Past Programs & Speaking Engagements
The below do not include programs or events that are part of my regular librarian duties.
Ace Your In-person Interview
Wednesday, March 11th, 7 p.m.
Naperville Public Library, Naper Blvd. Branch
Naperville, IL
Learn how to wow an employer at your interview. This class covers the before, during, and after of the most crucial part of the job hunting process. Your students will learn how to prepare, research a company, dress the part, answer questions with ease, learn how to sell themselves better, and how to follow-up afterwards.
Wednesday, March 11th, 7 p.m.
Naperville Public Library, Naper Blvd. Branch
Naperville, IL
Learn how to wow an employer at your interview. This class covers the before, during, and after of the most crucial part of the job hunting process. Your students will learn how to prepare, research a company, dress the part, answer questions with ease, learn how to sell themselves better, and how to follow-up afterwards.
Fingerknitting for Adults
Sunday, March 1st, 2 p.m.
Fremont Public Library
Mundelein, IL
Make a fashionable scarf with nothing but your fingers! No needles or experience necessary here—anyone can learn. Fremont cardholders only.
Register here
Sunday, March 1st, 2 p.m.
Fremont Public Library
Mundelein, IL
Make a fashionable scarf with nothing but your fingers! No needles or experience necessary here—anyone can learn. Fremont cardholders only.
Register here
Resume Writing
Wednesday, February 12th, 7 p.m.
Niles-Maine District Library
Niles, IL
Learn how to write an eye-catching and informative resume that’ll help you land the job you want.
Register here
Wednesday, February 12th, 7 p.m.
Niles-Maine District Library
Niles, IL
Learn how to write an eye-catching and informative resume that’ll help you land the job you want.
Register here
Fingerknitting for Adults
Wednesday, February 5th, 7 p.m.
Fremont Public Library
Mundelein, IL
Make a fashionable scarf with nothing but your fingers! No needles or experience necessary here—anyone can learn. Fremont cardholders only.
Register here
Wednesday, February 5th, 7 p.m.
Fremont Public Library
Mundelein, IL
Make a fashionable scarf with nothing but your fingers! No needles or experience necessary here—anyone can learn. Fremont cardholders only.
Register here
Fingerknitting for Teens
Wednesday, February 5th, 4 p.m.
Fremont Public Library
Mundelein, IL
Make a fashionable scarf with nothing but your fingers! No needles or experience necessary here—anyone can learn.
Register here
Wednesday, February 5th, 4 p.m.
Fremont Public Library
Mundelein, IL
Make a fashionable scarf with nothing but your fingers! No needles or experience necessary here—anyone can learn.
Register here
Fingerknitting
Sunday, January 26th, 2 p.m.
Helen Plum Public Library
Lombard, IL
Make a fashionable scarf with nothing but your fingers! No needles or experience necessary here—anyone can learn. Patrons can complete a full infinity scarf in a single sitting and you'll get to watch their faces light up with pride as they show off their impressive creations.
Registration closed - program full
Sunday, January 26th, 2 p.m.
Helen Plum Public Library
Lombard, IL
Make a fashionable scarf with nothing but your fingers! No needles or experience necessary here—anyone can learn. Patrons can complete a full infinity scarf in a single sitting and you'll get to watch their faces light up with pride as they show off their impressive creations.
Registration closed - program full
Astrology 101
Monday, January 13th, 2020
Oak Lawn Public Library
Oak Lawn, IL
In this introduction to astrology, I cover sun, moon, and rising signs, planets, and houses and teach you how to read your natal chart so you can avoid future problems, learn your strengths, and embrace your best self.
Monday, January 13th, 2020
Oak Lawn Public Library
Oak Lawn, IL
In this introduction to astrology, I cover sun, moon, and rising signs, planets, and houses and teach you how to read your natal chart so you can avoid future problems, learn your strengths, and embrace your best self.
Resume Writing
Thursday, January 23rd, 6:30 p.m.
Midlothian Public LIbrary
Midlothian, IL
This program will explain essential parts of a resume, determine which format is right for you, and help you create a document unique to your skills, goals, and experience. Learn how to highlight your skills, avoid common mistakes, and overcome issues like work gaps or age discrimination.
Register here
Thursday, January 23rd, 6:30 p.m.
Midlothian Public LIbrary
Midlothian, IL
This program will explain essential parts of a resume, determine which format is right for you, and help you create a document unique to your skills, goals, and experience. Learn how to highlight your skills, avoid common mistakes, and overcome issues like work gaps or age discrimination.
