It’s Not Just Book Clubs Anymore: A Brief History of ALA’s Public Programs Office
For 34 years, the Public Programs Office encouraged libraries to think beyond the status quo—and gave them the resources to do just that.
8 Tips for Financial Fitness from Programming Librarians
Tips from programming librarians on how they keep track of what they’re spending, determine whether they’re using funds wisely, and seek financial aid from outside sources.
9 Tips for Staying Organized from Busy Programming Librarians
Successful programming librarians from around the country — none formally trained in project management — share their tips, tricks, and suggestions for staying organized in a library setting.
PLA Conference 2026: Recommended Sessions for Programming Librarians
Public library workers from across the country will meet in Minneapolis at PLA Conference 2026 from April 1 – 3. Here are our recommended sessions for programming librarians.
Cents-sational Reads to Teach Young People About Money
This new guide helps libraries build financial education collections and offers an assortment of programming ideas to transform learning about money into memorable experiences.
Apply Now: LTCEG
The seventh annual community engagement grant will support two library projects under the concept of "Libraries as a Lifeline: Building Belonging for All.”
Apply Now: Peggy Barber Tribute Grant
The Peggy Barber Tribute Grant will provide $2,500 to three libraries to support programming related to strengthening community ties through libraries as third spaces.
Programs on Human Migration
Experience "airplane" travel, create a family tree and hear migration stories from community members. These programs explore the question: Where do we come from?
Call for Advisors: Aging Together
ALA is seeking nine librarian advisors to support a new project to evaluate and summarize the state of older adult programming in libraries and offer recommendations.
Apply Now: Digital Pathways
12 public libraries will be selected to receive a resource package and hands-on support to strengthen their online health literacy offerings. Apply by January 7, 2026.
Resilient Communities: Advancing Sustainability
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
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.
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
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.
Free Programming Toolkit for Teen Mental Health
This free toolkit assists library workers in creating an environment that encourages teens to explore mental health in meaningful ways.
LTC: Accessible Small and Rural Communities
Applications are open until December 11, 2025, for grants of $10k and $20k to increase library accessibility services.