Loading…
IUG 2026 Annual Conference has ended
Sunday, April 12
 

7:00am CDT

Registration Desk Hours
Sunday April 12, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm CDT

Sunday April 12, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm CDT
Chicago Registration Desk (Floor 5)

9:00am CDT

Accessibility Learning Lab & Workshop
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Accessibility isn't just about compliance -- it's about designing every library experience so all patrons can fully participate, both in person and online. As new ADA Title II requirements take effect in April 2026, this learning lab provides practical strategies on how to further accessibility throughout library programs, services, and digital offerings. Drawing on real-world examples, guided...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Ruth Starr

Ruth Starr

Senior Accessibility Program Manager, Clarivate
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Kansas City

9:00am CDT

The IUG Hackathon
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
An opportunity for individuals and teams to improve the system by building their own hack for prizes and bragging rights! Open to individuals and teams working on a hack for either Polaris or Sierra. The hack can solve any problem. Hackers will have 24 hours to design and build their hack and a presentation explaining the problem being solved as well as the solution. Resources will be available...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Gabrielle Gosselin

Gabrielle Gosselin

Product Manager (Polaris), Innovative Interfaces
MD

Mike Dicus

Manager, Product Management, Innovative Interfaces
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Miami

9:00am CDT

Polaris Academy: Web Based System Administration Skills Refresher & Accelerator
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Do any of these sound familiar? - Your library has been using Polaris for years. - You are the new Polaris administrator. - You've always done it this way, but what were the other ways you could do it? - All of the above! The Polaris Academy offers a day long refresher course focused on 3 key areas of Polaris Web based administration and use: Technical Services Workflows System...
See More →
Speakers
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Houston

9:00am CDT

SQL Basics for Polaris: Querying Data with the Polaris Find Tool
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
This hands-on workshop introduces SQL concepts specifically tailored to the Leap/Polaris Find Tool, helping users move beyond canned reports and pre-built searches to create their own customized queries. Designed for staff who regularly work with Polaris data, this session demystifies SQL by connecting basic theory with real-world examples from the Polaris database. Participants will learn how...
See More →
Speakers
MH

Matt Hammermeister

Director, Pinnacle Library Cooperative
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Denver

9:00am CDT

Sierra Academy: Technical Services - a Deep Look on Cataloging and Serials Workflows Skills Refresher & Accelerator
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Do any of these sound familiar?

Your library has been using Sierra for years.
You are the new Sierra technical services administrator.
You've always done it this way, but what were the other ways you could do it?
All of the above!
The Sierra Academy offers a day long refresher course focused on two key areas of Sierra administration and use:

Cataloging
Serials
Speakers
avatar for Michael McClellan

Michael McClellan

Senior Library Training Consultant, Innovative Interfaces
Questions about Sierra, Vega and Polaris.
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Dupage

9:00am CDT

Vega LX Academy: Discover, Vega Mobile, Vega Interact Voice & SMS, Vega Promote, Vega Program, and LX Starter Advanced Skills Course
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
With the introduction of the Vega Library Experience (LX) and its first module Vega Discover over 4 years ago, we have continued to roll out additional Vega LX modules and exciting new features for existing modules. The Vega LX Academy will review those modules currently available, and the setup and configuration of advanced features such as the Discover Homepage, Kids and Themed catalogs,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jason Boland

Jason Boland

Lead Customer Education Trainer, Innovative, part of Clarivate
Sunday April 12, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Los Angeles

10:30am CDT

Pre-Conference Morning Break
Sunday April 12, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am CDT

Sunday April 12, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am CDT

1:00pm CDT

The Great ILS-Data Pre-Conference: Quick Lessons With Your Peers
Sunday April 12, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Ease your way into this year's conference with our all-star assortment of IUG experts who will present a full afternoon of activities for those looking to expand their library data toolbox. Through a series of mini-talks, some speed geeking and lively conversations, attendees will have opportunities to learn about a wide range of techniques for working with both Sierra and Polaris data. ...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jeremy Goldstein

Jeremy Goldstein

Data Curation Librarian, Minuteman Library Network
Data Curation Librarian for the Minuteman Library Network, former Steering Committee Member, Beacon Award Winner, SQL oversharer, and owner of far too many comics.
avatar for Derek Brown

Derek Brown

Director of IT, Rochester Hills Public Library
Director of IT at the Rochester Hills Public Library (IUG Steering Committee Member-at-Large). Polaris (hosted), Vega Discover (Premium), LX Starter, Vega Promote, Vega Web Builder, IPA:SMS, Innovative Mobile App.
... Read More →
avatar for Bob Gaydos

Bob Gaydos

ILS Administrator, Stark County District Library
A career database applications developer and data analyst whose formative years were also spent as a Unix systems administrator and DBA.  Eight years in the library world and enjoying it tremendously.  Wrangler of Sierra, coder of SQL, Python and Linux shell scripts.  Passions... Read More →
avatar for Daniel Messer

Daniel Messer

ILS Administrator, Library Systems and Services
Your little free Cyberpunk Librarian.
Systems librarian, podcaster, coder, musician, author, and cyberpunk.

Mastodon: https://masto.hackers.town/@CyberpunkLibrarian

Links: https://links.cyberpunklibrarian.nohost.me/@daniel... Read More →
avatar for Victor Zuniga

Victor Zuniga

Systems Administrator, Poudre Libraries
I currently work at the Poudre Libraries as the Integrated Library System Administrator in Fort Collins, CO. Before PRPLD, I worked at the Westerville Public Library (Westerville, OH) where I managed the Sierra system as well as provided primary tech support for the SearchOhio Central... Read More →
Sunday April 12, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Kane

2:30pm CDT

Pre-Conference Afternoon Break
Sunday April 12, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Sunday April 12, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom Foyer (Floor 5)

5:00pm CDT

First-Time IUG Attendees Reception
Sunday April 12, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Is this your first time at IUG? Please join us for an informal reception with light snacks and drinks to meet your peers and members of the IUG Steering Committee.
Sunday April 12, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom F-G
 
Monday, April 13
 

7:00am CDT

Registration Desk Hours
Monday April 13, 2026 7:00am - 5:00pm CDT

Monday April 13, 2026 7:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Chicago Registration Desk (Floor 5)

9:00am CDT

Opening Session
Monday April 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Monday April 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Chicago Ballroom A-D

10:00am CDT

Exhibits Opening & Morning Break
Monday April 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Monday April 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Chicago Ballroom E

10:30am CDT

Maximizing Scheduler for Output to Vendors
Monday April 13, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am CDT
Overview of Sierra Scheduler tips and tricks for outputting data to 3rd party vendors.
Speakers
Monday April 13, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am CDT
Miami

