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.

ALA's Great Stories Club

ALA’s Public Programs Office invited libraries to apply for the Great Stories Club, a book club program for at-risk teens.

 
 

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School's Out! Pick Up Some STEAM!

Use STEAM — science, technology, engineering, arts and math — to help teens and tweens explore the world around them.

Rural Roots: E-Newsletter Tips

One of the most effective ways for a rural library to communicate with its community is by the electronic newsletter.

 

Model Make and Take

This is the story of how our library worked with a local business to bring an childhood hobby to the community.

Thinking Outside the Makerspace

Kansas City's Mid-Continent Public Library has created maker-style programming without building a dedicated makerspace.