2025 Access Services Conference
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Access Services Staffing | Access ServicesStaffing | Artificial Intelligence | Assessment | Circulation | Collaboration | Course Reserves | Customer Service | Electronic Resources | Equity and Inclusion | Experiential Learning | Future of Academic Libraries | Innovation | Interlibrary Loan | Leadership | Library Education | Marketing | Organizational Change | Outreach | Patron Service | Process Improvement | Project Management | Public Service | Resource Sharing | Security | Space Management | Stacks Management | Staff Training | Staffing | Student Success | Student Worker Management | Technology | Wellness
You Tell Me – Rethinking Student Employee Evaluation
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
Abstract: Writing student employee evaluations is valuable but time-consuming. This presentation explores shifting the bulk of evaluations to student self-reflection during guided discussions. While there are some challenges, this approach has built community and made evaluations a positive, central part of student development.
First Day Access: Maximizing Resources, Minimizing Costs, Supporting 1st Day Access
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
Abstract: This session highlights a library-bookstore initiative ensuring students have required course materials on the first day. Leveraging eReserves, eBooks, OER, and automated workflows, the program reduces costs and supports academic freedom. Attendees will learn about cross-department collaboration, data-driven advocacy, and optimizing resource access.
Golden Years, Open Stacks: Unlocking Library Access for Retired Scholars
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
Abstract: A unique partnership gives retired community residents library access equal to faculty, including borrowing, ILL, and e-resources. This case study covers adapting access services for non-traditional users, cross-departmental collaboration, and strategies to resolve access challenges, demonstrating innovation and service equity.
Everything Has Changed: A Holistic Approach to Evaluating Future Resource Sharing Platforms
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM
Abstract: A work group investigating Alma for document delivery led to a wider exploration of resource sharing platforms. This session shares the holistic evaluation process, change management, and encourages others to rethink their procedures and user experiences in resource sharing.
Pulling Together: A Case Study in Access Services Restructuring
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM
Abstract: In 2023, a large land-grant university library merged Stack Management and high-density storage teams, streamlining material pulling, ingestion, and retrieval. This session shares the restructuring process, change management strategies, and how to foster staff engagement and build a stronger team.
Stacks Maintenance Strikes Back
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM
Abstract: A facilities issue forced closure of one library, triggering a multi-building stacks management project involving materials movement, shifting, and a full inventory. This session shares strategies for departmental relationships, managing unexpected challenges, necessary tools, and maintaining morale during ongoing projects.
Students Hiring Students: Challenging Hierarchies and Showcasing Student Expertise
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM
Abstract: At our institution, student employees are involved in recruitment and hiring, helping to shape inclusive, equitable processes. This approach reduces hierarchy, builds student skills, and fosters engagement. Practices are grounded in social justice values and benefit both the library and the students’ future careers.
When Rightsizing Feels Wrong: Navigating Access Services Through Institutional Change
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM
Abstract: This session reflects on one library’s experience with university-wide rightsizing, examining the impact on Access Services and staff. Topics include documentation, cross-training, revised policies, responsibility division, and advocacy. Attendees will learn to prepare for and mitigate the effects of future staffing cuts.
Access Services in Focus: Bridging Perspectives to Tackle Shared Challenges
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM
Abstract: Access Services departments are the backbone of academic libraries, facing challenges like budget cuts, staff shortages, and tech demands. This session compares experiences at a State College and a Public University, exploring creative solutions and collaboration to meet evolving demands.
Beyond the Checkout: the Impact of Equipment Lending on Student Success
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM
Abstract: Our equipment lending program grew from a small in-house service to a major operation with over 400 laptops and 500 calculators. Multi-year analysis shows a positive impact on GPA and retention, especially for students who use these resources. The session covers data collection, budgeting, marketing, and decision making.
Stacks on Stacks
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM
Abstract: This panel discusses maintaining the general collections stacks at the world’s largest library. With about 200,000 new books a year and 23 million items total, stack maintenance is a major undertaking. Speakers offer a behind-the-scenes look at the logistics and scale of managing these vast collections.
Elevating the Experience: Blending Traditional and Modern Customer Service Strategies for Library Employees
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM
Abstract: Customer service in libraries is evolving. As front-line staff navigate complex patron needs, emotional labor, and shifting expectations, old rules alone aren't enough. This presentation explores blending traditional principles with modern, people-centered strategies to empower employees and elevate the patron experience. Attendees will gain tools for managing challenges like burnout, learn to create a personal or team customer service philosophy, and leave with practical, affirming strategies to support both patrons and staff.
Crafting Recess at the Library: Expanding Wellness Through Creative Expression
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 12:45 PM to 1:30 PM
Abstract: To support student well-being, a crafting wellness series was launched at the second main library, offering stress relief, creative expression, and social connection. The program’s success led to its expansion. The session shares participation metrics, challenges, and strategies for implementing or expanding wellness events in libraries.
Library of Things in an Academic Library
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 12:45 PM to 1:30 PM
Abstract: Our library's Loanable Equipment collection was reimagined as a Library of Things, focused on the needs of academic and public patrons. The session covers partnerships, funding, and promotion. Attendees can examine kits, ask questions, and leave with new ideas to expand equipment lending programs.
Both/And: Combining New and Old Ways for Publicity, Outreach, and Relatability
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 12:45 PM to 1:30 PM
Abstract: Reaching patrons requires a mix of traditional and modern outreach strategies. This session discusses using print, social media, video, data, and AI to promote library services, as well as building personal relationships and relatable content for diverse patron engagement.
