University of the Cumberlands Hosts First Library Connections Event for Kentucky K-12 Librarians and Media Specialists

Professional Development Event Explores AI in Education, College Readiness, and Library Innovation

University of the Cumberlands recently welcomed K-12 librarians and media specialists from across Kentucky for its inaugural Library Connections event, a professional development opportunity designed to strengthen partnerships between K-12 schools and higher education while exploring emerging trends in education, technology, and student success.

Hosted by Grover M. Hermann Library in collaboration with Cumberlands' Department of Education, the event created opportunities for librarians, media specialists, faculty, and library professionals to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and build relationships that ultimately benefit students.

Professional Development for School Librarians and Media Specialists

Throughout the day, attendees participated in hands-on workshops and presentations led by University of the Cumberlands faculty and staff. Sessions focused on topics shaping today's libraries and classrooms, including:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) in education
• Grant writing resources
• Digital citizenship
• Book repair techniques
• Library makerspaces

• Emerging educational technologies

"We wanted to invite local librarians and media specialists so we could make connections, encourage professional development, and share our expertise," said Anne Marie McLean, research, learning, and engagement librarian.

"At the same time, we understood we could learn a lot from attendees' expertise as well," she added.

Supporting Students from High School to College

One of the event's greatest strengths was the opportunity for K-12 educators and university faculty to discuss the shared goal of preparing students for future success.

By learning directly from school librarians, Cumberlands faculty gained valuable insight into the challenges students encounter before arriving on campus. Those conversations help the university continue improving the student experience while strengthening the transition from high school to college.

"We're dealing with the same students, just at different moments in their lives," McLean explained. "It made for some great conversations."

For attendees like McCreary County High School Library Media Specialist Tami Starrett, those conversations also offered practical strategies for helping students prepare for college.

"After attending today's event, I feel more prepared to help my students prepare for the transition from high school to college," Starrett said. "I have a better idea of what college will be like if they attend Cumberlands and what the expectations will be, so I can better prepare them for that next step."

Exploring the University of the Cumberlands Makerspace

One highlight of the event was a tour of the Grover M. Hermann Library Makerspace, an innovative learning environment that supports creativity, collaboration, and hands-on problem solving.

The Makerspace gives University of the Cumberlands students, faculty, and staff free access to equipment including:

• 3D printers
• Cricut cutting machines
• Dremel engravers
• Button makers
• Large-format poster printers
• Creative design tools and equipment

"Anything in the Makerspace is free for Cumberlands students, faculty, and staff to use," said Tabitha Meadors, library services coordinator. "Students often use the equipment for creative projects or school-related tasks like presentation posters and SGA signage. Our resident assistants especially enjoy using the space to create residence hall décor."

For Starrett, the visit sparked immediate ideas for expanding opportunities within her own school's library.

"I've gathered a lot of ideas for how I can use things we already have access to at the high school," she said. "For example, I think we could use some shorter bookshelves we have as workshop tables."

"I've also learned about some items I'd like to obtain for our space, like a Dremel or a button maker," she added.

Building Stronger Partnerships Between K-12 Schools and Higher Education

Beyond professional development, Library Connections demonstrated the value of collaboration between educators working at different stages of students' educational journeys.

By sharing ideas, discussing common challenges, and learning from one another, participants strengthened relationships that can help improve learning experiences long before students arrive on a college campus.

"I think the biggest takeaway is that we're all working to solve the same kinds of problems, and the best way to make progress is by talking about them and sharing ideas," McLean said. "Isolation will only hold us back."

Starrett echoed that sentiment.

"I loved this event. As librarians, we tend to work independently a lot, but community is important," she said. "Meeting other professionals and networking with Cumberlands faculty and staff has been a valuable experience."

University of the Cumberlands plans for Library Connections to become an annual opportunity for Kentucky librarians, media specialists, and higher education professionals to exchange ideas, explore emerging technologies, and strengthen partnerships that support student learning and success across every stage of education.

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