TLA's Libraries Transform Texas Podcast

Join Warren Davis, community engagement and outreach coordinator at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, as he chats with Bertha Gomez, adult services librarian in the Brownsville Public Library system, to explore how libraries can promote digital literacy. They discuss Bertha's journey from a geography major to a digital navigator, the importance of addressing the digital divide, and the challenges and successes of teaching computer skills to adults. Bertha shares her teaching philosophy, the collaborative efforts of the library staff, and the joy of seeing community members gain confidence in using technology.

Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Katherine Counterman, a school librarian from the Houston area, as she talks with Anna Skalka, former president of the Fielder Elementary PTA in Katy, Texas, about building a strong collaboration between the PTA and the school library. They explore the key role of a library liaison and discuss how a successful partnership can promote consistency, boost community involvement, and cultivate a lifelong love of reading and learning.

Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Jean Darnell, a librarian at Dessau Middle School in Pflugerville ISD, as she chats with Da'Taeveyon Daniels, partnership director at Students Engaged in Advancing Texas, about student advocacy and activism. Da'Taeveyon shares how the lack of representation in his high school library inspired his activism. He discusses the significance of representation, his involvement with the National Coalition Against Censorship, and his work with SEAT. The conversation also explores how his heritage, particularly the influence of his grandmother, shaped his leadership qualities. Da'Taeveyon talks about collaborating with librarians to combat book bans and censorship and outlines SEAT's future goals to ensure intellectual freedom.

Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

Join Kendra Harrell, library director at the Atlanta, Texas, Public Library, as she chats with Maggie Dumont, librarian at Brown Crossing Library in Boise, Idaho, about the flavorful world of spice kits and spice programming. They share ideas on creating spice kits, selecting the best spices, and offering innovative food programs in libraries. Tune in for a tasty discussion on how to add some zest to your library's offerings!

Join host Jeannette Davies from the San Antonio Public Library as she engages in a candid conversation with John Trischitti, executive director of the Literacy Coalition of the Permian Basin, delving into the landscape of literacy in Texas. Exploring the hurdles in addressing this issue, they dissect Trischitti's TED Talk on librarians and literacy, emphasize the value of forging partnerships, debunk misconceptions surrounding non-literate individuals, and propose strategies for fostering inclusivity in public and school libraries.

Step into the world of literature with host Beatrice Saba, Library Director of the Bryan College Station Public Library System, as she engages in a captivating conversation with New York Times bestselling author Tomi Adeyemi. Known for her acclaimed novel "Children of Blood and Bone," the first installment in the Legacy of Orïsha trilogy, Adeyemi shares insights into her sources of inspiration and her meticulous historical research process, intertwining her narratives with the past. Explore the evolution of Adeyemi's trilogy, particularly delving into the distinctive elements of the third book, "Children of Anguish and Anarchy." Discover the exciting journey of translating a beloved book series into a cinematic experience and reminisce with Adeyemi about her cherished memories of libraries from her formative years.

This episode is sponsored by Alexandria.

Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

Join host Michele Santos in a conversation with Marianne DeLeon, the newly appointed CEO of the Texas Book Festival. Delve into Marianne's motivations for taking on this exciting role, exploring what drew her to this opportunity and what she anticipates most in her new position. The discussion unfolds to encompass Marianne's vision for fundraising, the pivotal role of libraries in communities, and reflections on the Texas Book Festival's notable achievements to date. Together, they candidly address the challenges that lie ahead for the festival.

This episode is sponsored by Texas Woman's University, School of Library and Information Studies.

Libraries Transform Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

In our season 6 premier, host Michele Santos talks to Howard Marks and Angela Gaule of the Ector County Library in Odessa about the Gale Excel Adult High School Program at their library. The program gives people aged 21 and over the ability to earn their high school diploma online. The three discuss how to start the program at your public library, challenges, and success stories. 

In this short-but-sweet episode (less than 10 minutes) Emily Warwas of the Cedar Park Public Library talks with Caleb Kraft, Senior Editor of Make: Magazine, about craft and science projects at the library.