
Connections Summit is a free, online conference open to all libraries worldwide. Speakers who are experts in their field come to share their insights on the most relevant topics affecting libraries today.

What Is Connections Summit?
Connections Summit offers all libraries a chance to learn from industry professionals about topics they are most interested in. This 3-day event is designed to ensure attendees get the most out of each session. Opening day topics include successfully supporting your community during times of instability, budget defense, mental health, open access, and more! Symphony and Horizon customers will want to stick around for the following days to enjoy presentations specific to their ILS.

Why Attend Connections Summit?
Connections Summit is a free, online conference that provides opportunities for educational and professional development within social distancing guidelines and budgetary constraints. This event is open to all staff of libraries worldwide whether or not they are a customer of SirsiDynix.
Join us for our
Keynote Panel Discussion
with Matt Enis, Library Journal Senior Editor
Successfully Supporting your Community During Times of Instability
Panelists
Kelvin Watson
Director, Broward County Libraries
Barbara Brattin
Director, Kenosha Public Library
Suzy Daveluy
Deputy Director of Community Services Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library
Connections Summit 2020.10
Who is Presenting?
This summit features a great lineup of experts from diverse backgrounds, sectors, and industries.
You can expect to hear from SirsiDynix staff like Chief Executive Officer Bill Davison, Chief Product Officer Berit Nelson, Chief Marketing Officer Eric Keith, VP of Pre-Sales Solutions Rick Branham, Director of Pre-Sales Solutions Melissa Kulmer, Director of Marketing Robert Storer, and Director of Content Solutions Carolyn Morris!
Event Details
for
ALL LIBRARIES
Oct
Opening Day
11:00 am - 4:30 pm ET
Featuring a keynote panel discussion on libraries in times of instability, moderated by Matt Enis of Library Journal, tips for effectively marketing your library, and staying mentally strong in a time of uncertainty!
for
CUSTOMERS
Oct
Symphony Day
11:00 am - 5:20 pm ET
Covering topics like Symphony & Symphony Web, COVID resources from SirsiDynix, and going contactless with BLUEcloud Mobile!
Oct
EOS.Web Day
11:00 am - 2:40 pm ET
Covering topics like the OFC library user experience, new BCA features, and the EOS.Web Indexer Module!
Oct
Horizon Day
11:00 am - 5:05 pm ET
Covering topics like Horizon & Horizon Web, COVID configurations for BLUEcloud Circulation, and delivering open access content with CloudSource OA!
Hide Agenda
Opening Day - Oct 27, 2020
Start Time(ET) | Title/Speaker |
---|---|
11:00 AM |
Introductions and What to Expect for Today Eric Keith |
11:20 AM |
Keynote Panel Discussion: Libraries in Times of Instability Matt EnisIn this keynote panel moderated by Matt Enis of Library Journal, learn from leaders Kelvin Watson, Barb Brattin, and Suzy Daveluy as they tell their stories about times of uncertainty and instability during COVID-19 and civil unrest in their communities. |
12:05 PM |
Advocating for Your Library: How to Effectively Defend your Budget Eric KeithMake sure your library receives the funding it needs to continue serving your community. John Chratska from EveryLibrary will share his expertise on how to advocate for your library and effectively defend your budget. |
12:30 PM |
How to Market Your Library with Authenticity Sue LucasMarketing involves segmentation and targeting. This process can often lead to the identification of underserved minority populations. How can libraries reach these valuable communities without the marketing effort appearing disingenuous and pandering? During this presentation we will explore the challenges in marketing authentically and ethically to minority groups. During this tumultuous time in our nation, it is more important than ever to create meaningful relationships with our consumers. Marketing, when used authentically, can be a great first step toward unity. We will explore programming possibilities and outreach efforts to increase the library’s partnership with minority communities. |
12:55 PM |
Boone County Power of Libraries Story & How to Replicate Success Eric KeithWe are excited to introduce you to one of our Power of Libraries Award winners. Learn all about their amazing program and hear how you can replicate this at your library. |
1:05 PM | BREAK |
