***BEFORE YOU REGISTER FOR THIS ON-DEMAND WEBINAR PLEASE REVIEW IMPORTANT REGISTRATION INFORMATION BELOW***
A PLA 2026 Virtual Conference On-Demand Webinar
This on-demand webinar explores artful and subtle strategies librarians use to uphold intellectual freedom and access, from overt examples like the 1939 Alexandria Library sit-in to more behind-the-scenes methods like inclusive cataloging and strategic marketing. Using the mathematics of game theory, we examine the various outcomes of acquiescence versus action, equipping participants to defend the values of librarianship into their daily work while navigating institutional and personal stakes.
Recorded live during the PLA 2026 Virtual Conference, April 1–3, 2026.
Learning Outcomes
At the conclusion of this on-demand webinar, participants will be able to:
- Describe the Volunteer’s Dilemma and apply it to real-world library advocacy scenarios by evaluating the risks and benefits of individual versus collective action;
- Evaluate their library's current practices and identify at least one modification to eliminate barriers to access and create truly welcoming spaces for EVERYONE; and
- Build confidence to create new collaborations with community organizations and inspire develop joint mutual aid initiatives.
Who Should Attend
This on-demand webinar is intended for any public library worker wishing to sample the educational offerings of the PLA 2026 Virtual Conference.
If you were registered for the PLA 2026 Virtual Conference, or were an in-person full-conference registrant who purchased the Virtual Conference add-on, then you already have access to this recording in the online Conference console until July 3, 2026.
Panelists
Clayton Cheever has over two decades in libraries, serving in roles from teen librarian to IT head, project manager, and now director of the Morrill Memorial Library in Norwood. He brings deep experience in public service, community organizing, and board leadership. A champion of intellectual freedom and social justice, he helps shape key conference programming and mentoring through MLS, MLA and regional leadership initiatives. He is currently the Vice-President / President-Elect of the Minuteman Library Network, Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Library Association Intellectual Freedom and Social Responsibility Committee, and a Board Member of the Massachusetts Library System.
Allyson Malik holds an MLS from the University of Maryland and has nearly two decades of library experience. As director of a small rural library and President of the Massachusetts Library System Executive Board, she champions equitable access and intellectual freedom. A graduate leadership cohorts in both Maryland and New England, Allyson brings a collaborative, human-centered approach to library service, grounded in the Mass Library System slogan that we are all Stronger Together.
Important Registration Information
Log into or create your ALA eLearning account
An ALA eLearning account is required to register. Don’t have an account? Create one for free by going to the “Log in” menu located at the top right corner of your screen. No membership is required to create the account.
Redeem your signup code to complete your registration
Once you’ve registered for this on-demand webinar, a signup code will be added to your ALA eLearning account and emailed to you. Find the signup code on your signup code page, then redeem it on your account’s dashboard to complete your enrollment in this on-demand webinar.
- Need to purchase registration on behalf of a colleague?
- Need to register a group of 3 or more?
- Need to register with a purchase order?
Review the ALA eLearning FAQ if you need more information.
Accommodations
This on-demand webinar is closed captioned in English (United States).
If you have a physical or communication need that may affect your access to this on-demand webinar, please contact us at plawebinars@ala.org or 800-545-2433 ext. 5PLA (5752) prior to registering so we can attempt to provide appropriate accommodations.
Tech Requirements
To play this on-demand webinar you should use a browser with native HTML5 support. Please use the most up-to-date version available of Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, or Edge. A fast Internet connection and computer is recommended.
Contact
This webinar is presented by the Public Library Association (PLA), a division of the American Library Association (ALA).
If you have questions or problems accessing a recording, send a message to plawebinars@ala.org or call 800-545-2433 ext. 5PLA (5752).
