The City of Brotherly Love is also a city of firsts: The Library Company of Philadelphia, founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1731, is considered the country’s first public library. Philadelphia was the original capital of the United States. And the American Library Association (ALA) held its inaugural Convention of Librarians there during the Centennial Exposition in 1876.
ALA returns to this historic and vibrant city for its 2025 Annual Conference and Exhibition, to be held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center June 26–30. As the Association—and the nation—approach monumental anniversaries, library workers will reaffirm and celebrate what it means to run institutions foundational to democracy, equity, and civic discourse. Many sessions in this year’s program reflect the issues currently weighing on the profession, such as intellectual freedom, access, advocacy, and funding.
The conference will also include appearances from featured speakers and authors, hundreds of education programs, more than 500 exhibitors, and plenty of opportunities to network. This preview offers a small sample of what to expect. For registration information and a complete list of events, visit alaannual.org.
Featured speakers
Check the Annual Conference Scheduler for the latest information on dates, times, and locations.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer will open Annual, 4–5:30 p.m. Friday, June 27. Whitmer will discuss the young adult edition of her memoir, True Gretch: What I’ve Learned about Life, Leadership, and Everything in Between. The book offers honest and humorous insights for young people wishing to make a difference in the world.
Author, actor, and activist George Takei will speak about his forthcoming graphic memoir, It Rhymes with Takei, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 28. The memoir, illustrated by Harmony Becker, intertwines the personal with the political in sharing the story of Takei’s decision to come out as gay at the age of 68.
Former Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden will appear in conversation with award-winning author Kwame Alexander, 1–2 p.m. Saturday, June 28. The two will discuss the current state of libraries and the challenges library professionals are facing in America and across the world, from book bans to library funding.
Angeline Boulley, author of New York Times bestsellers Firekeeper’s Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed, will discuss her upcoming novel, Sisters in the Wind, 4–5 p.m. Saturday, June 28. The mystery book follows Lucy, an Ojibwe foster teen claiming her heritage on her own terms.
Comedian, writer, and actor Roy Wood Jr. is a former correspondent for The Daily Show, has headlined the White House Correspondents Dinner, is host of the CNN comedy show Have I Got News for You, and recently released his fourth stand-up special, Lonely Flowers. He will appear 1–2 p.m. Sunday, June 29, to discuss his forthcoming memoir, The Man of Many Fathers.
Sacramento County (Calif.) District Attorney Thien Ho is most notable for his successful prosecution of murderer Joseph DeAngelo, also known as the Golden State Killer. Ho will talk about his forthcoming book, The People vs. the Golden State Killer, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Sunday, June 29.
Bestselling author, researcher, and podcaster Brené Brown will appear as the featured speaker during the President’s Program of ALA President Cindy Hohl, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Sunday, June 29. Brown has spent the past two decades studying the concepts of courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. She will take the stage following an awards presentation that celebrates outstanding librarians, library programs, and authors.
Bestselling horror, fantasy, and sci-fi author Joe Hill, who wrote the Netflix-adapted comic book series Locke and Key, will appear 10:30–11:30 a.m. Monday, June 30. Hill will discuss his upcoming novel, King Sorrow, which follows six friends who dabble in the occult and summon an evil entity that demands human sacrifice.
Award-winning author and illustrator Grace Lin (see our Newsmaker interview) will talk about her forthcoming middle-grade title, The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon, 1–2 p.m. Monday, June 30. The illustrated adventure story is based on Chinese folklore and explores themes of duty, love, and balance.
Author, women’s rights advocate, and Academy Award–winning actor Geena Davis will close the conference 4–5 p.m. Monday, June 30. As author-illustrator of her debut picture book, The Girl Who Was Too Big for the Page, Davis encourages young readers to find the confidence to be who they are unapologetically.
Education programs
Bookstagrammers Are People Too: Boosting Library Engagement with Influencer Marketing
9–10 a.m. Saturday, June 28
Influencer marketing draws on legacy tactics from traditional marketing and applies them to hyperlocal and community-specific audiences. In this program from ALA’s Public Awareness Committee, learn how your library can boost its visibility and cultivate authentic engagement by leveraging the reach of Bookstagrammers and BookTok-ers. Panelists will recommend appropriate compensation and partnership guidelines for a sustainable and respected influencer program.