Register here
Bullet Journaling for Beginners
Tuesday, January 9th, 2020
Tinley Park Public Library
Love’s Sweet Arrow, Tinley Park, IL
Want to try bullet journaling, but have become too intimidated by the museum quality examples on Pinterest? Learn the basics of bullet journaling including sample layouts and possible uses.
Tuesday, January 9th, 2020
Tinley Park Public Library
Love’s Sweet Arrow, Tinley Park, IL
Want to try bullet journaling, but have become too intimidated by the museum quality examples on Pinterest? Learn the basics of bullet journaling including sample layouts and possible uses.
Astrology 101
Monday, January 8th, 2020
Woodridge Public Library
Woodridge, IL
Presenter Jez Layman will teach you about sun, moon, and rising signs, planets, and houses in a fun overview of Astrology. Learn how to read your natal chart so you can find inspiration, discover your strengths, and embrace your best self.
Monday, January 8th, 2020
Woodridge Public Library
Woodridge, IL
Presenter Jez Layman will teach you about sun, moon, and rising signs, planets, and houses in a fun overview of Astrology. Learn how to read your natal chart so you can find inspiration, discover your strengths, and embrace your best self.
New Way RA
Thursday, November 14th, 2019
ARRT Con
Naperville Public Library, 95th St. Branch
A panel of librarians will discuss many ways reader’s advisory is changing in libraries, including recommending audiobooks to podcast listeners,
Thursday, November 14th, 2019
ARRT Con
Naperville Public Library, 95th St. Branch
A panel of librarians will discuss many ways reader’s advisory is changing in libraries, including recommending audiobooks to podcast listeners,
Painless Promotion
Thursday, October 24th, 2019
Illinois Library Association 2019 Annual Conference
Tinley Park, IL
Grow beyond the traditional marketing model and embrace a whole library philosophy where promotion is everyon’es job. Informing the public of programs, services, and materials that will interest or help them solve a problem is at the core of what we already provide. But why do most library staff think marketing isn’t part of their job? None of these presenters are traditional marketers, but it is a part of how they serve patrons every day. Join them as they share practical tips to engage staff, inform the community, increase return on investment, and create a more positive experience for all.
Speakers: Jez Layman, Becky Spratford, Arcadia McCauley
Thursday, October 24th, 2019
Illinois Library Association 2019 Annual Conference
Tinley Park, IL
Grow beyond the traditional marketing model and embrace a whole library philosophy where promotion is everyon’es job. Informing the public of programs, services, and materials that will interest or help them solve a problem is at the core of what we already provide. But why do most library staff think marketing isn’t part of their job? None of these presenters are traditional marketers, but it is a part of how they serve patrons every day. Join them as they share practical tips to engage staff, inform the community, increase return on investment, and create a more positive experience for all.
Speakers: Jez Layman, Becky Spratford, Arcadia McCauley
Astrology 101
Monday, October 14th, 2019
Brookfield Public Library
Brookfield, IL
In this introduction to astrology, I cover sun, moon, and rising signs, planets, and houses and teach you how to read your natal chart so you can avoid future problems, learn your strengths, and embrace your best self.
Monday, October 14th, 2019
Brookfield Public Library
Brookfield, IL
In this introduction to astrology, I cover sun, moon, and rising signs, planets, and houses and teach you how to read your natal chart so you can avoid future problems, learn your strengths, and embrace your best self.
Resume Workshop
Monday, August 12, 2019
Homewood Public Library
Homewood, IL
Learn how to write an eye-catching and informative resume that'll help you land the job you want. We'll break down the essential parts of the resume to help you create one unique to your skills, experience, and goals. This class will cover format; function; making your work experience strong, yet succinct; highlighting your skills; and how to avoid common mistakes.
Monday, August 12, 2019
Homewood Public Library
Homewood, IL
Learn how to write an eye-catching and informative resume that'll help you land the job you want. We'll break down the essential parts of the resume to help you create one unique to your skills, experience, and goals. This class will cover format; function; making your work experience strong, yet succinct; highlighting your skills; and how to avoid common mistakes.
21 (Almost) Free Things to Do in Chicago
Thursday, October 10th, 2019
Tinley Park Public Library
Parmesean’s Station, 80th Ave. Train Station
Whether you’re on a budget or splurging, there’s plenty to do in Chicago that is free or cheap!
