Articles

Catch up on the latest in library programming news.

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.

Apr 5, 2022

7 Fin Lit Picture Books

It's never too early to learn financial literacy! Check out these exciting and diverse titles.

Mar 30, 2022

Research Your Local Newspaper’s Holocaust Coverage

History Unfolded: US Newspapers and the Holocaust invites libraries to research local newspaper coverage on Holocaust-era events.

Apr 1, 2022

Inclusive Financial Literacy Books

Download the free guide featuring 40 titles and program ideas to help kids learn financial literacy.

Mar 14, 2022

Reducing the Stigma Around Mental Health at the Library

A Texas library stepped in with resources when people in the community struggled with mental health.

Mar 10, 2022

Fitting Community Needs: Redefining Library Programming

Libraries are constantly adding programs to better fit community needs. Hear from two libraries that recently switched up their programs.

Mar 10, 2022

5 Tips for STEAM Success

Struggling with STEAM programs? Here are 5 tips from St. Louis County Public Library.

Feb 25, 2022

8 Programs for Women's History Month

March is Women's History Month! Looking for some unique program ideas? We have eight to share.

Feb 25, 2022

Robots and Retirees

Don't plan tech programming with only younger crowds in mind! Get seniors involved with easy STEM robots.

Feb 10, 2022

The Library Didn’t Forget You

Ada Public Library helped a residential community for disabled adults connect during isolation.

Feb 3, 2022

Community Tension at Library Conversations on Race

Library conversations on racism and allyship sparked some tension and division within this rural community.

Jan 28, 2022

COVID Research to Homework Help

In this small Arizona town with no coffee shops or shopping centers, the library is the place for Wi-Fi.

Jan 24, 2022

Continuing ESL in a Pandemic

Two libraries discuss initiatives taken during the pandemic to reconnect with immigrants and New Americans.