The Utah Valley University Forum on Engaged Reading invites educators, librarians,
literacy advocates, and reading enthusiasts to submit proposals for the 2026 For the Love of Reading Conference. This annual gathering is to be held on September 28-29, 2026, in Provo, UT at the Provo Marriott.
Our mission is to build a love of reading—first in educators, then in students. We
celebrate the power of stories, support educator wellness, and strengthen literacy
outcomes by learning from outstanding authors, educators, and librarians. Through
practical and research-based strategies we equip teachers and librarians to help PreK–12
students develop a lifelong love of reading.
All proposals must clearly align with the conference mission.
We are particularly interested in breakout sessions that address the following topic
areas:
- Home–School Partnerships and Family Literacy
How can teachers help parents and caregivers support children’s reading at home? What
can teachers do to foster a love of reading at home through culturally sustaining
family literacy approaches?
- Love Yourself and Love Your Books
We want teachers and librarians to leave the conference reconnected to the joy that
first drew them to teaching. We welcome sessions that nurture educators' well-being—rest,
renewal, and grounding—so participants can return to their classrooms and libraries
ready to share a genuine love of reading with students.
- Classroom Practices That Matter
How can teachers deliver effective reading and writing instruction across content
areas and incorporate science of reading approaches in ways that help children—and
all students—cherish and value reading?
- Inclusive Literacy Practices and Student Support
In what ways can teachers and librarians incorporate diverse, affirming texts in polarized
political environments in ways that bring educators, librarians, and families together
rather than set them in opposition?
- Literacy in a Digital and AI-Influenced World
How can educators balance print and digital reading modalities while integrating technology
and AI tools in ways that engage non-readers?
- Libraries, Communities, and Literacy Advocacy
What unique, sustainable partnerships between classrooms and libraries can be replicated
and maintained? We are particularly interested in sessions for secondary and middle
school librarians, community-based literacy initiatives, and advocacy for reading
and books.
Presentation Formats
Proposals may take the form of:
- Interactive breakout sessions
- Workshops or instructional demonstrations
- Panel discussions
- Research informed presentations grounded in classroom practice
All sessions should offer practical takeaways, reflective opportunities, or classroom-ready strategies for participants.
One 50% discounted conference registration will be provided per accepted proposal.
Each presenter is required to register for the conference.
THE DEADLINE TO SUBMIT A PROPOSAL is March 16, 2026!
Proposal decisions will be made by mid-April 2026.
