The ALA 2026 Annual Conference & Exhibition is a premier event organized by the American Library Association (ALA), scheduled for June 25–29, 2026, at McCormick Place in Chicago. This milestone conference marks ALA's 150th anniversary, bringing together thousands of library professionals, educators, authors, publishers, and advocates from around the globe to celebrate a century and a half of library leadership, advocacy, and innovation.
The conference will feature over 200 educational programs, more than 600 exhibitors—including 130 first-time exhibitors—and approximately 700 authors. Attendees can engage in dynamic professional development sessions, explore the Library Marketplace with innovative products and services, and participate in networking opportunities. Notable speakers include Rachel Maddow, Emmy Award-winning television host, and Dr. Jill Biden, educator and former First Lady of the United States.
Special events include the ALA150: A Celebration For Our Libraries on Saturday evening, recognizing ALA's anniversary, and the International Librarians Reception on Sunday evening, offering cultural exchange and networking with librarians from over 50 countries. The Library Marketplace will showcase exhibitors, live stages, advanced reading copies of books, and more, providing a comprehensive experience for all attendees.
This conference is ideal for librarians, educators, authors, publishers, and anyone passionate about books and libraries. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers, discover new resources, and shape the future of the library profession.
Categories
Speakers(9)
Billy Porter
Actor, Singer, Director, Producer, and Author
Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award-winning actor, singer, director, producer, and author, known for his work in theater and television.
Dr. Jill Biden
Educator and Former First Lady of the United States
Educator, military family advocate, and former First Lady of the United States, featured guest for the ALA President's Program.
George M. Johnson
Author, Activist, and Journalist
Bestselling author, activist, and journalist.
Kimberlé Crenshaw
Scholar and Civil Rights Advocate
Pioneering scholar, writer, and civil rights advocate known for her work on critical race theory and intersectionality.
LeVar Burton
Actor, Writer, and Literacy Advocate
Actor, writer, TV game host, and literacy advocate, featured speaker for the United for Libraries President’s Program.
Lois Lowry
Author
Beloved Newbery Medal-winning author of classics including 'The Giver' and 'Number the Stars'.
Melissa Villaseñor
Comedian, Actress, Musician
Comedian, actress, musician, and former 'Saturday Night Live' cast member.
Min Jin Lee
Author
Acclaimed author of 'Pachinko' and 'Free Food for Millionaires'.
Rachel Maddow
Television Host, Political Commentator, and Bestselling Author
Emmy Award-winning television host, political commentator, and bestselling author, known for hosting 'The Rachel Maddow Show' on MSNBC.
Event Details
- Date
- June 25-29, 2026
- 5 days
- Location
- 🇺🇸 Chicago, United States
- McCormick Place
- Pricing
- From $94
- Audience
- Librarians, educators, authors, publishers, library professionals
- CLE Credits
- Up to 15 CLE credits
- Attendees
- Over 15,000