Articles

Catch up on the latest in library programming news.

Death Café at the Library: Where Strangers Meet to Discuss the End

A Death Café is a place where “people, often strangers, gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss death." And they are quite commonplace in libraries.

Our Top Picks for ALA Annual 2025 in Philly

Check out our recommended ALA Annual 2025 sessions that will spark fresh ideas and elevate your library programming game.

I Love Libraries: Real-Life Stories of Library Impact

Take action at ILoveLibraries.org and read through the following articles to inspire advocacy for our communities and libraries.

Unmasking the Joy of Reading: A School Library Twist on 'The Masked Singer’

A school librarian engaged students with a “Masked Reader” event, during which students guessed the identities of masked teachers, fostering an excitement for reading.

Nov 8, 2018

Last-Minute Ways to Be Part of Small Business Saturday®

This year, Small Business Saturday® will be taking place on Saturday, Nov. 24 — but it’s not too late to get involved.

Book Art

Got old, outdated or damaged books? Before you toss them into the recycling bin, consider turning them into book art.

Nov 5, 2018

Library Designs Doll to Celebrate Community

A librarian and her patrons created a doll celebrating their community’s Indian American population.

Oct 26, 2018

Hosting a Drag Queen Story Hour

A library director shares his experience hosting the popular — and controversial — storytime event.

Free Library of Philadelphia’s Community-Centered Initiative

Starting this month, 300 Free Library staff will learn and practice the skills necessary to thrive as the role of libraries evolves.

Libraries Help Each Other Address Food Insecurity

These two library programs help fill patrons' heads, bellies and hearts.

Oct 15, 2018

American Dream Literacy Initiative Grants

Public libraries are invited to apply by Dec. 14 for a $10,000 grant to support adult literacy services.

A Mystery Maker Challenge

Even without a dedicated makerspace, you can still incorporate maker elements into your day.

Welcome New Baby Program

Providing a book for a new baby builds community between the library, schools and families.

Oct 5, 2018

Familiar With Financial Literacy?

ALA is seeking contributing authors for a book on personal finance and financial literacy in libraries.

Sep 26, 2018

APPLY NOW: American Creed Grants

Public libraries are invited to apply by Nov. 19 for programming grants centered around a PBS film.

Confirmation Bias: Resources for Teens

Don't let your young patrons be sitting ducks for misinformation.