Build a Better Book Training Workshop

Build a Better Book is now recruiting new partner sites (including libraries, community Makerspaces and schools) to participate in the project. We are particularly interested in supporting teams of two individuals from the same organization or from collaborating organizations in a community (e.g., two librarians representing different branches within a library district, a library and school partner, a school and community Makerspace, etc.). Please submit theÌýapplication below if you are interested in participating in the Build a Better Book network and attending an in-person professional development workshop. TheÌýworkshop will take place JanuaryÌý29 - 31, 2020Ìýin Boulder, Colorado. Travel and hotelÌýexpenses will be provided. The application deadline is November 1, 2019. Successful applicants will be notified the week of November 18, 2020.

Workshop Goals:

  • Introduction to Universal Design concepts for accessibility, emphasizing, but not limited to, design considerations for people who areÌýblind or visually impaired
  • Hands-on introduction to various STEM/Makerspace technologies and techniques for creating tactile, multi-modal materialsÌý
  • Preparation for leading Build a Better Book programsÌýat your home location that fit the needs of your audience, staffing, andÌýresources
  • Networking and resource sharing among attendees to grow a community of Makers thatÌýsupport the Build a Better Book goals

Who should apply:
We encourage applicants to apply and attend as a community team of twoÌýindividuals (e.g. two staff from your organization, staff and a community partner, etc.)

  • Librarians
  • Teachers
  • Professionals who work with middleÌýor high school students
  • Professionals who work with blind or visually impaired students, or related fields
  • Formal or informal STEM instructors

Partnership expectations:
After completing training, new partner sites will be expected to plan and implement at least one multi-day Build a Better Book programÌýin 2020. The programÌýwill introduce youth participants to universal design concepts for accessibility, utilize STEM skills and technologies, and produce prototype or finished materials for tactile or multi-modal learning. Build a Better Book is particularly interested in organizations that can sustain aÌýpartnership beyond one year with continued programming, creation of materials, and participation in the Build a Better Book network.ÌýParticipating sites are expected to provide the Build a Better Book program with documentation of planning and results, participate in evaluation activities, and attend meetings or conference calls.

Questions?
If you have any questions about the workshop or would like additional information before submitting an application, please contact us by email.

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