getting started with compassionate making 19:22 - Examples of student impact Resources: Carin Barrett, Teacher Librarian at Berthoud High School: [email protected]  Compassionate Making Pinterest Board Donors Choose project examples: Don’t Just Make, Make for Good! Make More for Good! Cards From the Heart Serging Forward with Service Student Making that Makes a Difference, CCIRA presentation by Carin Barrett  Tell us what you think!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government.  

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine & Stories Episode 204: “Health access should never depend on your Zip Code.”:  Telehealth and Rural Communities Episode Summary:  Kieran Hixon chats with Colorado Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera and Ashley Heathfield from the Office of eHealth Innovation (OeHI) about the "Connect to Health at Your Library" project in Colorado. This initiative establishes telehealth hubs in rural libraries to provide a private, safe, and free way for rural residents to connect with healthcare providers and other online services. Lieutenant Governor Primavera discusses the importance of health access regardless of location, and Ashley Heathfield emphasizes how this project leverages existing library infrastructure and provides critical funding to these community pillars, while also building digital literacy skills that benefit users far beyond just medical visits. 00:00 – Introduction 00:49 – Joy in Work 06:29 – The Telehealth/Library Partnership and Impact 08:19 - Visiting Julesburg and Future Hopes 10:05 - Patron Impact Stories  11:19 – Closing Resources: Connect to Health @Your Library (https://telehealth.cvlsites.org/) Office of eHealth Innovation (https://oehi.colorado.gov/) For more about the Connect to Health @Your Library project, contact Kieran Hixon, Rural and Small Library Senior Consultant - [email protected] Tell us what you think! If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government.  

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine & Stories Episode 203: Trends in Colorado Public and School Libraries Episode Summary:  Sit down with Polly Gallagher, Kieran Hixon, Suzi Tonini, Kate Brunner, and Kate Compton, members of CSL’s Library Development Team, as they share trends they are noting around our libraries in Colorado and consider the impact on services, resources, and governance. 00:00 – Introduction 01:06– Why we look at trends 02:26 – Staff 08:30 – Digital world 10:50 – How we read 15:09 – Removing barriers 19:40 – Legalities and censorship 23:37 – Public value 26:41 – Closing  Resources: Library Research Services Colorado Education Initiative AI Roadmap Healthy Kids Colorado Valuable Initiatives in Early Learning that Work Successfully (VIEWS2) SB24-216  Standards for Decisions Regarding Library Resources SB25-063 Library Resource Decision Standards for Public Schools Contact the CSL Library Development team at [email protected] us what you think! If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode. CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine & Stories Episode 202: Creating Autism-Friendly Libraries Through Sensory Audits Episode Summary: Kate Compton and Suzi Tonini chat with Gloria Perez Alvarez and Terri Faulkner from Jefferson County Public Library about their innovative sensory audit process for creating autism-friendly library spaces. Discover how they're partnering with local autism organizations to evaluate everything from parking lots to programming, and learn practical tips for making your own library more welcoming to neurodivergent patrons. 00:00 - Introduction 01:00 - Inspiration for conducting sensory audits 05:09 - How to conduct a sensory audit 08:52- Lessons learned from sensory audits 13:06 - Ideas for low-cost and/or easy-to-implement accommodations 15:30 - How to build staff’s awareness of the need for sensory accommodations 18:42 - Feedback from patrons about sensory-friendly improvements 24:02 - Advice for librarians on how to get started with creating a sensory-friendly libraryResources: Autism Community Store Autism Is Welcome Here: The Access Approach to Inclusion (webinar) Autism Society of Colorado Bridges Learning Systems (curriculum for neurodivergent youth) Firefly Autism Sensory Friendly Space Checklist (Bridges Learning System) Sensory Accessibility Checklist (Association of Children’s Museums) Sensory Accessibility Checklist (Autism Community Store) Sensory materials toolkit Tell us what you think! If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode. CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 201: CSL Kits: A Librarian's LibraryEpisode Summary:Kate Compton learns all about Colorado State Library book club and circulating program kits from Mike Peever the CSL Kits Program Coordinator. Hear all about how the program works, popular items in the collection, and how to get in on the borrowing action. [CSL Kits are available for circulation to Colorado libraries only. Give your own State Library a call to find out more about any circulating program kits they might have in their collection!]00:00 - Introduction01:18- History of the CSL Book Club and CSL Kit program04:34 - How to get started with the program08:24 - What's hot these days? Popular titles and kits10:57 - Where new ideas for new kits come from13:44 - Who uses these kits and why18:46 - ClosingResources:CSL Book Club InformationCSL Book Club CatalogBook Club enrollment form20 Popular Book Club Sets Does your library have unwanted book club sets? The Colorado Book Club Resource could be their new forever home! Find out more today. CLS Kits Early literacy kits Curio kit Fast (fun) facts about both collectionsKey Information for Account HoldersContact Mike at [email protected] or (303) 866-6900Tell us what you think!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government.