Thursday, October 10th, 2019
Tinley Park Public Library
Parmesean’s Station, 80th Ave. Train Station
Whether you’re on a budget or splurging, there’s plenty to do in Chicago that is free or cheap!
Bullet Journaling for Beginners
Thursday, July 25th, 2019
Helen Plum Library
Lombard, IL
Want to try bullet journaling, but have become too intimidated by the museum quality examples on Pinterest? Learn the basics of bullet journaling including sample layouts and possible uses to find the right fit for you and remove some stress from your life with artful organization.
Thursday, July 25th, 2019
Helen Plum Library
Lombard, IL
Want to try bullet journaling, but have become too intimidated by the museum quality examples on Pinterest? Learn the basics of bullet journaling including sample layouts and possible uses to find the right fit for you and remove some stress from your life with artful organization.
|
Astrology 101
Monday, July 22nd, 2019 North Riverside Public Library North Riverside, IL In this introduction to astrology, I cover sun, moon, and rising signs, planets, and houses and teach you how to read your natal chart so you can avoid future problems, learn your strengths, and embrace your best self. |
|
No Stress Skype and Phone Interviews - for Business
Friday, September 27, 2019
Brookfield Public Library, Brookfield, IL
In this class, learn the differences between types of interviews and how to prepare for them, as well as tips on best presenting yourself when you're not actually in the room.
Friday, September 27, 2019
Brookfield Public Library, Brookfield, IL
In this class, learn the differences between types of interviews and how to prepare for them, as well as tips on best presenting yourself when you're not actually in the room.
|
No Stress Skype and Phone Interviews
Thursday, July 11th, 2019 Helen Plum Library Lombard, IL Skype and phone interviews can be just as stressful as an in-person interview, but involve more difficult circumstances that can help or hurt your case to move on in the job hunting process. In this class, learn the differences between types of interviews and how to prepare for them, as well as tips on best presenting yourself when you're not actually in the room. |
|
Bullet Journaling for Beginners
Wednesday, July 10, 2019
Niles-Main Public Library
Niles, IL
Want to try bullet journaling, but have become too intimidated by the museum quality examples on Pinterest? Learn the basics of bullet journaling including sample layouts and possible uses to find the right fit for you and remove some stress from your life with artful organization.
Wednesday, July 10, 2019
Niles-Main Public Library
Niles, IL
Want to try bullet journaling, but have become too intimidated by the museum quality examples on Pinterest? Learn the basics of bullet journaling including sample layouts and possible uses to find the right fit for you and remove some stress from your life with artful organization.
Resume Workshop
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Niles-Main District Library
Niles, IL
Learn how to write an eye-catching and informative resume that'll help you land the job you want. We'll break down the essential parts of the resume to help you create one unique to your skills, experience, and goals. This class will cover format; function; making your work experience strong, yet succinct; highlighting your skills; and how to avoid common mistakes.
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Niles-Main District Library
Niles, IL
Learn how to write an eye-catching and informative resume that'll help you land the job you want. We'll break down the essential parts of the resume to help you create one unique to your skills, experience, and goals. This class will cover format; function; making your work experience strong, yet succinct; highlighting your skills; and how to avoid common mistakes.
|
Resume Workshop
Monday, May 13th, 2019 Park Forest Public Library Park Forest, IL Learn how to write an eye-catching and informative resume that'll help you land the job you want. We'll break down the essential parts of the resume to help you create one unique to your skills, experience, and goals. This class will cover format; function; making your work experience strong, yet succinct; highlighting your skills; and how to avoid common mistakes. |
|
No Stress Skype and Phone Interviews
Wednesday, May 8th, 2019
Brookfield Public Library, Brookfield, IL
Skype and phone interviews can be just as stressful as an in-person interview, but involve more difficult circumstances that can help or hurt your case to move on in the job hunting process. In this class, learn the differences between types of interviews and how to prepare for them, as well as tips on best presenting yourself when you're not actually in the room.
Wednesday, May 8th, 2019
Brookfield Public Library, Brookfield, IL
Skype and phone interviews can be just as stressful as an in-person interview, but involve more difficult circumstances that can help or hurt your case to move on in the job hunting process. In this class, learn the differences between types of interviews and how to prepare for them, as well as tips on best presenting yourself when you're not actually in the room.
