Legacy is a charged word. Reductively, it refers to the things— tangible and not— that we inherit from our predecessors. Our history, as a country and libraries as an institution, is tightly intertwined with the legacy of colonialism and its pervasiveness is seen within the systems we operate in.
However, as library professionals, we strive to challenge and expand what librarians and libraries represent. We build collectives to tackle challenges together and it is through our collective work, both acts big and small, that we uplift each other and the comunities we serve. Together, we define our legacy to be one of community and empowerment.
REFORMA Northeast invites librarians of all types, LIS professionals, and community partners to submit proposals for the 2026 Joint Mini-Conference, a gathering dedicated to reflection, resilience, and collective action.
This year’s theme challenges us to define the legacy we’re building — through advocacy, adaptability, and our unwavering commitment to community.
We welcome proposals that explore:
Innovative library services and programs
Crisis response and recovery efforts
Equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging
Uplifting multilingual communities and communities of color
Building community partnerships
Professional resilience and leadership
Culturally responsive practices
Case studies, creative outreach, or policy work
Presentation Format
Presentations will run approximately 20 minutes, followed by Q&A
Presenters may use slide decks, video clips, or other media
Presentations are expected to be delivered in person
Time slots will be finalized with the full program schedule
Submission Guidelines
Proposals, presentations, and papers must be written and delivered in English. Proposal should include:
Title of the presentation
Name, title, institutional affiliation, and full contact information (including a valid email address) for each presenter
A short biographical profile of each presenter and a professional photograph for public relations and publication on the Joint Mini-Conference (JMC) website and other conference-related materials.
Abstract of 300-500 words
Proposals should be submitted electronically via this Google Form: https://forms.gle/KJFQP8Qv7uT1CiCF6
Presenter Expectations
Before the conference, presenters will be asked to share their presentations with the Committee so they can be published on the RNE website. We invite you to view previous presentations listed on the RNE website.
All types of national and international library workers and those from the LIS community are welcome to submit a proposal.
We deeply value the time and expertise of our speakers. As this is a self-funded opportunity, we kindly ask that speakers cover their own travel and related expenses.
Submissions Open: October 3, 2025
Submission Deadline: November 7, 2025
Notifications: November 24, 2025
Date: May 15, 2025 (Backup June 5, 2025)
Program: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Conference venue to be confirmed.