Ticketed Events

ALA 150: A Celebration For Our Libraries

Saturday, June 27, 2026
5:30pm – 7:30pm
Ticket Code: ALA1

Please join us as the American Library Association celebrates 150 years of leadership in the library profession. Since 1876, the American Library Association has embodied America’s aspiration for knowledge and democracy, championing the professionals who make that promise real every day. This once-in-a-lifetime milestone anniversary is a chance to celebrate our profession, look back on our shared successes and look ahead to an exciting future together. The evening reception will include light bites, beverages, music and special guests.

Cost: $50

ALA Inauguration Celebration
Monday, June 29, 2025
6:00pm – 8:00pm
Ticket Code: ALA2

Join us as we celebrate and honor incoming ALA President Dr. Maria McCauley, Division Presidents, and Round Table leaders! This event will follow the Closing General Session and includes food, entertainment, and more. Attendees are invited to wear cultural and cocktail attire. Tickets can be purchased when you register for the conference or added at a later date.

Busy Beaver Button Museum
Friday, June 26, 2026
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Ticket Code: ALA3 - SOLD OUT

Join us for an exclusive evening at the Busy Beaver Button Museum! Explore the world’s only pin-back button museum after hours. This intimate Open House features light refreshments and a special Q&A session with Archivist Rachel Esser, where you can dive deep into the history behind the collection.

Located at 3407 W. Armitage, Chicago, IL 60647. Attendees are responsible for their own transportation.

Admission is free.

Dive Deep into Discovery: Celebrating 25 Years of the Sibert Medal
Friday, June 26, 2026
1:00pm – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: ALSC1

In coordination with the celebration of the Sibert Award’s 25th anniversary, the afternoon program will offer a series of sessions designed to stimulate excitement surrounding the literature of fact. Attendees will learn more about the history of the Sibert and how previous awardees have shaped the field's understanding of excellence in children's nonfiction, and presenters will be joined by Sibert medalists, honorees, and book editors to discuss the state of excellence in children's nonfiction.

Attendees will gain familiarity with the Sibert, deepen their understanding and appreciation for evaluating children's nonfiction, and learn more about incorporating nonfiction into their library collections and programming.

• Individual Type I Members: Early and Advance $94 Standard $114
• Individual Type II Members: Early and Advance: $59 Standard $79
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $109 Standard $129
• ALSC and YALSA Members: Early and Advance $79 Standard $99

Inclusive & Accessible Storytimes: Supporting All Children and Caregivers

Friday, June 26, 2026
1:00pm – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: ALSC2

Public library storytimes have become community anchors for young children and their families—but many storytime leaders still struggle to meet the wide range of developmental, cultural, linguistic, and access needs present in today’s groups. This interactive preconference session, led by award-winning early literacy expert Betsy Diamant-Cohen (Mother Goose on the Loose) and children’s musician and play-based storytime expert Alyssa Jewell (La La Librarian), explores how to design storytimes that are genuinely inclusive, accessible, and welcoming for every child and caregiver.

Building on ALA’s 150-year legacy of expanding equitable early learning opportunities, this session reframes inclusion as the foundation of high-quality storytime practice. Participants will learn how to select diverse, culturally responsive books and songs; adapt routines and activities to support children with a wide range of sensory, developmental, and physical needs; and create environments that promote co-regulation and meaningful connection. The presenters will also highlight the experiences of caregivers—and storytime leaders—who may be neurodivergent, disabled, or new to parenting and still learning to navigate shared early-learning spaces, with an emphasis on practices that honor diverse ways of learning and participating.

Through hands-on activities, short demonstrations, and collaborative discussions, attendees will gain practical tools they can apply immediately. Participants will leave with strategies for modifying environments, structuring activities for varied regulation needs, and advocating for inclusive storytime programs within their libraries and communities.

Join us to explore approaches that make storytime welcoming and comfortable for every family!

• Individual Type I Members: Early and Advance $94 Standard $114
• Individual Type II Members: Early and Advance: $59 Standard $79
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $109 Standard $129
• ALSC and YALSA Members: Early and Advance $79 Standard $99

Jump into Reading: How Public Libraries Can Support Children Learning to Read

Friday, June 26, 2026
9:00am – 12:00pm
Ticket Code: ALSC3

Looking to support children learning to read but not sure where to start? Interested in strengthening your collections and programming for emerging readers and their families?  Wondering how public librarians can support children learning to read even though they aren’t reading teachers? Chicago Public Library shared these questions! After exploring how children learn to read and connecting with experts, CPL developed a framework for the role of a public library in this process. This initiative, called Jump into Reading, helps build literacy skills that empower all children to read, think critically and actively participate in their communities.

