Library convention brings 750 to area

HURON TWP. — This week, the Ohio Library Council will welcome more than 750 people to the Sandusky area for its convention and expo at the local Kalahari Resorts & Conventions. The three-day event, which began Wednesday and spans through Friday, will feature educational sessions, exhibits, author presentations and opportunities to celebrate the people and organizations advancing Ohio's public libraries. "We're excited to bring Ohio's library community together in Sandusky for three days of learning, collaboration and celebration," council executive director Michelle Francis said. "Our convention and expo gives library professionals the opportunity to exchange ideas, discover new resources and build connections that help them better serve their communities," Francis added. "We're also pleased to welcome attendees to Kalahari and encourage them to explore the restaurants and attractions that make Sandusky a great place to visit." The council also recognized the profession's outstanding achievements during a special awards ceremony on Wednesday. It honored this year's hall of fame librarian and other award recipients. The list of honorees is available at members.olc.org/news. More than 80 vendors from across the country will showcase the latest products, technologies and services designed to support libraries and the communities they serve. Dozens of educational sessions will explore how libraries support their communities in a variety of ways: from fostering early literacy and lifelong learning to providing access to technology, digital resources and reliable information. Sessions will also highlight libraries' roles in connecting people with jobs and workforce training, supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs and preserving local history. The convention and expo will also feature a timely panel discussion on the role of public libraries and journalism in helping people access reliable information. As misinformation, artificial intelligence and changing media habits reshape how people discover and consume news, the panelists will explore how libraries and newsrooms help people identify credible sources and make informed decisions. The full schedule is available at olc.org/2026-convention-expo.