Articles

Catch up on the latest in library programming news.

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.

A New eCourse to Learn the Grant Process for a New Year

This first-of-its-kind ALA self-paced eCourse provides a comprehensive foundation in collaborative grantseeking, proposal development and submission

Call for Advisors: A Year of STEM

ALA is seeking six librarian advisors with expertise in serving early learners, curating book lists and offering STEM programming to support a new project.

Behind the Scenes with Milwaukee Public Library’s TikTok

Milwaukee Public Library's social media presence is famous beyond the library world. We went behind the scenes with the duo behind their videos.

Dec 14, 2017

Webinars for a New Programming Librarian

Just starting out with library programming, or looking to be re-energized? Learn from your peers with these three webinars.

Dec 4, 2017

Painted Pumpkin Party

Good gourd, pumpkins aren't just for Halloween! We've found a low-budget, family-friendly activity for everyone to enjoy.

Nov 30, 2017

Free Dialogue & Deliberation Workshop for Academic Libraries

Academic library professionals are invited to a free preconference workshop at the 2018 ALA Midwinter Meeting in Denver.

Nov 21, 2017

Five Alternatives to Book Talks

These programs will get your students excited about reading (whether or not you've read the book).

Nov 16, 2017

Winter Festival of Gifts: A Season of Giving

This food drive (with a twist) is a beloved way for staff to creatively give back to the community.

Nov 2, 2017

Book-to-Big-Screen

Re-invigorate your film and book discussions with a book-vs.-movie twist.

Nov 2, 2017

Three Ways to Market Your School Library

Are your tabletops or bathroom doors bare? You could be wasting prime marketing real estate.

Nov 2, 2017

Apply for a $10,000 Adult Literacy Grant

Public libraries are invited to apply for $10,000 American Dream grants for adult literacy services.

Oct 27, 2017

Holiday Programs with Heart

The holidays are coming, and we’re on the lookout for creative, low-cost programs with a feel-good component.

Oct 23, 2017

Free Photo Editors to Use for Your Graphics

Did you study graphic design? We didn't either. Here are a few tools to make your photo projects easier.

Oct 20, 2017

Outdoor Water Party

If you're willing to get a little wet, water games are a fun way to get kids moving.

Oct 20, 2017

Juvie 101: Six Things I Learned Doing Outreach at a Juvenile Detention Center

Librarian Paula Willey explains the steps she took — and you can replicate — to bring books and authors to a local juvenile detention center.