Free Speech Needs Free Libraries: Introduction to Reflective Conversations

Tuesday, October 27, 2026 - 1:00pm to 2:00pm

Reflective conversations are framed, yet open-ended, dialogues about ideas. Instead of focusing on coming to consensus, finding solutions, or debating an argument, the goals of reflective conversation are exploration, learning through listening, and building community.

Jennifer Alkezweeny (Oregon Humanities) will introduce the concepts and applications of reflective conversations: when to use them, the differences between reflective and decision-making conversations, and some of the practices for facilitation. As an introductory webinar, this session will be less interactive than a full training, but participants will be asked to self-reflect, with opportunities to share-out. (Breakout rooms will not be used.)

This webinar is the second of the Free Speech Needs Free Libraries series developed by CARLI, Orbis Cascade Alliance, and PALCI in support of our joint statement "Free Speech Needs Free Libraries."

Objectives:

  • Understand the framework for Reflective Conversations
  • Identify the difference between Reflective Conversations and other types of conversations
  • Begin to identify how these types of conversations might be used in your library

Presenter: 

Jennifer Alkezweeny has been Oregon Humanities’ program director since 2020. She supports the team of folks who make Oregon Humanities programs happen, provides leadership for the organization’s vision, and connects with organizations and communities to explore new initiatives. In this role, Jennifer enjoys meeting folks from all over the state, understanding what’s important in communities, and thinking of creative ways to get folks talking and listening to one another. She has created learning spaces around the country and globe and loves that moment when it’s hard to get folks in the room to quiet down. Jennifer is a deep believer in experiential learning, harnessing the knowledge in a room, finding your learning edge, and the power of silence.

This webinar will not be recorded.

Registration is open to library and archives workers affiliated with CARLI, Orbis Cascade Alliance, or PALCI.

Hosted by Orbis Cascade Alliance