10:45am CDT

Clarivate Library Innovation Award
Monday April 13, 2026 10:45am - 11:15am CDT
Monday April 13, 2026 10:45am - 11:15am CDT
Chicago Ballroom A-D

11:15am CDT

Customer Spotlight
Monday April 13, 2026 11:15am - 11:30am CDT
Monday April 13, 2026 11:15am - 11:30am CDT
Chicago Ballroom A-D

11:30am CDT

Lunch On Your Own
Monday April 13, 2026 11:30am - 1:30pm CDT
Monday April 13, 2026 11:30am - 1:30pm CDT
TBA

12:00pm CDT

Harold Washington Library Center Tour **Please note details in description**
Monday April 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
Join other conference attendees for a guided tour of the Harold Washington Library Center location of the Chicago Public Library! Please note that the tour has a limited capacity, so if your plans change, please remember to remove it from your schedule so others know a space is available. The tour will begin at noon; attendees should meet the tour in the first-floor lobby of the library. Attendees...
See More →
Monday April 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
Offsite

12:00pm CDT

Wisconsin-Illinois Innovative Users Group (WILIUG) Lunch **Limited capacity - please see description for registration details**
Monday April 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:15pm CDT
Join us for the WILIUG Birds of a Feather Lunch at IUG! Take a break from the conference buzz and connect with fellow WILIUG members over a true Chicago lunch. It’s the perfect chance to swap ideas, catch up with old friends, and meet new ones over good food and conversation.When: Monday, April 13, 2025 • 12:00–1:15 p.m.Where: Gino's East162 E Superior St.Chicago, IL 60611 Registration:...
See More →
Monday April 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:15pm CDT
Offsite

1:10pm CDT

Support Center Case Submission 101
Monday April 13, 2026 1:10pm - 1:25pm CDT
This session will cover case opening best practices including nformation needed by support for an expedient resolution.
Speakers
Monday April 13, 2026 1:10pm - 1:25pm CDT
Miami

1:30pm CDT

Vega LX Roadmap
Monday April 13, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Roadmap of upcoming Vega Library Experience (LX) development (Discover, Mobile, Promote, WebBuilder, Program)
Speakers
Monday April 13, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom A-D

2:30pm CDT

Afternoon Break
Monday April 13, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Monday April 13, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom E

2:40pm CDT

Getting Started with an Authority Control Project with a Vendor
Monday April 13, 2026 2:40pm - 2:55pm CDT
Best practices and what you need to know to start an authority control project with a vendor
Speakers
avatar for Martha Rice Sanders

Martha Rice Sanders

Manager, Customer Success, Innovate, a part of Clarivate
My library career began at the Music Library of the University of Illinois in 1978. At UIUC, I received my MSLIS while working at the Music, Math, and Main Libraries. Starting in 1985, I did cataloging and authority control work at UConn, then because head of Collections Services... Read More →
Monday April 13, 2026 2:40pm - 2:55pm CDT
Miami

3:00pm CDT

Polaris Roadmap
Monday April 13, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Roadmap of upcoming Polaris development
Speakers
Monday April 13, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom A-D

3:00pm CDT

Sierra Roadmap
Monday April 13, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Roadmap of upcoming Sierra development
Speakers
MD

Mike Dicus

Manager, Product Management, Innovative Interfaces
Monday April 13, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Denver/Houston/Kansas City

4:00pm CDT

IUG Hackathon Presentation & Awards
Monday April 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Join us for hors d'oeuvres and watch the hackers from the IUG Hackathon present their ideas.  An esteemed panel of judges will award gold, silver and bronze to the top hacks!
Speakers
avatar for Gabrielle Gosselin

Gabrielle Gosselin

Product Manager (Polaris), Innovative Interfaces
Monday April 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Denver/Houston/Kansas City

5:45pm CDT

IUG Dine Around: The Purple Pig - RSVP Required
Monday April 13, 2026 5:45pm - 8:00pm CDT
Visiting Chicago for IUG and don’t know what’s “good” to eat? Love discovering local restaurants, but don’t have anyone to eat with? This will be an opportunity to network with a group of peers over a delicious meal. You'll be dining at: The Purple PigWalking Score: 10/10 (Immediate Vicinity)We'll meet inside the conference hotel lobby directly in front of the hotel check in counter...
See More →
Speakers
Monday April 13, 2026 5:45pm - 8:00pm CDT
Offsite

5:45pm CDT

IUG Dine Around: The Smith - RSVP Required
Monday April 13, 2026 5:45pm - 8:00pm CDT
Visiting Chicago for IUG and don’t know what’s “good” to eat? Love discovering local restaurants, but don’t have anyone to eat with? This will be an opportunity to network with a group of peers over a delicious meal. You'll be dining at: The SmithWalking Score: 8/10 (Standard City Walk)We'll meet inside the conference hotel lobby directly in front of the hotel check in counter at...
See More →
Speakers
Monday April 13, 2026 5:45pm - 8:00pm CDT
Offsite

6:00pm CDT

IUG Dine Around: Weber Grill - RSVP Required
Monday April 13, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm CDT
Visiting Chicago for IUG and don’t know what’s “good” to eat? Love discovering local restaurants, but don’t have anyone to eat with? This will be an opportunity to network with a group of peers over a delicious meal. You'll be dining at: Weber Grill Walking Score: 10/10 (Immediate Vicinity)We'll meet inside the conference hotel lobby directly in front of the hotel check in...
See More →
Speakers
LA

Lauren Arnsman

Head of Digital Services, Troy Public Library
Monday April 13, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm CDT
Offsite

8:00pm CDT

All-Conference Dessert Reception
Monday April 13, 2026 8:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
Monday April 13, 2026 8:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom A-D
 
Tuesday, April 14
 

8:00am CDT

Registration Desk Hours
Tuesday April 14, 2026 8:00am - 1:00pm CDT

Tuesday April 14, 2026 8:00am - 1:00pm CDT
Chicago Registration Desk (Floor 5)

9:00am CDT

Resource Sharing Update
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Updates on INN-Reach, Rapido and Rapido CB as our resource sharing solutions evolve.
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Denver

9:00am CDT

Vibe Coding with SQL for Fun and "Profit"
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
This session will explore ways to use modern LLM (AI) chat systems to create and check your SQL code. Although the examples in the program will be based off coding for the Polaris SQL server, the major concepts will be applicable to any coding platform or project.
Speakers
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Chicago Ballroom F

9:00am CDT

Polaris Cataloging & Acquisitions Forum
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Come join like-minded people to discuss thoughts, questions, procedures, etc.
Speakers
avatar for Jill Messing

