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.

Mar 31, 2020

Digital Storytelling in 6 Steps

Follow these steps to create original digital stories to share online or as a fun workshop for families.

Mar 30, 2020

Kingsessing Library Celebrates 100 Years with Fine Forgiveness Jubilee

For its anniversary, the Philadelphia library hosted a Fine Forgiveness Week. Now the entire Free Library of Philadelphia system is fine-free.

Mar 27, 2020

Not Just for STEM Class: Makerspace Programming & English Language Arts

School librarians Donna Mignardi and Jennifer Sturge used makerspace concepts to explore classics like "Lord of the Flies."

Mar 26, 2020

Taking Academic Library Programs Online: COVID-19 & Beyond

With most campuses closed for COVID-19, here are some ways for academic librarians to bring experiences online.

Mar 25, 2020

A Whimsical Makeover on a Shoestring

With some creative thinking, Chelsea Price transformed her children's area into a magical spot full of surprises (and a tub).

Mar 24, 2020

Online Story Time: It’s Fair Use, Folks

During a crisis, online story times benefit society more than ever, so it falls squarely within fair use.

Mar 19, 2020

Fighting Fake News in the Pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic is rife with misinformation. Use your digital reach to help people sniff out fake news.

Mar 17, 2020

Serving Homeless Patrons in a Shutdown

Closing your public library may disproportionately affect your homeless patrons. Here's how you can help.

Mar 16, 2020

6 COVID-19 Resources You MIght Not Know

Share vital information with the public whether your library is open to the public or temporarily closed.

Mar 16, 2020

Community Engagement with National Partners

The Free Library of Philadelphia learns from partners as they test the Skills for Community-Centered Libraries training series.

Mar 13, 2020

Programming in a Pandemic

As libraries respond to coronavirus, library workers are faced with difficult questions.

Mar 12, 2020

COVID-19: Italian Librarians & Lockdown

Italian libraries have closed to the public, but some librarians continue to serve from a distance.