In this workshop, CPL will share their framework, developed with the support of the National Center for Improving Literacy (NCIL), and explore how it can be adapted for any library. Learn strategies for collection development, explore best practices for reader’s advisory, try out programming ideas, access tools and digital resources, and get tips for staff development. It may feel daunting to start, but the public library can directly and effectively support emerging readers in the community. In doing so, we can help families find joy and success in learning to read!

• Individual Type I Members: Early and Advance $94 Standard $114
• Individual Type II Members: Early and Advance: $59 Standard $79
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $109 Standard $129
• ALSC and YALSA Members: Early and Advance $79 Standard $99

Newbery-Caldecott-Legacy Awards Banquet
Sunday, June 28, 2026
6:00pm – 10:30pm
Ticket Code: ALSC4 - SOLD OUT

Join ALSC for the annual celebration of the year's Newbery, Caldecott and Legacy medalists and honorees. Hear speeches from the year's medalists and celebrate with a room full of librarians, children's literature creators, publishing professionals, and more!

Individual tickets may be purchased through Conference Services; full table reservations are made directly through the ALSC office. Please visit www.ala.org/alsc/alsc-ala-annual-conference for more information. Both individual ticket and table reservations include dinner.

Free, theatre-style seating will be available at the back of the room for conference attendees who do not wish to have dinner but would like to still see the speeches; these seats are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and may not include the highly-anticipated banquet program.

Cost: $110

Academic and Research Libraries Tour: Creating Contemporary in Historic Libraries

Friday, June 26, 2026
7:30am – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: CORE1 - SOLD OUT

Deering Library, Northwestern University

The Charles Deering Memorial Library was designed by James Gamble Rogers and opened its doors in 1933. The adjacent University Library, built in 1970, was designed as a modern interpretation of Deering’s architecture.
Attendees will hear an overview of Northwestern’s libraries, including the off-site high-density storage facility. This will be followed by a tour of Deering Library, highlighting the building’s history and a recently completed renovation for accessibility upgrades and historic preservation work in the large reading room, including restoration of millwork and lighting. We will visit to the McCormick Library of Special Collections, within Deering Library.

Information Commons & Cudahy, Library Loyola University Chicago

Originally built in 1930, Cudahy Memorial Library was expanded in 1969. Attendees will learn about the building's history, visit a grand reading room, and see featured collections. Adjacent to the Cudahy Library is the Information Commons, which opened in 2007 and underwent a refresh in 2023. Attendees will hear about successes and challenges experienced with a refresh of a building that houses multiple partners, observe newly renovated flooring and furniture, visit studio spaces, and enjoy beautiful views of this glassed-in library on Lake Michigan.

The Newberry Library is a free non-circulating reference library intended to complement the Chicago Public Library. Originally opened in 1893, the institution recently completed Phase One of a multi-phased masterplan to improve access and visibility of the collections, clarify wayfinding and circulation, optimize the building’s exterior to create a more welcoming approach, and provide modern, flexible education spaces.

Attendees will learn about the Newberry's history & architecture, view the Reading Rooms, and learn more about how visitors utilize the library. A presentation highlighting Newberry’s collection will also be organized. Two exhibitions will also be on view during the tour.

• Individual Type I & II Members: Early and Advance $209 Standard $259
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $229 Standard $279
• CORE Members: Early and Advance $179 Standard $229

This preconference explores building a successful library consulting business. Topics include the required personal attributes, establishing the business, areas of consulting, the importance of understanding a client’s motivation, dealing with project scope creep, and the methodologies typically employed in consulting work. The workshop covers contract deliverables, including incorporating client feedback and presenting results. Interactive activities are included in each part of the workshop, providing plenty of opportunities for discussion.

At the end of this preconference, participants will understand the legal options for a consulting business, and the necessary insurance requirements. Participants will have a sense of the various areas of consulting opportunities, including facilities planning, strategic planning, and technology and organizational development. Participants will also have a realistic picture of what various consulting jobs look like from start to finish, including proposal development, client interactions and the employment of typical methodologies such as surveys, interviews, and document review, and the development of final reports.

Are you interested in becoming a library consultant? Please join us to hear how you can launch your consulting career helping libraries and colleagues with your talents and skills. The target audience for this preconference includes librarians considering starting a consulting business, whether part-time while still working full time for an organization or launching a start-up company on a full-time basis.

