The Facilitation Librarian: Collaborative Conversations for Community

Join us to learn how to transition from an information provider to a facilitator of meaningful, productive conversations with colleagues and patrons. Gain practical facilitation tools to ensure every voice is heard and valued, resulting in reduced meeting fatigue and more collaborative, community-centered services.

As librarians take on greater responsibility for leading meetings, discussions, and collaborative work, strong facilitation skills are increasingly essential. This webinar will focus on intentional strategies for managing group dynamics, drawing out quieter voices, and keeping conversations focused and effective. Participants will leave with techniques they can immediately apply in meetings, workshops, and community engagements to build trust and move conversations toward action.

Presenter: Angel Truesdale is an Associate Professor and the Social Sciences and Business Librarian at UNC Charlotte’s J. Murrey Atkins Library. Drawing on 15 years of experience in both public and academic libraries, she provides specialized research support and instruction for the Belk College of Business, as well as various other subject areas and campus departments. As a dedicated educator and facilitator, Angel focuses on information literacy and inclusive practices. Her research and service interests reside at the intersection of collaborative leadership, entrepreneurship in marginalized communities, and professional development. Beyond the library, she is an avid film enthusiast who leverages her passion for cinema to curate programs focused on the Black American experience, utilizing documentary and storytelling to amplify undervalued perspectives.

Learning Objectives:
-  Learn to move from delivering information to guiding meaningful dialogue with colleagues and patrons.
-  Gain practical techniques to encourage participation and make meetings more efficient.
-  Develop skills to facilitate in-depth interactions and ensure every perspective is valued.