What's Happening?
The Children's Institute 2026 took place in Schaumburg, Illinois, from June 26 to 29, gathering over 600 attendees, including more than 350 children's booksellers from across the United States. The event featured a variety of activities such as keynotes,
parties, receptions, educational panels, and rep pick sessions. Notable moments included a costume contest won by T.C. Kemper, author of 'The Ginghams', and personalized illustrations by Sid Sharp during the Lunch Author Reception. The event also included a creative expression session for booksellers and a fundraising game organized by Binc, which raised $3,060 to support booksellers in need.
Why It's Important?
The Children's Institute serves as a crucial platform for networking and professional development among children's booksellers, authors, and publishers. It fosters community and collaboration within the industry, providing opportunities for booksellers to engage with new titles and authors. The event's success in drawing participants from diverse locations, including Alaska and Hawaii, underscores its national significance. Additionally, the fundraising efforts highlight the community's commitment to supporting its members, particularly those facing financial challenges.
What's Next?
The next Children's Institute is scheduled to take place in Albuquerque from June 10 to 14, 2027. This upcoming event will likely continue to build on the success of previous gatherings, offering more opportunities for booksellers to connect and collaborate. Participants can expect a similar mix of educational and social activities, along with new initiatives to further support the bookselling community.