Is Your Library Ready? Strengthening Community Resiliency with Inclusive Public Library Disaster Planning
9–10 a.m. Saturday, June 28
When a natural disaster strikes, librarians provide their communities with critical information, technologies, aid, and a social lifeline. In this interactive session, presenters will guide participants through the essential elements of a disaster plan and identify strategies to enhance their institution’s planning, response, and recovery.
Redesigning Success: Lessons in Multiphase Renovation and Student-Centered Spaces
11 a.m.–noon Saturday, June 28
Hear from library leaders and architects on how the renovation of John C. Hitt Library at University of Central Florida in Orlando has transformed the library experience for users. Panelists will share successes and challenges from the renovation, including how furniture and functionality choices have impacted student success.
Bringing a Multicultural Community Together through Food: How Culinary Programming Transformed a Public Library
1–2 p.m. Saturday, June 28
Unsure if your library has the space or capacity for a teaching kitchen or community garden? Jefferson Parish (La.) Library will provide the blueprints for its collection of cooking classes, culinary skills workshops, and vegetable gardening lessons. The session will discuss how to forge meaningful connections among all ages through the exchange of food traditions, cultural heritage, stories, and grocery lists.
Infant Programming Reimagined: Connecting Caregivers and Communities through Libraries
2:30–3:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28
Staffers from New York Public Library will share how to intentionally plan programming for infants and their caregivers—covering ideas such as board book bundles, infant play, and art—as well as effective outreach methods to bring new families into your library.
Continued Conversations: Libraries, Publishers, and the Future of Ebook Licensing
1–2 p.m. Monday, June 30
With the rising cost of ebooks and budgets threatened, libraries are struggling to maintain existing collections while meeting the demands of their communities. A panel of librarians and publishing experts will discuss alternative licensing solutions and how to advocate for fairer pricing.
Navigating the Transition: Retirement and Succession Planning from Diverse Perspectives in Libraries
2:30–3:30 p.m. Monday, June 30
In this session, a panel of retiring and retired librarians will share their personal experiences with the emotional and practical aspects of retirement, knowledge transfer, and staying connected to the profession. Then, a manager will discuss the administrative side of retirement, including continuity of services, succession planning, and replacing staff members.
Timely Topics
The following is a selection of sessions representing the conference’s Timely Topics: advancing accessibility, fostering mental health and well-being, navigating the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), promoting information literacy, serving immigrant communities, strengthening library funding and advocacy, and upholding intellectual freedom and information access. Click here for more information on the Timely Topics.
Free Expression in 2025: Challenges for Libraries
9–10 a.m. Saturday, June 28
This has been a watershed year for threats to free expression, including removal of government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts; targeted attacks on marginalized communities; and the disruption of access to longstanding information resources. Panelists will examine case studies from public and academic libraries and discuss how they’ve navigated threats to displays and programs and speech-related issues.
AI Ethics and the Library
1–2 p.m. Saturday, June 28
Panelists from the Library Freedom Project community of practice will present strategies for library workers who are curious about the use of AI at their institution, approaches to assessing the risks AI poses for vulnerable populations, and resources for continued learning.
Navigating Women’s Reproductive Health and Access to Information Challenges
4–5 p.m. Saturday, June 28
This program will cover issues surrounding women’s reproductive health, with a focus on the challenges posed by restricting access to information. Attendees will learn about reliable information resources, discuss strategies for overcoming barriers to access, and develop a plan that aims to foster a dialogue about reproductive rights in their communities.
Building a Welcoming Initiative at Your Library
4–5 p.m. Saturday, June 28
What strategies can we undertake to enhance support for immigrants, refugees, and new Americans in our communities? Staffers from Charlotte (N.C.) Mecklenburg Library will discuss its WelcomeCLT initiative for welcoming international newcomers and how to forge partnerships, design programs, and tailor services to meet the unique needs of this group.