Jill Messing

Head of Collection Mgmt./Co-Systems Admin, Clinton-Macomb Public Library
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Kane

9:00am CDT

Sierra Cataloging Forum
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Catalogers, tech services staff/managers, ILS administrators and the cataloging curious: join us to discuss the wonders of cataloging in Sierra. Tips, tricks, hacks, problems, questions, and ideas are all welcome!
Speakers
avatar for Emily Vieyra

Emily Vieyra

Manager - Cataloging & Database Maintenance, Milwaukee Public Library
LG

Lynn Gates

Technical Services Manager, L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library
Hi! I've been a cataloger for over 20 years in both public and academic libraries. I'm passionate about making our catalogs work for our patrons and while this may mean something different at each institution, I strongly believe the end product should be useful!
avatar for Tim Mayse-Lillig

Tim Mayse-Lillig

Helen plum library
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Houston

9:00am CDT

Sierra Statistical Reports - Review of the Sierra Reporting Tool
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
This presentation offers an overview of the key reports and statistics that library staff rely on in their daily workflows.
Speakers
avatar for Michael McClellan

Michael McClellan

Senior Library Training Consultant, Innovative Interfaces
Questions about Sierra, Vega and Polaris.
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
McHenry

9:00am CDT

Two Sierra Tricks
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Have you seen weird strings of characters in your records like ?????? or Ã?©? I had them spread randomly around my database. I developed a process to find and replace these with correct characters in Sierra. There are still some functions in Sierra that you can only access with PuTTY, but PuTTY is a real pain to use because things are buried in menus, and there is no documentation on where to...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Carol Hassler

Carol Hassler

Access Services Librarian, Wisconsin State Law Library

avatar for Lloyd Chittenden

Lloyd Chittenden

Union Catalog Coordinator, Marmot Library Network
Lloyd Chittenden is Union Catalog Coordinator for Marmot Library Network in Colorado. He is also Past President of Open Rules for Cataloging.
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Kansas City

9:00am CDT

Leveraging the Vega Suite for Personalized Library Experiences
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Highlighting the new Account Portal, integration of programs to be searchable and overall personalization trends.
Speakers
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Chicago Ballroom G

9:00am CDT

Clarivate Customer Support Center
Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 5:30pm CDT

Tuesday April 14, 2026 9:00am - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom H

10:00am CDT

Morning Break
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am CDT

Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am CDT
Chicago Ballroom E

10:10am CDT

Receipt and Label Printers: Tips and Tricks
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:10am - 10:25am CDT
This session will common issues and troubleshooting for printing in Sierra and Polaris.
Speakers
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:10am - 10:25am CDT
Miami

10:30am CDT

How could new analytics tools help multi-branch Sierra systems with floating collections better manage their collections?
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Some libraries use complex workflows for collection management with Sierra, Decision Center, SQL, and Excel. As Innovative develops new analytics tools, are any multi-branch libraries with floating collections interested in discussing reports or features that could help with collection issues? We could summarize the ideas and share them with Innovative through the Idea Exchange or their...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Wright

Elizabeth Wright

Systems Services Manager, Vancouver Island Regional Library

Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Cook

10:30am CDT

Automating Reports with Python 2: Getting Modular
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
In 2017 & 2018 Gem Stone-Logan originally presented Automating Reports with Python , aiming to teach Python in under an hour to attendees with no prior programming experience. That presentation has continued to be cited regularly by members throughout IUG and is directly responsible for my present career. The original presentation focused on crafting a single script capable of conducting a query,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jeremy Goldstein

Jeremy Goldstein

Data Curation Librarian, Minuteman Library Network
Data Curation Librarian for the Minuteman Library Network, former Steering Committee Member, Beacon Award Winner, SQL oversharer, and owner of far too many comics.
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chicago Ballroom F

10:30am CDT

From Backlog to Breakthrough: Streamlining Technical Services with Workslip Cataloging and LEAN Solutions
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Are you perpetually surrounded by carts and boxes of materials awaiting cataloging and processing? Have you ever been tempted to construct and hide inside a cardboard fort to avoid the backlog? Have you ever dreamed of working remotely? Are your customers knocking down the doors to get their hands on new releases? If this sounds familiar, you need our session! Our session aims to provide...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Valerie Rollins

Valerie Rollins

Cataloging, Acquisitions, & ILL Manager, Sno-Isle Libraries
CB

Carolyn Bly

sno-Isle Libraries, sno-Isle Libraries
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Denver

10:30am CDT

Getting the Most Out of Your Data Using SimplyReports and SQL in Leap
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Leverage SimplyReports and SQL to generate insightful reports, creating valuable opportunities to analyze and evaluate the data stored in your records.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Boland

Jason Boland

Lead Customer Education Trainer, Innovative, part of Clarivate
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chicago Ballroom G

10:30am CDT

Suddenly, You're a Polaris Administrator - Now What?
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Hey! Congratulations on your (possibly surprising) promotion! Whether you intentionally moved up to Polaris ILS administration or you were chosen because "you're good with computers," you may be just a little overwhelmed when you first log in and need to dig through SA to find out how to do something. I mean, first thing's first, what's SA? But it's okay! You are among friends and, you know what?...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Daniel Messer

Daniel Messer

ILS Administrator, Library Systems and Services
Your little free Cyberpunk Librarian.
Systems librarian, podcaster, coder, musician, author, and cyberpunk.

Mastodon: https://masto.hackers.town/@CyberpunkLibrarian

Links: https://links.cyberpunklibrarian.nohost.me/@daniel... Read More →
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Kansas City

10:30am CDT

Demystifying Sierra Authority Control
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Overview of the authority work functionality in Sierra, with a focus on the headings reports, what they contain and how to work with them.
Speakers
avatar for Martha Rice Sanders

Martha Rice Sanders

Manager, Customer Success, Innovate, a part of Clarivate
My library career began at the Music Library of the University of Illinois in 1978. At UIUC, I received my MSLIS while working at the Music, Math, and Main Libraries. Starting in 1985, I did cataloging and authority control work at UConn, then because head of Collections Services... Read More →
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
McHenry

10:30am CDT

Vega in Action: A Community Showcase of Customer Implementations
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Building on the success of our 2025 IUG Forum session, join us for an in-depth look at innovative customer implementations across the entire Vega product suite. This interactive session showcases how libraries are leveraging Vega Discover, LX Starter, Mobile, WebBuilder, Promote, Program, and Interact to create unique, community-focused solutions. During this session, you'll experience live...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Derek Brown

Derek Brown

Director of IT, Rochester Hills Public Library
Director of IT at the Rochester Hills Public Library (IUG Steering Committee Member-at-Large). Polaris (hosted), Vega Discover (Premium), LX Starter, Vega Promote, Vega Web Builder, IPA:SMS, Innovative Mobile App.
... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Kasprzak

