Articles

Catch up on the latest in library programming news.

Apply Now: Resilient Communities: Advancing Sustainability in and through Libraries

This new initiative is designed to equip 100 public library workers with the knowledge and tools to lead on sustainability. Apply by November 14.

Personal Finance Programming and Information Services Survey: Receive a Free Supply of Eco-Friendly Piggy Banks

ALA and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation are interested in providing future training and grant opportunities to support the role of public libraries as providers of personal finance programming. Survey results will help plan these future offerings. The first 100 respondents will receive a supply of eco-friendly piggy banks!

New & Free Webinars for Programming Librarians

Looking for some quick professional development? Here are four recent and upcoming webinars perfect for programming librarians.

First Amendment Academy: Free Quizzes and Courses to Share with Library Patrons

How well do you really know your First Amendment rights? The Freedom Forum's First Amendment Academy is a free, engaging resource for libraries to share with patrons.

Children's Earth Day Books and Programs

A lot of children’s nature literature, though well-meaning, pushes a narrative of “it’s up to you to save the world!” The librarians behind the Blueberry Award share ideas for excellent Earth Day programs and book suggestions that inspire a love for nature in young people without inciting climate anxiety or fear.

Sorry, We Are Out of Eclipse Glasses

Was your library's phone ringing off the hook on the day of the solar eclipse? Did you run out of eclipse glasses quicker than anticipated? Libraries share their solar eclipse day successes and stresses.

Incorporate Media Literacy Teaching in Everyday Library Interactions

One of the best places to teach media literacy is at the point of need, where the users are. Most library interactions occur during the delivery of services, such as reference interviews, technology classes and interactions at the circulation desk. Consider these five ways to incorporate small lessons about media literacy into your regular services.

What Neurodivergent Patrons Want from Small and Rural Libraries

Many libraries have found that to make their libraries truly accessible spaces, they need to consider the specific concerns of neurodivergent patrons. What are the accessibility priorities of these individuals, and how can libraries address them?

Programs to Teach Adult Patrons Internet Literacy

These program ideas teach media and internet literacy skills that allow patrons to think critically about how the architecture of the internet influences what they see and do online.

Welcoming Patrons with Disabilities in Rural Libraries

Small and rural libraries provide essential services to their communities. But for the 1 in 3 adults in rural areas who live with a disability, these libraries are not always accessible. How are small and rural libraries addressing the needs of patrons with disabilities?

Our New Look

Welcome to the new (and, we think, improved) Programming Librarian! Not to worry — beyond looks, not too much has changed. Learn about a few new features here.