I share insights at the intersection of library leadership, technology, and organizational growth. My goal is to equip library professionals with practical strategies they can apply immediately—whether through workshops delivered to staff teams or signature offerings designed for boards, directors, and emerging leaders.
Speaking Bio
Jaketha Farmer is an Assistant Library Director and leadership consultant with over 25 years of experience in public libraries and IT. Her work focuses on breaking down organizational silos, strengthening collaboration, and supporting sustainable leadership cultures. Jaketha brings research-informed insights and real-world experience to conference sessions, workshops, and leadership trainings.
Workshops Delivered
Real-world sessions I’ve facilitated in professional and organizational settings.
- Digital Resources for Student Success – Designed and delivered professional development for school district library aides and assistants. The training introduced staff to public library digital tools, including the online catalog and Hoopla, with an emphasis on supporting K–12 and college readiness. Participants received detailed handouts with screenshots and step-by-step instructions, followed by live demonstrations and hands-on practice using district-issued devices and personal smartphones.
- All Together Now: Stress Management for Library Teams – Developed and delivered two of three summer-long training sessions for library support staff and branch management, in collaboration with local leadership. Focus areas included identifying stress triggers (both workplace and personal), exploring the connection between diet and mental health, recognizing stress-related behaviors, practicing gentle yoga, and applying techniques for resilience and recovery.
- Career Development Mentorship Program – Created and facilitated a nine-month structured mentorship program for non-managerial library support staff. Drawing from my background in Training & Development, I designed a safe environment for participants to discuss workplace challenges, reflect on career goals, and reframe their career mindset. The program combined career assessments, career research, SMART goal setting, and resume/cover letter development, culminating in personalized career plans and vision boards.
Signature Workshops (Available for Booking)
Tailored sessions designed to help library leaders, boards, and teams grow stronger.
- Leadership Beyond the MLS – Equip aspiring leaders with executive-level skills, expanding pathways to leadership for both MLS and non-MLS professionals.
- Mindful Leadership for Libraries – Reduce burnout and cultivate resilience through mindfulness, yoga, and holistic practices for today’s library leaders.
- Operational Excellence in Libraries – Streamline processes, strengthen workflows, and align resources for more effective service delivery.
- Technology & Innovation Strategy – Help directors and staff evaluate current systems, explore innovations, and build technology plans that serve evolving community needs.
Talks
Conference presentations and professional talks designed to inspire dialogue and innovation in the library field.
Breaking Down Silos: Leading with Collaboration
Louisiana Library Association (LLA 2026) Conference | March 2026 | Lake Charles, LA
This breakout session explores leadership strategies for dismantling organizational silos and fostering collaboration in public libraries.
Call to Action
Interested in booking a workshop or upcoming talk?
Interested in leadership or collaboration workshops for your library or organization? I customize every session to meet the needs of your library, board, or leadership team. | [Schedule a Consultation]