National Institute 2026

In coordination with the celebration of the Sibert Award's 25th anniversary, this session will focus on how nonfiction books invite curiosity, inspire inquiry, and support literacy and pleasure reading. Attendees will learn how to evaluate nonfiction, develop strong collections, promote nonfiction in their libraries, and connect readers with quality nonfiction texts. The program will also highlight how to organize and facilitate a Sibert Smackdown or Mock Sibert program. Participants will leave with ideas and tools to elevate nonfiction in school and public libraries.