Sarah Kasprzak

ILS Solutions Specialist, London Public Library
Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Kane

11:30am CDT

All-Conference Lunch
Tuesday April 14, 2026 11:30am - 1:30pm CDT
Tuesday April 14, 2026 11:30am - 1:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom A-D

12:30pm CDT

Birds of a Feather - Northeastern IUG Regional Meeting
Tuesday April 14, 2026 12:30pm - 1:15pm CDT
Come to meet your IUG neighbors from the Tri-State area and New England! This newly-reformed group is ready to discuss and compare notes on anything related to Polaris, Sierra, Vega, and IUG. Bring questions, tips, and snow-removal advice to this forum.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Baker

Melissa Baker

Head of Materials Management and Adult Reference, Wilton Library Association

Tuesday April 14, 2026 12:30pm - 1:15pm CDT
Cook

1:30pm CDT

Collaborative Solutions for Technical Services Challenges
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Overview: Library technical services departments face ongoing challenges, including staffing shortages and budget constraints. This program offers a forum-style discussion where everyone can share issues and brainstorm solutions together. Format: Moderator case studies to spark conversation Open forum for attendees to present their own challenges Peer exchange of strategies and best practices...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Rhonda Glazier

Rhonda Glazier

Director of Collections Management, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
Ms. Glazier is the Director of Collections Management at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs and has worked in libraries for over twenty-five years. She has worked in both public and academic libraries with the majority of her work focusing on the traditional areas of technical... Read More →
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Houston

1:30pm CDT

Building Permission Structures in Polaris: The SHARE Approach
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Join Dena Porter, SHARE Administrative Services Manager, as she demystifies Polaris permissions within North America's largest automated library consortium. Discover how SHARE developed and maintains 1,400 permission groups to manage cataloging and circulation across its member libraries effectively. Attendees will learn how SHARE created distinct permission groups for schools and public libraries...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dena Porter

Dena Porter

SHARE Administrative Services Manager, Illinois Heartland Library System
iug2026 pptx
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Denver

1:30pm CDT

Polaris Year in Review
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
A session to highlight all of the recent features added to Polaris since the last IUG.
Speakers
avatar for Gabrielle Gosselin

Gabrielle Gosselin

Product Manager (Polaris), Innovative Interfaces
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Kane

1:30pm CDT

Creating a Circulation Statistics Dashboard Using SQL and LibInsights
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Sierra's circulation reports provide basic usage data but lack key information for making informed collection and scheduling decisions. This session demonstrates how to use a custom SQL query to extract detailed circulation analytics, including time-based trends, collection performance metrics, and cost-per-use calculations. The presenter will provide an overview of a SQL query that mines Sierra's...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Joel Tonyan

Joel Tonyan

Director of User Experience, University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom G

1:30pm CDT

Sierra Year in Review
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
A session to highlight all of the recent features added to Sierra since the last IUG.
Speakers
MD

Mike Dicus

Manager, Product Management, Innovative Interfaces
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
McHenry

1:30pm CDT

Curtains for Encore; Discovering Vega
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Springfield-Greene County Library launched Vega Discover in late 2024, after using Encore for over fifteen years. Join ILS Administrator (Sierra) Stephanie Ruhe for a recap of the go-live experience and first year (or so) live on Discover. We'll discuss successes, challenges, and lessons learned through each stage of the process, then wrap it up with a little show-and-tell and discussion of our...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Ruhe

Stephanie Ruhe

ILS Administrator, Springfield-Greene County Library
Tuesday April 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Kansas City

2:30pm CDT

Afternoon Break
Tuesday April 14, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Tuesday April 14, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom E

2:40pm CDT

Switching Acquisitions Vendors
Tuesday April 14, 2026 2:40pm - 2:55pm CDT
This session will cover changing acquisitions vendors in Sierra - what you need to know and information to provide for your project to be successful.
Speakers
Tuesday April 14, 2026 2:40pm - 2:55pm CDT
Miami

3:00pm CDT

MEEP (Member-Exclusive Enhancement Process)
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Come and learn more about the MEEP process. We will discuss the life of an idea and how it gets submitted to then get voted on for enhancement. We will also cover how to get involved as any questions you have about the process.
Speakers
avatar for Katie LeBlanc

Katie LeBlanc

Head of Customer CARE/System Administrator, Clinton-Macomb Public Library
I have been working at Clinton-Macomb Public Library since April 2003. I started at a page before moving through the organization and landing in my current position in 2020. I manage a staff of 50+ employees in circulation across 3 locations.
avatar for Alex Vancina

Alex Vancina

Technology & Metadata Services Manager, Helen Plum Library
Alex Vancina is a systems librarian with over 20 years of experience, including 14 working with Sierra. He currently manages the Technology & Metadata Services department at Helen Plum Library in Lombard, IL. 
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Kansas City

3:00pm CDT

There Are No Cataloging Police (aka Cataloging for the non-cataloger), Part 1
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Have you been given cataloging duties? Not sure where to start? Does reading the rules feel like a Choose Your Own Adventure book? In part 1, we'll start at the beginning with some cataloging history and theory, including a discussion of cataloger's judgment, and a high-level look at some 'rules.' Part 2 will then look at applying what we talk about here.
Speakers
LG

Lynn Gates

Technical Services Manager, L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library
Hi! I've been a cataloger for over 20 years in both public and academic libraries. I'm passionate about making our catalogs work for our patrons and while this may mean something different at each institution, I strongly believe the end product should be useful!
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Houston

3:00pm CDT

Getting Started With Patron Imports & Student Cards
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
One of the most exciting parts of the Polaris version 7.8 update was the introduction of the bulk patron import process. This in depth panel discussion features the shared experience of three libraries who have utilized bulk imports for projects with student/school library cards. Topics which will be covered include: Getting started & first steps Data & spreadsheet preparation The patron upload...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Talia Hofacker

Talia Hofacker

Technology Librarian, City of Aurora Public Library
NB

Nate Burnard

Systems Services Manager, Allen County Public Library
avatar for Beth Lane

Beth Lane

Systems and Technology Librarian, Placer County Library
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom G

3:00pm CDT

Managing Tech Services in LEAP
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
This session will showcase useful features that can enhance your daily technical services workflows. We’ll explore Leap’s toolkit for acquisitions, cataloging, and serials.
Speakers
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
McHenry

3:00pm CDT

Where Do I Start? Techniques for writing a large and/or complex SQL report
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Anyone who writes SQL for their library system will eventually be tasked with producing a report which challenges not only their SQL chops but also their organizational skills, mental health and possibly the timeout limit of the database as well. Using some real-life query examples from this behemoth , we'll review different techniques and considerations when undertaking such a project. While the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Bob Gaydos

