2026 MLA|DLA Annual Conference

Find out about legislation and funding - both what happened during the state legislative session and what is going on at the federal level. Become familiar with current advocacy efforts for libraries and how you can advocate for Maryland libraries of all types. Whether a beginner or experienced, you will leave this session as an informed advocate, ready to take action!

As book challenges and censorship attempts intensify, library staff at every level - particularly those on the front lines - find themselves navigating increasingly complex conversations about access, diversity, and community values related to library resources. This session moves beyond general overviews of intellectual freedom to focus on practical, actionable strategies for responding to real-world situations while staying true to the ethical foundations of librarianship. Drawing upon resources (United Against Book Bans, PEN America) and advocacy efforts (Authors Against Book Bans, American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom), this program equips participants with tools to confidently, ethically, and effectively address challenges. Through guided discussion, scenario analysis, and reflective dialogue, attendees will explore how to uphold intellectual freedom in both principled and pragmatic ways.

The Maryland State Library Agency and the Delaware Division of Libraries will share updates about state programming and initiatives. Come hear what has been happening in Delaware and Maryland regarding STEM and Tech education programming, early childhood literacy and learning, staff development opportunities, capital projects, accessibility services, and much more.

The American Library Association (ALA) will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026. As ALA reflects on its rich history and prepares for an evolving future, we strive to engage information professionals to be actively involved in the present.

This program brings together ALA leaders and members to share experiences across divisions, roundtables, affiliate organizations, and programs. Attendees will learn how current and prospective members can engage in meaningful discussion and participation within the organization.

Until September 2024 database descriptions were maintained solely by the SU Serials and Electronics Resources Librarian. With the upcoming Springshare improvements to A-Z lists, it was a convenient time to reconsider descriptions and other facets of maintenance. A collaboration between this program’s panelists resulted in new procedures and standardizations. This program showcases the result of this collaborative effort to provide better descriptions of library databases. This session will teach how to provide flexibility within standard processes for continued A-Z list improvements. Participants will be provided with database descriptions to rewrite for specific intended audiences (k-12, academic, public).