Training courses
The neurodiverse LIEM library workplace with Andrew Walsh
Thursday 19th March 2026 10:00-13:00
Online
This webinar is primarily aimed at neurotypical people who wish to know more about the experiences of neurodivergent (ND) people in the library workplace, how that might manifest at work, and how to support them more effectively.
We will include elements such as:
What is ND, preferred language, some common ways in which ND might present in the workplace, masking, representation in the workplace. Common struggles for ND people in the workplace environment (e.g. light, noise, heat, distractions, etc) and simple ways in which we might support and work together more effectively. We’ll include some elements of NLISN’s ongoing research into workplace representation and what that might mean to our libraries. It is not an in depth dive into any one neurotype (e.g. Autism, Dyscalculia, etc) and can never be “complete” as such, as every person is different, but instead focusses on common areas that often overlap, as much as is practical.
It’s suitable for people working in any sector, in any library or information related role. There will be a chance to interact anonymously through the session, as well as to ask questions verbally or in the chat.
We will have two brief breaks during the session, so after roughly each hour there will be a chance to stretch your legs and have a brief comfort break.
About Andrew Walsh.
I’m neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, Dyspraxic) myself and this webinar will include elements of my lived experience. As I became aware of my own neurodivergence, I became increasingly frustrated with disability and neurodiversity related training that presented neurodivergencies as a short list of bullet points, together with “fixes” (often tech related) for them to cope. My training tries to take a different approach, the one I wished myself and colleagues would have received instead. We stress diversity of experiences and aiming to create workplaces that work better for everyone. I’m a National Teaching Fellow, co-chair NLISN (Neurodivergent Library and Information Staff Network), and can be found online mainly on Bluesky.
The workshop costs £65.71 for LIEM members or £92.80 for Non LIEM members.
Dealing with difficult customers with Ash Charlton
Tuesday 30th June 2026 10:00-13:00
Online
This interactive online workshop explores ways to deal with difficult customer situations more effectively.
Staff maintain an enjoyable library space while often dealing with challenging behaviour, including discriminatory language, abuse and threats. It’s hard to keep library users feeling safe and happy when people behave this, especially when there are mental health and substance abuse issues.
We’ll examine conflict-free communication, how to manage strong emotion and threats. Using these skills, we look at how to turn a negative situation into a positive one via a practical 5-point plan.. Finally we’ll look at other real-life tricky situations, e.g. loud groups, and how to find the positive in these.
No advance preparation needed, and you don’t need to take notes as a writeup will be provided after the workshop.
Ash Charlton has delivered very successful and enjoyable skills-based courses and facilitated sessions for over 20 years. He has extensive experience with academic, public and national libraries as well as charities, international NGOs and the UN. The Sunday Times described his style as ‘participatory, fun and respectful’.
The workshop costs £65.71 for LIEM members or £92.80 for Non LIEM members.
LIEM Library Leadership programme
The LIEM Library Leadership Programme is designed to equip current and aspiring library leaders with the necessary skills, knowledge, and strategic insights to effectively manage and innovate within modern library environments. This programme aims to develop leadership competencies that foster innovation, collaboration, and sustainable library services.
The programme is designed for mid-career library professionals (working in libraries for 3 years or more) seeking leadership roles and responsibilities (this does not necessarily mean looking for manager roles, it could be looking to lead work within their current role).
The current programme (June-November 2026) applications are open now. If you are interested in applying, please download the application instructions and send your application to training@liem.co.uk by Thursday 26th March 2026.
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