You Don’t Have to Move Out to Move Up: How Libraries Can Cultivate Talent from Within
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 12:45 PM to 1:30 PM
Abstract: Traditionally, staff seeking advancement had to leave their institution, but new leadership is prioritizing internal growth. This session spotlights four faculty members who moved from staff to faculty roles, and discusses how nurturing internal talent benefits libraries, builds collaboration, and meets modern challenges.
Re-envisioning the Access Services Unit: A Tale of Two Libraries
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 12:45 PM to 1:30 PM
Abstract: Two large public research libraries underwent Access Services reorganizations in 2024, resulting in new models and names for their units. This presentation covers models considered, assessment, negotiations, and change management, showing how each library supported student success, research, and engagement.
At the Front Desk of Well-Being: How Access Services Supports Student Mental Health
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 12:45 PM to 1:30 PM
Abstract: Libraries are reimagining their roles to support student well-being. This presentation offers practical strategies embedded in Access Services, including wellness collections, relaxation programming, staff training, and campus partnerships. Attendees will learn to position Access Services as a critical touchpoint for mental health support.
Tightening “Loose Fit”: Lessons Learned from a 21st Century Library Redesign
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM
Abstract: Academic libraries have undergone extensive redesign. This session highlights lessons learned as contemporary designs meet real-world patron use. Attendees will gain insight into assessment after redesign, collaboration techniques for space planning, and adapting service spaces to actual needs.
Checking In on Self-Checkout: Replacing Patron Facing Tech from Start to Finish
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM
Abstract: This lightning talk details the process of replacing self-checkout stations, from committee formation to rollout. It covers challenges, solutions, and lessons learned, offering guidance for other libraries considering similar projects.
Transforming Course Reserves: Telling the Story of Staff Innovation Through Data and Error Tracking
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM
Abstract: This presentation highlights how Stanford University's Green Library improved its course reserves through innovative tracking, standardized workflows, and effective faculty communication. Attendees will learn strategies for comprehensive documentation, processing templates, and communication channels. Data collection revealed patterns that led to service improvements, turning routine services into a story of staff innovation and excellence.
Then and Now: Tracking Two Decades of MLIS Student Motivations and the Future of Access Services
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 1:45 PM to 2:30 PM
Abstract: This presentation compares findings from a 2006 survey of MLIS students to a new 2025 follow-up. It explores how motivations, career outlooks, and professional values have shifted, offering insights for recruitment and support of new access services professionals amid a changing landscape.
Stacks on Track: Turning Routine Tasks into Rewarding Wins
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 1:45 PM to 2:30 PM
Abstract: Maintaining organized stacks is challenging. Our department used gamification, peer mentoring, and data tracking to motivate student employees for shelf-reading and other tasks. The session shares collaboration, training, progress review, and ways to celebrate student contributions. Attendees receive a customizable shelf-reading toolkit.
Leadership & Collaboration: The Benefits of a Student Supervisors Working Group
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 1:45 PM to 2:30 PM
Abstract: At our institution, over seventy student workers span four campus libraries. A collaborative group of student supervisors streamlines training, expectations, communication, and projects. The working group enables cross-training, equitable opportunities, and a unified, supportive environment for student workers across campus.
Special Topic Panel Discussion on Student Success
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Abstract: Panel discussion on the impact of access services on student success. Moderated by Karen Glover
The Rules are in the AI: Georgia Tech’s Journey with CoPilot Studio
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM
Abstract: This presentation explores how AI-powered Copilot Agents help library staff quickly access procedural information, reducing the learning curve for new employees and ensuring consistent communication. The session covers AI agent development, deployment, and real-world impact, offering a roadmap for libraries interested in AI integration.
Affordable Access: Leveraging Library Resources to Reduce Course Material Costs
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM
Abstract: A collaborative initiative between the library, Provost’s Office, and bookstore aims to reduce students' course material costs. By matching bookstore lists to library holdings and proactively providing alternatives, the program promotes OER adoption and data-driven resource sharing to support affordability.
Can Anyone Cover My Shift? Lessons from Implementing a Location Agnostic Public Services Staffing Model
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM
Abstract: When our institution resumed in-person services post-pandemic, staff shortages required reimagining our public services staffing model. After experimenting, we implemented a sustainable, adaptable model including a float pool, a Public Services Guild, and work-from-home support. This session covers the transition, lessons learned, and how other institutions can adapt similar improvements.
Overcoming Obstacles: How Supervisors can Reduce Student Worker Frustrations Caused by a Demanding Workload
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Abstract: Student workers often get conflicting instructions and an overwhelming number of tasks. This session outlines how one library improved communication and streamlined task assignment, drastically improving student worker morale and efficiency.
Learning a New Way to Train – Engaging Neurodiverse Student Employees
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Abstract: Traditional training methods do not suit all student workers. This presentation shares a creative, game-based library training toolkit developed to support neurodivergent students, including those with ADHD and autism. Attendees will learn about pedagogical principles and practical examples to create inclusive, effective training programs.
Next-Level Library: Revitalizing Our Access Services Student Assistant Program
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Abstract: A change in leadership and a large graduating class provided an opportunity to enhance our Student Assistant program. This lightning talk covers evaluation, design, implementation, and professional development, with a focus on universal design principles and recognition practices. Attendees learn practical steps to revitalize student programs.
Beyond the Desk: Incorporating Experiential Learning into Student Worker Management
Date/Time: 11/19/25 – 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Abstract: Student workers are vital to access services, but their potential often goes untapped. Our program guides students through individual projects related to their interests, building transferable skills and providing value to the library. This lightning talk shares our approach, mentorship strategies, and the benefits of experiential learning.
Closing Session and Open Discussion
Date/Time: 11/20/25 – 4:15 PM to 5:00 PM
Abstract: Conference closing session and open discussion. We will focus our discussion on issues of student management.