Catch the ARSL TRAIN!

Join us for ARSL's TRAIN (Training, Roundtables, and Informational Networking) series! Each month, we offer online workshops, roundtables, or networking events designed to support and connect library professionals.

All registrants receive access to the TRAIN recording after the session. TRAIN programming is planned by ARSL's Continuing Education Committee.

Member Benefit: We have an archive with all past TRAIN recordings. Check it out below under "TRAIN Archive!" If you're not yet a member, consider joining to take full advantage of this library of knowledge.

Upcoming TRAINs

Partner TRAINs are professional development offerings from ARSL partner organizations, free for members and nonmembers alike.

Symbol Key:

Partner TRAIN | Workshop | Roundtable or Networking Event

ARSL TRAIN

2026 ARSL Conference Debrief

When: Thursday, October 15
11:00 am PT / 12:00 pm MT / 1:00 pm CT / 2:00 pm ET

Octover TRAIN graphic Join us for a roundtable discussion to debrief on all things related to the 2026 ARSL Conference. Tell us all about your conference experience, what you learned, conference highlights, or things you would do differently next year. Plus you can provide feedback directly to our committee co-chairs and ARSL staff on what we should do differently as we dive into planning the 2027 conference.

Presented by:

Rachel Lunden, Digital Services Librarian, Nevada State Library, Archives, and Public Records, ARSL Continuing Education Committee Co-Chair

Margo Gustina, Research and Data Services Librarian, University of New Mexico, ARSL Conference Committee Co-Chair

Register: 2026 ARSL Conference Debrief

ARSL TRAIN

Compassion Without Collapse: Boundary Setting for Library Staff Under Pressure

When: Thursday, November 5
11:00 am PT / 12:00 pm MT / 1:00 pm CT / 2:00 pm ET

Nov TRAIN graphic Library staff are expected to provide exceptional service while navigating behavior that can be demanding, inappropriate, or emotionally charged. This interactive session introduces a trauma-informed approach to asserting compassionate boundaries — helping participants stay kind, clear, and courageous under pressure. Rooted in neuroscience and informed by real-world library scenarios, participants will explore how nervous system activation influences communication, why boundary testing occurs, and how to respond with grounded clarity rather than reactivity. This session empowers librarians to recognize early warning signs, and learn practical strategies for responding in ways that protect staff well-being while maintaining welcoming, inclusive spaces. Participants will:

Understand the role of nervous system activation in difficult patron and colleague interactions
Recognize early indicators that a boundary may be needed
Practice mindset shifts that support confident, respectful limit-setting
Identify strategies for upholding boundaries while maintaining welcoming library spaces

Presented by: Ariana Friedlander, MPA

Ariana Friedlander, MPA, is founder of Rosabella Consulting and a master facilitator specializing in trauma-informed leadership and the Neuroscience of Conversation®. With over 20 years of experience supporting mission-driven organizations, including libraries, she helps professionals navigate difficult interactions with compassion, clarity, and confidence. Her Trauma-Informed Assertiveness Training equips library staff to maintain exceptional service while setting healthy boundaries. Ariana lives in sunny Colorado with her family.

Register: Compassion Without Collapse

Previous ARSL TRAINs

Members Only TRAIN Archive
ARSL members can unlock an exclusive archive featuring five years of TRAIN recordings — deep dives, hands-on tutorials, and expert-led sessions for small & rural libraries. Log in or join ARSL today to start exploring!

ARSL TRAIN Archive (Members Only)

Browse Our Public TRAIN Archive
View a selection of ARSL TRAIN session recordings available to all, including Partner TRAINs and COVID-19 Roundtables.