The Instruction Round Table of the Minnesota Library Association (MLA) invites all interested librarians and library staff to take part in our Library Instruction Online Mini UnConference on Wednesday, July 31st, 1:00-3:00. 

The online UnConference provides the opportunity to connect with your fellow librarian and library staff from across the state around the topic of library instruction from the comfort of your own computer! And it’s free!

What is an UnConference?

An UnConference is a loosely structured conference that allows for the informal exchange of information and ideas between participants. It does not follow the typical conference format – the participants choose the topics they want to talk about, and then they talk about them! 

What is an Online Mini UnConference?

We did string a lot of words together there.  Well, first of all, you don’t need to leave your office – because it is going to be online.  If you have ever used an online meeting platform (Google Hangout, Zoom, etc.) then you should have no problem with this format. And it is Mini because it is only two hours – what better way to spend two hours of your work day than connecting with other instruction librarians and library staff?

What are we going to talk about?

That is the beauty of the UnConference – we don’t know yet, but you get to help figure it out!  All we know is that the focus will be on library instruction – but beyond that, it is all up to you. We will send out more information the week before the UnConference with more details on how the process will work, but you will have the opportunity to suggest topics both before and during the UnConference.

How will this work?

Great question! We will be using an online platform called Unhangout, which will allow you to join the UnConference, suggest a topic, and join a breakout conversation. Unfortunately, there is not a call-in option for Unhangout, so you will need a computer that has a microphone and speakers/headphones. We will send you much more information about a week before the UnConference.

How do I register?

Register here! Please register by Wednesday, July 24th. 

Still have questions?

We have answers! Contact Anne Beschnett (ambeschnett@stkate.edu) or Krista Jacobson (kjacobson@nwhealth.edu), MLA Instruction Round Table Co-Chairs.