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.

Feb 3, 2021

When Programming Goes Digital: The Changing Skillset of Programming Librarians

The Skills for 21st Century Librarians Task Force explores the creation of a programming curriculum.

Jan 29, 2021

Sara Jaffarian School Library Program Award

School librarians are invited to apply for a $5,000 award recognizing outstanding humanities programming.

Jan 21, 2021

Black History Month Resource Round-up

February is Black History Month. We compiled a list of resources to help your library celebrate.

Jan 21, 2021

What to Say When Faced with Fake News

Topics like current events, politics and social media can provide teaching moments.

Jan 22, 2021

Keeping Your Personal Finance Collections Relevant and Up to Date

Financial Literacy in Public Libraries: A Guide for Building Collections helps to address the financial needs of your community.

Jan 21, 2021

5 Films to Discuss the Climate Crisis

These five films will help you engage patrons in conversations about climate change and resilience.

Jan 21, 2021

Ground Rules: How to Set Successful Guidelines for Your Conversation Programs

Ever had a conversation program go awry? Setting ground rules can help a group conversation run smoothly and effectively.

Jan 7, 2021

Apply Now: Round 2 of Libraries Transforming Communities: Focus on Small and Rural Libraries

Round 2 of LTC: Focus on Small and Rural Libraries is now open!

Jan 4, 2021

Financial Education Resources for Key Age Groups

Get ready for Financial Literacy Month with program ideas for every age group.

Dec 31, 2020

2021 Virtual Events from Your State Humanities Council

Start the new year with lectures and engaging events from state humanities councils.

Dec 18, 2020

Making Your Virtual Programs More Accessible

How accessible are your virtual programs? You may inadvertently be leaving some people out.

Dec 18, 2020

Grappling with Job-Related Guilt

Do you feel guilty or have a case of the "shoulds"? Here are a few things you might need to hear right now.