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Continuing Education
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About ILOC

ILOC started as a virtual conference in 2008 as a way for Iowa librarians to stay connected during the winter months when travel gets difficult. Initially designed for small libraries, today institutions of all sizes can find something of value on the program.

Held each January, ILOC is a free all day virtual conference for Iowa librarians and board members. ILOC features keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and a special evening session for library board members, all geared towards an overall theme. 

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2027 ILOC Conference

The 2027 Iowa Libraries Online Conference will take place on January 28, 2027. This year's theme of The Next Big Idea invites us to look ahead and rethink what’s possible for libraries in a changing landscape. As priorities, resources, and community needs evolve, the next big idea may be less about adding something new and more about finding different ways to use what we already have. Breakout sessions will explore innovative service models, creative approaches to library spaces, ways to maximize the impact of programming, and possibilities for strengthening partnerships and collaboration. 

ILOC 2027 is an opportunity to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and share responses to the challenges ahead. Together, let’s discover The Next Big Idea. 

Subscribe to the Continuing Education Newsletter to stay up-to-date with all of the recent ILOC announcements!

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Submit a Proposal

Iowa library staff and trustee proposals will be given preference, but anyone outside the state may also submit. Ideas for presentation topics may include: 

  • innovative service models
  • creative approaches to library spaces
  • ways to maximize the impact of programming
  • possibilities for strengthening partnerships and collaboration
  • sharing resources or staff with other libraries
  • working together with other city departments
  • harnessing technology for library betterment
  • any library practice or service that you think is beneficial for other librarians to learn and imitate!

ILOC Proposal Application

Please complete the 2027 ILOC Proposal Application by December 2, 2026.  Selected presenters will be notified mid-December. 


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ILOC Recordings

Institute of Museum and Library Services logo

Funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services

This program or resource is made possible in part by the IMLS under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the State Library of Iowa.

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