The Programming Committee will consider proposals based on the following criteria:

• Is based on or supported by research or data

• Contains new and timely ideas

• Demonstrates applications to the work of individuals involved in the Library and Information Science (LIS) field

• Addresses the intersectionality of librarians and the Latino/x/é and Spanish-speaking public

• Uses approaches for different types of learners

• Encourages opportunities for learner engagement

• Connection/relationship to the theme: “Every Voice Carries: Identity, Language, and Strength in Library Spaces”

Preconference Session  (180-240 minutes) This extended session on Thursday allows for a deep dive into a specific topic, blending presentations, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities. Designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the subject, this format includes expert-led segments, collaborative group work, and practical exercises. Attendees will have ample opportunities to engage with presenters and peers, ask questions, and gain actionable insights.

Breakout Session (Workshops, Panels) (50 minutes) General presentations may cover a specialized topic from different perspectives or a general topic in-depth. The presentation may be by an individual, group, or panel.

Breakout Session (Fishbowls, Hackathons, etc.)  (50 minutes)

• Hackathon: A collaborative, hands-on session where participants work in small groups to brainstorm and experiment with creative solutions to a shared challenge. The emphasis is on exchanging ideas and producing new approaches or prototypes in a short period of time.

• Fishbowl: An interactive discussion format in which a small group of participants engages in a conversation at the center of the room while others listen and observe. Audience members can join the conversation, often by taking an open seat in the “fishbowl,” creating a dynamic exchange of perspectives and ideas.

Poster Presentations Poster presentations provide an excellent opportunity to connect with a diverse group of professional colleagues. They can focus on a variety of topics, including but not limited to, library projects and programs, research studies, emerging trends, and problem-solving analyses. Presenters are required to design visually engaging materials and should be prepared to engage in discussions about their work with conference attendees.

Interactive Installation/Exhibition  (50 minutes) We can provide a space for learning, reflection, and relationship-building through installations or exhibitions. We encourage proposers to think creatively.

The 2027 REFORMA National Conference Program Committee has selected the following program tracks. The track descriptions should be read carefully before completing the proposal form, as you will be asked to select the track that best applies to your proposal (you may select up to two). Examples are provided to stimulate ideas and are not meant to exclude any potential program concepts.

Track A:  Reference, Collections & Resources Development

• Development and maintenance of Latino/x/é and Spanish language collections

• Establishment and preservation of Latino/x/é archives or digital repositories

• Latino/x/é research collections

• Use of cataloging, subject headings, controlled vocabulary, and service to benefit access to Latino/x/é or Spanish language collections

• Inquiry and provision of resources 

Track B:  Diversity, Accessibility, Equity & Intersectionality

• Exploring critical analysis and the intersections of power, multiple identities, and subjectivities

• Identifying and addressing bias, and microaggressions, and systemic/institutional oppressions in the workplace or in library services

• Examining best practices and model workplace programs with respect to gender, sexuality, (dis)ability, age, religion, race, class, ability, nationality, native languages, and multiculturalism

• Sharing and Preserving Traditional Knowledge Across Cultural Groups 

• Accessibility

Track C:  Leadership & Management in Libraries

• Training, Mentorship, and Growth Opportunities for Staff

• Navigating recruitment and retention challenges

• Transforming organizational culture

• Leadership approaches in libraries

Track D:  Library & Information Studies Education

• Research relevant to pedagogical practices in LIS

• Current trends and issues in LIS Education

• Recruitment and retention of Latino/x/é to LIS programs

• Developing Culturally Competent and Inclusive LIS Curricula

Track E:  Community-Centered Programs & Services 

• Bilingual programming for children, teens, and adults

• Designing cultural programs that reflect community diversity

• Creating community programs that promote environmental literacy, sustainability, and climate action tailored to the needs and interests of Latino/x/é audiences.

