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.
The Gift of Reading
A birthday book donation program can be a gift to the whole library community.
Getting in Tune with the Community: San José Public Library and the Harwood Institute
In San José, meeting the needs of Spanish-speaking patrons began with asking the right questions.
ALA, Harwood Institute Announce 2018
The 2.5-day interactive workshop will help libraries of all types learn to lead positive change in their communities.
Parks & Rec: A Health Programming Partner
Partnering with local, state and national parks and recreation departments can help build healthy communities.
PBS Books' Library Engagement Program
A new library engagement program from PBS Books offers some exciting opportunities for libraries.
Eight Nifty Summer Programming Ideas
When summer comes, many students stop reading. Here are some creative ways to keep books in their hands.
Frankenstein @ 200
How is your library celebrating 200 years of Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus"?
Wake Up! Story Time
These two books will be sure to get kids moo-vin' and groovin' in an action-packed story time session.
Our Picks for ALA 2018
Don't miss these sessions (and speaker Michelle Obama) at the 2018 ALA Annual Conference in New Orleans.
What is a Public Program, Anyway?
We know programming when we see it, but it's hard to define. Share your thoughts on our definition.
APPLY NOW: Great Stories Club
Learn how you can lead reading and discussion groups with underserved teens in your community.
Lights, Camera, and an Idea Worth Spreading
With TED Talks' TED-Ed Clubs, librarians can encourage young people to share their big ideas.