Introducing the First-Ever ALA Demo Day: Games & Play

Not everyone can afford or take the time to attend in-person events to meet with vendors and discover what’s new in the library space. So, ALA is bringing the exhibit hall to you!

ALA Demo Days offer library staff and decision-makers a free, convenient way to discover new products, services and technologies. Through live demonstrations, you'll interact directly with vendors and see solutions in action. 

Each Demo Day focuses on a specific theme, making it easy to choose the content most relevant to your role and needs. The first-ever Demo Day, Games & Play, will showcase innovative games, puzzles, toys and play-based learning resources designed to engage library users of all ages.

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When will the first Demo Day happen?

Demo Day: Games & Play will take place on November 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM Central Time. Vendor demonstrations will be 15 minutes long, with breaks between each session.

Register for free here: https://ala-events.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Qy99Ozn1TKKx2nQ9z_C-Nw.

What should I expect?

  • See live demonstrations of new and noteworthy games, puzzles, toys and play-based learning resources.
  • Learn how products can support library programming and community engagement.
  • Discover fun activities for library users of all ages.
  • Hear directly from vendors about product features, implementation and purchasing options.
  • Have the opportunity to ask questions.

Who should attend?

While any library staff can participate, Demo Days are most valuable to staff in charge of evaluating, recommending, or purchasing products and services for their library, including:

  • Library director and administrators
  • Program and department managers
  • Staff responsible for technology, collections, public services, facilities, and programming

This event is free, but registration is required.

It will be hosted in Zoom. Automatic captions will be enabled for this event, and it will be recorded. If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact us at ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.

Participating vendors (more to be announced)

CRAFT & HOBBY
CRAFT & HOBBY is an instructional video platform designed specifically for libraries with the largest catalog of on-demand learning in the craft and hobby space. Connect patrons with their passions and build a community of makers with expert-led DIY tutorials suited for in-library programming and at-home access! 

The Genius of Play™, a division of The Toy Association™
The Genius of Play™ is a national movement to raise awareness of play’s vital role in child development, spearheaded by The Toy Association. Through expert advice, research-backed resources, and creative play ideas, the Genius of Play helps parents, caregivers, and educators support children's physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Luna StoryTime
Built on the storytelling expertise of Cottage Door Press, Luna StoryTime extends the way we engage young readers beyond the page, bringing stories, songs, learning, and beloved characters to life through audio and projected visuals. Libraries can incorporate Luna into storytimes, early literacy programming, themed events, and circulating collections.

Percussion Play
Percussion Play designs and manufactures inclusive outdoor musical instruments that help libraries create welcoming spaces for learning, creativity, and community engagement. Accessible to all ages and abilities, our instruments support STEAM education, intergenerational play, and outdoor programming.

Relatable
Relatable is a creatively driven entertainment company on a mission to bring more laughs, connection, comfort, and care into everyday life, always with a sense of humor. Founded in 2016 by Elie Ballas, Ben Kaplan, and Elliot Tebele, the brand started with its breakout game What Do You Meme? and rebranded as Relatable in 2023 to reflect a growing universe of games, toys, plush, and feel-good wellness products.

tonies® 
tonies® is an interactive audio platform for children redefining how children play, learn, and grow independently without screens.

Learn more about Demo Days at ala.org/demo-days