[Michlib-l] WebJunction content and upcoming webinars

[Lancaster, Cathy (MDE)]

WebJunction content and upcoming webinars – April 30, 2025

Highlighted content
The cure for loneliness might be at your local library<https://www.webjunction.org/news/webjunction/socialrx-at-the-library.html>
Connection and belonging are essential for individual well-being and the health of our communities. But in recent years, loneliness, disconnection, and isolation have swept through the country. According to the US Surgeon General’s recent report on loneliness and isolation, up to 50 percent of Americans have reported feelings of loneliness. There won’t be just one cure for this epidemic, but libraries can be part of the solution by offering spaces and programs that encourage connection. In Texas, the Amarillo Public Library is reaching out to community members experiencing social isolation and social anxiety through their SocialRx programs.

Introduction to AI<https://www.webjunction.org/news/webjunction/introduction-to-AI.html>
Interests and concerns about how artificial intelligence (AI) will impact librarianship and the services that libraries provide are increasing. The field is vast, ever-changing, and, at times, overwhelming. This article was shaped by the results of a recent poll of library staff and explores different aspects of AI and the intersections with public libraries, including some basics of AI, along with ethical, legal, and environmental considerations. Future installments in this series will explore how public library staff use AI, how libraries are helping patrons use and learn about AI, and a look ahead at the potential future of AI in libraries.

Call for participants: Program opportunity<https://www.urbanlibraries.org/initiatives/democracy/building-community-trust-through-libraries>
Public libraries provide spaces where people of all backgrounds can connect, learn, and build a shared future. They also play a crucial role in fostering social trust and civic engagement. To support this vital work, IREX, the Urban Libraries Council, and WebJunction are launching a national coalition of urban, rural, and tribal public libraries. This initiative will equip library staff with the tools, strategies, and support they need to bridge divides and strengthen trust in their communities. At the heart of this initiative is the Community of Practice—a national network designed to help libraries scale their trust-building efforts, integrate best practices, and measure their impact. Together, we can build stronger, more connected communities, one library at a time.

You can learn more<https://www.urbanlibraries.org/initiatives/democracy/building-community-trust-through-libraries> about this opportunity and get signed up today!


WebJunction Webinars
This upcoming webinar is open for registration. If you can’t attend a live session, all WebJunction webinars are recorded and available for free in the Course Catalog<https://learn.webjunction.org/>.

Resources and strategies to protect older adults from fraud and scams
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 ◆ 3:00 pm Eastern / 12:00 pm Pacific ◆ 60 minutes
Registration: https://www.webjunction.org/events/webjunction/protect-older-adults-from-fraud.html

Scams, fraud, and exploitation have harmful consequences for anyone, but the impact can be especially devastating for older adults, who may not be able to earn back what they’ve lost. In addition to financial loss, many victims of fraud also experience psychological harm. In this session, panelists will highlight free resources available for libraries to help patrons combat fraud and share experiences hosting effective fraud prevention workshops in partnership with local law enforcement. You’ll leave feeling empowered to help older adults in the community protect themselves from the constant pressure of fraudsters. 


This program is supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Cathy Lancaster
Youth Services Coordinator
Library of Michigan
702 W. Kalamazoo St.
Lansing, MI 48915
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers - See www.mypronouns.org<http://www.mypronouns.org/> to learn more.
LancasterC5 at michigan.gov<mailto:LancasterC5 at michigan.gov> | 517-335-8129 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan<http://www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan>
Follow us: Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/libraryofmichigan/> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/libraryofmich> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/libraryofmichigan/>
Join the MiYouth<https://lists.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/miyouth> Listserv, created for Michigan public library staff to share and discuss children and teen programming and services.


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Acknowledge the incredible strength of students’ multilingual abilities.
Seek the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy<https://www.michigan.gov/mde/services/flexible-learning/michigan-seal-of-biliteracy> for graduating seniors.

[Michigan.gov/Vote logo   Description automatically generated]<https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/>
Get personalized voter information on early voting and other topics at Michigan.gov/Vote<https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/>.

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