Special Attractions
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Enhance your conference experience and increase your connections with these special attractions in the Exhibits Hall!
PLA Dog Park
A conference favorite returns! Perk up at the PLA Dog Park. Visit us in the middle of the 1800/1900 aisles in the Exhibits Hall to enjoy some quality canine companionship with certified therapy dogs.​
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Dogs will be available:
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Wednesday, April 1, 3:00 PM–5:00 PM
Thursday, April 2, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM
Friday, April 3, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
PLA Lounge
The PLA Lounge, located in the Exhibits Hall, is a space for attendees to relax, charge their devices, learn more about PLA resources, and meet new friends! Staff from the American Library Association and members of the PLA Membership Advisory Group will be available to answer questions about membership and how to get involved. All times are Central Daylight Saving Time. The Lounge will be open to anyone during regular exhibits hours, with scheduled activities including:
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EDISJ Listening Session
Thursday, April 2, 2026, 9:00 AM–10:00 AM and 3:00 PM–4:00 PM
Facilitated by the PLA Committee on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice (EDISJ).
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Find a Lunch Buddy
Thursday, April 2, 2026, 10:00 AM–11:00 AM
Friday, April 3, 2026, 10:00 AM–11:00 AM
We know it can be hard traveling to conference solo. That's why we've dedicated a space and time, during the Exhibits Coffee Breaks, to help attendees meet new friends and future lunch buddies. If you're traveling as part of a group, we encourage you to meet up in the Lounge during this time and invite new friends along.
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"Get Loud for Libraries" Discussion Group
Thursday, April 2, 2026, 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Friday, April 3, 2026, 9:00 AM–10:00 AM
Facilitated by the PLA Advocacy and Strategic Partnerships Committee.
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Library Data Discussion
Thursday, April 2, 2026, 1:00 PM–2:00 PM
Facilitated by the PLA Measurement, Evaluation and Assessment Advisory Group.
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Knitting Circle
Thursday, April 2, 2026, 2:00 PM–3:00 PM
Friday, April 3, 2026, 1:00 PM–2:00 PM
Keep calm and carry yarn! This informal meet-up is the perfect opportunity to get together with fellow knitters to network or quietly unwind during a busy conference. Please note this is not a knitting class or instructor-led program. Materials will not be provided so please B.Y.O.Y.
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Leadership in Public Libraries Discussion
Friday, April 3, 2026, 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Facilitated by the PLA Leadership Advisory Committee.