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode. Your feedback helps us grow and provides us with important reporting data for our funder. CSL projects like this one are funded in part by the Grants to States program, which is administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado State Library, Institute of Museum and Library Services, or the U.S. Government.

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 114: Today’s Teen Volunteer, Tomorrow’s Future Librarian If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode. Your feedback helps us grow and provides us with important reporting data for our funder. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. Episode Summary: Kate and Kate explore the possibilities of designing a teen volunteer program grounded in the development of workforce skills. How does that shift how you design, manage, and evaluate a library’s teen volunteer program? Could this sort of approach improve retention and create a lasting impact on teens in your communities of services? 00:00 – Introduction 01:47 – Why have a teen volunteer program? 05:06 – Steps to take to get started 08:35 – Strategies for retention 13:06 – Capturing and evaluating impact  17:22 – A program recommendation 18:23 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program Colorado Youth Services Library Network mailing list Pikes Peak Library District Workforce Readiness – Basic Training PPLD Workforce Readiness – Intermediate Training (15+) Next Drop-in Chat: Join us on March 11, 2025 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon!  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode. Your feedback helps us grow and provides us with important reporting data for our funder. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. Episode Summary: Designing an inclusive summer program benefits everyone when you think about taking a Universal Design approach. Let’s talk about the what, why, and how of creating a summer program for everyone in your library’s communities of service. 00:00 – Introduction 01:23 – What does it mean to design a summer for everyone? 05:47 – Ideas to think about and changes to consider 09:17 – Practicing cultural humility 10:26 – Take it a step at a time 11:41 – How we’re trying to walk the walk one step at a time 14:16 – Resource recommendation 16:00 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program Colorado Youth Services Library Network mailing list CSL Kits – Tools for Library Staff (cvlsites.org) History Colorado digital collection of John Fielder’s photography Universal Design Guide Colorado Talking Book Library Rural Communication Access Services (free sign language interpretation services available on request for rural communities in Colorado) Language Resources: Translation and Interpretation Services and Beyond from CO Virtual Library Cultural Humility: People, Principles and Practices Part 1 of 4 (video, 7min12sec) CU Denver Center for Innovative Design and Engineering (CIDE) CO Department of Education Equity Toolkit Play, Learn, & Grow: The English and Spanish Play, Learn, & Grow videos and activity sheets are available online. To obtain printable .pdf files for the Vietnamese and Standard Chinese (Mandarin) tip sheets, contact Kate Compton at [email protected] Next Drop-in Chat: Join us on February 25, 2025 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon!  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode. Your feedback helps us grow and provides us with important reporting data for our funder. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. Episode Summary: Time to chat tweens and teens! What’s up with this developmental stage of a young person’s life and how might that inform our program designs? What fun ideas are floating around out there when it comes to tweens, teens, the arts, and the library? Listen in as The Kates ponder the potential of those special summer moments when adolescence and librarianship meet. 00:00 – Introduction 01:24 – What might we want to know about tween & teen development? 06:40 – Particular considerations for these generations of tweens & teens 08:35 – The fun stuff; artsy program ideas & planning considerations 13:50 – Other program logistics to keep in mind  17:56 – Program ideas & video game recommendations 22:33 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program Colorado Youth Services Library Network mailing list CSL Kits – Tools for Library Staff (cvlsites.org) CSL Book Club Resource The Programming Librarian The Importance of Alternative Literacy webinar Reading Video Games as Literature webinar CO Virtual Library Program Spotlight: Yeet Art Submit your own Colorado Program Spotlight here Passartout: The Starving Artist Passartout 2: The Lost Artist Chicory: A Colorful Tale Concrete Genie (via Games for Change.org) Next Drop-in Chat: Join us on February 11, 2025 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon!  