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.
Programs for Family Caregivers
This Family Caregivers Month (and year-round), help those who spend so much of their lives helping others.
The Best Minecraft Mini-Games (According to Middle Schoolers)
Blogger Veronica Stork recommends three Minecraft mini-games to play with your patrons.
ALA Programming Award
Nominate your library to receive a $5,000 award for excelling in programming.
Libraries Mean Business
Mid-Continent Public Library is making entrepreneurs their business by offering programs that provide information and skills they need to be successful.
5 Coolest Board Games to Play with Tweens
Looking for new board games to play with your tween and teen patrons? Look no further. Blogger Veronica Stork recommends five games sure to capture their interest.
A Moving Promotion
Torrance Public Library turned its bleak white Econoline van into a promotional powerhouse.
Rural Roots: Social Media
Despite finding social media "puerile and repulsive," blogger Larry Grieco has finally jumped on the bandwagon.
Keep Calm and Take a Spa Day
Sit back and relax with these DIY spa ideas for your teens and tweens.
Boooooks and Eeks-hibits
Celebrate Halloween while promoting services, collections and staff with these clever ideas.
Run with It
Start a walking or running club at your library using these helpful tips from blogger Jenn Carson.
Books, Buds and Bars: Programs for Adult Readers
This September, libraries are celebrating back-to-school with book programs for kids and teens. What activities can best reach our adult readers?
Getting Started with the Harwood Approach
Tuscaloosa (Ala.) Public Library shares tips for getting acquainted with the "turning outward" approach.