8:00am - 9:00am – Welcome & Introductions
9:00am - 10:30am - Part One: Getting Started in Consulting
10:30am - 10:45am - Break
10:45 am - 12:00 pm - Part Two: Understanding Clients Needs
12:00pm - 1:00pm - Lunch
1:00pm - 2:30pm- Part Three: Project Methodologies
2:30pm - 2:45pm - Break
2:45pm - 3:30pm - Part Four
3:30pm - 4:00pm- Open Discussion
4:00pm - 4:15pm - Wrap-up

• Individual Type I & II  Members: Early and Advance $279 Standard $319
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $319 Standard $369
• CORE Members: Early and Advance $239 Standard $289

Capital Improvements Project Management for Libraries: The Tools you Need to Build a Better Library Space
Friday, June 26, 2025
8:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: CORE3

This preconference dives into design and construction project management for libraries, exploring the process from concept to close. Topics include predesign and the development of needs assessments and project programs, selecting project delivery methods, design process milestones, and construction administration. Specific project examples will foster discussion and interaction throughout the day, and attendees will have the opportunity to take a deeper look at their personal project scenarios from a new perspective.

At the end of this session, attendees will be able to:

1. successfully prepare administrative documentation to support the initial planning stages of projects:
2. have a realistic understanding of what to expect during their capital improvement projects and how to use the strategies presented to efficiently manage each stage throughout design and construction.
3. accurately translate project goals and objectives to consultants, design, and construction teams, and communicate effectively in a cross-discipline settings.

Agenda:

8:00am-8:30am - Welcome & Intros

8:30am - 10:00am - Section 1 (90mins)

• Intro/background on capital improvement projects’ overall timelines and structure

• Pre-design including four major areas: Needs Assessment; Program Development, Budget Development; Project Delivery Preparation

10:00am-10:15am - Morning Break

10:15am-11:30am - Section 2 (75 mins)

• Project Delivery Preparation and Methods, including: overview of site selection, project delivery methods, and hiring teams

11:30am-1:00pm - Lunch Break

1:00pm-2:15pm - Section 3 (75 mins)

• Design Process Overview, including: timing, milestones, value engineering, and communication/decision making procedures

• Construction administration for libraries

2:15pm-2:30pm - Afternoon Break

2:30pm-3:30pm - Section 4 (1 hr)

• Planning for the unexpected

• Communicating with your teams, both within the library and external teams

3:30pm-4:00pm -Wrap Up & Additional Q+A & Contact Info

• Individual Type I & II  Members: Early and Advance $279 Standard $319
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $319 Standard $369
• CORE Members: Early and Advance $239 Standard $289

Activating Leadership and Cultivating Your Team: Thinking Differently about Who You Are and What You Do in the Library
Friday, June 26, 2026
12:00pm – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: CORE5

Leaders occupy all roles, titles, and spaces within our organizations. Differences in identities, dispositions, life experiences, and work areas lead to tension and create barriers. Strong teams begin with identifying our individual assets and connecting them to the other members of our team. The goal of this interactive workshop is to build bridges over steep interpersonal, cultural, and service area chasms, learn about our team members and identify their strengths to leverage them.

At the end of this preconference, participants will:

1. Identify leadership skills that can be learned and developed based on an individual assessment of competencies and dispositions
2. Articulate your workplace skills and unique values as they relate to a common task or shared goal in the workplace
3.Learn how designing for belonging benefits a library team by creating inclusive, supportive, asset-based environments - with examples of potential practice
4. Reflect on your spheres of influence and establish practices for operating in those spaces as a library leader

Target Audience:

Managers, staff supervisors, librarians, or anyone who is interested in leadership in any type and size of library.

• Individual Type I & II  Members: Early and Advance $169 Standard $199
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $199 Standard $229
• CORE Members: Early and Advance $139 Standard $169

Embedding Anti-Racism Practices into Program Innovations
Friday, June 26, 2026
9:00am – 12:00pm - New Time
Ticket Code: CORE6

What does it mean to chart a path for anti-racism practices in program design and daily decision-making processes? Guided by human-centered service design, racial equity frameworks, and stakeholder engagement, libraries are embedding racial equity principles to center marginalized communities. This workshop will introduce participants to tools to evolve their library towards a community-driven institution that functions as a hub, connector, and catalyst for equitable solutions to systemic community challenges.

After the end of the program:

1. Participants will learn how to apply human-centered design techniques, anti-racism guiding principles and values, and stakeholder alignments to center communities of color in program innovation.
2. Participants will be able to demonstrate confidence that they can work with community leaders to position the library as a vanguard of equity-driven community development.
3. Participants will also learn methodologies for designing for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and learn how these strategies were implemented through case studies of public libraries and non-profit institutions engaging in this work successfully.

Target Audience: Library Leaders and Library Staff

Agenda:

* 9:00am - 9:20am – Settling in and ice breaker

* 9:20am - 10:05am – Presentation and conversations - Overview of session, ground rules for activities, brief overview of future challenges/why equity work is important. How MSS got into this work, service design principles and experiences, and systemic change impact. What policy, programs, and organizational structures need to adapt to meet contemporary needs?