Bob Gaydos

ILS Administrator, Stark County District Library
A career database applications developer and data analyst whose formative years were also spent as a Unix systems administrator and DBA.  Eight years in the library world and enjoying it tremendously.  Wrangler of Sierra, coder of SQL, Python and Linux shell scripts.  Passions... Read More →
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom F

3:00pm CDT

Managing a Cohesive Circ Notice Strategy Across Channels
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Vega LX platform is modernizing and reshaping our tools for circulation notices. Across multiple channels, what does each offer and how best to structure the choices and your communications?
Speakers
avatar for Taylor Fisher

Taylor Fisher

Senior Product Manager, Clarivate
Taylor Fisher is a Senior Product Manager at Clarivate. Taylor is one of many product team leaders
responsible for delivering library specific solutions that provide intuitive and exciting library experiences to
patrons, staff and donors. Her primary focus is on Vega Promote and Ve... Read More →
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Denver

3:00pm CDT

Vega Discover - Year in Review
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Session to highlight all of the recent features in Discover.
Speakers
avatar for Samantha Cunning

Samantha Cunning

Sr. Product Manager Vega Discover & Vega Mobile Worklists, Clarivate
Tuesday April 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Kane

4:00pm CDT

Afternoon Break
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
TBA

4:10pm CDT

Things I Wished I'd Known When I was a Polaris Admin
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:10pm - 4:25pm CDT
Tips and Tricks for Polaris Administratorsfrom a former administrator.
Speakers
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:10pm - 4:25pm CDT
Miami

4:30pm CDT

AI The Right Way: Smarter Tools, Stronger Outcomes
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
AI is everywhere and the use in products is rapidly on the rise. When can AI make a difference? How best should it be used? Is it taking over or helping out?
Speakers
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom F

4:30pm CDT

Lightning Rounds
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Lightning Rounds are short (approximately 10-minute) talks that briefly highlight a project or topic. This session includes (not necessarily in order): - Getting Involved with IUG (Jeff Campbell):Learn more about how to get involved with IUG!- From Door to Desktop - Identity Provider Integration in Action (Derek Brown)Join us for a practical look at how Rochester Hills Public Library...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Campbell

Jeff Campbell

Head, Infrastructure Management Services, The University of North Carolina At Chapel Hill
avatar for Derek Brown

Derek Brown

Director of IT, Rochester Hills Public Library
Director of IT at the Rochester Hills Public Library (IUG Steering Committee Member-at-Large). Polaris (hosted), Vega Discover (Premium), LX Starter, Vega Promote, Vega Web Builder, IPA:SMS, Innovative Mobile App.
... Read More →
avatar for Daniel Messer

Daniel Messer

ILS Administrator, Library Systems and Services
Your little free Cyberpunk Librarian.
Systems librarian, podcaster, coder, musician, author, and cyberpunk.

Mastodon: https://masto.hackers.town/@CyberpunkLibrarian

Links: https://links.cyberpunklibrarian.nohost.me/@daniel... Read More →
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Kansas City

4:30pm CDT

There Are No Cataloging Police (aka Cataloging for the non-cataloger), Part 2
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Have you been given cataloging duties? Not sure where to start? Does reading the rules feel like a Choose Your Own Adventure? In part 1 we dived into cataloging history & theory. Now, in part 2 we look at applying what we talked about, including a closer look at common MARC fields, thinking about when to 'break the rules,' and ideas on how to best serve your users.
Speakers
LG

Lynn Gates

Technical Services Manager, L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library
Hi! I've been a cataloger for over 20 years in both public and academic libraries. I'm passionate about making our catalogs work for our patrons and while this may mean something different at each institution, I strongly believe the end product should be useful!
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Houston

4:30pm CDT

Polaris Circulation Forum
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Don't know how to do something in Polaris or wondering how the system can accomplish what you want to do? This forum is a chance for Polaris libraries to ask questions of and provide answers to other Polaris libraries.
Speakers
avatar for Stefanie Kaloustian

Stefanie Kaloustian

Customer CARE Manager, Clinton-Macomb Public Library
avatar for Jeff Tate

Jeff Tate

Digital Services Manager, Wichita Public Library
Head of the IT department at Wichita Public providing strategic planning and daily maintenance for staff and customers. My team deals with all things related to Polaris. My team also provides one-on-one customer technology training, teach a wide variety of technology classes and programs... Read More →
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Kane

4:30pm CDT

Sierra Circulation Forum
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Whether you're a long-time Sierra user or have just started, bring your questions, conundrums, and ingenious ideas related to all things Sierra circulation to discuss with colleagues.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Ruhe

Stephanie Ruhe

ILS Administrator, Springfield-Greene County Library
avatar for Alex Vancina

Alex Vancina

Technology & Metadata Services Manager, Helen Plum Library
Alex Vancina is a systems librarian with over 20 years of experience, including 14 working with Sierra. He currently manages the Technology & Metadata Services department at Helen Plum Library in Lombard, IL. 
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
McHenry

4:30pm CDT

Vega Reports for Discover and Beyond
Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
An update on the exciting Vega Reports tool, showing new Discover reports and the plan for the inclusion of OverDrive circulation data.
Speakers
JR

Jovana Raskovic

Innovative, Part of Clarivate

Tuesday April 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom G

5:45pm CDT

IUG Dine Around: Sunda New Asian - RSVP Required
Tuesday April 14, 2026 5:45pm - 8:30pm CDT
Visiting Chicago for IUG and don’t know what’s “good” to eat? Love discovering local restaurants, but don’t have anyone to eat with? This will be an opportunity to network with a group of peers over a delicious meal. You'll be dining at: Sunda New AsianWalking Score: Recommend RideshareWe'll meet inside the conference hotel lobby directly in front of the hotel check in counter at...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jason Bedsaul

Jason Bedsaul

Director of ODIN, NDUS - ODIN
Director of ODIN, a state-wide consortium comprising of 65+ Academic, Public, K-12 and Special Libraries. 
Tuesday April 14, 2026 5:45pm - 8:30pm CDT
Offsite
 
Wednesday, April 15
 

7:00am CDT

Hatha Yoga Session - Sponsored by Clarivate
Wednesday April 15, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am CDT
This Hatha yoga class will focus on strength and flexibility while incorporating meditation and breathwork. The instructor will lead participants through foundational yoga postures and all movements will be low impact. Together, these practices will help alleviate tension and bring harmony to one’s body, mind, and spirit. This class is suitable for all fitness levels, making it great for both...
See More →
Wednesday April 15, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am CDT
Chicago Ballroom E

