Offered biennially, the PLA Conference is the premier event for public libraries, drawing thousands of librarians, library support staff, trustees, friends, and library vendors from across the country and around the world. This multi-day event offers over 100 top-quality education programs, social events that include author luncheons and networking receptions, and a bustling exhibits hall featuring the latest in products and services.
A message from PLA President Pam Sandlian Smith!
The PLA Conference is presented by the Public Library Association (PLA), the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. In collaboration with its parent organization, the American Library Association, PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders.
Please note: PLA Conference is a professional event. It is not open to the public.
Conference Committees
PLA thanks the members of the 2018 Conference Committees. Without the hard work of such dedicated professionals, much of what we do would not be possible.
2018 Conference Committee
Conference Committee Chair
Richard Kong
Skokie (IL) Public Library
Conference Program Subcommittee Chair
Aurora Martinez, Morley Library, Painesville, OH
Conference Local Arrangements Subcommittee Chair
Siobhan A. Reardon, Free Library of Philadelphia, PA
Conference Committee Members
Vailey Oehlke, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR
Pam Sandlian Smith, Anythink Libraries, Thornton, CO
Felton Thomas, Jr., Cleveland (OH) Public Library
2018 Conference Program Subcommittee
The 2018 Conference Program Subcommittee is a critical part of conference planning. Chaired by Aurora Martinez, this hard-working group reviews and approves the educational line-up. This two-year committee includes:
Jonelle Prether Darr
Anastasia Diamond-Ortiz, Lorain (OH) Public Library System
Toby Greenwalt, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh (PA)
Martha M. Hutzel, Central Rappahannock Regional Library, Fredericksburg, VA
Theresa A. Jehlik, Omaha (NE) Public Library
Michelle M. Jeske, Denver (CO) Public Library
Joy Kim, Pierce County Library System, Tacoma, WA
Kevin A. R. King, Kalamazoo (MI) Public Library
Kimberly Bray Knight, DC Public Library, Palisades Branch, Washington, DC
Robin Lesher, Dauphin County Library System, Harrisburg, PA
Juliane Morian, Clinton-Macomb Public Library, Clinton Township, MI
Please note…
Frequently Asked Questions
Many commonly asked questions about the PLA Conference are answered in our FAQ.
Accessibility
PLA has put in place features to ensure the conference is accessible to all. These include, but are not limited to: captioning of the Opening Session, Closing Session, and Big Ideas Series; accessible sleeping rooms; ASL interpreters; and mobility assistance like scooters and wheelchairs.
Appropriate Conduct
All participants are expected to observe the rules and behaviors described in the Statement of Appropriate Conduct in all conference venues, including online venues, and conference social events.
Cancellation Policy
The PLA 2018 Conference is offered on a cost-recovery basis. PLA reserves the right to cancel all or any part of this event if there is insufficient registration or for other reasons. Neither ALA nor PLA is responsible for cancellation charges assessed by the airlines or travel agencies, or other losses incurred due to the cancellation of the workshops. All information listed on this website is subject to change. More »
Canvassing
Canvassing of PLA Conference attendees during programs and at the conference venue (outside of the areas approved by PLA for exhibitors) is strictly prohibited. If this activity is discovered, violators will be directed to cease immediately. PLA provides many opportunities for representatives from for-profit and non-profit organizations to make conference attendees aware of their services and products. These include exhibiting, advertising, sponsoring, and, as approved by PLA, program planning. For information on participating in PLA Conferences and professional development events, contact the PLA office at
Conference Logo
The custom logos of the PLA 2018 Conference are the property of PLA. Anyone wishing to use the logos in their communications and promotional materials must: 1) seek permission from PLA, and 2) submit communication/artwork incorporating the logo to PLA for final approval. The logo may not be modified and must be reproduced in its entirety (i.e., no outlines, cropping). To request the use of the logo, companies should contact Carly DiVito at Corcoran Expositions at 312-541-0567 or carly@corcexpo.com; all others should contact PLA at
Dress for Comfort
There is no formal dress code at the PLA Conference. What’s most important is to dress for comfort.
Photographic Images
Registration and attendance at, or participation in, the PLA 2018 Conference constitutes an agreement by the registrant to PLA’s use and distribution of the registrant or attendee’s image or voice in photographs, videotapes, electronic reproductions, and audiotapes of such events and activities.