On Wednesday Feb. 24th I will be presenting a Pre-Conference Workshop at the Ontario Library Association Super Conference.

Workshop Title: Best Foot Forward: Pro-active Service and Roving 2.0

Date/Time: Wed. Feb. 24th, 2010, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St. West, Toronto Ontario

Fee: OLA members $125, Non-Members $165

Register via the Ontario Library Association at http://www.accessola.com/ola/bins/content_page.asp?cid=5

Workshop description:

Best Foot Forward: Pro-active Service and Roving 2.0

The use of roving reference has been in practice in libraries for several years and much has been learned.  As one of the pioneers, Joan has travelled to the United States, Australia, and throughout Canada, leading libraries in their implementation of the concept.
In this new 2010 version of her practical and entertaining workshop, Joan reveals what libraries have shared with her about the most common challenges they face when trying to implement roving. More importantly, she will share updates on the latest and best tips, practical approaches, tools, and solutions she has seen libraries use to overcome their challenges.
You will walk away with
1. Current, practical approaches, tips and techniques
2. Common obstacles and pitfalls, and how to avoid them
3. Answers to your own specific questions about roving reference in your library
4. A comprehensive list of URL’s of pertinent articles, presentations, white papers, and more

I am always happy to speak with libraries and other organizations about their goals, challenges and needs. I also am available to consult or conduct training on a wide variety of topics – everything from 1/2 day to multi-day classes as required, both in-person and virtually. I also consult regularly with libraries in an informal advisory capacity on numerous service and management topics. Here are some of the areas in which I can provide effective consultation, training, or presentations. If your topic isn’t on the list, just ask – I may have simply forgotten to list it:

• Pro-active Service
• Roving Service; what it it, what it isn’t, how to do it well and be comfortable with it
• Myths and Misperceptions about Roving
• The Road to Roving: key steps for Managers to take for long-term roving implementation
• 10 FAQ’s managers must answer for staff when implementing something new (like Roving)
• Communicating with upset or angry people
• “Communicating On Purpose” (Overcoming barriers to communication, and adapting for personality styles)
• Presentation and Facilitation Skills (also available as one-on-one coaching)
• Leading Transition, Managing Change
• New Leader Assimilation process
• Consensus sessions (identifying priority issues and brainstorming solutions)