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.

Welcome New Baby Program

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

Learn to Skateboard

Teen librarian Colleen Whittall takes her teens to the skate park — with nary a book in sight.

Mixed-Age Play

Mingling different age groups enables kids to learn from one another in new ways.

APPLY NOW: Great Stories Club

Apply by Nov. 16 to be part of the Great Stories Club series on Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation.

The Amazing Library Race

Teach your students about the library's resources with a competition inspired by "The Amazing Race."