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.

Aug 2, 2016

Time to Meet Your New Faculty!

At Loyola Marymount University, the New Faculty Orientation library reception sets the stage for collaborative faculty-library relationships.

Get Kids Problem-Solving with Brushbots

What do you get when you combine a toothbrush head, a pager motor, a straw, a rubber band and a battery?

The Blog Post about Blogs: Developing a Class on Blogging

Thinking of starting your own blogging class? Here are some of the lessons I learned.

Library Olympics

A library-themed Olympic Games competition invited staff teams to go for the gold.

More Summer Fun with Dream Catchers and Playing in the Dirt

Teens can create sweet dreams and dig in the dirt with these fun crafts.

Aug 2, 2016

Wikipedia: 'Intellectual Makerspace'

Can Wikipedia be embraced in libraries? These academic library professionals say "yes."

Jul 2, 2016

Tips for Hosting a Wikipedia Edit-a-thon

Navigate your way through Wikipedia wonderland with this step-by-step programming guide.

Children's Programs for Aboriginal History Month

A Woodstock First Nation educator taught young people to make an indigenous shaker at the L.P. Fisher Public Library.

Jul 21, 2016

Ready, Set, Game! Register for International Games Day

Join 2,000 libraries in a global gaming initiative on Nov. 19 (and earn some free swag in the process).

Tapping the Knowledge of Retiring Professionals

Don't overlook retiring or transitioning professionals as potential presenters for your library programs.

Baby Wednesdays

Wednesday mornings at Skokie Public Library are dedicated to the 0-to-23-month demographic.

Jul 14, 2016

Immigrants Thrive with Library Support

With the U.S. immigrant population increasing, libraries are welcoming newcomers with innovative programs.