adult programming resources
Below are links to recordings or slides of presentations I have presented and additional resources.
Adult Programming Start to Finish (2026)
Are you new to adult programming or looking to expand your library’s offerings for adults? This overview covers programming from start to finish, including finding speakers, handling contracts and negotiations, and tips for staying organized. We’ll discuss the challenges of accessibility, formats, and budgets, and talk about what makes a “good” program.
Crafting for All: Inclusive Creative Experiences in Libraries (2025)
This workshop aims to equip library professionals with the tools and strategies to create inclusive crafting programs that cater to individuals of all ages and abilities. As libraries evolve into community hubs, fostering creativity and collaboration through crafting can enhance patron engagement and inclusivity.
Become a Public Speaker (2024)
Library staff are often asked to wear many hats, including occasionally playing the role of instructor or public speaker. Jez Layman discusses what makes an effective library program, how to become a more confident speaker, and even how to fill in last-minute for a presenter. Then, take your skills to the next level by turning your hobbies and interests into a side hustle as a public speaker. Jez shares how she became a presenter at over 80 libraries, universities, and organizations, lessons learned along the way, and how you, too, can become a freelance speaker.
Craft Programs Made Simple (2023)
Whether you're crafty or not, you can easily bring these activities to your library! Librarians will present on successful adult crafts they've done over the years and leave you with step-by-step instructions and material lists for ready-to-go programs. Crafts will range from programs perfect for the non-crafter to new ideas for those who feel like they've tried everything, plus ideas for low budget and pop-up programs.
Using Programs to Promote Materials and Services (2022)
Learn how to use programs to promote library services and materials and not just boost your attendance, but library-wide use. Pick up marketing tips and tricks, plus ready-to-go program ideas to better serve your parties and improve your ROI.
Getting Started with Library Programs for 20-30somethings (2022)
Marketing Programs & Services to Millennials (2020)
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.
20 New Programs for 20-30somethings (2020)
Go beyond board game nights and book clubs to grow or reinvigorate your programming for 20-30somethings. This presentation will detail twenty programs, covering a variety of social, creative, and educational topics, with ideas for all sizes of libraries and budgets.
From Budgeting to Blanketforts: Programming for 20-30somethings (2018)
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 covers how to start, which programs work best, creating a book club, and marketing in new ways to reach a new audience.
Are you new to adult programming or looking to expand your library’s offerings for adults? This overview covers programming from start to finish, including finding speakers, handling contracts and negotiations, and tips for staying organized. We’ll discuss the challenges of accessibility, formats, and budgets, and talk about what makes a “good” program.
- Slides
- Download: 2026 Holidays
- Download: Program Contract Template
- Download: Programming Checklist Example
- Download: Program Evaluation
- Download: Presenter Checklist Spreadsheet - Quarterly
Crafting for All: Inclusive Creative Experiences in Libraries (2025)
This workshop aims to equip library professionals with the tools and strategies to create inclusive crafting programs that cater to individuals of all ages and abilities. As libraries evolve into community hubs, fostering creativity and collaboration through crafting can enhance patron engagement and inclusivity.
Become a Public Speaker (2024)
Library staff are often asked to wear many hats, including occasionally playing the role of instructor or public speaker. Jez Layman discusses what makes an effective library program, how to become a more confident speaker, and even how to fill in last-minute for a presenter. Then, take your skills to the next level by turning your hobbies and interests into a side hustle as a public speaker. Jez shares how she became a presenter at over 80 libraries, universities, and organizations, lessons learned along the way, and how you, too, can become a freelance speaker.
Craft Programs Made Simple (2023)
Whether you're crafty or not, you can easily bring these activities to your library! Librarians will present on successful adult crafts they've done over the years and leave you with step-by-step instructions and material lists for ready-to-go programs. Crafts will range from programs perfect for the non-crafter to new ideas for those who feel like they've tried everything, plus ideas for low budget and pop-up programs.
Using Programs to Promote Materials and Services (2022)
Learn how to use programs to promote library services and materials and not just boost your attendance, but library-wide use. Pick up marketing tips and tricks, plus ready-to-go program ideas to better serve your parties and improve your ROI.
Getting Started with Library Programs for 20-30somethings (2022)
Marketing Programs & Services to Millennials (2020)
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.
20 New Programs for 20-30somethings (2020)
Go beyond board game nights and book clubs to grow or reinvigorate your programming for 20-30somethings. This presentation will detail twenty programs, covering a variety of social, creative, and educational topics, with ideas for all sizes of libraries and budgets.
From Budgeting to Blanketforts: Programming for 20-30somethings (2018)
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 covers how to start, which programs work best, creating a book club, and marketing in new ways to reach a new audience.