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MLA 2026 ANNUAL CONFERENCE Special Events and sessions

Early Arrivals Welcome Reception

Tuesday, October 27 6:00 - 9:00 PM
The HUB Stadium
44325 W 12 Mile Rd, Ste H-160, Novi, MI 48377

Coming into town ahead of the conference? Join us Tuesday evening at the HUB Stadium! The $25 registration fee includes drink tickets and activities. Please plan to provide your own transportation.

Thank you to the Wayne State University School of Information Sciences for sponsoring this event!

New Attendee Welcome

Wednesday, October 28 9:30 - 10:30
Emerald Room

New to MLA or first time attending the conference? Join conference workgroup members and MLA leadership for a fun introductory session to learn how to make the most of your time in Lansing and get a change to meet fellow newcomers. Wednesday at 9:30 AM in the Emerald Room.

This event is limited to first time MLA attendees only.

TLN Field Trip

Wednesday, October 28 4:30 - 6:00 PM
The Library Network
41365 Vincenti Ct, Novi, MI 48375

Take a quick trip over to The Library Network (TLN) for a walk-through of their facilities and a look at their delivery sorting machine. TLN is just a few minutes from the conference venue. Transportation is not provided, so attendees are encouraged to carpool with a friend. 

Conference Book Club Meet-Up

Wednesday, October 28 4:45 - 5:30 PM
Copper Room

Did you read one of our keynote speakers' books before Annual Conference? Connect with fellow attendees for an informal conversation about the books and ideas from keynote speakers Ghassan Zeineddine and John U. Bacon. Whether you came ready to discuss your favorite parts or just want to hear what others thought, stop by and join the conversation.

MLA Mentorship Program Panel

Wednesday, October 28 4:45 - 5:30 PM
Pearl Room

Join current and past participants to learn more about MLA's Mentorship Program as they discuss their experiences and perspectives on mentorship, work, and community.

MLA Board-Curious Informational Session

Wednesday, October 28 4:45 - 5:30 PM
Gold Room

Interested in serving on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Library Association? Join members of the MLA Nominating Committee for an informal discussion on the roles and responsibilities of serving on the Board.

Michigan Library Awards Ceremony and Dinner

Wednesday, October 28 6:30 - 9:00 PM
Vibe Credit Union Showplace
Crystal/Onyx Room

Join the Michigan library community for an evening of celebration, including dinner and an awards show featuring host and emcee, Ozay Moore. Plan to don your best business dressy attire (ball gowns and tuxedos are NOT required), and join us for dinner and a show as we celebrate the accomplishments, dedication and service of outstanding libraries, library staff, trustees and supporters.

This event is free to attend for Wednesday conference attendees or tickets can be purchased as an a la carte event. Pre-registration is required. Learn more about the Michigan Library Awards.

AtoZ Spelling Bee

Thursday, October 29 12:00 - 1:15 PM
Crystal-Onyx Room

Think you've got what it takes to be crowned MLA's Queen Bee? Put your vocabulary to the test at our Adult Spelling Bee during lunch! Whether you're a spelling superstar or just here for the laughs, join us for some friendly competition, tricky words, and plenty of fun.

Thank you to AtoZ Databases for sponsoring the all-conference lunch!

Reception at the Novi Public Library

Thursday, October 29 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Novi Public Library
45255 W 10 Mile Rd, Novi, MI 48375

Connect with your statewide colleagues at the Library of Michigan. The reception will feature a DJ spinning the tunes, delicious food and drinks, and a variety of activities courtesy of the Novi Public Library. A shuttle will be provided between the library and the Hyatt Place Novi Hotel at the conference venue, or you can drive yourself. Parking is free in the library’s lot!

Transportation to this event will pick up at the Hyatt Hotel entrance. Buses run until 8:45 PM.

Headshot Photography Studio

Wednesday, October 28 12:30 - 4:30 PM
Jade Room

Are you in need of a new (or first!) professional headshot? MLA has partnered with a local photographer offer complimentary headshots to conference attendees.

Thank you to Fast Forward Libraries for sponsoring this event!

Silent Auction

Vendors and attendees are asked for donations of any kind to this auction: library bling, vendor give-a-ways, new books, posters, a weekend stay in a fabulous location, anything which could either stand alone as an auction item or could be combined with other items to make a great gift basket! Proceeds from the auction will benefit MLA’s Educational Scholarship Fund. Bidding closes at 3:00 PM on Thursday, and items must be picked up Friday morning at the conference registration desk.