Submitted by: Emily J. Glenn

We’re excited to share an early glimpse into what’s coming for MLA ’26, taking place May 19 – 22, 2026, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin! This year’s theme, “Cultured Collaborations,” highlights the transformational partnerships and evolutions of the health sciences community.

Registration and the official hotel room block are now open for MLA ’26! Take advantage of early bird registration rates through April 10, 2026.

Please beware of unauthorized hotel solicitations. All reservations must be made through the official room block on MLANET. If you are contacted by other third-party companies, do not respond or share your information.

What to Expect at MLA ‘26

MLA ’26 offers informative sessions to engage with like-minded peers, spark new connections, and gain insights from innovative leaders in the health information profession. Download the preliminary program for what to expect in Milwaukee.

In-Person Continuing Education Opportunities

Don’t miss out on in-person learning opportunities to earn MLA Continuing Education (CE) credits. All courses will take place in Milwaukee on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. You may register for an individual course or add on to your conference registration.

Don’t wait to register, space is limited for each course. This year, we’re offering:

• CE100: Essential Searching Skills for Librarians on Systematic Review Teams
• CE101: Generative AI in Action: Practical Strategies for Medical and Health Sciences Libraries
• CE400: Grant Writing for Librarians

Keynote Presentations from Industry Leaders

The 2026 National Program Committee (NPC) has invited Gabriel T. Bosslet, MD, to speak for the John P. McGovern Lecture. Bosslet is Professor of Clinical Medicine in the Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Occupational Medicine and is Assistant Dean for Faculty Affairs and Professional Development at Indiana University School of Medicine.

We’re excited to announce Shannon D. Jones, EdD, M.Ed, MLS, AHIP, FMLA, and past MLA president, as the Janet Doe Lecture award recipient for 2026.  Jones is the director of Libraries and serves as chair of the Academic Affairs Faculty for the Medical University of South Carolina.

Symposia Sessions with Invited Speakers and Panelists

MLA ’26 will continue to offer three symposia tracks featuring sessions on:

• Collection Development
• Data Management & Services
• Leadership & Management (sponsored by Elsevier)

Contributed Content from Members and Attendees

This year, we’ve accepted 14 immersion sessions and 100 papers out of over 180 submissions just for Round 1 of contributed content. The Contributed Content Working Group (CCWG) is currently working through Round 2 submissions for lightning talks and posters and will have more content to share soon.

Membership Activities

Make the most of your MLA membership! Find your professional home by connecting with your colleagues at the conference. Whether it’s your first time joining the New Members and First-Time Attendees Breakfast or getting career advice or workshopping your resume or stopping by the MLA Connections booth, there’s something for everyone.

Networking Opportunities with Sponsors and Exhibitors

Connect with industry partners and vendors in the Hall of Exhibits, featuring the latest technology and services for health information professionals. A big thank you to our sponsors and exhibitors that help make our annual conference possible. Check the MLA ’26 Hall of Exhibits floor plan for the most recent list of exhibitors.

Start Planning Your MLA ’26 Experience

Use the Make Your Case to Attend worksheet to plan your registration.

Remember, MLA members save more! Join MLA to maximize your savings, including discounts on conference registration and continuing education. Institutional memberships and registration rates are available for groups.

We can’t wait to see you in Milwaukee!