• 10:05am - 10:20am – Break
• 10:20am - 11:00am – Equitable Service Design Principles
• 11:00am - 12:00pm – Activity Session

* Key Moment Instructions
* Round One: Key Moments
* Principle Grounding o Equity Principles Game
* Equitable Key Moment/Group Share Out

• Individual Type I & II  Members: Early and Advance $169 Standard $199
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $199 Standard $229
• CORE Members: Early and Advance $139 Standard $169

Latest and Greatest - Merchandise Mart and Fulton Market Tours
Friday, June 26, 2026
8:30am – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: CORE7

Add to your calendar

On Friday, June 26, join me and the LIFE Committee of Core's Buildings & Operations Section at a full-day private showroom tour through two of Chicago's most important design districts. The morning starts at the Merchandise Mart with visits to Interface, Arcadia, Haworth, and BuzziSpace. Lunch is at the Agati Showroom and Furniture Lab, where you can see Agati, Inc's library collections and talk shop with our design team. The afternoon moves to Fulton Market for JSI, Humanscale, KI, OFS, and MillerKnoll.

At every stop, manufacturer reps walk you through their latest products, discuss real library applications, and answer your questions directly. You will get to see the materials, sit in the furniture, and leave with knowledge you cannot get from a spec sheet.

This is for anyone planning a renovation, evaluating vendors, or passionate about how great library spaces come together.

Seats are limited. Register Today.

• Individual Type I & II Members: Early and Advance $209 Standard $259
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $229 Standard $279
• CORE Members: Early and Advance $179 Standard $229

Preservation in Action

Friday, June 26, 2026
9:00am – 3:00 pm
Ticket Code: CORE8 - SOLD OUT

Join Preservation in Action for an engaging opportunity to help preserve cultural heritage in Chicago and gain practical experience! Participants will take part in a day-long preservation-focused project at a local cultural heritage institution. The project will be led by preservation experts and participants will gain basic hands-on training in the care and handling of various materials. No experience is required.

At the end of this event, participants will have an understanding of the physical preservation methods of cultural heritage items. They will leave with experience in handling collection items that may be fragile or unique, and with knowledge of different ways to house them with the goal of access and long-term preservation.

The target audience for this program is anyone who works in the field of librarianship and has an interest in preservation of cultural heritage. There is no expectation of prior knowledge or experience for those who are interested in participating.

The event hours are 9:00am to 3:00pm. It will begin with an introduction of the organization, the staff at the organization, the PiA committee members, and the participants. There will be 1.5 to 2 hours of instruction on preservation by committee members. Following that, the participants will engage in hands-on preservation activities with the organization’s collections. There will be a break for lunch at noon.

Cost: $59

Preservation in Action - Friday, June 26. Core thanks Hollinger Metal Edge and Taco Sublime for the in-kind donations.

Public Library Tour
Friday, June 26, 2026
8:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: CORE9 - SOLD OUT

The Buildings and Operations Committee and the Architecture for Public Libraries Committee are sponsoring a tour of Chicago-area libraries. Public libraries are finding innovative ways—within both new and existing buildings—to serve their diverse communities in alignment with their individual missions, while remaining mindful of the customer experience.

The libraries on this tour illustrate contemporary design approaches and recent renovations that have created beautiful, versatile, and unique community-focused library spaces throughout the city of Chicago.

Representatives from each library will share information about their location, including lessons learned from recent renovations. Library staff and administrators will highlight the spaces and services at the following sites:

• A newly built, co-located library (with public housing) in the heart of Little Italy.
• A unique museum offering collections that preserves the profound legacy of public housing and fosters a nuanced understanding of its impact on communities.
• A recently renovated historic library, reimagined to support innovation in contemporary art and archival practice.
• The newly completed Obama Presidential Library, honoring the legacy of President Barack Obama and serving as a lively community hub, economic anchor, and beacon of democracy.

Information will be provided to tour participants in advance, and the schedule at each location will allow time for questions. Participants will travel by bus on this all-day tour. Lunch will be provided.

Agenda:

8:00am–8:15am - Meet the tour bus in front of the conference hotel

8:15am–8:30am - Depart hotel

8:30am–9:30am - Tour Little Italy Branch Library

9:30am–10:30am - Tour National Public Housing Museum

10:30am– 11:00am - Depart National Public Housing Museum

11:00am–12:00pm - Tour Stony Island Arts Bank

12:00pm–12:15pm - Depart Stony Island Arts Bank

12:15pm–1:15pm - Lunch at Obama Presidential Library

1:15pm–3:15pm - Tour Obama Presidential Library

3:15pm–3:45pm - Return to conference hotel

• Individual Type I & II Members: Early and Advance $209 Standard $259
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $229 Standard $279
• CORE Members: Early and Advance $179 Standard $229

Introduction to Digital Preservation
Friday, June 26, 2026
8:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: CORE10

Introduction to digital preservation will introduce attendees to the foundational concepts of digital preservation, highlight the challenges faced, and explore practical solutions for their given contexts. Participants with learn through active discussions and activities.

