PLA announces pre-conference programming

CHICAGO — Breaking with tradition, the Public Library Association (PLA) will set the stage for the largest public library conference in the world with Hot Takes and a Conference 101 session to orient and connect more than 5,000 expected attendees on March 31, 2026, in Minneapolis.

Conference goers will bring the heat with mild, medium, and spicy ideas about the future of public libraries starting at 1 p.m. With topics ranging from book banners to A/V collections to staff pay, ​​Hot Takes is a learning and networking event new to PLA 2026. This two-hour session features quick, high-energy talks from passionate public library people. Pop in to share your ideas, get inspired, and make connections before the official conference kick-off!

“I am really looking forward to this new format and engaging with my colleagues around these stimulating ideas,” said PLA President Dr. Brandy McNeil. “It’s a great warm-up before I take the stage for Conference 101. Whether you’re a first timer or a PLA Conference regular, this session will help kick off your time in Minneapolis with confidence and excitement!”

Starting at 3:30 p.m., attendees are invited to Conference 101 to plan their PLA 2026 experience with guidance from PLA member-leaders, who will share their insights on how to make the most of more than 100 opportunities to learn and connect. Experts will share tips and answer questions about selecting programs, navigating the exhibits hall, meeting new people, taking what you learn home to your library, and much more.

In prior years, pre-conference programming focused on half- and full-day workshops that included intensive and interactive programming with an additional fee to cover costs. While popular, participation had dipped overall in recent conference years.

PLA 2026 Conference registration opens at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, and activities begin with a tour of public libraries in the metro area starting at 12:15 p.m. This separate ticketed event is already sold-out, but Hot Takes and Conference 101 are available to all PLA 2026 attendees.

Advance registration is available through February 20, and PLA is adding information about the conference and about Minneapolis every week. Learn more at www.placonference.org.

About the Public Library Association 
The Public Library Association (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 9,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders. For more information about PLA, contact the PLA office at 1 (800) 545-2433, ext. 5PLA, or pla@ala.org.