Resume Workshop
Wednesday, April 10th, 2019
Brookfield Public Library, Brookfield, IL
Learn how to write an eye-catching and informative resume that'll help you land the job you want. We'll break down the essential parts of the resume to help you create one unique to your skills, experience, and goals. This class will cover format; function; making your work experience strong, yet succinct; highlighting your skills; and how to avoid common mistakes.
Wednesday, April 10th, 2019
Brookfield Public Library, Brookfield, IL
Learn how to write an eye-catching and informative resume that'll help you land the job you want. We'll break down the essential parts of the resume to help you create one unique to your skills, experience, and goals. This class will cover format; function; making your work experience strong, yet succinct; highlighting your skills; and how to avoid common mistakes.
Fingerknit Headband
Wednesday, December 12th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
Take your finger knitting skills to the next level and make a cozy ear-warming headband to create the perfect addition to your winter wardrobe.
Wednesday, December 12th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
Take your finger knitting skills to the next level and make a cozy ear-warming headband to create the perfect addition to your winter wardrobe.
Bullet Journaling for Beginners
Wednesday, November 7th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
A bullet journal is a combination of a calendar, collection of lists, notes to self, doodles, and anything else you need it to be. Learn the basics of this highly customizable and versatile planner, including sample layouts and possible uses to find the right fit for you and remove some stress from your life with artful organization.
Wednesday, November 7th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
A bullet journal is a combination of a calendar, collection of lists, notes to self, doodles, and anything else you need it to be. Learn the basics of this highly customizable and versatile planner, including sample layouts and possible uses to find the right fit for you and remove some stress from your life with artful organization.
Millennial Marketing
October 30, 2018
PCI Webinars
Learn how to market your library’s programs and services to ages 18-35 through a combination of in-house marketing, social media, email newsletters, and branded content. This presentation will look at digital trends, the habits and interests of Millennials and Gen Z, and provide practical solutions to help libraries reach young adults.
More info & archive here
October 30, 2018
PCI Webinars
Learn how to market your library’s programs and services to ages 18-35 through a combination of in-house marketing, social media, email newsletters, and branded content. This presentation will look at digital trends, the habits and interests of Millennials and Gen Z, and provide practical solutions to help libraries reach young adults.
More info & archive here
What They Want, Where They Want It: Passive Advisory for Books, Movies, and More
October 9-11, 2018
Illinois Library Association Annual Conference
Speakers: Jez Layman, Jennifer Asimakopoulos
Only a fraction of library users visit a service desk for readers’ advisory help. How do you reach patrons who want ideas on what to read/watch/listen to next, but don’t ask staff for assistance? Learn how to create custom content, promote materials in your physical and digital spaces, and involve staff at all levels to market your collections and connect with patrons throughout your community.
October 9-11, 2018
Illinois Library Association Annual Conference
Speakers: Jez Layman, Jennifer Asimakopoulos
Only a fraction of library users visit a service desk for readers’ advisory help. How do you reach patrons who want ideas on what to read/watch/listen to next, but don’t ask staff for assistance? Learn how to create custom content, promote materials in your physical and digital spaces, and involve staff at all levels to market your collections and connect with patrons throughout your community.
(Don't) Call Me Crazy: Interview with Author Kelly Jensen
October 9-11, 2018
Illinois Library Association Annual Conference
Speakers: Jez Layman, Kelly Jensen
October 9-11, 2018
Illinois Library Association Annual Conference
Speakers: Jez Layman, Kelly Jensen
Beginning Cross Stitch (Adults)
Wednesday, August 22nd, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
Wednesday, August 22nd, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
Fingerknit Infinity Scarves (Middle Grade)
Wednesday, July 18th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
Wednesday, July 18th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
String Art (Teens)
Wednesday, July 11th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
Wednesday, July 11th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library, Hinsdale, IL
Beyond Booktalking: Whole Library Promotion
Tuesday, June 19th, 2018
PCI Webinars
Every library employee has heard someone say they didn’t know the library offered something, whether it’s technology, programs, notary services, or any of the dozens of things we provide on a daily basis. Libraries can better spread the word when they realize that promotion and advocacy aren’t secluded to the marketing staff, but is part of everyone’s job. Learn how to engage your staff at all levels and prepare them with the tools to “booktalk” your library and services to boost access, circulation, & attendance.
RAILS members, click here for free access.
