Does the thought of speaking in front of groups make you nervous? Public speaking is an important professional skill, but one that many people find challenging to master. In this workshop, you will learn the art and science of public speaking, based on the Toastmasters approach, including tips for:

• successfully preparing speeches
• how to speak “off the cuff” and look good while doing it
• providing effective feedback with short turnaround
• becoming a better public speaker over time

Presenter: Doug Crane began his career with the Palm Beach County Library System as a children’s librarian in 1998. He then served as the Electronic Resources Coordinator, a Branch Manager, and the Director of Branch Services. He was appointed Library Director in 2014. Under his direction the System has won awards from the Urban Libraries Council and the Florida Library Association. Doug was named Florida Librarian of the Year in 2021.

Doug is the author of the articles, “May I Ask You a Question? Lessons Learned from Interviewing Public Library Leaders,” in the Nov/Dec 2015 issue of Public Libraries, “Efficient Librarianship – A New Path for the Profession” in the Nov/Dec 2017 issue of Public Libraries, and “Go For It! Advice From Library Directors” in the May/June 2019 issue of Public Libraries. He is a regular contributor to Learning Exchange, the Newsletter of the Learning Round Table of the American Library Association.

Please Note: Please bring blank or lined paper and pens for note taking.

Location: Lakewood Ranch Library - 16410 Rangeland Pkwy, Bradenton, FL 34211- Meeting Room A