2020 Annual Conference

When the first stay-at-home orders took effect in Illinois, it seemed impossible to believe that things wouldn't be back to normal by Annual Conference in October. But as time went on it became clear that this year’s committee would have to rethink our plans to meet together in Springfield. The thought that we would not be able to meet in person seemed almost incomprehensible. Yet, not unprecedented. The very first issue of Illinois Libraries, from 1919, notes that the annual statewide meeting would be cancelled due to the influenza outbreak, replaced by a series of smaller regional meetings. Who could have imagined that a century later the Illinois library community would find itself facing a similar dilemma. Much like we did in 1919, we adapted. Instead of gathering in one location, this year, we'll convene online, network electronically in real time, and visit exhibits in a virtual marketplace. While the way we meet has changed, what hasn't changed is the array of high-quality topics and content you've come to expect.

In addition to our featured programs, you'll have an opportunity to attend a combination of live and recorded sessions, visit your favorite exhibitors at their virtual "booths," and celebrate the ILA Award Winners on the closing evening.

In times of uncertainty, it is comforting to know that we are not alone. From large university libraries to one-person special libraries, from sprawling urban systems to rural one room storefronts, come what may, we are in it together. We are resilient, and we are strong. Many Libraries, One State: We ARE ILA.

Program Schedule & Handouts