The Tastiest Chapter: Build a Thriving Edible Education Program

Spice up your library! Apache Junction Public Library invites you to explore our journey in developing a vibrant food literacy and cooking program. We’ll share practical tools for building engaging and educational culinary experiences for all ages. From insightful food lectures to interactive demonstrations, to hands-on cooking adventures with our Charlie Cart and much more! Bring your appetite for knowledge and leave ready to create your own delicious success story! 

Learning Objectives

• Identify the value of edible education programming in libraries by teaching cooking skills and nutrition, exploring multicultural ingredients and budget-friendly recipes, fostering community connections, and addressing food insecurity 
• Evaluate our best practices and common challenges to make informed decisions for their own libraries 
• Without being a chef, confidently develop their own meaningful programming with practical tools and knowledge 
  

Presenters: 

Megan Carbiener is Apache Junction Public Library’s Outreach Supervisory Librarian. She started as a part-time page, progressed to a librarian, and is now a supervisory librarian, for a total of 5 years with the City of Apache Junction. Megan holds a master’s in library and information science and is passionate about providing equal access to her community. This shines through her efforts to spearhead AJPL’s bookmobile and expand outreach services and staffing. In 2022 Megan received AZLA’s Emerging Leader Award and in 2023 the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services’ Rising Stars Award. 

Leah Martin is a Senior Library Assistant and Circulation Lead at Apache Junction Public Library. She has worked for the City of Apache Junction for over 10 years and strives daily to serve her beloved community. Born and raised in Apache Junction, Leah holds strong ties to the city and relishes being a part of its growth. Leah loves keeping busy, from reading a favorite novel to skydiving and everything in between! Leah holds an associate’s degree in general studies from Central Arizona College, and a Library Support Staff Certificate from the Arizona State Library.