ALSC Opens Applications to Host the 2026 Children’s Literature Lecture

CHICAGO - The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) and the 2026 Children’s Literature Lecture Committee are proud to announce the opening of the application to host the 2026 event featuring award-winning author Cynthia Leitich Smith.

The Children’s Literature Lecture is an annual event, announced at Youth Media Awards, in which an author, critic, librarian, historian or teacher of children’s literature presents a paper that makes a significant contribution to the field. A library school, department of education in a college or university or a children’s library system may be considered and receives an honorarium to support the logistics involved with hosting. The lecture is administered by ALSC.

Applications are due Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Information about host site responsibilities is included in the application materials. The lecture is traditionally held in April or early May.

In January, Cynthia Leitich Smith was selected by the Arbuthnot Lecture Committee to speak in 2026. “Cynthia is a gifted author using her platform to celebrate children’s literature and elevate Native American creators through a groundbreaking publishing space and online presence,” said 2026 Children’s Literature Lecture Award Committee Chair Casey O'Leary.

Smith (Muscogee Nation) is "The New York Times" bestselling author of more than 20 books for children and young adults. Her 2018 book “Hearts Unbroken” won the 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Award. Smith is the curator of Heartdrum, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers focused on Native authors for children and young adults. A former board member for We Need Diverse Books, she is the Native writing intensive coordinator for the organization.

About the Association for Library Service to Children

ALSC, a division of the American Library Association, is the world’s largest organization dedicated to the support and enhancement of library service to children. With a network of more than 3,300 children’s and youth librarians, literature experts, publishers and educational faculty, ALSC is committed to creating a better future for all children through libraries. Visit www.ala.org/alsc.

About the American Library Association

The American Library Association (ALA) is the only non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated entirely to America's libraries and library professionals. For almost 150 years, ALA has provided resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. The ALA serves academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library's role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org.