Something’s Missing: The Need for Library Involvement in Prison Literacy Programs
9–10 a.m. Sunday, June 29
Libraries are often left out of the equation when implementing literacy programs in carceral environments. In this session, librarians from the Michigan Department of Corrections will offer ideas for how libraries can lead in improving literacy skills for patrons who are incarcerated and challenge participants to create or enhance prison literacy programs with library support.
Reversing Burnout and Attrition: How Group Coaching Creates a Common Language and Transforms Workplaces
9–10 a.m. Sunday, June 29
Libraries require sustainable solutions to retain staff members and maintain a thriving workplace culture. In this session, attendees will explore the impact of group coaching and how a case study from the hospital industry can be applied to improving library workers’ well-being, engagement, and retention.
Adaptive Arcade at the Library: Videogames Are for Everyone
11 a.m.–noon Sunday, June 29
Learn how the Deerfield (Ill.) Public Library partnered with gaming accessibility organization AbleGamers to host an adaptive arcade event. Disability advocate Steve Spohn will talk about why gaming accessibility is important, and participants will be introduced to the latest advancements in assistive technology, including adaptive videogame controllers and 3D printables.
Creating Third Places for Teens: Utilizing a Multifaceted Approach to Develop Teen-Friendly, Inclusive Social Environments
2:30–3:30 p.m. Sunday, June 29
As teens develop social-emotional skills, they need a third place, or a space outside home, work, or school that fosters engagement. Learn how Garden City (N.Y.) Public Library uses programming that emphasizes interaction, cooperation, and autonomy—including how its new Teen Calming Center reaches young adults and prioritizes their mental and emotional wellness.
Top Tech Trends
9–10 a.m. Monday, June 30
Panelists representing a wide range of libraries will share their insights on the latest technological developments and their potential impact on services and staff. This session will explore key trends shaping the future of libraries and provide valuable perspectives on how to navigate innovations.
Build Your Brand, Build Your Community
1–2 p.m. Monday, June 30
Building your brand isn’t just about fliers and logos. It’s about embedding the library’s story into every corner of your community. Presenters from Pioneer Library System in central Oklahoma share how libraries can increase loyalty and connection through eye-catching displays, a customer satisfaction survey, and a simple style guide for departments to follow.
Fraud: How to Stop the Scourge in Your Library
2:30–3:30 p.m. Monday, June 30
Losing money or possessions to scams, fraud, and exploitation can be harmful for anyone, but it can be especially devastating to older adults who may not be able to earn back what they’ve lost. Presenters from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission will discuss resources that help people combat fraud, and librarians will share how they are empowering patrons to resist scams.
Division, round table, and affiliate presidents’ programs
Illustrating Diversity: Elevating BIPOC Voices in Graphic Novels and Comics
9–10 a.m. Saturday, June 28
In this program from the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table (GNCRT), graphic novelists and comic creators who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color will explore the power of storytelling to foster inclusive narratives. Attendees will gain insight into the creators’ processes and strategies to engage new and diverse members within the graphic novel and comics community.
Freedom to Read Foundation President’s Program: Fighting for Your Right to Read Freely
9–10 a.m. Saturday, June 28
Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF) President Sophia Sotilleo will be joined by a panel to discuss notable cases and activities that have shaped historic First Amendment rulings and continue to have a profound impact today. Learn about FTRF’s history and work and how to join the organization in its advocacy.
Government Documents Round Table Chair’s Program
2:30–3:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28
The US celebrates its 250th anniversary next year. This session from the Government Documents Round Table examines our country’s foundational documents—the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution—through a modern lens. Participants will consider whether the original documents meet the needs of today and will come away with a framework to promote civic literacy and engagement in their communities.
Core Awards and President’s Program
2:30–4 p.m. Saturday, June 28
The Core President’s Program will feature scholar and artist Gwen Westerman, Minnesota’s current poet laureate. Westerman is an enrolled member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota Oyate, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, and coauthor of Mni Sota Makoce: The Land of the Dakota, which won a 2013 Minnesota Book Award.
