I can’t believe the conference I looked forward to all year is finally here! Every conference, I leave feeling reenergized, inspired, and surrounded by my people – library folk who share the same passion and purpose. Here are the top ten things I’m most excited about this year (in no particular order!): 

  1. Shopping the Bookstore
    Yes, I can order books online anytime… but there’s nothing like holding a freshly printed title in your hands, flipping through pages, and getting a sense of what it feels like before buying. I love discovering hidden gems I wouldn’t have noticed in a digital catalog and talking to others about what they’re picking up. It’s like a treasure hunt for the soul. 
  2. The New Standards Book Launch
    After two years serving on the standards committee, I can’t describe how thrilling it is to see the finished product being showcased! I know firsthand the hours of conversation, revision, and reflection that went into every page. Seeing it in print and hearing it discussed in sessions will be an incredible full-circle moment. I can’t wait for others to see the depth and care behind it.
  3. Learning and Laughing with Like-Minded People
    This conference is one of the few times all year I get to be surrounded by people who speak my language – people who understand the joy of connecting readers with the right book, who each have their own ways of engaging all learners, and who can talk endlessly about collection development Whether it’s grabbing coffee, brainstorming ideas, or playing a round of Really Loud Librarians, I’m all in for the camaraderie.
  4. Jason Reynolds. Enough Said.
    Jason Reynolds is a literary force and hearing him speak is always a masterclass in authenticity, compassion, and truth-telling. Long Way Down is one of my all-time favorite books, and I can’t wait to soak up his wisdom. His writing reminds me of why our work is so important and why we need to keep ensuring that our libraries represent the entire community.
  5. Exploring the Host City
    I can’t wait to take in a little bit of St. Louis while I’m there! Whether it’s visiting the iconic Gateway Arch, wandering through the Citygarden Sculpture Park, or finding a cozy local spot for coffee and conversation, I love experiencing the city beyond the conference walls. Every year, the host city becomes part of the memory…the food, the energy, the people. And I’m looking forward to seeing what makes St. Louis shine.
  6. The Energy of the Closing Session
    If pure positivity had a spokesperson, it would be Michal Threets. His joy is contagious, and his unwavering love for libraries and community reminds us that what we do matters. I can’t wait to hear him speak, share stories, and spread his signature library love energy across the conference halls.
  7. Discovering New Ideas to Bring Home
    One of my favorite parts of the conference is coming home with a notebook full of ideas both big and small. From lesson tweaks and collection must-haves to new programming strategies, it’s always a challenge to choose what to try first. This year, I’m especially looking for ideas around community engagement and around the use of AI.
  8. The Exhibit Hall
    The Exhibit Hall is where curiosity meets creativity. I love chatting with vendors about new library tech, exploring learning platforms, and collecting way too many tote bags and pens. Beyond the swag, though, it’s a great way to make connections with companies that genuinely support what we do every day.
  9. Reconnecting with My PLN
    There’s nothing like catching up with familiar faces I’ve met through previous conferences, committees, and online forums. These friendships have become an invaluable support system. Whether we’re sharing successes or swapping stories about challenges, it’s such a joy to be reminded that we’re all learning and growing together.
  10. That Post-Conference Glow
    It’s hard to describe, but anyone who’s attended knows the feeling: that buzz of excitement and inspiration that follows you home. I always come back with a fresh perspective, a renewed purpose, and a stack of books (and business cards) that remind me how vibrant and connected our profession really is.

Here’s to another year of learning, laughing, and loving what we do. I’ll be counting down the days until it all begins – see you there!