Tuesday, June 19th, 2018
PCI Webinars
Every library employee has heard someone say they didn’t know the library offered something, whether it’s technology, programs, notary services, or any of the dozens of things we provide on a daily basis. Libraries can better spread the word when they realize that promotion and advocacy aren’t secluded to the marketing staff, but is part of everyone’s job. Learn how to engage your staff at all levels and prepare them with the tools to “booktalk” your library and services to boost access, circulation, & attendance.
RAILS members, click here for free access.
From Budgeting to Blanketforts: Programming for 20-30somethings
Tuesday, May 1st, 2018
PCI Webinars
A recent PEW study reported Millennials are the generation most likely to use the library, so why aren’t we seeing them at our programs? In this interactive and informative webinar, learn how to capture the elusive 20- and 30-something adult audience by offering programs unique to their needs.
This presentation will cover how to start, which programs work best, creating a book club, and marketing in new ways to reach a new audience.
Download here!
Tuesday, May 1st, 2018
PCI Webinars
A recent PEW study reported Millennials are the generation most likely to use the library, so why aren’t we seeing them at our programs? In this interactive and informative webinar, learn how to capture the elusive 20- and 30-something adult audience by offering programs unique to their needs.
This presentation will cover how to start, which programs work best, creating a book club, and marketing in new ways to reach a new audience.
Download here!
If Millennials Aren't Killing Libraries, Where Are They?: Programming for 20-30somethings
Friday, May 4th, 2018, 9:15 a.m.
Reaching Forward, Illinois Library Association
Speakers: Jez Layman, Matt Matkowski, Lauren Maxwell, Lindsey Tomsu
Learn how to provide programming for that elusive demographic of 20-and 30-somethings. Four library professionals currently providing programs specific to this group have the insights you need! We will discuss what works and what doesn't, how to market to millennials in your community, and how to overcome potential roadblocks. We’ll also provide advice on how to tie your existing collections to your programming, and how and when to curate a dedicated 20s and 30s collection. Finally, we’ll make time for your questions.
View on the Reaching Forward Schedule
Friday, May 4th, 2018, 9:15 a.m.
Reaching Forward, Illinois Library Association
Speakers: Jez Layman, Matt Matkowski, Lauren Maxwell, Lindsey Tomsu
Learn how to provide programming for that elusive demographic of 20-and 30-somethings. Four library professionals currently providing programs specific to this group have the insights you need! We will discuss what works and what doesn't, how to market to millennials in your community, and how to overcome potential roadblocks. We’ll also provide advice on how to tie your existing collections to your programming, and how and when to curate a dedicated 20s and 30s collection. Finally, we’ll make time for your questions.
View on the Reaching Forward Schedule
Fingerknitting
Wednesday, March 14th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library
Create a finished infinity scarf with only your fingers and some yarn!
Wednesday, March 14th, 2018
Hinsdale Public Library
Create a finished infinity scarf with only your fingers and some yarn!
From Budgeting to Blanket Forts: Programming for 20-30somethings
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
Illinois Library Association Rise Up 2017
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
Illinois Library Association Rise Up 2017
Adulting101: Shopping, Saving, & Storing Food
Wednesday, January 31st, 2017
Missouri State University
Wednesday, January 31st, 2017
Missouri State University
How to Create a Professional Resume
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Homer Township Public Library
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Homer Township Public Library
Beyond Book Talking: Whole Library Promotion
Friday, December 1, 2017
Fountaindale Public Library Staff In-Service
Learn how to better promote your library's programs and services by easing promotion into regular conversation. Promotion should go beyond your marketing department; every staff member should be able to positively speak about your library.
Friday, December 1, 2017
Fountaindale Public Library Staff In-Service
Learn how to better promote your library's programs and services by easing promotion into regular conversation. Promotion should go beyond your marketing department; every staff member should be able to positively speak about your library.
You've Got Your Driver's License, Now What?
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Fountaindale Public Library
Adulting101 for teens
How to Do Your Laundry without Ruining Your Wardrobe
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Fountaindale Public Library
Adulting101 for teens
How to Feed Yourself: Shopping, Saving, & Storing Food
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Fountaindale Public Library
Adulting101 for teens
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Fountaindale Public Library
Adulting101 for teens
How to Do Your Laundry without Ruining Your Wardrobe
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Fountaindale Public Library
Adulting101 for teens
How to Feed Yourself: Shopping, Saving, & Storing Food
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Fountaindale Public Library
Adulting101 for teens