Conferences & Events

ALA, its Divisions, Round Tables and Affiliates host many conferences, and in-person and online events to showcase cutting-edge developments in library advocacy, information literacy, and other areas of interest.
ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition, Chicago, June 25-29, 2026, For Our Libraries. For 150 Years More.

ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition

Chicago  |  June 25 – June 29, 2026

As part of the American Library Association’s 150th Anniversary, ALA Annual 2026 will bring together thousands of library professionals to celebrate our collective achievements and chart a bold course for the future of libraries. Expect special anniversary programming, influential thought leaders, signature events, and forward-focused learning designed to strengthen your library and advance your career.

Join the once-in-a-generation event that will shape libraries for years to come. Register Today and SAVE with early rates.

 

ALA Division Conferences

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ALA's offices and divisions sponsor various nationwide library promotions throughout the year, encouraging libraries to help raise public awareness of library issues.

Learn more about ALA policies, criteria, and general considerations regarding conference site selection.

Details on upcoming ALA Annual conferences and archives of previous ALA conferences.

April 2026
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Core Webinars

Best of Core Forum - Ethics, AI, and Cataloging: A Practical Approach

April 14, 2026

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to streamline metadata workflows and increase the capacity of cataloging operations. Interest in the promise of AI has accelerated since the release of ChatGPT in 2022. Metadata practitioners have conducted many case studies using AI processes, such as machine learning (ML) and natural language processing (NLP).

Administration & Leadership
eLearning
Online
Core Webinars

Best of Core Forum: Power of a Community The Colorado Chicano Movement

April 15, 2026

Documenting the cultural heritage and unique experiences of your community members provides a more inclusive archival record. This presentation covers the steps needed to establish relationships and work with community members through participatory archives. This presentation will provide an overview of the basic structure of how to conduct oral histories and working with communities.

Administration & Leadership
eLearning
Decorative image a a person protected from other people by a bell jar.

The Power of Boundaries

April 15, 2026

Explore why boundaries matter in public service and how they contribute to a safer, more sustainable work environment.

Administration & Leadership
Programs & Services
eLearning
Webinar
Online

Reimagining Safety with the Library Safety Volunteers

April 16, 2026

As backlash against libraries continues escalating, librarians are more vulnerable than ever; yet, few practices effectively or proactively address this issue, especially in program spaces.

Webinar
Online
Free
Core eCourses

Fundamentals of Management 2026 - Session 2.0

April 20, 2026

This 4 week course Fundamentals of Management is designed for new managers to build the skill set they need to successfully lead their department or organization, as well as support existing managers looking to improve their skills.

Administration & Leadership
eLearning
Core Webinars

Best of Core: Radical Accessibility: Building Belonging and Breaking Barriers

April 22, 2026

This session will explore concrete examples, including the implementation of multilingual signage; the creation of accessible restrooms with adult changing tables; the design and use of inclusive furniture; and the provision of lactation rooms, sensory and quiet spaces. Learn how new access to spaces created opportunities for policy and practice change as well.

Administration & Leadership
Marketing & Outreach
Programs & Services
eLearning