1:25 PM |
Broward County Power of Libraries Story & How to Replicate Success Eric KeithWe are excited to introduce you to one of our Power of Libraries Award winners. Learn all about their amazing program and hear how you can replicate this at your library. |
1:35 PM |
Helping Libraries Meet Challenges Related to Mental Health and Mental Illness Joseph MeisnerThis presentation will discuss the following pertinent topics: Acknowledging mental health in our workplaces, the importance of being proactive, educating and training staff, offering services and programs (including virtual programming), developing partnerships, and stress and anxiety related to reopening. |
1:55 PM |
Taking Care of Yourself and Staying Mentally Strong in a Time of Uncertainty Julianne Holt–LunstadPsychology and Neuroscience professor Julianne Holt-Lunstand will provide insight into the effects of COVID-19 on our mental health and offer helpful ways to cope with loneliness and keep our mental state strong. |
2:25 PM |
Using Libraries Transform for Awareness and Advocacy Heather ChoIn this session, learn how your library can use Libraries Transform for marketing, advocacy, fundraising and more. An initiative of the American Library Association, Libraries Transform provides free, turnkey messaging, graphics and best practices for libraries of all types. This session will include an overview of the free Libraries Transform toolkit, examples of campaign success stories and ideas for how all libraries can adapt these tools to fit their public awareness needs. |
2:45 PM | BREAK |
3:05 PM |
Hamilton East Public Power of Libraries Story & How to Replicate Success Eric KeithWe are excited to introduce you to one of our Power of Libraries Award winners. Learn all about their amazing program and hear how you can replicate this at your library. |
3:15 PM |
Survey Review: How Open Access is Changing the Content Landscape Meredith SchwartzMeredith Schwartz will be taking an in-depth look at the results of an open access survey ran by Library Journal. Learn how users and librarians are receiving the open access movement. |
3:40 PM |
Panel Discussion: How Open Access is Changing the Content Landscape Carolyn MorrisJoin SirsiDynix Director of Content Solutions Carolyn Morris as she discuss the Open Access movement and how it can affect your library’s content collections with panelists including Terri Galloway, Lisa Hinchliffe and Linda Barr. |
4:10 PM |
Baker & Taylor @ SirsiDynix Eric Keith |
Symphony - Oct 28, 2020
Start Time(ET) | Title/Speaker |
---|---|
11:00 AM |
Introductions and What to Expect for Today Eric Keith |
11:15 AM |
Tour de SirsiDynix Department Updates from Company Leaders Bill DavisonHear from our CEO Bill Davison as he talks with each department head about the improvements they have been making to offer customers the Best Library User Experience. |
11:40 AM |
COVID Resources Available from SirsiDynix Rachel BowellJoin Rachel Bowell and Robert Storer as they discuss all the tools SD has put in place to help libraries navigate reopening during COVID-19, from an entire COVID-19 webinar series to a basecamp discussion forum where libraries from all over can share ideas. |
12:00 PM |
Going Contactless with BLUEcloud Mobile Melissa KulmerBLUEcloud Mobile has gone contactless! From Click & Collect and Patron Self-Service, Director of Pre-Sales Solutions Melissa Kulmer is covering all the new features of the most versatile patron app on the market. |
12:15 PM |
Look What’s Shakin’ With Circulation Andrea DowningStay up-to-date on all the new BLUEcloud Circulation features, including special configurations for things like quarantining items and safely handling returned materials. |
12:30 PM | BREAK |
12:55 PM |
Symphony & Symphony Web: How to Get the Most out of your ILS Matthew PhillipsUnlock all the secrets of Symphony and SymphonyWeb with Product Manager Matthew Phillips! |
1:20 PM |
What’s Sweet with your BlueCloud Suite Melissa KulmerDirector of Pre-Sales Solutions Melissa Kulmer walks you through our expanisve BLUEcloud Suite, from BLUEcloud Analytics to BLUEcloud Course Lists. |
1:40 PM |
MobileStaff—a MobileCirc de Soleil Carla ClarkMobileCirc got a makeover! With increased functionality and enhanced web services, MobileCirc is now MoblieStaff. Product Manager Carla Clark will be walking you through all the new features that make up MobileStaff. |
1:50 PM |