Advocate Smarter and Harder: Advocacy Tools for Rural and Small Libraries
9–10 a.m. Sunday, June 29
The best time to advocate for your library is before a problem arises. Join John Clexton, president of the Association for Rural and Small Libraries (ARSL), and ARSL Executive Director Kate Laughlin for a conversation about how engagement and connections can be used to withstand a crisis and keep library support high in close-knit communities.
Complicating the Past: Historic Sites Interpretation and the Challenges of a More Accurate History
10:30–11:30 a.m. Sunday, June 29
Historic sites are increasingly reimagining the narratives they tell. Using new archives, physical spaces, and objects, sites are questioning assumptions and reworking longstanding narratives. At this lecture from the Library History Round Table, historian George W. Boudreau will examine noteworthy work being carried out by public historians and challenge others to rethink what they are telling their visitors.
The Future of Library Services: Innovating with AI, User Experience, and Service Design
1–2 p.m. Sunday, June 29
Deepfakes and social media misinformation campaigns emphasize the need for critical and thoughtful digital citizenship. At the same time, libraries have an opportunity to use new technologies to create more inclusive and user-centered offerings. At this program from the Reference and User Services Association (RUSA), panelists will provide practical strategies for adapting services to meet the demands of today’s information environment.
Association for Library Service to Children President’s Program: The Current Landscape of AI and Its Effects on Children
1–2:30 p.m. Monday, June 30
AI’s influence on children’s lives is growing. This session from the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) will explore the ethical use of AI tools for children and libraries, how these technologies impact society, and the role that companies have in shaping responsible AI tools that are free from bias.
Books, authors, and celebrations
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from—and celebrate—dozens of bestselling authors and illustrators at Annual. Click here for more information on ticketed events.
2025 Michael L. Printz Awards
8–10 p.m. Friday, June 27
This year’s awards ceremony, sponsored by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) and Booklist, will feature speeches from honor authors and the 2025 winners, Samuel Teer and Mar Julia (for Brownstone). A dessert and cocktail reception will follow. Tickets are $45 in advance and $50 onsite for YALSA members, $50 in advance and $55 onsite for ALA members, and $55 in advance and $60 onsite for nonmembers.
GNCRT Magical Comics Tea
1–3 p.m. Saturday, June 28
Comics creators and enthusiasts will talk about upcoming titles and projects. Don your best teatime outfit or come as you are. Tickets are $10 for student members, $20 for GNCRT members, and $35 for ALA members and nonmembers.
International Librarians Reception
6–8 p.m. Saturday, June 28
Join the International Relations Round Table in welcoming librarians from more than 70 countries. This reception, open to all attendees, offers networking opportunities with hundreds of information professionals. ALA President Hohl will announce the recipients of the ALA Presidential Citation for Innovative International Projects and other award winners. Tickets are $40.
2025 Andrew Carnegie Medals for Excellence in Fiction and Nonfiction Ceremony and Reception
7–10 p.m. Saturday, June 28
This event, cosponsored by Booklist and RUSA, will celebrate the recipients of the 2025 Andrew Carnegie Medals for Excellence in Fiction and Nonfiction. Winning authors Percival Everett (for James) and Kevin Fedarko (for A Walk in the Park: The True Story of a Spectacular Misadventure in the Grand Canyon) will give speeches and sign books. Author Sarah Weinman will deliver the keynote address. Tickets are $25.
Coretta Scott King Book Awards Breakfast
7–9 a.m. Sunday, June 29
This awards breakfast recognizes leading African American authors and illustrators of exemplary children’s books depicting the Black experience. Attendees will hear remarks from 2025 winners Jason Reynolds (author of Twenty-Four Seconds from Now…) and C. G. Esperanza (illustrator of My Daddy Is a Cowboy) and honorees. Tickets are $65.
The Laugh’s on Us
5:30–7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 29
Comedian Paula Poundstone will headline this wine-and-cheese event featuring author John Kenney and influencer and podcaster Elyse Myers. A book signing will follow, with free advance copies (subject to availability) for attendees. Tickets are $60 in advance for UFL members, $65 in advance for ALA members and nonmembers, and $70 onsite.
