We are really pleased to announce a partnership with AccessIt Library, a Follett Software solution, for 2026, coinciding with the government-backed National Year of Reading campaign.
The year-long collaboration will deliver professional development opportunities for school librarians and sponsor new SLA memberships to strengthen our member community.
The collaboration marks the first flagship partnership of its kind for the SLA and will focus on celebrating reading, supporting school libraries, and advancing literacy outcomes across the education sector.
As part of the partnership, AccessIt will serve as headline sponsor of our 2026 Conference. With a theme of Changing Narratives, our 2026 conference will explore how far school libraries and school librarians offer an all-important antidote to many of the challenges facing school communities today. Jonathan Douglas CBE, CEO of the National Literacy Trust, and multi-million copy bestselling author and illustrator, Jamie Smart are among the first confirmed speakers.
Victoria Dilly, SLA CEO said: "This partnership represents an exciting new chapter for the School Library Association. Working with AccessIt as a corporate partner will help us to amplify our mission during a pivotal year for reading in the UK. Their commitment to school libraries and their understanding of the vital role librarians play in education makes them an ideal partner as we drive innovation and support for the school library community."
Amanda Shea, Chief Marketing Officer at Follett Software, said: “At Follett Software, we believe librarians are the heartbeat of literacy. Through Accessit Library, we’re proud to partner with the SLA during the National Year of Reading to support the educators who turn reading from a task into a lifelong joy. Together, we’re not just championing books—we’re building programs and communities that engage every learner, elevate the role of school libraries, and advance our shared mission to strengthen literacy across the UK.”
The SLA and AccessIt share a commitment to advocating for school libraries and all the benefits they bring, with a focus on encouraging reading engagement for all children and young people.
The partnership will deliver professional development and training webinars for school librarians and other educators, share thought leadership and best practice and strengthen the School Library Association community with 12 sponsored memberships throughout the year. Keep an eye on our channels for more developments!