NCAAL XII Conference Highlights

• July 24–27, 2024
• New Orleans, Louisiana

Hosted by the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA), the 12th National Conference of African American Librarians (NCAAL XII) brought together librarians, educators, students, researchers, and information professionals from across the nation to celebrate culture, foster collaboration, and advance excellence in library and information services.

Conference Overview

NCAAL XII embraced the theme:

Culture Keepers XII: Unity in Diversity – Stronger Together in the African Diaspora

The conference provided a platform for exploring cultural preservation, diversity, equity, inclusion, leadership development, and innovative approaches to library service. Attendees engaged in meaningful discussions, shared best practices, and strengthened professional networks dedicated to serving African American communities and the broader African Diaspora.

Conference Recap Video

Relive the highlights of NCAAL XII and experience the energy, connections, learning opportunities, and memorable moments that defined the conference.

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Featured Speakers

Program Highlights

NCAAL XII featured a wide range of educational sessions, workshops, and discussions focused on advancing library and information services.

Key Topics Included

• Advocacy and Marketing
• Assessment and Evaluation
• Black Consciousness Principles
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Emerging Technologies and AI
• Health Information Services
• Information and Financial Literacy
• International Relations Across the African Diaspora
• Leadership and Management
• Youth and Library Services
• Outreach and Community Engagement
• Transforming Library Spaces

Signature Conference Events

Highlights included:

• Pre-Conference activity.
• The Kick-off – Opening Plenary Session featuring a nationally known keynote speaker (Thursday).
• Exhibits Grand Opening, 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Thursday).
• Explore – Resources, tools, authors, and local artisans with our exhibits (Thursday- Saturday).
• Exhibits Closing Reception, 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Saturday).

Conference Attendance & Impact

NCAAL XII welcomed:

• Library professionals
• Academic librarians
• Public librarians
• School librarians
• Information specialists
• Library science students
• Community advocates

The conference also featured exhibitors, publishers, educational organizations, nonprofit partners, and vendors committed to supporting library services and professional development.

Conference Location

New Orleans Marriott Hotel

New Orleans, Louisiana

The conference was hosted at the New Orleans Marriott, located near Canal Street, Jackson Square, the French Market, and many of the city’s historic cultural attractions.

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NCAAL Legacy

For more than five decades, the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) has championed the development, promotion, and advancement of library services and resources for African American communities. NCAAL remains a cornerstone event dedicated to professional growth, collaboration, advocacy, and excellence in librarianship.