Newbery-Caldecott-Legacy Awards Banquet
7–10 p.m. Sunday, June 29
Join ALSC in celebrating the authors and illustrators of this year’s most distinguished books for children. This event will recognize Newbery Medal winner Erin Entrada Kelly, Caldecott Medal winner Rebecca Lee Kunz, and Children’s Literature Legacy Award winner Carole Boston Weatherford, along with honorees. Tickets are $110 and include dinner. Free, theater-style seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for those who wish to hear the speeches without dinner.
Gala Author Tea
2–3:30 p.m. Monday, June 30
Indulge in tea and treats while hearing from bestselling writers, including Lily King and Mary Roach, about their forthcoming titles. Attendees will receive advance copies (subject to availability) that they can have signed by the authors. Tickets are $60 in advance for UFL members, $65 in advance for ALA members and nonmembers, and $70 onsite.
JobLIST Placement Center
ALA’s JobLIST Placement and Career Development Center aims to help job seekers at any stage of their careers retool their skills, prepare for job searches, and connect with potential employers. Click here for a complete list of services and to reserve appointments in advance.
Mentoring on the Fly
9 a.m.–noon Saturday, June 28, and 1–4 p.m. Sunday, June 29
Seeking career-related advice? Attend short sessions with mentors from academic and public libraries. Walk-ins welcome, or sign up for an appointment time.
Photography Services
9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29
Need a fresh headshot? For $20, receive a set of digital images that can be used for job applications, social media, and networking opportunities. Walk-ins welcome, or sign up for an appointment time.
Résumé Reviews
9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29
Creating the perfect CV can be a daunting task. These appointments provide guidance on how to create or revise a résumé, whether you’re approaching graduation, searching for a new position, or just wanting to do some fine-tuning. Bring your laptop or a printed copy of your résumé. Walk-ins welcome, or sign up for an appointment.
Open House and Job Fair
10:30 a.m.–noon Sunday, June 29
Employers will be given the opportunity to talk with individuals about their institutions and available positions. Registration is required for employers but not for job seekers.
Library Marketplace
With live stages and more than 500 vendors, the Library Marketplace is a space to learn, network, and have fun. Registrants can explore the latest library services, attend book talks, meet notable authors, and grab advance reader copies and swag to take home. Other highlights in the exhibit hall include a podcasting booth, the Artist Alley, and pavilions dedicated to topics such as zines, technology, and small presses. Hours: 5:30–7 p.m. Friday, June 27; 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29; 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Monday, June 30
ALA Store
The ALA Store will be located in the Pennsylvania Convention Center on the bridge across from the ALA Connect Lounge. Hours: 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Friday, June 27; 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29; 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Monday, June 30
Accessibility
Accessibility measures at Annual include captioning during main sessions, accessible shuttle buses, the welcoming of service animals, mobility assistance, American Sign Language interpreters, a private space in the convention center for nursing mothers, and accessible rooms in the hotel block. Click here for accessibility information.
Community of Care
ALA has implemented a Community of Care at Annual, with the goal of enhancing a sense of community and safety by upholding a Code of Conduct and providing attendees with tangible support. Among the resources available at Annual are the Community of Care Quiet Room for those looking for a calm space during the conference and onsite counseling sessions with mental health professionals. Click here to read more about the Community of Care initiative.
Governance Meetings
- ALA Executive Board Meeting I
9 a.m.–noon Friday, June 27 - ALA Council Orientation
8:30–9:30 a.m. Saturday, June 28 - ALA-APA Council
9:30–10 a.m. Saturday, June 28 - ALA Council I
10 a.m.–noon Saturday, June 28 - ALA Council II
9:30–11:30 a.m. Sunday, June 29 - ALA Council III
9:30–11:30 a.m. Monday, June 30 - ALA Executive Board Meeting II
12:30–2 p.m. Monday, June 30
Stay Connected
- Visit alaannual.org
- Follow @amlibraryassoc.bsky.social
- Join the conversation at facebook.com/AmericanLibraryAssociation
- Keep up with #alaac25 and @americanlibraryassociation
