MIX Conference 2026: Mapping Trends in Information Literacy Instruction
Date: Friday, July 17th, 2026
Time: 10am-4pm
Location: Alma College Library, 614 W. Superior St., Alma, MI
Keynote speaker: To be announced
MIX is a one-day, low-cost $20, learning opportunity for librarians who engage in, are interested in, or are curious about library instruction. We welcome first-time attendees and presenters.
Whether you're from an academic, public, school, or special library, this affordable, informal learning opportunity is your gateway to the future of library instruction. Reserve your spot today by completing the conference registration form here! Registration is limited to 80 participants.
Call for Proposals
We are looking for a variety of proposals and encourage first time presenters to submit. If you can relate your topic to library instruction, we want to hear from you!
Submit your proposal using this form by May 22 and notifications will be provided by June 5. Sessions are 45 minutes. Presentation formats include individual or group presentations, panel discussions, or lightning talks (10 minutes each). All proposals will be blind-reviewed by the MIX Conference Planning Committee and you must register for the conference if your proposal is accepted.
Don't miss this chance to connect, share, and grow with fellow librarians who are passionate about evolving their instructional practices!
Conference Schedule
MIX 2026
Mapping Trends in Information Literacy Instruction
Alma College Library
Alma, MI
9:00-10:00AM
Registration and morning refreshments
10:00-10:15AM
Opening Remarks
10:15-11:15AM
Keynote
Dr. Kentaro Toyama, University of Michigan
11:30AM-12:20PM
Session 1A
Lightning Talks
Deconstructing Knowledge Hierarchies
Mary Ruge, Liberal Arts Liaison Librarian, Grand Valley State University
Snackable Slides
Caitlin Benallack, Information Literacy Librarian, Michigan State University
Lessons Learned on Technology: Focused Library Instruction
Eli Wachter, Data Visualization Librarian, Michigan State University
Session 1B
The Palimpsest Classroom: Literacy, Learning Loss, and the Age of AI
Malyn Berger, Applied Sciences Librarian, Western Michigan University
Session 1C
Closing the Loop: Rhetorical Usage as Part of Source Evaluation
Liz Svoboda, Instruction and Outreach Library, University of Michigan
12:30-1:50PM
Lunch
2:00-2:50PM
Session 2A
DIY Knowledge: Zines, Information Literacy, & New Paths for Scholarly Voice
Mary Ruge, Liberal Arts Liaison Librarian, Grand Valley State University
Session 2B
Service Desk Revolution: Reframing Library Service Desks as Shared Instruction Spaces with Student Employees
Dylan Ryan, Library Assistant, Michigan State University
Session 2C
Reflecting on Teaching: Practical and Personal Approaches
Sara Memmott, Information Services Librarian, Eastern Michigan University
3:00-3:50PM
Session 3A
Split Session on Source Evaluation
Go With Your Gut
Malyn Berger, Applied Sciences Librarian, Western Michigan University
Critical Appraisal and Coffee Enema TikToks
Meghan McGowan, STEM Librarian, Wayne State University
Session 3B
Don't Fight the Friction: Harnessing Literacy Speedbumps as an Instructional Tool
Vaughn Haynes, Graduate Student Assistant, Wayne State University
Session 3C
Songs, Self-Portraits, and Short Introductions: AI-Enhanced Icebreakers for Engagement and Critical Information Literacy
Lee Parker, Instruction and Outreach Librarian, Central Michigan University
4:00PM
Happy Hour
Block House
107 E Superior St
Alma, MI 48801
The MiALA Instruction and Information Literacy IG is providing support for the 2026 MIX Conference. Please contact IG Chair Dylan McGlothlin (dylan.mcglothlin@wmich.edu) with any questions.