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode. Your feedback helps us grow and provides us with important reporting data for our funder. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service.Episode Summary: Ever felt completely burned out even though you’re only halfway through summer? We have too! In this episode, learn more about common and not so common signs of burnout and some important strategies beyond self-care that just might help you head it off a little this year. 00:00 – Introduction 01:16 – What is burnout and why does it happen in library work  04:04 – Less commonly cited signs of burnout 07:20 – Thinking basic self-care and beyond to collective care 11:40 – More places you can learn about burnout in the library and collective care 13:58 – Book & resource recommendations 15:37 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program Colorado Youth Services Library Network mailing list Hidden Voices: Piano Music by Black Women Composers from University of Colorado Boulder Job burnout: How to spot it and take action - Mayo Clinic “Feeling the Burnout” from Library Journal Mental Health and Wellness series from the Colorado State Library The Science Behind Our Burnout: Compassion Fatigue in Libraries webinar State Library Staff Day training menu for Colorado folks to request free staff day training at their libraries What you are looking for is in the library by Michiko Aoyama (Author); Alison Watts (Translator) Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kristen Miller Meet Me at the Library: A Place to Foster Social Connection and Promote Democracy by Shamichael Hallman Next Drop-in Chat: Hey Colorado library folks! Join us on January 28, 2025 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon!  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!If you give us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode. Your feedback helps us grow and provides us with important reporting data for our funder. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. Sunshine and Stories Episode 110: Summer is for Adults Too Episode Summary: The Kates are drawing on not only their professional experience in this episode, but also on their lived experiences as.... adults who utilize their local libraries! Whether you’re already offering a summer program for the adults in your community or looking for ideas to help you launch one, take a listen for a few ideas and hopefully a bit of inspiration. Remember, summer at the library is absolutely for adults too! 00:00 – Introduction 01:30 – No really, who are adults? 03:03 – What to think about when planning for adults 05:48 – Ideas for structured vs. open programs 12:15 – Interactive displays and self-directed programs 15:08 – Taking your programs out of the library  17:32 – Book & resource recommendations 19:55 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program Colorado Youth Services Library Network mailing list Colorado Creative Industries (OEDIT) Libnet mailing list for all things library (including adult services) Colorado Library Public Program Coordinators mailing list for all things programming CSL Kits – Tools for Library Staff (cvlsites.org) CSL Book Club Resource Women Artists of the West CSL Book Club Set (via AspenCat) Residence on Earth CSL Book Club Set (via AspenCat) Don’t Point That Thing at Me CSL Book Club Set (via AspenCat) If you serve Colorado adults in your community and could use the support of a compassionate colleague who will be your thought partner and your very own adult services reference librarian, make sure you connect with Cristy Moran, the CO State Library’s Adult Services Senior Consultant! You can reach Cristy at either [email protected] or 720-926-2159. Next Drop-in Chat: Hey Colorado library folks!  Join us on January 14, 2025 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 109: Artful Play for Itty Bitties & Kids Episode Summary: Kate Compton, Early Literacy Consultant at the Colorado State Library, chats with all of us about her ideas for art-themed programming for our youngest library friends. Join her for a quick review of developmental stages for children 0 to 8 years old and a discussion of the many benefits of artful play for this age group. Also don’t miss our best tips for designing accessible, inclusive art activities, managing mess, and scaling developmentally appropriate activities for multiple age groups within the same program.  