American Indian Library Association

The 5th National Joint Conference of Librarians of Color (JCLC 2026) will be held with the theme 'Gathering at the Waters: Uplift | Encourage | Empower'. This conference is co-sponsored, planned, organized, promoted and presented by the five National Associations of Librarians of Color (NALCo). JCLC brings together a diverse group of librarians, library staff, library supporters, and community participants to explore issues of diversity in libraries and how they affect the communities of color that use library services. It offers an unparalleled opportunity for participants to share successes, opportunities, and challenges, network, and attend programs on pressing issues affecting librarians and communities of color. JCLC aims to deepen connections across constituencies, create spaces for dialogue, promote the telling and celebrating of stories, and encourage the transformation of libraries into more democratic and diverse organizations. The conference includes speakers, skills-building workshops, research-based panels, networking opportunities, and exhibits.