Preconferences

Preconference: Bookmaking and Printmaking In the Library
Date & Time: Thursday, October 1, 2026 | 1-4 p.m.
Location: Western New York Books Arts Center (468 Washington St, Buffalo, NY 14203)

This half-day preconference, facilitated by Buffalo’s Western New York Book Arts Center, located just two blocks from the Hyatt Regency Buffalo, will provide two hands-on crafting experiences:

  • Bookmaking: Simple Techniques. Participants can expect to learn about various bookmaking structures and complete at least two (2) different handmade origami books, difficulty appropriate for children & tweens.
  • Letterpress Printmaking. Group will engage in hands-on typesetting & printing with antique letterpress type and imagery, operating a press from the 1930s to create a commemorative, collaborative custom broadside or greeting card. Time will be devoted to discussing alternative simple printmaking methods for young students.

Participants will be able to create materials using WNYBA’s expansive knowledge and resources and learn practical applications for bookmaking and printmaking programming in their communities. Space is limited. 

ALSC and/or YALSA Member - $79
ALA Member - $99
Non-Member - $109

Preconference: Strong National Museum of Play and Rochester Public Library Tour
Date & Time: Thursday, October 1, 2026 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Pick Up and Drop Off at Hyatt Regency Buffalo (2 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14202)

This full-day preconference takes attendees to Buffalo’s nearby neighbor, Rochester, for a library and museum tour! Attendees will begin the day at the Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County, with a tour of the facilities and light refreshments. In the late morning, attendees will receive a guided tour of the Brian Sutton-Smith Library & Archives of Play at the Strong National Museum of Play, followed by lunch and then self-directed time to explore before heading back to Buffalo in time for Opening General Session!

ALSC and/or YALSA Member - $169
ALA Member - $199
Non-Member - $229

Registration for Preconferences is available on the registration page for National Institute. If you have already registered for National Institute and would like to add a preconference, please contact Sarah Polen.

NOTE: Preconferences operate on a cost recovery basis. ALSC reserves the right to cancel a preconference and reimburse attendees for fees paid if there are not enough registrations to cover the preconference cost.