2026 MLA|DLA Annual Conference

While libraries don’t usually offer haircuts, they can create a stylish opportunity for patrons to share humanistic ideas and personal projects, learn, and encourage a creative community through literary salons– themed, intimate gatherings where participants freely discuss literary and artistic subjects. Historically, salons opened doors for individuals of all backgrounds to explore and exchange new ideas, especially in the face of censorship. This session will be held as an interactive salon simulation, where attendees will learn how to create similar spaces in their libraries.

The romance world is often intimidating for library staff, yet the demand among patrons is high. The goal of this roundtable discussion is to gain a comfortability with Romance materials in way that reflects the joy of the genre. We will address some of the barriers that cause discomfort, discuss recent changes in publishing that have affected the genre, and provide resources for romance books in the YA and teen section.