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.

Nov 3, 2021

Get Ready for NASA’s Upcoming Telescope Launch

Using revolutionary technology, NASA's new telescope will study every phase of cosmic history. Is your library ready for the December launch?

Oct 15, 2021

Halloween Craft Video Round-up

Need a quick Halloween craft? Or maybe something more time-intensive like a bubbling cauldron?

Oct 12, 2021

Communities for Immunity

Want to build your community’s confidence in the COVID-19 vaccine? Apply for Round 2 of Communities for Immunity.

Oct 6, 2021

Teaching with Primary Sources: Women's Suffrage & Libraries

ALA is seeking four librarian advisors to take part in an effort that will help libraries lead programs about the women’s suffrage movement.

Oct 5, 2021

APPLY NOW: ARP Humanities Grants

Up to 200 U.S. libraries of all types will receive $10,000 for pandemic recovery. Apply by December 2.

Sep 30, 2021

SOAR Analysis

How can your library team use SOAR analysis to build on your community engagement?

Building Programs for the Long-Term

Capacity, sustainability and communication: these three factors lead to long-term success for programs.

Sep 24, 2021

Products To Create High-Quality Livestreams and Virtual Programs

Are your livestreams looking fuzzy lately? How's the sound quality? Here are some tech products that can greatly improve your virtual content.

Sep 22, 2021

Weather Emergency Preparedness

New Ulm Public Library is working with local faith communities to prepare for harsh weather emergencies.

Sep 20, 2025

Going Beneath the Cultural Iceberg

To communicate clearly with community members, it can be helpful to be aware of hidden layers.

Sep 15, 2021

Knowing Your Strengths: Community Engagement

Now is a great time to take a close look at your library programming team and assess your strengths and weaknesses.

Sep 10, 2021

Report on Library Programming

The new report marks ALA's next steps toward the creation of a programming curriculum.