2026 MLA|DLA Annual Conference

Libraries stand at a crisis point, contending with sweeping budget cuts, escalating censorship, and intensifying onslaughts of misinformation. Now more than ever, libraries must take control of their stories to counter misleading rhetoric and build support as traditional revenue streams disappear.

This workshop will empower participants to:
Master Your Narrative: Develop compelling, data-backed stories to safeguard the library’s role as a community cornerstone, vital for education, democracy, and equity.
Persuade with Purpose: Use strategic communication to build stakeholder support and withstand attacks.
Optimize Your Work-Life: Learn practical tools for burnout prevention—streamline workflows, prioritize high-impact services, and recover energy in challenging environments.

Everyone Leads examines leadership: leadership qualities, applying leadership skills, and strategies for growing into leadership. A great introduction for emerging leaders or a refresher for experienced leaders, Everyone Leads draws on both the knowledge of published experts and the experience and insights of the class participants.

Participate in open and honest conversations. Create connections with other leaders. Learn to lead from any position. Map your own leadership path. Apply your knowledge and skills to enhance your organization.