00:00 – Introduction 01:13 – Let’s talk ages & stages 05:15 – Why engage in art with littles and kids? 09:47 – A whole heap of program ideas 12:40 – How to make art activities more accessible for all 16:51 – Tips & tricks for set up, facilitation, & clean up 19:48 – Book & resource recommendations 22:33 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program Colorado Youth Services Library Network mailing list CSL Kits – Tools for Library Staff (cvlsites.org) Reimagining School Readiness Toolkit for Libraries Reimagining School Readiness Activity Database Supporting the A in STEAM with Infants and Toddlers by Head Start Reach Out and Read’s Milestones of Early Literacy Development The Growing Child: School-Age (6 to 12 Years) by Stanford Medicine Children’s Health The color monster: a story about emotions by Anna Llenas El monstruo de colores by Anna Llenas La couleur des émotions: l'album by Anna Llenas and Marie Antilogus Every color soup by Jorey Hurley Scroll by Hui Li CLEL Bell Awards Las Campanitas de Plata Become a member of Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy Next Drop-in Chat: Hey Colorado library folks! Join us on December 17, 2024 at 11:00 am to noon MT for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! If you work in a library and gave us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm.This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 108: Performers, Experts, & Marketing, Oh My! Episode Summary: Kate and Kate share their own experiences working with performers and experts to provide a variety of public library programs not only during the summertime, but throughout the year. They also chat marketing strategies as well as tips and tricks they’ve picked up from Colorado library professionals all over the state.  00:00 – Introduction 01:13 – Professional vs. local performers/experts  08:55 – Don’t forget the planning and logistics 16:09 – Let’s talk marketing strategies 22:27 – What do you want us to chat about next year? 23:05 – Book and program recommendations 25:17 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program Colorado Youth Services Library Network mailing list The Moth’s Storytelling Tips and Tricks Spellbinders Storytellers Colorado Book Awards information and 2024 finalists/winners Unplugged Voices: 125 Tales of Art and Life from Northern New Mexico, the Four Corners and the West compiled and edited by Sara Frances Light Speaks written by Christine Layton, illustrated by Luciana Navarro Powell Colorado Public Library Staff-Recommended Performers and Experts as of Nov 2024    Colorado Collaborative Summer Library Program Manual Access Code: Colorado folks, if you still need our state’s CSLP 2025 manual access code, please reach out to Kate Brunner at [email protected]  or Kate Compton at [email protected].  If you live and work in another US state or territory, please contact your CSLP state/territory representative instead.   Next Drop-in Chat: Hey Colorado library folks! Join us on December 3, 2024 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! If you work in a library and gave us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 107: The Nuts & Bolts of CSLP and CSL Summer Resources Episode Summary: The Collaborative Summer Library Program’s 2025 program manual is live! So we’re digging into all the resources CSLP and the Colorado State Library (CSL) have available to help you plan next summer’s library program in and with your community. Manuals, toolkits, printables, programs in a box, and more. This week listen and learn a little bit more about everything CSLP and CSL have to offer. 00:00 – Introduction 01:24 – What the heck is CSLP? 03:55 – CSLP’s 2025 resources 06:36 – Don’t forget to review the CSLP Rules of Use 09:58 – And what’s the State Library got for me? 15:20 – A few CSLP program manual highlights 16:16 – Closing  References: Collaborative Summer Library Program CSLP Rules of Use Guide Colorado Virtual Library website Colorado Youth Services Network mailing list Quick Bites: 20-Minute Early Literacy Talks CSL Kits program kit collection CSL Book Club Resource Reach Kate Brunner at: [email protected] and Kate Compton at: [email protected]   Next Drop-in Chat: Hey Colorado library folks! Join us on November 5, 2024 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! If you work in a library and gave us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 106: Hispanohablante Communities & Your LibraryEpisode Summary:The Kates were thrilled to have Cristy Moran, Adult Library Services Senior Consultant at the Colorado State Library join them today to talk about summer library services and Spanish-speakers in our communities. Kate, Kate, & Cristy sat down to talk about why vocabulary matters, strategies for learning about who is speaking what languages in your community, and what this all has to do with designing more inclusive summer experiences for all our communities of service.00:00 – Introduction 01:11 – Why use the term “hispanohablante”? 