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.

Oct 18, 2019

Free Health Resources for Public Libraries

The Public Library Association shares free health tools and resources in the spirit of Health Literacy Month.

Oct 16, 2019

An Adult Speaker Series on the Cheap

In the small town of Fenton, people craved cultural programming. The public library responded.

Oct 3, 2019

5 Ways to Target Your Email Marketing

Program marketing is all about getting the right message to the right person at the right time.

Oct 2, 2019

Campus Wellness: Promoting Self-Care

Nap tent, anyone? Many colleges today have campus wellness offices, and they're an ideal program partner.

Sep 27, 2019

A Marvel-ous Spring

With a need for family-friendly programming in their small town, an Iowa library created a superhero series culminating in a private movie theater showing.

Sep 25, 2019

Deepfakes, Part 2: Resources for All Ages

These resources will help everyone — from elementary students to library staff — spot deepfakes.

Sep 19, 2019

5 Ways to Partner with Your School District

If you haven't made friends yet with your local school district, now is your time to shine.

Sep 18, 2019

Eco-Friendly Fall Garland

Looking for an easy fall craft that is fun for all ages and reuses old materials?

Sep 13, 2019

Teen Programs for Banned Books Week

From letter-writing campaigns to debate clubs to button-making, here are some ways to get teens involved.

Sep 3, 2019

Special Olympics Young Athletes Program Creates Environments for Inclusive Play Partner

For inclusive programming that reaches kids with and without intellectual disabilities, the Young Athletes program is a great place to start.

Aug 29, 2019

Princeton Public Library's Open Archive

A popular program introduces patrons to local artifacts — no display cases involved.

Aug 24, 2019

Have Things, Will Program

Is your library circulating sports equipment? Don't just loan out the stuff — show people how to use it.