Participants will leave the session with an understanding of the basics of digital preservation, awareness of the challenges faced in the field, and knowledge of the tools and strategies available to tackle these challenges.

This session caters to a broad audience, providing a valuable learning experience for those new to the field as well as offering insights for library professionals looking to enhance their digital preservation strategies.

7:30am Registration - (30 minutes)
8:00am Welcome & Introductions - (30 minutes)
8:30am Overview of Digital Preservation - (1 hour)
9:30am Identify and Select - (45 minutes)
10:15am Morning Break - (15 minutes)
10:30am Store, Protect, and Manage (1 hour: 15 minutes)
11:30am Lunch - (1 hour: 30 minutes)
1:00pm Levels of Digital Preservation - (1 hour: 15 minutes)
2:15pm Afternoon Break - (15 minutes)
2:45 p.m. Levels of Digital Preservation cont'd. - (1 hour)
3:30pm - Wrap up/Questions - (30 minutes)
4:00pm - Preconference Ends

• Individual Type I & II Members: Early and Advance $269 Standard $319
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $319 Standard $369
• CORE Members: Early and Advance $269 Standard $319

Chapter Leaders Forum
Friday, June 26, 2026
9:00am – 3:00pm
Ticket Code: CRO1

The Chapter Leaders Forum, presented by the ALA Chapter Relations Committee and Chapter Relations Office at each Annual, provides a great opportunity for you, as Chapter Leaders (especially incoming leaders), to meet with each other and discuss topics of interest. The forum provides a full agenda on a variety of topics to help prepare you to lead your association. Lunch is included.

All chapter leaders are encouraged to attend, including chapter councilors, executive directors, presidents, and chapter committee chairs.

Topics will include ALA support for chapters on state and local issues, chapter management topics, and an interactive roundtable with tenured chapter leaders.

This event is a separate ticketed event.

Cost: $95

Coretta Scott King Book Award Round Table Awards Breakfast
Sunday, June 28, 2026
7:00am – 9:30am
Ticket Code: CSK1

The Coretta Scott King Book Award Round Table (CSKBART) invites you to its annual Breakfast and Awards Event, a signature gathering of librarians, educators, authors, illustrators, and literary advocates from across the nation. This celebratory event honors the recipients of the Coretta Scott King Book Awards, recognizing outstanding books for children and young adults by African American authors and illustrators that reflect the Black/African American experience. Attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate literary excellence, connect with colleagues and creators, and engage in a morning of inspiration, recognition, and community. The event highlights the importance of diverse voices in literature and the vital role libraries and educators play in fostering inclusive and culturally rich reading experiences.

GNCRT & Booklist Comics Publishers Summit
Friday, June 26, 2026
1:00pm – 3:00pm
Ticket Code: GNC1 - SOLD OUT

Librarians and publishers work together in many ways, yet there are few structured opportunities for professional conversations about our work and mutual needs. This two-hour GNCRT-facilitated summit will bring librarians and publishers together for focused discussion and hands-on collaboration.

In the first half of the session, librarians and publishers will share insights into their daily work, highlighting aspects of their roles that are not always visible. These brief presentations will foster a shared understanding of professional priorities and challenges.

In the second half of the session, librarians and publishers will work together to identify shared needs and begin developing practical resources or professional practices to support more effective collaboration.

*Notes and working documents from the session will be shared with all attendees, along with information on next steps for continuing the work and contributing to the final resources.

• Cost: $15 - General
• GNCRT Members: $5

GNCRT Magical Comics Tea
Saturday, June 27, 2026
1:00pm – 3:00pm
Ticket Code: GNC2

Come join the Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table for our 2026 Magical Comics Tea! Visit with creators and other comic loving library staff as we hear about upcoming titles and projects from your favorite publishers! Dress up as your favorite tea-time character (hats are especially encouraged), or just come as you are and share in the comics-camaraderie!

• Individual Type I Members: $35
• Individual Type II Members: $10
• NonMembers: $35
• GNCRT Members: $20

Is AI Really Gonna Take My Job?: The Impact of AI on the Work Occurring in Public Libraries
Friday, June 26, 2026
8:30am – 12:30pm
Ticket Code: HRDR1 - SOLD OUT

In this facilitated 2-part preconference conversation and discussion, library directors, administrators, practitioners and subject experts on Artificial Intelligence (AI), library education, and publishing will discuss how AI will impact the work, jobs, workforce and experiences of library staff and customers and what the future of libraries might look like with AI.

Part I: "Can AI Really Take My Job?", this 75-minute moderated conversation focuses on how pervasive AI is across all industry (and libraries and associated library support services in particular), with AI experts, library leaders, educators and publishers.  Audience Q&A to follow.