8:00am CDT

Exhibitor Showcase: Recollect (Coffee Provided)
Wednesday April 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am CDT
Come meet one of our exhibitors and see how the resources they provide can serve your institution. Coffee provided. The Recollect platform is a cloud-based Digital Asset and Collection Management Platform that removes the stress and complexity of managing digital archives while also giving your patrons the opportunity to participate in their community's preservation. Recollect supports a...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Brandy Helewa

Brandy Helewa

Solutions Consultant/Implementation Lead, Recollect CMS
Brandy is an MLIS graduate of San Jose State University. After working as a digitization coordinator and digital asset management platform administrator for the State of Arizona Research Library, Brandy made the leap to work as a Solutions Consultant for Recollect. In this role, she... Read More →
Wednesday April 15, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am CDT
Miami

8:00am CDT

Registration Desk Hours
Wednesday April 15, 2026 8:00am - 11:00am CDT

Wednesday April 15, 2026 8:00am - 11:00am CDT
Chicago Registration Desk (Floor 5)

9:00am CDT

Executive Leadership Panel
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
A Q&A session with a panel of Innovative Executives
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Chicago Ballroom A

9:00am CDT

Lightning Rounds
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Lightning Rounds are short (approximately 10-minute) talks that briefly highlight a project or topic. This session includes (not necessarily in order): - Start Your Regional Group: Tools, Templates & How IUG Can Help (Derek Brown)Want to start a regional users group? In this 10-minute lightning round, the IUG Steering Committee will show you how to leverage MemberLeap, Discourse, Discord, and our...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Derek Brown

Derek Brown

Director of IT, Rochester Hills Public Library
Director of IT at the Rochester Hills Public Library (IUG Steering Committee Member-at-Large). Polaris (hosted), Vega Discover (Premium), LX Starter, Vega Promote, Vega Web Builder, IPA:SMS, Innovative Mobile App.
... Read More →
avatar for Bob Gaydos

Bob Gaydos

ILS Administrator, Stark County District Library
A career database applications developer and data analyst whose formative years were also spent as a Unix systems administrator and DBA.  Eight years in the library world and enjoying it tremendously.  Wrangler of Sierra, coder of SQL, Python and Linux shell scripts.  Passions... Read More →
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Chicago Ballroom G

9:00am CDT

REPEAT: Collaborative Solutions for Technical Services Challenges
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
For those that missed the chance to hear Rhonda's first presentation, she has graciously agreed to a repeat!Overview: Library technical services departments face ongoing challenges, including staffing shortages and budget constraints. This program offers a forum-style discussion where everyone can share issues and brainstorm solutions together. Format: Moderator case studies to spark conversation...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Rhonda Glazier

Rhonda Glazier

Director of Collections Management, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
Ms. Glazier is the Director of Collections Management at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs and has worked in libraries for over twenty-five years. She has worked in both public and academic libraries with the majority of her work focusing on the traditional areas of technical... Read More →
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Denver

9:00am CDT

Seeing the Forest Through the Weeds: Inventory Through Polaris Weeding Workflows
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Our presentation details a novel approach to inventory in Polaris, conceived as one of multiple interdepartmental programs to clean up pre-2020 cataloging malpractice and procedure. This method utilizes the built-in Weeding Workflows as a figurative 'lens' by which to measure item-record and broader bibliographic record-level accuracy in physical holdings (in addition to normal conditional...
See More →
Speakers
CC

Cameron Crawford

Assistant Department Head - Circ Services, Baldwin Public Library
avatar for Kristen Tait

Kristen Tait

Head of Access Services, Baldwin Public Library, Michigan
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Chicago Ballroom F

9:00am CDT

Navigating Location Code Updates in Sierra
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
The Canton Public Library recently updated 40 of the 78 location codes in use at our library to create a better structure for sorting lists and pulling hold items, and to align the naming conventions for location codes and fund codes for easier navigation by staff. This kind of project is a significant undertaking, and it requires caution and careful planning because location codes are used in so...
See More →
Speakers
GF

Gale Forster

Circulation Supervisor Technical Processing, Canton Public Library
TS

Tim Sills

System Administrator, Canton PublicLibrary
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
McHenry

9:00am CDT

Program Registration
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
New to Program Registration? Join us to learn to how to create and manage program session, introduction to program administration, and customer experience.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Boland

Jason Boland

Lead Customer Education Trainer, Innovative, part of Clarivate
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Houston

9:00am CDT

Strange New Worlds: Implementing Vega Discover in a Complex Consortium
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
In 2025, The Regional Automation Consortium (TRAC)-comprising four library systems and representing over 180 libraries across Alberta-undertook the implementation of Vega Discover. The TRAC environment is characterized by multiple layers of collaboration and decision-making across all areas, from cataloguing and system administration to public services. Because of this complexity, the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Kristine den Boon

Kristine den Boon

Director of Service Delivery, Marigold Library System
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Kane

9:00am CDT

Clarivate Customer Support Center
Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT

Wednesday April 15, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom H

10:00am CDT

Morning Break
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am CDT

Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am CDT
Chicago Ballroom Foyer (Floor 5)

10:10am CDT

Engaging Readers with Vega Discover
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:10am - 10:25am CDT
Using showcases and other reader engagement tools to get the most out of Discover.
Speakers
avatar for Michael McClellan

Michael McClellan

Senior Library Training Consultant, Innovative Interfaces
Questions about Sierra, Vega and Polaris.
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:10am - 10:25am CDT
Miami

10:30am CDT

Acquisitions Forum
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
This past year has been an interesting one for acquisitions. Major distributors have folded or changed operations, budget uncertainty has been rampant, and shipping times have been erratic at best. There's a lot to discuss and this is your opportunity. Do you have a question for your peers or experiences you're willing to share? Then please come to this year's forum that is sure to be a lively...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jeremy Goldstein

Jeremy Goldstein

Data Curation Librarian, Minuteman Library Network
Data Curation Librarian for the Minuteman Library Network, former Steering Committee Member, Beacon Award Winner, SQL oversharer, and owner of far too many comics.
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chicago Ballroom A

10:30am CDT

Automating Reports and Maximizing Efficiency
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Creating and automating reports is an effective way to gather data, distribute weeding lists, and any other task that you may find yourself performing regularly. Go beyond basic scheduled reports in SimplyReports and take them to the next level with Excel. In this session I'll show you: 1) How I've taken advantage of advanced publishing to schedule weeding lists for branches 2) How to work with...
See More →
Speakers
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chicago Ballroom G

