2026 MLA|DLA Annual Conference

Children of incarcerated parents face multiple challenges, behaviorally, academically, and emotionally. Research has shown that these consequences can be limited if children maintain a relationship with the incarcerated parent. But how? Participants will learn about the Maryland Family Literacy Pilot Program being administered by the Maryland State Library Agency to foster and strengthen family relationships through the reading of a children’s book by incarcerated parents and shared with their child as a recording. Attendees will hear other examples of how libraries are connecting with families impacted through incarceration through literacy programs and there will be time for QA and sharing.

Public libraries are champions of access, yet how do we reach those who can’t easily come to us? This program invites public librarians of all backgrounds to meet the needs of underserved patrons by reimagining library services and letting them loose! Our team has built our own mobile summer outreach program designed to bring the library directly into the community, and in this session we will share what worked, what we learned, and how others can replicate our success. Participants will leave with practical tools and adaptable strategies to strengthen their own community partnerships and connect with patrons beyond library walls.

Picture books are a gateway to wonder. For young children, they can be the very first introduction to the intricate beauty of the natural world. This workshop will demonstrate how a well-chosen picture book can serve as the anchor for a rich, multi-disciplinary environmental lesson. We'll examine books that celebrate the joy of the outdoors, address environmental challenges in age-appropriate ways, and promote empathy for living things. Participants will leave with a curated list of high-quality nature picture books, a "toolkit" of discussion questions and activity ideas, and the confidence to integrate this engaging medium into their environmental education practices.