Amanda started her journey in libraries 12 years ago and has since worked in academic, public, and state government environments. Starting out she spent many years on public service desks, leading programs and helping community members find and use information. These daily interactions led Amanda to pursue her interest in building skills and strategies to help libraries uncover community needs, develop effective services, and demonstrate value to all levels of stakeholders. 

Amanda holds an MLS degree from Simmons University and has developed trainings for the Public Library Association and Association for Rural & Small Libraries' Outstanding in Their Field Leadership Institute, as well as, the People Connect Institute and the Research Institute for Public Libraries.

Lauren Clossey started her career in libraries in 2008 and has worked in academic and public libraries, and as a school library media specialist. Having varied experiences working in different library settings, Lauren is committed to improving organizations through thoughtful and strategic approaches to education, planning, and assessment to meet the changing needs of the library and educational landscape.

Lauren graduated from North Carolina Central University with an MLS degree, is a certified instructional technologist, and has a Master's degree in instructional design and technology from North Carolina State University. She has developed trainings for the North Carolina Library Association, People Connect Institute, and presented at many conferences and library events.