Part II: "So Just When is AI Gonna Take My Job?", this 75-minute moderated conversation builds on the discussion in the first session to focus on just when AI will show up in the work of library staff and how.  The panel includes library directors, Library HR departments (Marketing, IT, Finance, etc.), and government experts on funding.  Audience Q&A to follow.

Cost: $50

One Mission, Many Voices: Libraries Collaborating for Inclusion - IRRT Preconference
Friday, June 26, 2026
8:00am – 12:30pm
Ticket Code: IRRT1

This half-day pre-conference, organized by the ALA International Relations Round Table, explores how libraries around the world collaborate to advance inclusion and equity. It highlights innovative programs, partnerships, and professional development efforts that address barriers and empower communities through shared learning and inclusive practices. Through roundtable discussions, the session offers participants a platform to exchange ideas and strategies that foster equitable access, participation, and representation in libraries worldwide.

Cost: $90

International Librarians Reception
Sunday, June 28, 2026
6:00pm – 8:00pm
Ticket code: IRRT2

The ALA International Relations Round Table (IRRT) invites you to join librarians from more than 50 countries for a celebration at the ALA Annual Conference. Open to all conference attendees, this reception offers a unique opportunity to network with hundreds of information professionals from around the world. Enjoy an evening of cultural exchange, featuring regional cuisine, hors d’oeuvres, and an open bar. ALA President, Maria McCauley, will announce the recipients of the ALA Presidential Citation for Innovative International Projects, as well as the winners of the Bogle Pratt Award and the Humphry/OCLC/Forest Press Award for International Librarianship.

This year’s reception will take place at the Chicago Cultural Center (CCC), located in the heart of downtown Chicago. The Chicago Cultural Center is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Opened in 1897 as Chicago’s first public library, the Beaux-Arts building is home to the world's largest Tiffany stained-glass dome, and its grand staircases, marble mosaics, and historic architecture provide a stunning and unforgettable setting for this year’s reception. You are welcome to visit this landmark before the reception begins. The CCC is open daily from 10:00am–5:00pm.

Address: Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington Street (main entrance located at street level between Garland Court and Randolph Street).

Cost: $40. Full Conference registrants joining us from outside the U.S. will receive one complimentary reception ticket.

Rise, Connect, Learn: ALA Learning Round Table Networking Breakfast
Sunday, June 28
8:00am - 9:00am
Ticket Code: LEARN1

Start your day with meaningful connections and fresh ideas at the American Library Association Learning Round Table Networking Breakfast, generously sponsored by Niche Academy.

This ticketed morning event brings together library professionals who are passionate about learning, professional development, and collaboration. Enjoy breakfast while networking with colleagues, sharing experiences, and engaging in informal conversations about learning initiatives, training strategies, and emerging trends in the library field.

Whether you’re new to the Learning Round Table or a long-time member, this breakfast offers a relaxed and welcoming space to build relationships, exchange insights, and strengthen your professional network before the day’s conference sessions begin.

Who should attend:
Library staff, educators, trainers, and anyone interested in learning and professional development in libraries.

What to expect:

• Breakfast and refreshments
• Informal networking and discussion
• Opportunities to connect with peers and Learning Round Table leaders

Attendance: 50 
Seating:  Rounds of 10

This event is reserved for LEARNRT members only. Cost: Complimentary

Accessible Book Building Workshop
Friday, June 26, 2026
10:00am – 2:00pm
Ticket code: ODLOS1

This workshop builds upon the groundbreaking accessible library book format: adapted books, which was developed by Courtney Walker, founder of Libraries For All and recipient of ALA’s 2025 Carnegie-Whitney Grant for her project, Adapted Book Library Collections: A Guide to Building Accessible Resources for Patrons with Disabilities.

Adapted books are published books that are laminated and rebound for durability and enhanced with sensory elements. These adaptations improve engagement, durability, comfort, and equitable access to literature that is too often out of reach to readers with disabilities.

In this hands-on workshop, participants will gain practical knowledge about adapted books, including how to create, catalog and circulate them, maintain and repair them, and integrate them into inclusive programming.

Each participant will build and take home an adapted book to put straight into patrons' hands, as well as a copy of Walker’s guide, which provides step-by-step instructions for building adapted book collections.

Learning objectives for the workshop are:

• Participants will be able to identify patrons who qualify for services from the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, enabling them to expand access in their libraries.
• Participants will understand what an adapted book is, the value of these collections for patrons with disabilities, and how to create their own collection.
• Participants will learn how to create adapted books through hands-on learning experiences.
• Participants will be able to demonstrate a mindset that affirms and celebrates patrons with disabilities in order to create a fully inclusive library environment.

Join us in this essential movement towards accessibility and inclusivity. Together, we can ensure that every library is a place where all readers belong.

