9 - 9:30 a.m. Registration & Refreshments

9:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Addiction, Substance Abuse Disorder, Trauma, and the Human Brain: Information for Public Library Staff

In a recent South Central Library System survey, participants reported regular interactions with community members who struggle with addiction and substance abuse disorders. We are not alone: library staff across the country find ourselves in the heart of a substance abuse epidemic that is attacking entire communities and civic life.  In this morning’s session, our speakers will address trauma, addiction and substance abuse from a people-first, anti-stigma, perspective. With an understanding of our roles as public library staff, our speakers will identify appropriate methods for recognizing and responding to potential overdoses in the library, will provide an overview of the neurobiology of addiction, and will discuss ways that library staff members can practice healthy mental and emotional habits.

Presenters: Sarah Johnson, Public Health Madison & Dane County; Skye Tikkanen, Safe Communities; Sheila Weix, Family Health Center of Marshfield

12:15 - 1 p.m. Lunch*

1 - 3:30 p.m. Mindfulness: Skillful Responding During Times of Stress

Mindfulness has been shown to be beneficial to people in many ways. In particular, we’ll explore the application of mindfulness to the experience of stress and stressful events such as those discussed in the morning workshop. In this workshop, Michael will explore what mindfulness is, what the benefits can be, and how it can support library staff during times of difficult interactions with patrons. This will be a "hands on" presentation and will include exploring mindfulness practices.

Presenter: Michael Waupoose, Quartz Health Insurance

3:30 - 3:40 Wrap-up & Thanks

Lunch will be available onsite for a fee of $12 and will include a soup and sandwich buffet. Vegetarian options will be available. Let Jean know of any other dietary needs.

Cancellations after 9/19/19 at noon will be billed the cost of lunch (if catered lunch option is selected).