ArLA 2026 Annual Conference

Name: Pathways to Connection: Library-Led Trail Networks for Community Engagement
Start: 2026-10-17T10:00:00-0500
End: 2026-10-17T10:50:00-0500

Pathways to Connection: Library-Led Trail Networks for Community Engagement

Saturday October 17, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

TBA

Pathways to Connection: Library-Led Trail Networks for Community Engagement showcases how libraries can create meaningful partnerships that strengthen and uplift their communities. This session highlights real-world collaborations, including reading initiatives with elementary schools, back-to- school supplies giveaway, partnerships with police departments to support Domestic Violence Awareness efforts, and coordinated drives benefiting women’s shelters through donations of coats and toys. It also explores community engagement projects such as encouraging messages and notes delivered to CARTI Cancer Center patients.

Participants will learn how to identify opportunities for collaboration that align with community needs and values, while fostering trust and shared purpose among diverse partners. The session will provide practical strategies for initiating partnerships, organizing impactful outreach efforts, and sustaining long-term relationships that extend the library’s role as a community hub.

By focusing on actionable examples, attendees will leave with ideas and tools to build their own “trail networks,” connecting organizations and individuals in ways that create lasting positive impact.

Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the session, participants will be able to:

Identify at least three potential community partners for collaborative outreach initiatives.
Design a partnership-based program that addresses a specific community need.
Implement two strategies for engaging diverse community groups in meaningful ways.
Assess the impact of outreach efforts using measurable indicators.
Develop a step-by-step plan to establish or expand collaborative networks within their community.

Speakers

Shenise McGhee

Librarian and Professor, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Building Strong Trail Networks: Connecting Communities Through Collaboration showcases how libraries can create meaningful partnerships that strengthen and uplift their communities. This session highlights real-world collaborations, including reading initiatives with elementary schools... Read More →

Saturday October 17, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
TBA

Break Out Session

Track Arkansas Arboretum Trail
Audience All
global Y

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ArLA 2026 Annual Conference

Shenise McGhee

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Shenise McGhee

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