03:42 – Learning your community’s Spanish (or other language) speakers 11:45 – What does this have to do with summer? 16:02 – It’s ok to make mistakes, keep going 18:14 – Book and resource highlights 20:52 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program Colorado State Demography Office US Census Bureau American Communities Survey Data STARnet Community Dialogues Toolkit Spanish for Libraries at CSL En comunidad : lessons for centering the voices and experiences of bilingual Latinx students by Carla España, Luz Yadira Herrera, and Ofelia García ¡Sí! Somos latinos por Alma Flor Ada, F. Isabel Campoy, and David Diaz Yes! we are Latinos by Alma Flor Ada, F. Isabel Campoy, and David Diaz Me dicen Güero : poemas de un chavo de la frontera por David Bowles They call me Güero : a border kid's poems by David Bowles Le dicen Fregona : poemas de un chavo de la frontera por David Bowles They call her Fregona : a border kid's poems by David Bowles CO State Library Resources: CSL Stories and Storytelling for Adult Emerging Readers Program Kit CSL Book Club Resource & Colorado State Library Spanish Book Club Kits Reach Cristy at: [email protected]  Next Drop-in Chat: Hey Colorado folks! Join us on Oct 22, 2024 - 11am to noon MT for our next Summer Drop-in Chat. Cristy will join us to further the discussion about summer library service and Spanish-speakers in your community. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! If you work in a library and gave us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 105: To Prize or Not to Prize Episode Summary: This week Kate & Kate talk summer library program tracking strategies, as well as the pros and cons of offering different types of incentives during the summer. They also explore how both tracking strategies and incentives programs might connect to and support the outcomes you set for yourself based on why you’re designing a summer library program in the first place.  Listeners may want to check out Episodes 102 and 103 for a more in-depth discussion around identifying your summer why and outcome-based planning and evaluation for summer library programs. 00:00 – Introduction 00:59 – Let’s talk tracking strategies 08:46 – What about prizes or incentives? 15:40 – How does tracking connect to capturing impact?  16:55 – Book and program highlights 18:55 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program Bright by Brigit Young The Puzzling World of Winston Breen by Eric Berlin Pikuni Bigfoot Storytelling Project Next Drop-in Chat: Hey Colorado library folks! Join us on October 8, 2024 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our first online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! If you work in a library and gave us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 104: Perfect Summer Partners Episode Summary: Special guest, Suzi Tonini, Colorado’s School Library Leadership Consultant, joins Kate Compton to chat about the school library landscape in our state and how public library professionals can partner with school library professionals for summer and beyond. If you’d like to connect with Suzi to learn more about any of the information she shares in this episode, you can reach her at [email protected]. 00:00 – Introduction 01:26 – What should we know about school libraries? 05:35 – Examples of school/public library partnership 16:30 – Navigating challenges 20:44 – Book and program highlights 23:32 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program LibSlide.org Colorado State Profile HESTL EdCon Living Color by Steve Jenkins Color the Sky by David Elliot (author) Evan Turk (illustrator) Colorado Virtual Library Mailing Lists 101 Join Libnet (All things libraries in Colorado) here Join cys-lib (our Colorado Youth Services Network mailing list) here Next Drop-in Chat: Hey Colorado library folks! Join us on September 24, 2024 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our first online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! If you work in a library and gave us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 103: The Art of Capturing ImpactEpisode Summary: What happens when one Kate asks another Kate what she thinks about how we capture the impact of what happens during our summer library programs? A whole lot of reflecting on why capturing impact might be meaningful to us, what playful ways might be out there to collect the numbers and stories we can use to measure impact in ways that are relevant to our unique outcomes, and all the bits and bobs we might need to remember to plan for before the summer begins. 