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.

Express Yourself, It's Poetry Month!

April is National Poetry Month. Do you have projects planned for your teens?

Apr 4, 2016

National Library Week: Libraries Transform

Every day, libraries of all types prove that they are powerful agents of community change. Show your pride during National Library Week.

Mar 31, 2016

Libraries Transforming Communities: Case Studies

In 2014, a group of public libraries embarked on a new kind of community engagement project. Read their stories in ALA's newly released case studies.

Sports Heroes Who Read

Bringing in professional athletes to connect with kids (and adults) helps promote many types of literacy.

Mar 28, 2016

Collaborating with Galleries: A Blessed Match

The Hannon Library at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles collaborated with a university art gallery on "From Clay to the Cloud."

Academic Libraries and Poetry Month

Cakes and choirs help to inspire at these academic library National Poetry Month programs.

'Street Cred' Librarianship

Sonya Durney shares her experiences in program inspiration, forging community partnerships and rebounding after an awkward start with a potential partner.

Springtime Crafts Are in Bloom

Blogger Kimberli Buckley shares a selection of low-cost, Easter-themed craft ideas for young people.

Adventure Club Travels to Cuba

Elementary-aged kids got a taste of Cuban culture, history, food, and traditions in this after-school program.

High School Chess Team Sparks Library Program

Blogger Sara Peterson-Davis describes how a high school chess team boosted teen programming at her library.

Turning Library Walls into Community Art Exhibits

A library partners with a local arts organization to transform a blank wall into a community art gallery.

Mar 3, 2016

Make Way for Makerspaces

After three years and 300 maker project ideas, a nationwide makerspace website has announced a new offering for libraries in Illinois.