Individuals experiencing homelessness represent a large portion of patrons in many libraries today. In this 60-minute workshop, Ryan Dowd, author of The Librarian's Guide to Homelessness: An Empathy-Driven Approach to Solving Problems, provides you with a greater understanding of patrons affected by homelessness and their communication styles. You’ll learn about how to implement empathy-driven enforcement, an approach originally developed in homeless shelters that can help you effectively work with community members affected by homelessness. Dowd also shares  practical tactics that can help you resolve problems in challenging situations. You’ll leave with concrete strategies you can use immediately, including  body language tips, communication styles and techniques, and more.

Limited seating - priority will be given to SEFLIN members.  If your library is not a member of SEFLIN please register on the wait-list HERE.  We will grant first come first serve access if seats remain available.  If your library is a member and registration is full, please add your name to the wait-list noted above.

Presenter:  Ryan J. Dowd

Ryan J. Dowd has spent most of his career as Executive Director of a large homeless shelter near Chicago. In addition, he trains organizations around the globe (including libraries, homeless shelters, and hospitals) on how to use empathy-driven enforcement with homeless individuals. For more information, visit http://www.homelesslibrary.com.