National Library Week 2026

About National Library Week 2026

National Library Week is an annual celebration held across the United States, organized by the American Library Association (ALA). In 2026, it runs from Sunday 19 April to Saturday 25 April, with the theme “Find Your Joy at the Library.” The week highlights the essential role libraries play in communities, championing free access to books, technology, and lifelong learning for all.

What is National Library Week?
National Library Week is a week-long observance that spotlights the value of libraries and the professionals who run them. Sponsored by the ALA since 1958, it encourages people of all ages to visit their local library, explore its resources, and advocate for continued public funding. The week also serves as a platform for addressing challenges facing libraries, from budget cuts to book challenges, while celebrating the millions of Americans who rely on library services every day.

Special Days During National Library Week 2026

The week features several dedicated days, each spotlighting a different facet of library life:

• Right to Read Day (Monday 20 April) – A day for readers, advocates, and library supporters to take action in defense of intellectual freedom and the right to access books free from censorship.
• National Library Workers Day (Tuesday 21 April) – First celebrated in 2004, this day recognizes the expertise, dedication, and hard work of librarians, library assistants, and all library staff.
• National Library Outreach Day (Wednesday 22 April) – Formerly known as National Bookmobile Day, this celebrates the librarians and programmers that bring resources to communities beyond the library walls, including mobile services, pop-up libraries, and digital outreach.
• Take Action for Libraries Day (Thursday 23 April) – The ALA’s annual advocacy push, rallying library supporters to contact elected officials and champion federal funding for library services.