MLA ’26: Know Before You Go

Submitted by: Emily J. Glenn

MLA ’26 is almost here! Here’s what you need to know before you go, whether you are traveling to Milwaukee. Download the app or access the virtual portal to start planning your schedule. 

Your Health & Safety Are Our Priority 

As COVID-19 and this year’s flu strain continues to periodically surge, we recommend that everyone aged 6 months and older get COVID-19 and flu boosters. Staying up to date on vaccinations, seeking early testing and treatment, wearing masks, and improving ventilation indoors are all layers of protection you can choose to use to help reduce your risk of getting severely ill.  

Travel Information  

MLA ’25 will be held at Baird Center, 400 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from May 19–22, 2026, right in downtown Milwaukee.

Milwaukee is served by Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), located approximately 7 miles from downtown. Downtown Milwaukee is accessible via taxi, rideshare services, and public transportation.

If you are driving, parking is available throughout downtown Milwaukee, including near the Baird Center. Please check with your hotel for recommended parking options and rates.

Use our Milwaukee Transportation Guide for help. 

First Things First: Pick Up Your Badge 

Your first stop at MLA ’26 should be the Registration Center, located inside the Baird Center, where you can pick up your:

• Meeting Bag 
• Name Badge 
• Ribbons 

MLA ’26 Registration Center Hours

The Registration Center will be open during the following hours:

• Tuesday, May 19
  8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 20
  7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Thursday, May 21
  7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Friday, May 22
  7:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Exhibit Hall Hours

Connect with sponsors and vendors in the Hall of Exhibits. All times are listed in local central time (CT).

• Wednesday, May 20
  5:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Ribbon Cutting & Welcome Reception
• Thursday, May 21
  8:00 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
  4:15 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Friday, May 22
  8:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Be sure to explore the full range of resources, products, and services available in the Hall of Exhibits.

Traveling With Guests? 

All guests must check in at the Registration Center and may purchase a pass to the Hall of Exhibits or full meeting registration. Please inform us in advance if you plan to attend with children, and children will receive a complimentary badge.  

Please note: All children must be accompanied by a caregiver and children under 6 months may attend under the care of a “baby-wearing” caregiver or in a stroller; for the safety of children and other attendees, stroller-age children must remain in strollers when in the DLCC. Strollers are not allowed in the Hall of Exhibits. 

General Information & Reminders 

All attendees agree to abide by the MLA Statement of Appropriate Conduct. 

We recommend bringing layers as the convention center rooms can get cold and the weather is unpredictable. In addition, we suggest wearing comfortable shoes to walk around. The attire for this conference is business casual. The average temperature in Milwaukee during this time of year typically ranges from a high of 73°F to a low of 44°F.  

There will be plenty of opportunities to meet other attendees and expand your professional network. Bring plenty of business cards and prepare a brief introduction to make the most of your networking opportunities. Remember, all it takes is one conversation to transform your career.  

Milwaukee has a vibrant food, arts, and cultural scene, and many exciting attractions to explore while you’re in town for MLA ’26. Check out the Milwaukee Dining Guide, Packing List, and more MLA ’26 blogs for recommendations from the Local Assistance Committee (LAC) and National Program Committee (NPC). (Don’t miss out on the Milwaukee Library & Museum Guide and JRR Tolkien Collection Private Tour, offered only to MLA members who register!)

Wifi Zone 

Complimentary Wi‑Fi will be available throughout the Baird Center meeting spaces, including the Hall of Exhibits. Network details will also be shared onsite and in the conference app.

Network Name (SSID): MLA 2026 Annual Conference

Password (WPA2): MLA2026!

We hope this helps you enjoy your conference experience. See you there! 

Questions? Please email MLA ’26 Support. 

We look forward to seeing you in Milwaukee!

Emily J. Glenn, 2026 National Program Committee Cochair 

Shenita Peterson, 2026 National Program Committee Cochair