Library Facilities Conference: Call for Programs

Program proposals are now being accepted for the 2023 Library Facilities Conference, set for Wed., July 19 at the Quest Conference Center in Westerville. The Planning Committee is seeking one hour programs that tie to the core competencies of public library work and focus on construction and renovation; space planning; makerspace areas; disaster and emergency planning, building systems; energy efficiency; funding and budgeting, and preventative maintenance. The conference is designed to be of interest to all public libraries, regardless of budget, size, or location. The committee will give special consideration to sessions addressing:

  • Sustainability (LEED, energy efficiency or solar)
  • Long-term maintenance plans and documenting when work is done
  • Patron-centered design for your community (teens, flexible spaces or furniture on wheels)
  • Library services and security during a renovation project
  • Building automation systems (HVAC, lighting, access control, etc.) and cybersecurity risks
  • Flexible makerspaces (what to do when you don’t have space and what to do once it’s set up)
  • Basics of construction procurement (evaluating and documenting bids; hiring architects, design professionals, and builders; Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) pitfalls)
  • Prevailing Wage requirements
  • New outdoor spaces at your library
  • Partnerships with local coffee shops, restaurants, Friends stores or gift shops
  • Developing DEI efforts in construction and being intentional with inclusiveness

The program submission form is available on the OLC website. The deadline for submitting programs is April 5.