Learning Across Generations at PLA 2026
AI, Teen Workforce Development, and Culinary Literacy in Public Libraries
Attending PLA 2026 provided valuable opportunities to explore new ideas for programming, community engagement, and lifelong learning in public libraries. As the director of a small rural library, I especially appreciated sessions that offered practical strategies that could be adapted for smaller communities with limited resources.
One session that stood out to me focused on AI-powered book clubs and digital literacy programming for older adults. The presenters shared how a small public library developed a program that combined traditional book discussions with hands-on experiences using generative AI tools. Participants used AI to explore book themes, ask questions, and connect stories to current events and broader issues.
What I found especially valuable was the way the program used technology to encourage discussions about banned books, intellectual freedom, misinformation, and media literacy, while also helping older adults build confidence using new tools in a welcoming and supportive environment.
The session provided practical ideas for creating similar programs, including facilitation strategies, technology recommendations, and activities that connect literature, technology, and community learning. It reinforced how libraries can support lifelong learning while reducing barriers to technology use for older adults.
Another memorable session was Teens Lead Internship: Building a Sustainable Future for Libraries, presented by staff from Neuse Regional Libraries. The session highlighted a paid internship program designed to provide high school students with meaningful work experience while helping library staff better reflect the communities they serve.
The program partners with local schools to connect teens with library work experiences, community service opportunities, life skills training, and entrepreneurship education. Participants also complete a capstone literacy project that allows them to apply their skills in creative and practical ways.
I found this session particularly inspiring because it demonstrated how libraries can support workforce development while building stronger relationships with schools, teens, and families. The program also helps students develop practical skills in areas such as communication, customer service, teamwork, organization, and graphic design.
Our library is interested in exploring similar opportunities because programs like this could provide important experiences for local teens while strengthening community connections.
The conference Closing Session with Chef Sean Sherman was another highlight of my PLA experience. Sherman discussed his work revitalizing Indigenous food systems and promoting Native food sovereignty through organizations such as North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems (NATIFS) and the Indigenous Food Lab.
I was especially interested in how the session connected food to history, culture, sustainability, health, and community learning. Sherman’s work demonstrates how food programming can preserve cultural traditions while also addressing larger issues such as health disparities and economic development.
The session also introduced attendees to Sherman’s books, including The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen and Turtle Island: Foods and Traditions of the Indigenous Peoples of North America, which explore Indigenous ingredients, cooking methods, and food traditions in contemporary contexts.
This session resonated with me because culinary literacy, including cooking and gardening programs, is an area our library hopes to expand in the future. The presentation demonstrated how food-centered programming can teach literacy, cultural awareness, healthy living, and practical skills while bringing community members together.
I am deeply grateful to have received the PLA Travel Scholarship. Our library serves a small community of approximately 2,600 residents, and funding for conferences is simply not available. This scholarship provided an invaluable opportunity to learn, grow professionally, and bring new ideas back to our library and regional cooperative.
The knowledge and inspiration I gained at PLA 2026 will directly inform future programs and services for our patrons, and I am thankful for the opportunity to share what I learned with others in my community
Tags: pla2026