BLUEcloud Analytics Deep Dive: Surfacing Insights from Your Data Sources Andrea DowningLooking to better interpret the data you’ve been pulling from BLUEcloud Analytics? Join Senior Pre-Sales Consultant Andrea Downing as she showcases how BLUEcloud Analytics can improve your library’s services. |
2:05 PM |
Using Symphony Data Control to Organize Data & Utilize API Tools Rick BranhamJoin our VP of Pre-Sales, Content & Academic Solutions Rick Branham as he demonstrates how to use Symphony Data Control to make sure you’re getting the most out of your data and API tools. |
2:20 PM |
Consulting Services: A Catalog of Possibilities Margaret HansenOur experienced consultants are here to ensure your software is configured perfectly for your staff and your patrons. Learn how our consulting team can help streamline your processes and keep your software running smoothly. |
2:35 PM |
Core Fitness: How to Keep Up With the SirsiDynix Roadmap and Plan for Symphony’s Next Version Matthew PhillipsProduct Manager Matthew Phillips will make sure you stay up to date with the Symphony Roadmap! Find out what’s in store for the next version of your flexible ILS. |
3:00 PM | BREAK |
3:25 PM |
5 Tips on How to Improve Enterprise Search Experience Adam ViatorLooking for a more seamless discovery experience? Join Pre-Sales Consultant Adam Viator as he walks you through our intuitive OPAC interface. |
3:40 PM |
Why BLUEcloud Visibility+ has a Plus Lauri McIntoshLearn how to use BLUEcloud Visibility+ to extend your library’s reach, transform your MARC records, and enhance your discovery through linked data and an easily harvestable catalog. |
3:55 PM |
Web Services for Symphony: To BLUEcloud and Beyond Brent ThompsonReady to make the switch? Get all the latest on SymphonyWeb, our cloud-based ILS that runs like a WorkFlows client. Say goodbye to spending time on updates and administration and hello to the convenience of a web browser! |
4:05 PM |
What’s New with the Community Engagement Platform Andrea DowningOur latest product is here! Join Senior Pre-Sales Consultant Andrea Downing as she covers all things CEP — from sending targeted emails to booking rooms and events straight from your website. |
4:20 PM |
CloudSource OA: The Easy and Affordable Way to Deliver Open Access Content to Your Users Rick BranhamThe CloudSource OA pilot program has officially launched! Learn all about the Open Access movement and how it is changing the landscape of libraries everywhere—and saving them money in the process. |
4:40 PM |
BLUEcloud Course Lists: Bridging the Triangle Between Library, Faculty, and Students Adam ViatorBLUEcloud Course Lists has made it easier than ever to connect your students with the materials they need. Join Pre-Sales Consultant III Adam Viator as he covers all the recent updates made to BC Course Lists. |
4:55 PM |
Beyond Core: The Latest in BLUEcloud Staff and Discovery Berit NelsonJoin our Chief Product Officer Berit Nelson as she covers all the recent improvements made to the BLUEcloud suite and gives insight into what’s next for all your favorite BC products. |
EOS.Web - Oct 28, 2020
Start Time(ET) | Title/Speaker |
---|---|
11:00 AM |
Introduction for the Day Jeff Smith |
11:10 AM |
The OCC Library User Experience Vesselina Stoytcheva |
11:20 AM |
Highlighting New Materials on Your OPAC Mike Matheson |
11:35 AM |
Using EOS.Web’s Digital Repository Bryan Long |
11:45 AM |
To Protect, to Guard, and to Serve : Using the Classification Management Module Debi Washington |
12:00 PM |
New BCA Features and Reports Added Since Last Year Daniel Fitz-Enz |
12:15 PM | BREAK |
12:35 PM |
2020 Challenging Times in a Corporate Library Amy Smith |
12:45 PM |
Meet Your Library Relations Manager Jeff Smith |
1:10 PM |
Finding Hidden Treasures with EOS.Web’s Indexer Module Bryan Long |
1:10 PM |
Revisiting Routing E-Journal to End-Users Using Electronic Content Manager Daniel Fitz-Enz |
1:25 PM |
EOS.Web Product Roadmap: 20/21 Jill Moen |
1:35 PM | BREAK |
1:50 PM |
Monthly User Group Meeting Jeff Smith |
Horizon - Oct 29, 2020
Start Time(ET) | Title/Speaker |
---|---|
11:00 AM |
Introductions and What to Expect for Today Eric Keith |
11:15 AM |
Tour de SirsiDynix Department Updates from Company Leaders Bill DavisonHear from our CEO Bill Davison as he talks with each department head about the improvements they have been making to offer customers the Best Library User Experience. |
11:40 AM |
COVID Resources Available from SirsiDynix Rachel BowellJoin Rachel Bowell and Robert Storer as they discuss all the tools SD has put in place to help libraries navigate reopening during COVID-19, from an entire COVID-19 webinar series to a basecamp discussion forum where libraries from all over can share ideas. |