• Innovative reference services and information literacy programs

• Development of services for diverse populations: Disabled, elderly, undocumented immigrants, and refugees

Track F:  Technology & Innovation

• Teaching emerging technologies to the staff and the public

• Exploring digital repositories and digitization practices

• Implementing social media and networking tools

• Expanding usage of e-books, mobile devices, and online learning

Track G:  Community Engagement, Outreach, & Advocacy

• Collaborations or outreach programming with underserved communities 

• Enhancing library spaces to boost circulation, program attendance, and community health

• Educating or amplifying communities on relevant topics such as health, education or immigration reform

• Successful marketing strategies for library promotion

• Advocacy roles and policy considerations for libraries

• Enhancing user experiences

Track H:  Health & Wellness

• Practical Wellness Activities: Meditation, Zumba, Sunbathing sessions and More 

• Strategies for Workplace Wellness, Evaluation, and Awareness

• Addressing mental health challenges faced by community members

• Supporting healthy work-life balance for library staff

Track I: Introduction to RFEFORMA

• Exploring REFORMA’s history and foundational mission

• Understanding the legacy of REFORMA in advancing library services for Latinx and Spanish-Speaking communities

• Benefits of REFORMA Membership and How to Get Involved

• Networking opportunities and professional development within REFORMA

• Opportunities to Volunteer and Make an Impact through REFORMA Programs

Track J: The Arts

• Oral traditions, spoken word, and storytelling

• Arts-based community engagement and participatory art-making

• Engaging visual and performing artists and community partners 

• Exhibitions, installations, murals, and creative library spaces

• Art as a tool for justice and civic engagement

• Writing circles and poetry performances

• Interactive workshops, demonstrations, performances, and creative experiences

Before you submit your online proposal, prepare the following information:

Program Format (Select one of the following)
Preconference Session  (180-240 minutes)

  Breakout Session (50 minutes)
Workshops
Panels
Fishbowls
Hackathons 
Interactive Installation/Exhibition
Poster Presentations 

• 
  Program Title (32 word maximum)

• 
  Descriptive Abstract (80 word maximum)

  • Please provide a short descriptive abstract for your program in 80 words or less. This is the language that will appear in the conference catalogue.

• 
  Program Synopsis (400 word maximum)

  • Please provide a detailed program synopsis in 400 words or less, including topics covered and the format of the presentation (such as a workshop, panel, fishbowl, exhibition, etc or other). Please describe how your presentation will be supported by lived experience, practice, research, and/or data demonstrate applications to the work of participants, address the intersectionality of librarians and the Latino/x/é and Spanish-speaking public, use approaches for different types of learners, and encourage opportunities for learner engagement. The abstract should make clear the relevance to the conference theme “Every Voice Carries: Identity, Language, and Strength in Library Spaces”

• 
  Three Learning Outcomes (100 word maximum)

• Presenter Information (Please provide the following information for each presenter.  Each program proposal may have up to six presenters.)

  • Organizational affiliation 

  • Country

  • Position Title

  • Phone Number

  • (The name and email address that you provide for your Ex Ordo profile will be used for your submission.)

• 
  Program Tracks (Select up to two of the following)

  • Reference, Collections, & Resource Development

  • Diversity, Accessibility, Equity & Intersectionality

  • Leadership & Management in Libraries

  • Library & Information Studies Education

  • Community-Centered Programs & Services

  • Technology & Innovation

  • Community Engagement, Outreach, and Advocacy

  • Health & Wellness

  • Introduction to REFORMA
    Arts

• Target audience (Select all that apply)

  • Academic Librarians

  • Archivists

  • Children or Teen Librarians

  • General Audience

  • International Librarians

  • Library & Information Studies Students and Faculty

  • Public Librarians & Staff

  • School Librarians

  • Special Librarians

  • Other 

Language (Please select the language in which your program will be presented.)
Spanish

English
Bilingual

What technologies would best support your presentation?
  Microphone
  Screen/Projector
Other

Although preferences cannot be guaranteed, please let us know
your preferred presentation day
Thursday (pre-conference only)
Friday
Saturday
Sunday