Articles

Catch up on the latest in library programming news.

Library Programming Excellence in Action

What does excellence in library programming look like? Find how-to articles summarizing best practices of seasoned programming librarians.

Getting Started with Program Evaluation

Real, meaningful evaluation isn’t just a survey you tack on at the end of a program. It’s an integral piece of your planning process, right from the start. Once you learn to recognize the elements of evaluation and use them with intentionality, you’ll be able to continually grow the impact of your programs and your ability to tell their story.

The Secret to Successful Program Promotion? Data.

Picture this: You work hard to plan an awesome program, but nobody shows up. You feel totally defeated, and you aren't sure what you could've done differently. The secret to success? Data.

Engagement and Advocacy Start with Community Mapping

Taking time to understand who you know — and who you don’t know — is a great way to begin your journey toward being a community-informed programming librarian.

Apply Now: LTCEG

The seventh annual community engagement grant will support two library projects under the concept of "Libraries as a Lifeline: Building Belonging for All.”

Apply Now: Peggy Barber Tribute Grant

The Peggy Barber Tribute Grant will provide $2,500 to three libraries to support programming related to strengthening community ties through libraries as third spaces.

Programs on Human Migration

Experience "airplane" travel, create a family tree and hear migration stories from community members. These programs explore the question: Where do we come from?

Call for Advisors: Aging Together

ALA is seeking nine librarian advisors to support a new project to evaluate and summarize the state of older adult programming in libraries and offer recommendations.

Apply Now: Digital Pathways

12 public libraries will be selected to receive a resource package and hands-on support to strengthen their online health literacy offerings. Apply by January 7, 2026.

Personal Finance Programming and Information Services Survey

ALA and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation are interested in providing future training and grant opportunities to support the role of public libraries as providers of personal finance programming. Survey results will help plan these future offerings. 

First Amendment Academy

How well do you really know your First Amendment rights? The Freedom Forum's First Amendment Academy is a free, engaging resource for libraries to share with patrons.