SWON's Library Leadership Day provides an opportunity for library directors, managers, and anyone interested in a leadership role to come together for knowledge-sharing and networking focusing on effective leadership strategies within the library community. 

The day will also include a brief SWON Director's Council Membership Meeting*, a presentation by Jeff Regensburger from the State Library of Ohio, as well as a keynote presentation:

The Happiest Staff on Earth? Employee Engagement Strategies for Library Leaders
 
What do Disney, Zappos, and Mayo Clinic all have in common? They know how to keep their employees engaged, inspired, and committed.  This practical session draws from Disney’s legendary employee engagement model and blends in proven strategies from other industry leaders, all reimagined for the library environment. Learn how to boost morale, increase retention, and build a team culture rooted in purpose and connection. You’ll leave with a toolkit of creative, practical, and ready-to-use resources to spark positive change in your department or branch—no magic wand required.
 
Amanda Hopper is a nonprofit consultant with over 20 years of experience in public libraries and community-based organizations. She previously served as Assistant Director and Youth Services/Outreach Coordinators of Boone County Public Library. She founded a local nonprofit, Stormcells, in 2014 to focus on creative problem-solving and support for mission-driven organizations. Her career shifted toward patient advocacy in 2020 following her daughter’s diagnosis of a neurological condition. Since then, she has served as COO of FND Hope International and Strategic Advisor for FNDcourage. Today, Amanda continues her work through Stormcells, partnering with libraries, advocacy groups, and national nonprofits to advance strategic and compassionate community impact.
 
Shawn Fry is a seasoned library director and public service leader with over 15 years of experience in administration, strategic planning, and community engagement. Currently serving as Director of the Gallatin County Public Library in Warsaw, Kentucky, he oversees a dynamic rural system, leading initiatives that include the launch of a library podcast, a community farmer’s market, and enhanced school-library partnerships. Previously, Shawn held leadership roles at Boone County and Clermont County Public Libraries, managing large teams, presenting at national conferences, and serving as President of the SWON Libraries Consortium Board. A U.S. Air Force veteran, he also brings experience in public affairs, strategic communication, and leadership training.
 
*The Biannual SWON Director's Council Membership Meeting will be a part of this event. At 9:30 am, Directors of SWON Supporting Member Systems will meet to review SWON business and to learn about what is new at SWON. All Supporting Directors are asked to attend or to designate a staff member to attend and vote. This meeting is free and can be attended separately from the event. It should take fewer than 30 minutes, and attendees can enjoy coffee and breakfast. Just select the ticket "Membership Meeting Only" when registering.
 

Food:

  • Breakfast and lunch are being generously provided by SHP Architecture Firm
  • Breakfast: Coffee and Pastries
  • Lunch: Crafted Taco Bar

Parking:

  • Paid parking in garage or lot

Cost:

  • Membership Meeting Only: FREE for everyone
  • Full Day Event:
    • $30 for Supporting Members
    • $45 for Geographic Members
    • $65 for Individual Members

 

To register for an event, you will be asked to log in. If you are not yet a member of SWON, you can create a free account. If you have any questions, contact info@swonlibraries.org.

Library Leadership Day

Register Now

  • Thursday July 17 2025, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • SHP Architecture Headquarters
    312 Plum St #700
    Cincinnati, Ohio
    United States
    45202