Call for Papers for Western Literature Association’s guaranteed panel at the 2026 American Literature Association Meeting (Chicago, May 20-23)

This year’s general call seeks proposals related to any aspect of the study of literature of the American West.  Papers on single texts or single authors are welcome, though comparative, transnational, and/or multiethnic approaches are especially encouraged. Graduate students are encouraged to apply.

For consideration, please submit an abstract (250-400 words) to Travis Franks (travis.franks@usu.edu) by JANUARY 16th, 2026. Current membership with WLA is not required in order to submit a proposal, though all presenters must be current members by the time of the conference. 

Because the Western Literature Association is an affiliated organization of the ALA, we are guaranteed at least one panel on the conference schedule. Should the number of qualified proposals warrant it, a second panel can be requested.

The American Literature Association’s Annual Conference will meet at the Palmer House in Chicago from May 20th through May 23rd, 2026 (Wednesday through Saturday of Memorial Day weekend).

For further information about the American Literature Association conference, please consult the ALA website at https://americanliteratureassociation.org/ala-conferences/ala-annual-conference/