Diversity and Outreach Unconference 2026

Diversity and Outreach Unconference 

The Diversity and Outreach (D&O) section, in collaboration with the Library Workers of Color (LWOC) section and the Social Work in Libraries section, is excited to announce the 2026 D&O Unconference!

Join us as library staff come together to share ideas, experiences, and strategies for navigating the challenges facing our libraries and communities.

This year’s theme, “Thriving Through Turbulent Times,” recognizes that working in libraries can sometimes feel like navigating uncharted waters. The Unconference is an opportunity to step away from your usual routine, connect with colleagues, and share what’s working — and what you’re learning along the way.

Come prepared to: 

★ Shape the agenda by proposing and voting on breakout topics live on-site to build a dynamic, crowdsourced schedule.

★ Share your experiences coping with challenges and problem-solving at your library.

★ Network with colleagues and build connections with library staff from across New Jersey.

★ Gain fresh ideas and practical strategies you can bring back to your library.

★ Spend some time outside of your office/library in a newly-constructed, collaborative space.

★ Enjoy good food and a sense of community!

Share Your Ideas — Submit a Session Proposal

We are seeking creative, practical, interactive, and inspiring session proposals from library workers, community partners, social workers, organizations, and others who have ideas, experiences, or expertise to share.

Sessions may explore challenges and opportunities facing libraries and the communities we serve, share practical tools and strategies, highlight successful partnerships and initiatives, or create opportunities for meaningful discussion and peer learning.

Presenters will have up to 45 minutes for their session, including time for Q&A.

Connect With Attendees — Host an Organization Table

We also invite organizations, library groups, community partners, and other groups to request an organization table. Tables provide an opportunity to connect with attendees and share information about your organization, programs, services, resources, or initiatives.

Please note that table space is limited, and we can accommodate only a certain number of organizations. Submitting a request does not guarantee table space.

Submit Your Proposal or Table Request

You may submit a session proposal, request an organization table, or request both using the form below.

Deadline to Submit a Session Proposal or Request an Organization Table: Friday, October 16, 2026

Session Proposal or Request an Organization Table Form

We hope you will consider sharing your knowledge, experiences, resources, and ideas with colleagues and community partners at this year’s Unconference. Your participation will help create a space where we can learn from one another, build connections, and explore new ways to support our libraries and communities.

If you have any questions, please contact the D&O Unconference Committee at njlado@njlamembers.org.