We are so excited to reveal bestselling comic book creator Jamie Smart as a speaker at the 2026 SLA conference. Jamie will lead a live Bunny vs Monkey draw-along for delegates and share his insights into the enormous rise in popularity of comic books and graphic novels, in conversation with the SLA.
As a part of our Changing Narratives focus, we'll explore the importance of considering graphic novels as valuable reading material, and how librarians, teachers and parents can harness children's enthusiasm for these titles to boost reading engagement and enjoyment. Subscribers can read author and illustrator Terri Libenson's feature on How graphic novels can change a child's life in the Summer issue of TSL.
Jamie's well-loved Bunny vs Monkey and Looshkin stories are regularly published in The Phoenix comic, and as bestselling graphic novels (Bunny vs Monkey has now sold over a million copies!). He is also the creator of the Max and Chaffy comic series for younger readers. Jamie was named Illustrator of the Year and won the Illustrated Children's Book Award at the British Book Awards 2024, and won Illustrator of the Year and Best Book for Ages 6-8 at the 2024 Lollies Awards. The next book in the Bunny vs Monkey series is out on 9th October 2025.
As we mark the National Year of Reading, Jonathan Douglas CBE, CEO of National Literacy Trust, will also be joining us to share critical insights into the current reading landscape, reflections on the campaign so far, and updates from recent research reports.
Jonathan's keynote will set the tone for an insightful and practical conference weekend that will contextualise the vital work of school librarians within the national culture of reading.
The 2026 conference will take place at the University of Winchester on 5th and 6th June. Through the theme of Changing Narratives the weekend will explore how school libraries can make a difference to children and young people’s personal, social, and academic outcomes. We will bring together all those who work in and through school libraries who seek to ensure children and young people have access to vibrant reading and learning opportunities throughout their education. Book your tickets now to be a part of this important conversation!