AIA Central PA Architecture Week 2026

AIA Pennsylvania Announces Statewide Architecture Week Initiative for K-5 Students—–Bringing Design Thinking to Every Corner of the Commonwealth

AIA Pennsylvania is thrilled to announce a new statewide initiative for Architecture Week 2026 (April 12-18) designed to bring architectural inspiration and design thinking directly to children across all 67 counties of Pennsylvania.

Our goal is to foster creativity and introduce the power of design to the next generation in a fun, accessible way.

Stories and Design

In partnership with the Pennsylvania Library Association and Pennsylvania’s 67 county library systems, volunteer architects from AIA Pennsylvania will host interactive, hands-on sessions for K-5 students.

Each engaging storyhour will combine literacy and design thinking:

• Architecture-Themed Reading: Children will enjoy a reading of a specially selected architecture-themed children’s book, Iggy Peck, Architect. A copy of the book will be provided to each participating library system for their permanent collection.
• Guided Design Activity: Following the story, students will participate in a guided design activity, designing different built environments for specific animals and their communities.

Reaching Every County

This initiative aims to involve approximately 1,300 students statewide, with sessions planned for every county library system. By leveraging the reach of our partners at the Pennsylvania Library Association, we are ensuring that children in all corners of the state have the opportunity to participate in this enriching program.

Get Involved

Register to host an architect-led story hour and activity at your nearest county library system.

Sponsor the purchase of additional copies of Iggy Peck, Architect for distribution to Pennsylvania libraries.

Encourage teachers and librarians you know to lead architecture themed lessons and events.

Other Ways to Participate in Architecture Week

Architecture Week is a nationwide celebration recognizing the power of good design, with a goal of inspiring hopeful architecture and design professionals and K-12 students.  AIA National provides several opportunities for engaging with students and sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm for the profession.

Download the Architecture Week, Animal Dice activity to play at home or share.

Register for a virtual read-aloud session with children’s architecture book authors.

Get involved in Architecture Week by sharing social media posts, contributing to a wish list, inviting students to your firm, sending a letter to your local schools or libraries, or actively engaging with students throughout the week.