00:00 – Introduction 00:58 – Defining success and capturing impact02:21 – Collecting numbers and stories14:00 – Logistics to consider16:58 – We captured, now what?22:12 – Book and program highlights 24:09 – Closing  References: Collaborative Summer Library Program 5 Steps of Outcome-Based Planning & Evaluation for Public Libraries by Melissa Gross, Cindy Mediavilla, and Virgina A. Walter  5 Steps of Outcome-Based Planning & Evaluation for Youth Services by Melissa Gross, Cindy Mediavilla, and Virgina A. WalterResearch Institute for Public Libraries (RIPL) 12 Months to Better Library DataPublic Library Association Project OutcomeYour Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us by Susan Magsamen & Ivy RossThe Power of Art: The Human History of Art: From Babylon to New York City by Caroline CampbellNext Drop-in Chat: Join us on September 10, 2024 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat.No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! If you work in a library and gave us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine and Stories Episode 102: The Why of Summer Episode Summary: Join Kate and Kate as they discuss why we might want to ask ourselves “Why do we do summer programming?” They also consider how reflecting deeply on our why as well as engaging with our communities of service around their summer needs may lead us to discover what’s really working well and where our opportunities to innovate might lie, including how we might consider what more equitable summer service could look like. Exploring and clarifying our why can be the first step in defining what impacts we and our communities want our summer program to have in our libraries and beyond. 00:00 – Introduction 01:14 – Why ask why and the Five Whys tool 06:56 – Where is equitable service in your why? 10:09 – Creating outcomes from whys 16:39 – Book and program highlights 18:43 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program 5 Steps of Outcome-Based Planning & Evaluation for Public Libraries by Melissa Gross, Cindy Mediavilla, and Virginia A. Walter  5 Steps of Outcome-Based Planning & Evaluation for Youth Services by Melissa Gross, Cindy Mediavilla, and Virginia A. Walter  Future Ready with the Library project (2016-2020) Building Equity-Based Summers (BEBS)  BEBS podcast Ep 1: The Why of Equity and Equitable Summer Service (full transcript)  IDEO’s Design Kit: The Five Whys  Arapahoe Libraries’ Teen Books with Artist Main Characters book list    Wings in the Wild by Margarita Engle  Almost American Girl: an illustrated memoir by Robin Ha Next Drop-in Chat: Join us on August 27, 2024 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our next online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! If you work in a library and gave us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode.  Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here. This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service. 

You can now use the survey link below AND text us your feedback via Buzzsprout with this link right here!!Sunshine & Stories Episode 101: Creative Takes on Coloring Our World Episode Summary: The Colorado State Library's Youth and Family Services Team, Kate Brunner and Kate Compton, explore all the different ways they can think of to interpret the upcoming 2025 Collaborative Summer Library Program slogan, “Color Our World” as well as the theme of art as an upcoming summer program theme for Colorado’s public libraries.  00:00 – Introduction 01:03 – “Color Our World” how? 12:14 – Book and program highlights 14:16 – Closing References: Collaborative Summer Library Program The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubins Museum of Bad Art, Boston, MA Ontarian Librarian: Bad Art Night 2.0 Creative Quest by Questlove Art Play! By Meredith Magee Donnelly The Artful Kid: Paint with Bubbles 3 Ways Next Drop-in Chat: Hey Colorado library folks! Join us on August 13, 2024 at 11:00 am to noon Mountain Time for our first online Summer Drop-in Chat. No need to register. Come when you can, stay for as long as you can. See you soon! If you work in a library and gave us a listen, please let us know what you think by completing a short feedback survey for this episode. Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.This project is made possible in part by a grant from the US Institute of Museum and Library Service.