Public Library Association Conference Highlights Human Connection and Technological Challenges
The Public Library Association (PLA) conference took place in Minneapolis from April 1-3, 2026, attracting 6,410 registrants. The event focused on the importance of human connections and critical thinking in the face of advancing technology. Keynote speaker Ruha Benjamin emphasized the role of public librarians in safeguarding cognitive sovereignty and privacy. She highlighted the non-neutral nature of technology, which often reflects the values of its creators, and warned against a culture of surveillance. Benjamin proposed alternative interpretations of AI, such as 'Ancestral Intelligence' and 'Abundant Imagination,' urging attendees to rethink power dynamics and creativity in media consumption. The conference also featured discussions on civic literacy, advocacy, and the impact of technology on societal inequities. 
