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.

Dec 4, 2019

Reindeer Run: A Holiday Tradition

This time of year, we could all use some exercise. This festive, dress-up fun run raises money for charity.

Dec 2, 2019

APPLY NOW: LTC Engagement Grant

Apply now for a new annual grant to support innovative community engagement efforts in libraries.

Nov 27, 2019

Reflections on Year 2 of Skills for Community-Centered Libraries

The Free Library of Philadelphia looks at the evaluation results of their Community-Centered Libraries initiative as it plans for the future.

Nov 26, 2019

Hosting a 'Stranger Things' Escape Room

You don't need a lot of space or money to host a themed escape room, but being a superfan helps.

Nov 21, 2019

APPLY NOW: Facilitation Training

An ALA initiative helps small and rural library staff develop the communication skills they need to thrive.

Nov 21, 2019

Building Community in a School Library

Students should feel welcome in their library. Luckily, programming is a great way to build community.

Nov 15, 2019

Public Humanities in Public Libraries

Hannah Schmidl from Princeton Public Library explains why libraries are the perfect place to connect people to thought-provoking humanities work.

Nov 13, 2019

Grant Prep: 6 Things to Do Before Starting

Finding and applying for grants can be a slog, but it’s easier with some advance preparation.

Oct 31, 2019

4 Writing Prompts to Break the Ice

Help patrons of all ages find their stories — not only as readers, but as writers.

Oct 31, 2019

Reel ‘Em In! Get Secondary Students Hooked on Self-Selected Titles

Encourage teens to get excited about reading with these tips from school librarians Donna Mignardi and Jennifer Sturge.

Oct 30, 2019

The Library as 'Force Multiplier': Finals at the UT-Knoxville Library

An academic library shares its approach to program planning, risk taking and putting students first.

Oct 18, 2019

Fun Ways to Advertise Library Programs

If you advertise it, they will come ... won't they? Use these tips to get new faces in the door.