This hands-on workshop will focus on the Adventure Begins at Your Library theme as it relates to Children, Tween/Teen, Adults and Multigenerational groups of patrons and include creative tips for marketing, decorating, tracking reading, engaging community partners, finding resources, and planning programs.

With 30 years of experience as a Summer Reading Performer, Speaker, and a Library Consultant, Jen Strauss will introduce librarians to a variety of Summer Reading experiences that promote adventure, exploration, investigation, creativity and of course, reading. Jen will spotlight and extend activities and ideas from the Collaborative Summer Library Programs 2024 Manual along with sharing ideas that will help you enjoy the theme of Adventure while streamlining programming for patrons of all ages.

Participants will receive extensive workshop handouts, the slide deck, and future access to the presenter for questions and consultation. Each workshop will include time for group brainstorming, discussion, questions and will include time for breaks and lunch.

Presenter Jen Strauss uses her passion for story to help educators, organizations and individuals connect with others, communicate ideas, and achieve goals. Following ten years as a public-school educator, Jenifer combined her love of teaching and storytelling and in 1993, founded her business, Story Be Told.

Now traveling nationally, Jen offers interactive story performances, dynamic conference keynotes, workshops, trainings and coaching along with writing workshops and long-term involvements as an Artist-in-Residence.