Full‑Day Symposium: Intellectual Freedom (Free Event)
When: April 16, 2026 • 10:00AM-3:00PM (MT)
Where: Lethbridge & District Exhibition Agri-Food Hub and Trade Centre
Hosted by: Library Association of Alberta (LAA) & The Alberta Library (TAL)

Join us for The Informed Library spring symposium, a full‑day learning experience dedicated to deepening understanding and strengthening practice around intellectual freedom in Alberta’s libraries. This free event welcomes library staff, trustees, students, and community partners who are navigating the increasingly complex conversations emerging in today’s information landscape.

This year’s symposium features a hands‑on workshop with James Turk, a national leader in intellectual freedom and academic expression. Through interactive learning, real examples, and facilitated discussion, James will guide participants in developing the knowledge and confidence needed to engage meaningfully with community members about intellectual freedom. He will also lead a practical session on how to craft, evaluate, and strengthen intellectual freedom policies that support transparent, values‑driven decision‑making in libraries of all sizes.

You’ll be part of a thoughtful and action‑oriented exploration of how libraries uphold the right to read, access information, and engage in open public dialogue.

During this full‑day symposium, you’ll:

• Learn strategies for having productive, trust‑building conversations with community members about intellectual freedom
• Explore real‑world scenarios involving challenges to materials, displays, and programming
• Work directly with James Turk to understand the components of strong intellectual freedom policies
• Practice drafting and refining policy language that aligns with your library’s mission and values
• Connect with library colleagues from across Alberta to share experiences and approaches

Enjoy complimentary coffee, a catered lunch, and time to network with colleagues throughout the day—supported by the Library Association of Alberta.

Upcoming Sessions in the Series

The Informed Library continues throughout spring 2026:

• April 2026 – Full‑Day Symposium: Intellectual Freedom
• May 2026 – Fireside Chat: Fundraising and Sustainability

More session details will be shared soon.

A big thank‑you to the Public Library Services Branch (PLSB) for supporting this free series and helping make these learning opportunities possible.