Central Valley Library Camp '26

Libraries have become more diverse as the publishing world strives to create picture books that represent the variety found in daily life. This not only supports the children reflected, but it also helps their peers view and appreciate situations different than their own. The author will provide insights into this genre using her experiences with preschoolers, elementary students, and special needs learners of all ages. Books with social emotional themes are often viewed as “quiet.” Attendees will share other descriptive words to express the long-lasting impact of giving children the opportunity to see the world through literature. Favorite and unexpected titles will also be shared to help attendees expand their collections.

Learn how to cultivate a love of literacy and a connection to your library that your school community can access anytime and anywhere. We will show you how we can be stronger together by utilizing your district’s student learning platform to generate excitement about literacy through video recordings. Student engagement happens by posting read-a-loud videos, book commercials, exploring new book genres, tours of libraries and bookstores, and much more. You will leave with ideas on how to spark the imagination by unboxing a world of literary entertainment.

How can libraries become spaces where all students feel seen, included, and empowered? This session explores strategies for designing engaging, inclusive programming for students in Special Day Classes (SDC) through intentional collaboration with Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. Participants will learn how to develop real-world partnerships that bring students together through shared projects, hands-on learning, and meaningful interactions, while also leveraging site and community partnerships, including collaboration with Fresno County Superintendent of Schools (FCSS) and support from community liaisons to expand access and fund programming opportunities.