WRLS Events & Continuing Education Calendar
January 2026
Udemy Training Webinar
Thursday, January 15- 10am-1130am
Online
Join Barry, WRLS Consultant, for a webinar introducing staff to our new learning platform, Gale Presents Udemy. We will talk about its features, tools, and use as well as how to introduce it to your patrons.
February 2026
Libby Skills Workshop Webinar
Tuesday, February 17th 9am-12pm
Online
Join Kalya Mathson for a practical and engaging workshop designed to help library workers confidently assist patrons with the Libby app. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will walk you through the most efficient ways to teach patrons how to navigate Libby. You’ll also get a sneak peek at new and upcoming features, learn about resources available through the Wisconsin Public Library Consortium (WPLC), and have plenty of time for questions. Walk away with ready-to-use tips, talking points, and troubleshooting tricks that will make your Libby support easier and more effective.
Social Media Workshop
Thursday, February 26th 9am-12pm
Winding Rivers Offices in West Salem
Boost your library’s online presence with this interactive, skills-focused workshop designed specifically for library professionals. Participants will explore current best practices in social media engagement through an energizing presentation, then dive into hands-on activities that translate ideas into action. Together, we’ll analyze real examples, identify target audiences, experiment with content planning tools, and map out strategies tailored to your library’s goals. You’ll leave with a concrete, customizable social media plan, and the confidence to create meaningful, consistent, and community-building content on your own platforms. Presented by Amber DeRuyter, Communications Coordinator, West Bend Public Library.
WRLS Kit Speed Dating
Thursday, February 26th 1-3pm
Winding Rivers Offices in West Salem
Are there kits in the WRLS kit library you have been interested in but not sure how they work? Wanting to try some of the kits in a no-pressure atmosphere? Join us as we explore kits from WRLS extensive kit library as well as debut some new entries. You’ll get first look and have the first chance to reserve !
March 2026
Games-based Programming in the Library
Thursday, March 12 9am-12pm
Winding Rivers Library System Offices in West Salem
This workshop will offer you insights into running game-based programming at your library, including Tabletop Roleplaying Gaming (TTRGs), board games, and other affinity programming. Offering games-based programming supports literacy, strategic thinking, and social development while fostering a welcoming environment for all ages. By embracing games like Dungeons & Dragons, librarians can engage patrons in fun, educational experiences that build community and support library goals. Come on and roll for adventure!
Reference Ready: Helping Every Patron
Tuesday, March 31 130pm-330pm
Black River Falls Public Library
New to answering reference questions, nervous about your skills or just need a refresher? This workshop will give library staff practical tools and strategies to confidently handle patron questions, connect users with the right resources, and strengthen everyday reference interactions.
April 2026
Growing Readers and Sparking Joy
Thursday, April 9 1-3pm
Winding Rivers Library System headquarters (West Salem)
During this youth services workshop, we will uncover some of the issues facing our children as they learn to read and the important role our public libraries have in cultivating reading joy. What’s waiting for you: examination of the reading crisis in our local schools, understanding of the Science of Reading approach to literacy instruction, discussion on the public librarian’s role in literacy, and using your collection (and your amazing library skills) to bring joy into reading.
May 2026
Libby Workshop
Tuesday, May 28 9am-12pm
Location: Trempealeau Public Library
Join Kalya Mathson for a practical and engaging workshop designed to help library workers confidently assist patrons with the Libby app. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will walk you through the most efficient ways to teach patrons how to navigate Libby. You’ll also get a sneak peek at new and upcoming features, learn about resources available through the Wisconsin Public Library Consortium (WPLC), and have plenty of time for questions. Walk away with ready-to-use tips, talking points, and troubleshooting tricks that will make your Libby support easier and more effective.
September 2026
October 2026
November 2026