12:00 PM |
Going Contactless with BLUEcloud Mobile Melissa KulmerBLUEcloud Mobile has gone contactless! From Click & Collect and Patron Self-Service, Director of Pre-Sales Solutions Melissa Kulmer is covering all the new features of the most versatile patron app on the market. |
12:15 PM |
Look What’s Shakin’ With Circulation Andrea DowningStay up-to-date on all the new BLUEcloud Circulation features, including special configurations for things like quarantining items and safely handling returned materials. |
12:30 PM | BREAK |
12:55 PM |
Horizon: How to Get the Most out of your ILS Ken BonneyUnlock all the secrets of Horizon with Director of Customer Engagement Ken Bonney! |
1:20 PM |
What’s Sweet with your BlueCloud Suite Melissa KulmerDirector of Pre-Sales Solutions Melissa Kulmer walks you through our expanisve BLUEcloud Suite, from BLUEcloud Analytics to BLUEcloud Course Lists. |
1:40 PM |
MobileStaff—a MobileCirc de Soleil Carla ClarkMobileCirc got a makeover! With increased functionality and enhanced web services, MobileCirc is now MoblieStaff. Product Manager Carla Clark will be walking you through all the new features that make up MobileStaff. |
1:50 PM |
BLUEcloud Analytics Deep Dive: Surfacing Insights from Your Data Sources Andrea DowningLooking to better interpret the data you’ve been pulling from BLUEcloud Analytics? Join Senior Pre-Sales Consultant Andrea Downing as she showcases how BLUEcloud Analytics can improve your library’s services. |
2:05 PM |
Consulting Services: A Catalog of Possibilities Margaret HansenOur experienced consultants are here to ensure your software is configured perfectly for your staff and your patrons. Learn how our consulting team can help streamline your processes and keep your software running smoothly. |
2:20 PM |
Core Fitness: How to Keep Up With the SirsiDynix Roadmap and Plan for Horizon’s Next Version Brent ThompsonProduct Manager Brent Thompson will make sure you stay up to date with the Horizon Roadmap! Find out what’s in store for your flexible ILS. |
2:45 PM | BREAK |
3:10 PM |
5 Tips on How to Improve Enterprise Search Experience Adam ViatorLooking for a more seamless discovery experience? Join Pre-Sales Consultant Adam Viator as he walks you through our intuitive OPAC interface. |
3:25 PM |
Why BLUEcloud Visibility+ has a Plus Lauri McIntoshLearn how to use BLUEcloud Visibility+ to extend your library’s reach, transform your MARC records, and enhance your discovery through linked data and an easily harvestable catalog. |
3:40 PM |
Web Services for Horizon: To BLUEcloud and Beyond Brent ThompsonReady to make the switch? Get all the latest on web services for Horizon so you can say goodbye to spending time on updates and administration and hello to the convenience of a web browser! |
3:50 PM |
What’s New with the Community Engagement Platform Andrea DowningOur latest product is here! Join Senior Pre-Sales Consultant Andrea Downing as she covers all things CEP — from sending targeted emails to booking rooms and events straight from your website. |
4:05 PM |
CloudSource OA: The Easy and Affordable Way to Deliver Open Access Content to Your Users Rick BranhamThe CloudSource OA pilot program has officially launched! Learn all about the Open Access movement and how it is changing the landscape of libraries everywhere—and saving them money in the process. |
4:25 PM |
BLUEcloud Course Lists: Bridging the Triangle Between Library, Faculty, and Students Adam ViatorBLUEcloud Course Lists has made it easier than ever to connect your students with the materials they need. Join Pre-Sales Consultant III Adam Viator as he covers all the recent updates made to BC Course Lists. |
4:40 PM |
Beyond Core: The Latest in BLUEcloud Staff and Discovery Berit NelsonJoin our Chief Product Officer Berit Nelson as she covers all the recent improvements made to the BLUEcloud suite and gives insight into what’s next for all your favorite BC products. |

How Do I Access Connections Summit?
Connections Summit is a live online event. You can come and go during the conference depending on your schedule and interests. Ahead of time, you can test your connection and browser here.
All sessions will be recorded and made available for on-demand viewing after the conference is over. If you’ve missed previous Connections Summits, you can view those sessions here.
For more information about Connections Summit, please contact us.