Cost: $55

Faith for Libraries Bootcamp: How Library Workers and Faith Communities Can Advocate for the Freedom to Read
Thursday, June 25, 2026
1:00pm – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: PPA1

This pre-conference summit will bring together members of faith communities, library workers, and civic leaders to learn why book bans threaten religious freedom and how faith communities and library workers can come together to advocate for the right to read. You’ll hear from both faith leaders and library leaders who are advocating for libraries, library workers, and the freedom to read. Attendees will connect with other advocates and walk away with new tools and information to organize together.  This summit is part of the Faith for Libraries: Diverse Faith Communities Supporting Libraries and Librarians, a collaborative campaign by the Interfaith Alliance, the American Library Association, and the Association for Rural and Small Libraries, that brings together people of faith, library workers, and other library advocates as a collective force to champion the freedom to read and protect libraries as community spaces for everyone.

Cost: $10.

Thinking Money for Kids Librarian Summer Camp
Friday, June 26, 2026
8:00am – 12:00pm
Ticket Code: PPO1 - SOLD OUT

In 2024, the ALA Public Programs Office and the FINRA Foundation unveiled the Thinking Money for Kids (TM4K) Program Kit, a collection of custom-made games to teach kids about financial topics – like saving, spending, sharing, and budgeting – through in-person, hands-on library activities. Learn how your public or K-12 library can use these free games to create financial education programming for kids ages 5 - 12 in your community. In this fun, hands-on workshop, you will experience the games firsthand, led by library workers who have played the games in a variety of program settings. You will explore creative ideas for teaching financial skills to kids; learn how to become a money-savvy role model; and receive access to all the downloadable materials you need to recreate these learning experiences at your library.

Cost: Complimentary

Practice Cataloging Using Official RDA
Friday, June 26, 2026
8:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Code: PUB1 - SOLD OUT

The workshop will provide an opportunity for catalogers to gain hands-on experience cataloging resources and creating name authority records using the official RDA Toolkit and related Program for Cooperative Cataloging (PCC) documentation, including LC-PCC Policy Statements (LC-PCC PSs) and Metadata Guidance Documentation (MGDs). Presentations and demonstrations will help participants get started by focusing on how to use the documentation and the basics for recording values of elements. The majority of the workshop will be spent on individual or group exercises with experts available to answer questions.

This joint workshop will be presented by the PCC SCT RDA Training Task Group: Monographs, the PCC SCT RDA Training Task Group: Name Authorities, and the North American RDA Committee (NARDAC).

** Participants should bring a laptop to participate in this pre-conference. **

• Individual Type I & II Members: Early and Advance: $209 Standard $259
• NonMembers: Early and Advance $229 Standard $279

Retired Members Round Table (RMRT) Driehaus Museum Tour
Saturday, June 27, 2026
10:00am – 11:00am
Ticket code: RMRT1

The Driehaus Museum is located in the historic 1883 Nickerson mansion on Chicago’s near North Side. Its collections interpret and display the prevailing design, architecture, and decorating tastes of the Gilded Age and Art Nouveau eras. The works on display are from the private collections of founder Richard Driehaus, philanthropist, art collector, and businessman. They include an extensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass windows, glassware, and jewelry. Among the furnishings are neo-Empire pieces original to the mansion and decorative arts of the period, including Galle and Sèvres vases, paintings, and sculpture.

The one-hour tour includes the Nickerson Mansion, the Museum, its collection, and highlights of the current exhibition.

The tour is not limited to RMRT members.

Cost: $25

2026 Andrew Carnegie Medals for Excellence in Fiction and Nonfiction Award Ceremony and Reception
Saturday, June 27, 2026
8:00pm – 10:00pm
Ticket code: RUSA1

The Andrew Carnegie Medals for Excellence in Fiction and Nonfiction are celebrated every year at ALA's Annual Conference, this year held in Chicago. Join us for a literary night on Saturday, June 27 from 8:00pm - 10:00pm CT at the American Writers Museum as we honor this year's winners: A Guardian and a Thief by Megha Majumdar and Things in Nature Merely Grow by Yiyun Li. The award ceremony will conclude with a light reception and book signing. 

Cost: $25

ALA Trivia Championship
Sunday, June 28, 2026
6:30pm – 8:30pm
Ticket code: RUSA2

The time is upon us once again for the ALA's National Trivia Championship, in which librarians (who are, let's face it, already the best in the world at trivia) compete to see which team takes the trophy and the title of "Best Reference Librarians in America!" Join us at this ticketed event, bring your friends, enjoy challenging questions, fun, and camaraderie—and with ALA celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, we're looking forward to a very special event!

Co-sponsored by RUSA, GameRT and NMRT.

