Name: From Crisis to Confidence: Working Together for Safer, Welcoming Libraries
Start: 2026-05-01T09:30:00-0600
End: 2026-05-01T10:20:00-0600

Welcome to the 2026 Saskatchewan Libraries Conference! We are thrilled to have you joining us for this incredible professional development and networking opportunity.

Registration Desk
Make sure you check in to the conference at our registration desk before heading off to any meals or sessions! Here you can pick up your name tag and ask any questions you might have. The registration desk will be open from 6:45 am to 3:00 pm on Thursday, April 30, and from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm on Friday, May 1.

Using the Sched App
Use this app to build your personalized conference schedule! You will find some things have already been added to your schedule (such as meals and key speakers), but everything else is up to you.

We also encourage you to turn on the "Public Profile & Schedule" option under the "My Account" tab. This will add you to the public attendee list, helping you to connect with other delegates and helping them connect with you. This is optional.

Conference Sponsors
SLA gratefully acknowledges our many event sponsors! Without their generous support, this conference would not be possible! We gratefully acknowledge all sponsors in the "Sponsors" Tab.

Exhibitors
Make sure to visit the Exhibitor Hall located in the Gallery B! The Exhibitor Hall will be open on Thursday, April 30, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, with the Exhibitor Social taking place from 3:00 to 4:00 pm. Join us at the Social to visit with the exhibitors while enjoying appetizers and non-alcoholic drinks, and the chance to win great prizes!!

From Crisis to Confidence: Working Together for Safer, Welcoming Libraries

Friday May 1, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CST

Prince Albert Room

In spring 2025, escalating safety and security concerns forced the temporary closure of two library branches [in Saskatoon]—an extraordinary decision that tested the resilience of staff, leadership, and community. Out of this crisis came persistence and collaboration: the creation of Working Together, a training program developed in consultation with both library staff and contract guards. The program was designed to improve communication, clarify roles, and strengthen safety practices while preserving the library’s commitment to openness and community.

Speakers

Beth Côté

Director, Public Services, Saskatoon Public Library

Beth Côté has been employed at Saskatoon Public Library since 2010. She holds a Master of Library and Information Services degree. Since 2016 she has led SPL’s largest work unit as Director, Public Services, and most recently served as SPL’s Interim Director of Libraries & CEO through most... Read More →

Brad Bird

Director, Reconciliation, Saskatoon Public Library

Brad Bird began his career working with non-profit organizations in the Saskatoon and Friendship Centres around the province. Passionate about helping create space for Indigenous people and supporting residential school survivors, Brad has had the opportunity to contribute to a lot of great initiati... Read More →

Friday May 1, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CST
Prince Albert Room

50-Minute Sessions

2026 Saskatchewan Libraries Conference: Libraries Open Doors

Beth Côté

Brad Bird

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2026 Saskatchewan Libraries Conference: Libraries Open Doors

Beth Côté

Brad Bird

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