ABOS Annual Conference

Each year we offer a unique conference that is completely focused on Outreach Services.
Library staff and advocates are welcomed to join us as this conference
designed with practicality and the understanding that professional development
and networking are essential parts of your success. 

2026 ABOS Annual Conference

When:        October 12 -14, 2026

Location:  Hyatt Regency Columbus
                           350 N High Street
          Columbus, Ohio 43240

About the Conference

#ABOS2026 is the conference for Outreach Services. Our conference planners and presenters understand the constraints of serving community members beyond the physical walls of the library, as well as the unique opportunities for innovation and collaboration within communities. Our conference is packed full of information you can take right back to serve your communities through Outreach Services.

Vendors and Sponsors

Our annual conference is made possible through the support and generosity of our Vendors and Sponsors. These individuals and companies work directly with outreach services staff, and are a vital part in the success as individual outreach programs and our organization. Click here to learn more about our Vendors and Sponsors.

Outreach services are some of the most critical, creative, innovative, and community-centered work happening in libraries today. We invite you to submit proposals for Preconference Workshops and Conference Sessions for the 2026 ABOS Annual Conference in Columbus, Ohio, October 12-14, 2026.

We are seeking proposals on all topics related to outreach and engagement, including mobile library units, bookmobiles, book bikes, pop-up libraries, services beyond library walls, partnerships, accessibility, equity, and creative approaches to reaching underserved communities. From hands-on how-to sessions to big-picture explorations of the evolving outreach landscape, we want to hear about your programs, services, and successes, and your lessons learned.

Proposals will be accepted soon, and the link will be posted here. 

ABOS Awards & Scholarship

More information coming soon.

Conference Registration Dates   

More information coming soon.

Conference Registration Rates 

More information coming soon.

      Room Rate            $198 + Taxes/Fees (Single and Double Rooms Available)

Travel Information

If you will be arriving to the conference by air, the nearest airport is the John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH). The airport is located 8 miles to the hotel, approximately 15 minutes travel time. There is not a hotel shuttle from the airport. Ride share services or taxi are available. 

Outreach Vehicles on Display

If you are interested in having your outreach vehicle on display at the Conference, click here to email the following information - where you area located, the year/type of vehicle you are looking display, and the manufacturer.

Conference Schedule 

More information coming soon.

Conference Booklet

More information coming soon.

Check back often for more conference updates.

Continuing Education Units

As each state sets its own requirements for Continuing Education Certification, we are unable to offer credit or certificates. We recommend you visit your state library’s website for information on obtaining credit for national conferences. We also strongly suggest that you keep a copy of your registration receipt, conference program, and a list of sessions you attend as proof of your attendance.

Future Conferences

Click here to learn more about the locations of future conferences.

Past Conferences

Coming Soon - learn more about the locations of past conferences.