Cost: $10

Finding the Immigrant/Migrant Story: Chicago and Illinois Resources for Genealogy and Local History
Friday, June 26, 2026
9:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket code: RUSA3

Join us to learn about the rich resources available to discover the immigrant/migrant story when researching genealogy and local history in and around Chicago. Hear about collections of local libraries, archives, and genealogical/historical societies including the Polish Genealogical Society of American, the Black Metropolis Consortium, The Chinese American Museum of Chicago and more.

Cost: $25

Literary Luminaries: Celebrating the Best Reading of the Year
Sunday, June 28, 2026
8:00am – 10:00am
Ticket code: RUSA4

What could be better than books and breakfast? Maybe signed books and breakfast? Join your fellow readers and book lovers and listen to some of the year's best authors from RUSA book and media award winner and Best of Lists Authors(TBD) will discuss their works and the craft of writing as well as sign books immediately following the event. Registration is required!

Cost: $25

• RUSA Members: $15

Gala Author Tea
Monday, June 29, 2026
2:00pm – 3:30pm
Ticket code: UNI1

Enjoy tea and treats while hearing from bestselling writers about their forthcoming titles. Attendees will receive advance copies and have the opportunity to have them signed by authors (subject to availability). Authors include Nina de Gramont (Peregrine Hill), Tom Drury (West of Loveland), Elizabeth Kostova (Mystery Play), Tom Lin (Babylon, South Dakota), and Deesha Philyaw (The True Confessions of First Lady Freeman).

• Individual Type I & II Members: Early $65 Advance $68 Standard $70
• NonMembers: Early $70 Advance $73 Standard $75
• UNITED Members: Early and Advance $60 Standard $70

The Laugh’s On Us sponsored by Data Axle Reference Solutions
Sunday, June 28, 2026
6:00pm – 8:00pm
Ticket code: UNI2

Laugh out loud at this wine-and-cheese event featuring headliner and United for Libraries spokesperson Paula Poundstone, along with several humor writers/comedians. A book signing will follow, with free books/advance copies for attendees (subject to availability).

• Individual Type I & II Members: Early $65 Advance $68 Standard $70
• NonMembers: Early $70 Advance $73 Standard $75
• UNITED Members: Early and Advance $60 Standard $70

Help! I’m a Teen Librarian Who Needs to Provide Outreach, and I Don’t Know Where to Start: A Crash Course in Connecting, Serving, and Sustaining Your Outreach to Underserved Teens
Friday, June 26, 2026
9:00am – 12:00pm
Ticket code: YAL1

The American Library Association (ALA) Office of Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach (ODLOS) defines outreach as providing library services, ACCESS, and programs outside the walls of the library to underserved and underrepresented populations; populations such as new and non-readers, LGBTQIA people, people of color, poor and homeless people, and people who are or were incarcerated.

The session will begin with a brief history of outreach to underserved teens. We will discuss what some libraries are doing, some national organizations, how to create partnerships, and how to set goals, drawing on libraries’ strategic plans. After a break, participants will split into small groups for an activity that will have them working together to create an outreach plan using ten pre-created scenarios of public libraries in rural and/or suburban settings. Four randomly selected groups will present their findings. This practice with public speaking and the ready-to-go outreach services plan may then be used by the participants for their actual advocating for this work in their own libraries.

• Individual Type I Members: Early $94 Advance $94 Standard $114
• Individual Type II Members: Early $59 Advance $59 Standard $79
• NonMembers: Early $109 Advance $109 Standard $129
• YALSA and ALSC Members: Early $79 Advance $79 Standard $99

YA Coffee Klatch
Sunday, June 28, 2026
9:00am – 11:00am
Ticket code: YAL2 - SOLD OUT

Get your fix of YALSA’s 2026 awardees (and a caffeine buzz to boot) at this celebration and meet-and-greet! At this program, we’ll recognize this year’s William C. Morris, YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction, and Alex Award winners before beginning our more informal coffee klatch. This speed-dating-style event will give you an opportunity to meet authors who have appeared on one of YALSA’s annual selected lists or have received one of YALSA’s literary awards. Attendees will be seated at a table, and every 3 minutes, a new author will arrive to talk about their work.

• Individual Type I & II Members: Early $45 Advance $50 Standard $55
• NonMembers: Early $50 Advance $55 Standard $60
• YALSA Members: Early $25 Advance $30 Standard $35

YALSA Presents: The 2026 Michael L. Printz Awards
Saturday, June 27, 2026
8:00pm – 10:00pm
Ticket code: YAL3

Join YALSA for the 2025 Michael L. Printz Award Ceremony. The honor authors will each give a short speech about their book and the 2026 Michael L. Printz winner will give a longer speech. This will be followed by a dessert and cocktail reception.

• Individual Type I & II Members: Early $45 Advance $50 Standard $55
• NonMembers: Early $50 Advance $55 Standard $60
• YALSA Members: Early $40 Advance $45 Standard $50