Talks and presentations

See a map of all the places I've given a talk!

stop serving customers (up on a platter)

October 02, 2019

Talk, Access 2019, Edmonton, AB

I’m here today as a public librarian who doesn’t work with creating tools for library infrastructure. I’m here to talk not about a cool exciting project but to share a bit with an academic audience what library work with technology looks like on a public info desk.

Transmitting in cleartext

October 05, 2016

Ignite talk , Access 2016, Fredericton, NB

Having been a children’s librarian and radio-based reading advisor, I feel well-equipped to tell you a story about what it means to me to teach people how to deal with the cyberpunk dystopia we have the fortune to be living in…

Looking outwards looking in: New professionals panel

May 22, 2015

Panel discussion, BC Library Conference 2015, Richmond, BC

Fluctuating between idealism and cynicism, those new to library work can be passionate about the profession - for better or for worse. Join a diverse and enthusiastic panel for a discussion of the issues, concerns, and dreams of those who are new to, and just entering the field…

Oh glorious failures!

May 22, 2015

Lightning talk , BC Library Conference 2015, Richmond, BC

Conference sessions are often about putting our best foot forward, about sharing what went well, and about glossing over what didn’t work out. This session aims to turn things around by focusing on those times when we tried something new, or different, or innovative and, well, it didn't quite work…

Life in a glass house (papering the windowpanes)

April 02, 2014

Talk , BC Library Conference 2014, Vancouver, BC

Librarians are getting better at providing internet access—and at helping our users develop the basic skills needed to go online. Good for us; these are core services for modern libraries. But are we providing the right tools for our users to be well-informed private citizens on the net, or are we serving them up to third-party interests through the tools we're teaching—or forcing—them to use?

Your friendly neighbourhood wretched hive of scum and villainy

September 19, 2012

Talk , Big Ideas for Libraries in Communities, SFU Public Square, Vancouver, BC

My big idea for public libraries is that they should embrace the role of Your Friendly Neighbourhood Wretched Hive of Scum and Villainy. I want my library to serve the community it’s in and not the rules of publishers, movie studios or lawmakers…