10:30am CDT

From Desktop to Web: Administering Polaris
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
During this session, participants will receive an overview of the Polaris web-based System Administration environment, with a focus on user administration, settings and table configuration, and new API management functionality.
Speakers
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
McHenry

10:30am CDT

Slightly More Advanced Polaris SQL: The Sequel to Absolute Beginner's SQL
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
The direct sequel to Polaris SQL for the Absolute Beginner (IUG 2023) , this presentation builds upon the foundations and covers more advanced (and sometimes scary) topics like updates, deletes, the different types of joins, and more. We'll also cover some best practices and strategies for managing complex queries.
Speakers
KB

Kalee Burkett

ILS System Administrator, Central Library Consortium
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Kansas City

10:30am CDT

Cleaning Up Our Act Using Really, Really Simple Inventory & Other Projects
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Sierra users, do you want to conduct an inventory without buying Circa or FTPing files? The Lakeland Library Cooperative developed a novel way to use the COUNT USE-COPY USE function for an easy-peasy inventory process that can be done in three steps and is scalable for either single locations or consortia (we have 42 members). Ann will share how the project came to be, how we trained our members...
See More →
Speakers
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chicago Ballroom F

10:30am CDT

Patrons in Promote: Unlocking a New Level of Engagement
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Exploring the game changer that is "patrons in promote" and COPPA compliance, along with other updates to Vega Promote over the previous year.
Speakers
avatar for Taylor Fisher

Taylor Fisher

Senior Product Manager, Clarivate
Taylor Fisher is a Senior Product Manager at Clarivate. Taylor is one of many product team leaders
responsible for delivering library specific solutions that provide intuitive and exciting library experiences to
patrons, staff and donors. Her primary focus is on Vega Promote and Ve... Read More →
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Houston

10:30am CDT

Vega WebBuilder - The easy way, the advanced way & the takeaways
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Vega WebBuilder is a iii/Clarivate product based to help libraries build their website on the Wix.com platform. We would like to portray our libraries (Springfield-Greene County Library District & Rochester Hills Public Library) experiences using the platform, ways other libraries could easily implement some of the features available, some of the more advanced options for libraries with more staff...
See More →
Wednesday April 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Denver

11:30am CDT

Lunch On Your Own
Wednesday April 15, 2026 11:30am - 1:30pm CDT
Wednesday April 15, 2026 11:30am - 1:30pm CDT
TBA

12:15pm CDT

OverDrive Users Group
Wednesday April 15, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
An informal meeting for users of OverDrive products (platform or content) to chat about our experiences, compare notes, and see if there is interest in creating an OverDrive Users Group and, if so, what that group might look like. Feel free to bring your lunch in with you!
Speakers
avatar for Eleanor Crumblehulme

Eleanor Crumblehulme

Library Systems Administrator, SILS Consortium
Wednesday April 15, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom A

1:10pm CDT

Vega Interact Voice & SMS 101 Troubleshooting
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:10pm - 1:25pm CDT
Basics and best practices for administering Interact Voice & SMS.
Speakers
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:10pm - 1:25pm CDT
Miami

1:30pm CDT

Configuring Sierra Holds - what was your best decision?
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Share one “great decision” your library made setting up your hold options and workflows — such as switching to title priority paging, prioritizing local holds, or implementing volume-level or agency holds. No decision is too small to discuss if it made a difference to your library users or staff workflows.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Wright

Elizabeth Wright

Systems Services Manager, Vancouver Island Regional Library

Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Cook

1:30pm CDT

Consortia Forum
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Join Us for a discussion on all things Consortia! This is your chance to share ideas, ask questions, and learn from peers. Topics may include: Strategies for managing multiple libraries Overcoming technical challenges Streamlining staff workflows and permissions Fostering collaboration among member institutions Governance and decision-making best practices Communicating consortia value Or bring...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jason Bedsaul

Jason Bedsaul

Director of ODIN, NDUS - ODIN
Director of ODIN, a state-wide consortium comprising of 65+ Academic, Public, K-12 and Special Libraries. 
avatar for Molly Lisowsky

Molly Lisowsky

Account Services Manager, San Diego County Library
PIAC Member
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
McHenry

1:30pm CDT

Kicking the Elephant out of the Room: Cataloging without OCLC
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
When OCLC is all you've ever known for cataloging, how do you transition an entire consortium to a different cataloging utility? And then, when that transition includes BTCat, how do you transition from BTCat to another option without having to go back to OCLC? This is what our consortium has done in the last year, and I'm sure other poeple have too. I'd like to moderate a forum where people can...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Elaine Sloan

Elaine Sloan

Libraries, video games, comics, cataloging, baking, vinyl records, jazz.
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom F

1:30pm CDT

Support Update
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
An update and overview from Support, including what's new and the Support Center.
Speakers
CS

Caitlin Spears

Director, Customer Care, Clarivate
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Denver

1:30pm CDT

Polaris ILS Advisory Committee (PIAC): who we are, what we do, and how we can help you!
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
PIAC (Polaris ILS Advisory Committee) is a group of individuals who help facilitate issues between Polaris libraries and Clarivate. Come learn more about us: what PIAC does, who we are, why we exist and more!
Speakers
LA

Lauren Arnsman

Head of Digital Services, Troy Public Library
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Kansas City

1:30pm CDT

Sproc Talk
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
The entirety of Polaris operates on sprocs, which is short for stored procedures. Almost anything you do in Leap or the Staff Client will trigger one or more stored procedures to update the database and present data in some way. But the thing is, those sprocs aren't just for Polaris, they're there for you too! If you've ever been curious about what's really going on in the Polaris database and how...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Daniel Messer

Daniel Messer

ILS Administrator, Library Systems and Services
Your little free Cyberpunk Librarian.
Systems librarian, podcaster, coder, musician, author, and cyberpunk.

