Instructors: Tamara Nelson, Kawanna Bright, Shannon Jones, and Kelsa Bartley
Credit: 1.00
Format: Online
Date and Time: May 27th, 2026, 2:00-3:00pm EDT
 
Psychological safety is the belief that one can express ideas, ask questions, and admit mistakes without fear of negative consequences. The aim of this session is to provide participants with foundational knowledge and practical strategies for fostering psychologically safe work environments in libraries using case studies and interactive activities. Participants will gain an evidence-based understanding of psychological safety and its impact on staff well-being, innovation, and team effectiveness, while also developing applied skills in identifying barriers, using effective communication techniques, and navigating leadership and team dynamics. This session is open and applicable to those working in any type of library.

By the end of this session participants will be able to:

• Define psychological safety and explain its importance in the workplace, particularly in libraries, while identifying barriers to psychological safety and developing strategies to overcome them.
• Practice communication techniques that encourage open dialogue and mutual respect among team members.
• Explore the role of leadership, mentorship, and team dynamics in fostering an inclusive, supportive culture and develop an action plan to create a psychologically safe environment tailored to their organization's needs.

 
Tamara Nelson is the Director of Library Engagement & User Experience at the Medical University of South Carolina. With a proven record of fostering innovation and collaboration, Tamara leads efforts to enhance user-focused services and engagement strategies within academic and health sciences libraries. Passionate about building inclusive and supportive environments, she is dedicated to advancing equity, access, and innovation in library services. A recognized leader in the field, Tamara frequently speaks on topics such as psychological safety, mentorship, and the critical contributions of underrepresented voices in librarianship.
 
Dr. Kawanna M. Bright (she/her) is Associate Professor of Library Science at East Carolina University. Her current research focuses on assessment in libraries; equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in libraries; the application of research methodology to the study of library and information science; and the liaison librarianship role in academic libraries. Dr. Bright teaches courses on research methods, academic libraries, outreach and community engagement, administration and management, and services to diverse populations. She endeavors to provide students with real-world, practical experiences and the confidence needed for successful postgraduate careers.
 
Dr. Shannon D. Jones (she/her) is the Director of Libraries and Chair, Academic Affairs Faculty for the Medical University of South Carolina Libraries. She is also Director of Region 2 of the Network of the National Library of Medicine. A long-time Medical Library Association volunteer, Shannon has served in many roles, including as the 2022-2023 MLA President. During her term as MLA President, Shannon launched the Be Well MLA initiative to motivate members to focus on their wellness and well-being. In 2018, Shannon co-founded the MLA Reads Virtual Book Discussion Club to provide a forum for participants to learn, discuss, and reflect on the implications of various DEI topics in their work as information professionals and in their personal lives. Shannon is the co-editor of Diversity and Inclusion in Libraries: A Call to Action and Strategies for Success and Cultural Humility in Libraries: A Call to Action and Strategies for Success. Her educational background includes an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Charleston Southern University, an M.Ed. in Adult Learning with a concentration in Human Resources Development from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Master of Library Science from North Carolina Central University.
 
Kelsa Bartley is the Assistant Director and Head of Research and Education at the Health Sciences Library at Virginia Commonwealth University Libraries. Kelsa's career in libraries is rooted in advancing belonging and equity initiatives within the library community, and creating inclusive environments that serve all staff, students and faculty. She is a dedicated advocate for library instruction in the medical education curriculum, focused on enhancing research support, and creating educational initiatives that aid the academic success of students and faculty. Kelsa has experience in library marketing and outreach, utilizing social media and other tools to increase engagement and promote library services. She is also passionate about promoting wellness and wellbeing within libraries, championing initiatives that nurture both the intellectual and emotional health of library staff and users. Kelsa is active in the Medical Library Association (MLA), completing service as Chair of MLA’s Community Building and Belonging Committee in 2025, and is currently a member of the Be Well MLA Committee. She co-founded the MLA Reads Virtual Book Discussion Club to provide a space for information professionals to learn, discuss, and reflect on the implications of various DEI topics in their work and personal lives.

Member CE Prices:

• Regular $45
• Library Technician $35
• Retired/Unemployed $30
• Students $20

 
*Non-Member CE Price: $75

*Members of the Medical Library Association (MLA) are eligible for the CHLA member rate. MLA members should contact treasurer@chla-absc.ca to receive the MLA member discount code. Please include a screenshot of your receipt or other confirmation of your current membership in MLA.
 
Cancellation Policy
Cancelled registrations will be reimbursed in full minus a $5 administration fee until May 25, 2026. No cancellations are permitted after that date. To cancel your registration, email treasurer@chla-absc.ca.


Registration ends on 5/26/2026