The Planning Committee invites proposals for the 2026 Library Social Work Conference now through May 31, 2026. We are particularly interested in proposals that either 1) Share practical strategies, tools, or models that others can adapt, or 2) Reflect on challenges, barriers, and lessons learned to help others consider how to overcome similar challenges in their own library context. Presentations from current library social workers are highly encouraged and will be prioritized.

Presentation Formats:

We welcome proposals for 45-minute presentations (individual or co-presented), 20-minute lightning talks (single presenter), and 60-minute panel presentations (3–4 panelists offering diverse perspectives on a shared topic).

Topics of Interest:

Proposals may address any topic relevant to library social work. However, we especially encourage submissions that explore one or more of the following:

• Group programming ideas and innovations

• Community collaborations and partnership-building

• Staff support, training, and internal capacity-building

• Grant writing and funding strategies that support program sustainability

• Advocacy efforts to gain resources and support program expansion

• Strategies for social work-informed library policy analysis and revision 

• Integration of clinical services within library settings

• Strategies for overcoming barriers faced by marginalized communities

• Needs assessments, program evaluation, and how to demonstrate impact

• Wellness, self-care, and burnout prevention (for library social work staff)

• Advancing programs beyond initial implementation, including sustainability, growth, and movement through stages of organizational change

• Differences in rural and urban service models or program structures