Mastodon: https://masto.hackers.town/@CyberpunkLibrarian

Links: https://links.cyberpunklibrarian.nohost.me/@daniel... Read More →
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Kane

1:30pm CDT

Getting Started with the Sierra RESTful APIs
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Learn about the Rest APIs available for extracting data and producing transactions in Sierra from an external source.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Boland

Jason Boland

Lead Customer Education Trainer, Innovative, part of Clarivate
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom G

1:30pm CDT

All Things Vega Forum
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Are you working with any of the Vega products? Whether you're using Vega Discover, LX Starter, Mobile, WebBuilder, Promote, Program, Interact, or managing the system administration behind them-this forum is for you! Bring your questions about any Vega product, your implementation stories, your technical challenges, and your creative solutions. We'll explore everything from system configuration and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Derek Brown

Derek Brown

Director of IT, Rochester Hills Public Library
Director of IT at the Rochester Hills Public Library (IUG Steering Committee Member-at-Large). Polaris (hosted), Vega Discover (Premium), LX Starter, Vega Promote, Vega Web Builder, IPA:SMS, Innovative Mobile App.
... Read More →
Wednesday April 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom A

2:30pm CDT

Afternoon Break
Wednesday April 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Wednesday April 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom Foyer (Floor 5)

2:40pm CDT

SQL and the Find Tool
Wednesday April 15, 2026 2:40pm - 2:55pm CDT
Using SQL and the Polaris find tool to get the most out of Polaris.
Speakers
Wednesday April 15, 2026 2:40pm - 2:55pm CDT
Miami

3:00pm CDT

Sierra Staff and Single Sign-On
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Are you using SSO for staff accounts in Sierra? Do you want to be?
Let's chat about the SSO options for Sierra, where it shines, and where it might fall short.
Speakers
avatar for Justin Newcomer

Justin Newcomer

Platform Engineer, Rochester Institute of Technology
I'm an academic library Sierra Administrator who also has fun with SAML, SQL, Summon, ILLiad and ezproxy.
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Cook

3:00pm CDT

Tending to Your Collection
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
It can be a taboo topic, but let's talk about weeding. We weed for a variety of reasons, sometimes we're running out of space, sometimes we need to move collections, sometimes it's just because we haven't weeded in 50+ years (do you really need that Windows 95 instruction book??), or there was a major roof leak and water went everywhere. But what happens afterwards, how do you maintain your...
See More →
Speakers
LG

Lynn Gates

Technical Services Manager, L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library
Hi! I've been a cataloger for over 20 years in both public and academic libraries. I'm passionate about making our catalogs work for our patrons and while this may mean something different at each institution, I strongly believe the end product should be useful!
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Kansas City

3:00pm CDT

Strength in Consistency: A Consortium's Journey Toward Uniform Settings
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Over the past several years, our consortium has focused on making our shared system more consistent and easy to manage. By aligning settings and simplifying configuration across member libraries, we've reduced complexity, improved data quality, and made the system more intuitive for both staff and patrons. Areas of focus were: Reducing and standardizing collection codes Establishing standard loan...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sarah St. Martin

Sarah St. Martin

Systems Librarian, GMILCS
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Houston

3:00pm CDT

You Don't Need a Report: Maximizing the Leap Find Tool
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
The Leap Find Tool is incredibly powerful and very flexible. Utilizing it correctly can replace many situations where you might have needed a report in the past. However, staff can fall into the habit of avoiding the Find Tool because they feel it takes too long to use, or because the information returned isn't refined enough for them. Come learn how to customize the various searches possible,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Kristen Tait

Kristen Tait

Head of Access Services, Baldwin Public Library, Michigan
KB

Kalee Burkett

ILS System Administrator, Central Library Consortium
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom F

3:00pm CDT

Simple Tools, Stunning Sites: Vega WebBuilder & Donate
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Build beautiful, professional websites with ease using WebBuilder’s intuitive drag-and-drop tools. Whether you're a beginner or a pro you can create a stunning, responsive by using a few simple guiding principles.
Speakers
avatar for Laura Eckert

Laura Eckert

Digital Specialist, Clermont County Public Library
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Denver

3:00pm CDT

Vega Mobile Update
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Review of the on-going evolution of Mobile, including the addition of push notifications and other key enhancements from the last year.
Speakers
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom G

3:00pm CDT

Vega Rollups and Your Bibliographic Records: Making Them Work for Your Users
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
As Vega has evolved, libraries have developed creative strategies to ensure their materials roll up (or don’t roll up) appropriately within the system’s MARC-to-BIBFRAME conversion and roll-up logic. Join colleagues from three different libraries—representing both standalone institutions and consortia—as they share how they approached a range of challenges, including video games, series...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Elaine Sloan

Elaine Sloan

Libraries, video games, comics, cataloging, baking, vinyl records, jazz.
avatar for C Mulder

C Mulder

Head of Adult and Teen Services, Rochester Hills Public Library
avatar for Sarah Kasprzak

Sarah Kasprzak

ILS Solutions Specialist, London Public Library
Wednesday April 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Kane

4:00pm CDT

Afternoon Break
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
TBA

4:10pm CDT

Vega Mobile Customization
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:10pm - 4:25pm CDT
This session will cover options for Mobile look and feel customization.
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:10pm - 4:25pm CDT
Miami

4:30pm CDT

Public Services Forum
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Welcome to the public services forum where we will be covering all things public facing! Think OPAC, discovery layers, event management, room reservations, websites, promotion and marketing services, and more. Whether you use Polaris, Sierra, any part of the Vega suite, or third party products, if you want to converse with others on these topics, this forum is for you. Our conversation will guide...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for C Mulder

C Mulder

Head of Adult and Teen Services, Rochester Hills Public Library
avatar for Allison Sartwell

Allison Sartwell

Head of Digital Services, Rochester Hills Public Library
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
McHenry

4:30pm CDT

Polaris System Administration Forum
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Are you a Polaris Administrator? Do you have questions? Well, so do we. But we might also have the answers you're looking for! Bring your questions, your knowledge, your experiences, and your expertise to the Polaris System Administration Forum. It doesn't matter if you're a longtime Polaris user or you suddenly found yourself sitting in front of SA a couple of weeks ago. (Congratulations on that...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Daniel Messer

Daniel Messer

ILS Administrator, Library Systems and Services
Your little free Cyberpunk Librarian.
Systems librarian, podcaster, coder, musician, author, and cyberpunk.

Mastodon: https://masto.hackers.town/@CyberpunkLibrarian

Links: https://links.cyberpunklibrarian.nohost.me/@daniel... Read More →
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Ballroom A

4:30pm CDT

Sierra System Administration Forum
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
This session provides a collaborative space for Sierra systems administrators to connect, share best practices, and discuss key challenges and solutions. Whether you are a veteran of the role or brand-new to it, this forum is an opportunity to network with peers, exchange insights, and ideas to deepen your understanding of managing Sierra.
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Campbell

Jeff Campbell

Head, Infrastructure Management Services, The University of North Carolina At Chapel Hill
avatar for Stephanie Ruhe

Stephanie Ruhe

ILS Administrator, Springfield-Greene County Library
Wednesday April 15, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Kane

8:00pm CDT

Trivia Night - RSVP Required
Wednesday April 15, 2026 8:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
One last chance to enjoy spending time with other attendees and flex your trivia knowledge. Drinks will be available for purchase.
Wednesday April 15, 2026 8:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
Los Angeles/Miami/Scottsdale
 
  • Filter By Date
  • Filter By Venue
  • Filter By Type
  • Timezone


Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.