2026 HLA Conference

Two keynote presentations exploring artificial intelligence and its implications for information professionals.

https://2026hlaconference.weebly.com/keynotes.html

Sharing the Supreme Court Law Library’s experience with providing access to legal information for a marginalized and overlooked population.

The future doesn't arrive all at once. It arrives as signals, trends, and quiet shifts that, if we're not paying attention, can leave us and our communities behind. This interactive session aims to equip information professionals with a practical toolkit to help them scan the horizon, clarify their professional direction, and communicate their vision to stakeholders.

Drawing on the Cone of Plausibility model and the STEEP framework (Social, Technological, Economic, Environmental, Political), participants will analyze emerging trends through multiple lenses. Attendees will practice applying STEEP to real trends, draft a personal "Compass Statement" grounded in their professional values, and build a "Beacon": a message that translates their vision into language that funders, patrons, and colleagues can understand and follow.

Attendees will leave with tools they can use immediately and a framework they can bring back to their teams.

Two keynote presentations about fundraising, budgets, and sustaining Hawaiʻi’s information and cultural organizations.

https://2026hlaconference.weebly.com/keynotes.html

As we continue to experience divided communities and people who believe every conversation is win or lose, our libraries face the challenge of creating space for everyone. Join us for this interactive session to talk about the power of language and strategies for us to continue to be democratic spaces for all.

Children’s and Teen Librarians, grow your network of knowledge and let’s share with each other! Come prepared to talk about and share your favorite or recent programs, displays, and ideas! Got a question or want some feedback from your colleagues? Ask away!  

This talk-story is perfect for librarians, library staff, or students looking to brainstorm, make new connections, or learn something new.
NOTE: To create a safe space for discussion and participation of attendees, this session will NOT be recorded. Mahalo for your understanding. 

While storytimes are an integral component of library programming that supports early literacy development, learning does not have to be confined to a scheduled program. Thoughtfully designed hands-on learning stations can extend literacy and development experiences throughout the day, inviting children and caregivers to explore, play, and learn together at their own pace.

This session explores how low-cost, self-directed learning stations can intentionally reinforce early literacy, fine motor development, language, STEM concepts, sensory exploration, and imaginative play while requiring minimal staff facilitation. Through real-world examples, participants will discover how to connect monthly themes and library collections with engaging, developmentally appropriate activities that encourage independent exploration and meaningful caregiver-child interaction. Attendees will leave with practical ideas for creating adaptable learning stations that support young learners in a variety of library settings.