Exciting Speaker Lineup Revealed for ALA's 2025 Annual Conference in Philadelphia

American Library Association 2025 Annual Conference

The American Library Association (ALA) is set to host its monumental 2025 Annual Conference & Exhibition from June 26 to June 30 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This event promises to be a gathering of thousands of librarians, library staff, authors, educators, and publishers, marking it as one of the world's largest library events.

This year, the ALA has curated an impressive speaker lineup that will include prominent figures known for their advocacy for intellectual freedom and the literary arts. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear exclusive insights and narratives from their favorite authors.

Among the highlights is Gretchen Whitmer, the Governor of Michigan and New York Times bestselling author, who will lead the opening session. She'll discuss her book, "True Gretch: What I've Learned About Life, Leadership, and Everything in Between," which is particularly geared toward young adults and provides valuable life lessons to inspire the youth of today.

George Takei, the beloved actor and author, will also be featured during the conference. He will delve into his deeply personal memoir, "It Rhymes with Takei," where he shares his journey of coming out as gay at the age of 68 and the profound impact it had on his life.

The closing session will feature Geena Davis, a two-time Academy Award winner. She is set to present her book, "The Girl Who Was Too Big for the Page," which aims to empower children with large personalities and dreams, reassuring them that there's a place for their voices in the world.

The conference will also host other distinguished speakers, such as Dr. Brené Brown, a prominent researcher and speaker known for her work on vulnerability and courage; Angeline Boulley, who is gaining acclaim for her debut young adult thriller; and Grace Lin, a renowned children's author who celebrates cultural diversity and identity in her work. Among others, Joe Hill, the bestselling author of novels like “The Fireman,” and Thien Ho, the first Asian American District Attorney of Sacramento County, will contribute their unique perspectives.

Besides the exciting speakers, the conference will feature over 190 educational programs, 700 authors, and more than 650 exhibitors showcasing groundbreaking products and services. Attendees can look forward to the Library Marketplace, where they can engage with various publishers and authors through workshops and live events.

Moreover, the ALA JobLIST Placement and Career Development Center will provide tools and resources for networking and career growth, including mentorship opportunities, resume reviews, and workshops aimed at aiding professionals in the library sector.

As Cindy Hohl, the ALA President, notes, "At the heart of the ALA Annual Conference is a vibrant community of library professionals unified by a passion for knowledge and access. This event enables us to collaborate, tackle challenges, and fortify the crucial role libraries play in our society."

Philadelphia will serve as an exciting backdrop for this conference, offering attendees a chance to explore its rich history and vibrant culture during their visit.

For continuous updates and information regarding the ALA 2025 Annual Conference & Exhibition, follow the hashtag #ALAAC25 on social media platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

The ALA is committed to advocating for libraries and supporting professionals in the field. For more insights and resources, visit their official website at www.ala.org.

Stay informed, stay connected, and be ready for an unforgettable experience at the ALA Annual Conference!