September 8
Petal - Petal Civic Center
September 9
Pearl - Clyde Muse Center, Hinds Community College - Rankin Campus
September 10
Oxford - Oxford Conference Center
Conference Speakers
Billy Don Loper
MAGNOLIA Coordinator at
Mississippi Library Commission
Topic: MAGNOLIA for School Librarians
Description: The MAGNOLIA Database System provides a wide range of vital tools to all public-school libraries in Mississippi. From in-class resources to powerful library development tools, this presentation will cover all aspects of MAGNOLIA relevant to school librarians. Special focus will be given to the possible classroom applications of MAGNOLIA and aiding teachers in implementing MAGNOLIA in their lesson plans. Additionally, MAGNOLIA as a tool for increasing library-educator collaboration will be covered in detail.
Kimberly Gallo
Library Media Specialist at
Pike County High School
Topic: Innovating the Library: STEM & AI for Hands-On, Smart Learning
Description: Bring your school library into the future with a powerful blend of STEM engagement and artificial intelligence tools. In this fast-paced, idea-packed session, you’ll discover how to integrate hands-on STEM activities into your library program—both in the classroom and through creative “STEM-to-go” kits students can take home. You’ll also explore AI-powered tools that can help you work smarter, from automating routine tasks to supporting instruction, fostering creativity, and promoting critical thinking. Along the way, you’ll gain practical, budget-friendly strategies, resource recommendations, and best practices for using AI responsibly while encouraging curiosity and innovation. Walk away with ideas you can implement right away to make your library a dynamic hub for discovery and smart learning.
Brittney Gilmer
Science Teacher at
Pike County High School
Elizabeth Simmons
Instructional Materials and Library Services Director at the Mississippi Department of Education
Topic: How to help teachers with the NEW social studies standards
Description: This session offers practical strategies to support teachers in implementing the new social studies standards. Learn how to align library resources, promote inquiry and critical thinking, and collaborate on lessons that build content knowledge and student engagement.
Topic: School Librarian's Roundtable on Shaping the Future of Library Policies (Petal Location ONLY)
Description: This interactive roundtable invites school librarians to the table for a vital discussion on the creation and revision of library policies. Bring your experiences, challenges, and ideas to this collaborative forum. Your voice and insight are critical to shaping policies that will empower school librarians and serve the entire learning community effectively.
Dr. Mary Osborne
Assistant to Director, Special Events & Outreach School of Library and Information Science at The University of Southern Mississippi
Topic: 2026 Magnolia Book Awards (Petal Location)
Description: The Magnolia Book Awards provide the children and youth of Mississippi the opportunity to nominate, read, and vote for their favorite books. Please join us to learn more about the Magnolia Award and participate in discussion to explore integrating the Magnolia Award into school or public library settings. Learn about the process and help us advocate for the Magnolia Awards as we continue to offer children and youth in Mississippi opportunities to develop a lifelong love of reading.
Venetia Oglesby
Library Media Specialist at
New Hope Elementary School
Topic: 2026 Magnolia Book Awards (Pearl Location)
Description: The Magnolia Book Awards provide the children and youth of Mississippi the opportunity to nominate, read, and vote for their favorite books. Please join us to learn more about the Magnolia Award and participate in discussion to explore integrating the Magnolia Award into school or public library settings. Learn about the process and help us advocate for the Magnolia Awards as we continue to offer children and youth in Mississippi opportunities to develop a lifelong love of reading.
Wendy Daughdrill
Librarian at
Oxford Intermediate School &
MAGNOLIA Book Awards President
Topic: 2026 Magnolia Book Awards (Oxford Location)
Description: The Magnolia Book Awards provide the children and youth of Mississippi the opportunity to nominate, read, and vote for their favorite books. Please join us to learn more about the Magnolia Award and participate in discussion to explore integrating the Magnolia Award into school or public library settings. Learn about the process and help us advocate for the Magnolia Awards as we continue to offer children and youth in Mississippi opportunities to develop a lifelong love of reading.
Kimberly Gallo
Library Media Specialist at
Pike County High School
Topic: What does making a sandwich have to do with computer coding? (Online ONLY)
Description: Have you ever asked students to break an activity into steps and noticed the gaps in their logic? This session highlights the importance of helping students recognize and fill those gaps through computational thinking. Discover practical, library-based activities that make these skills engaging and accessible for all learners.