MASL 53 Annual Conference 2026

This session is for librarians who are done being invisible and ready to be intentional. We’ll dig into how your presence -- not just your collection -- shapes student relationships, staff collaboration, and the overall vibe of your library. The goal? To help you define a persona that’s authentic, recognizable, and sustainable (no fake enthusiasm required), then translate that into small, consistent moves that make you the person students seek out -- not just the place they’re sent. 

Centering student voice in collection development fosters belonging, strengthens reader engagement, and builds collections that better reflect the communities they serve. Join me to explore a library unit that guides students as they examine their own identities, learn about Bishop's concept of mirrors and windows, evaluate representation within the existing library collection, and recommend new titles for purchase. The unit as a whole is best suited for elementary librarians with regular class time, but the shared resources and strategies are adaptable for any age or group of students.