Pick Your Learning Path​
With more than 100 educational programs curated by and for public library professionals, the PLA Conference offers unparalleled opportunities for you to explore, learn, and connect with national leaders sharing effective strategies.
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Mix and match or dive deep into any of our eleven topical tracks to build your schedule. Combine your educational interests with free networking receptions, general sessions, and other special events at the conference and around Minneapolis for a complete experience.​
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Decorative image of attendees at a PLA 2024 Conference program.
Decorative image of two attendees hugging at a PLA 2024 Conference program.
Decorative image of attendees participating in a knitting circle at a PLA 2024 Conference program.
Decorative image of attendees at a PLA 2024 Conference program.
Our programs are designed to be both practical and actionable, making it easy for attendees to adapt what they’ve learned and apply it in their libraries back home. Visit our Conference Schedule for more details about these and other exciting conference experiences. We also offer sample itineraries designed to help you get oriented, spark ideas, and see what’s possible.
“This conference was by far the most useful
library conference I have been to.”
—PLA 2024 attendee, post-conference survey
New at PLA 2026
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Hot Takes
What’s your take on the future of public libraries? Join us for mild, medium, and spicy ideas from your peers that will get people talking! ​ Tuesday afternoon’s Hot Takes 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!
Conference 101
Kick off your time in Minneapolis with Tuesday’s Conference 101 session! Plan your PLA 2026 Conference experience with guidance from PLA member-leaders, who will share their insights on how to make the most of the conference, with its many opportunities to learn and connect. Our experts will share tips and answer your questions about selecting programs, navigating the exhibits hall, meeting new people, taking what you learn home to your library, and much more!
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Deep Dives
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In addition to our hour-long case studies, panels, and peer sharing programs, new at PLA 2026 are two-hour Deep Dive sessions that offer in-depth coverage of topics.