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California Youth Summit 2026: Voices Rising:  The Future of Youth Services in Libraries 

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The California Library Association’s (CLA) Youth Services Interest Group (YSIG) Summit is back for its second conference this coming April 2026.

YSIG Logo: Text California Library Association Youth Services Interest Group, A child with blue pants, white socks, and black shoes is covered up mostly by a blue book with the letters "YSIG" printed along the book
California Library Association’s Youth Services Interest Group

Voices Rising: The Future of Youth Services in Libraries delves into the role of library staff as advocates for youth services, highlighting how their unique perspectives can drive meaningful change. By actively engaging with young patrons and understanding their needs, library professionals can develop innovative programs that foster creativity, exclusivity, and literacy. This theme encourages staff to collaborate with community stakeholders, ensuring that youth voices are not just heard but integrated into library planning and services. As advocates, librarians can leverage their expertise to influence policy decisions, secure funding, and promote awareness of the transformative power of youth-focused initiatives, ultimately creating a more vibrant and responsive library environment for future generations!

The previous Summit hosted by CLA YSIG took place in April 2024 in Huntington Beach, CA and hosted over 100 youth and teen librarian professionals learning from each other.

The April 15th & 16th, 2026 Summit will be held in Sacramento, CA: Voices Rising: The Future of Youth Services in Libraries. If you’re interested in presenting, please complete the Proposal Form by February 1st, 2026.

YSIG is currently setting up the Summit and is hoping to provided 50% off registration for those approved for presenting in April.

If you have further questions, please reach out to ysigcla @ gmail.com.

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