Our New Look
Welcome to the new (and, we think, improved) Programming Librarian!
Not to worry — beyond looks, not too much has changed. Programming Librarian, a website run by ALA’s Public Programs Office, is still here to provide you with everything you need to share, learn and be inspired to present excellent library programming for your communities.
Apply Now: Sara Jaffarian School Library Program Award
School librarians are invited to apply for a $5,000 award recognizing outstanding humanities programming in kindergarten through twelfth grade. Previously for school libraries serving grades K-8, this year’s Jaffarian Award is the first to include eligibility for school libraries also serving grades 9-12.
Nominations for the 2024 Sara Jaffarian School Library Program Award will be accepted until May 1, 2024.
8 Things Librarians Should Know: Working with Juvenile Detention Facilities
Things were going well with Amelia Jenkins’ teen book club. Conversations were flowing, and the kids were getting more comfortable with each meeting. Jenkins found a short story perfect for group discussion, so she printed out copies. When she arrived at the book club, story printouts in hand and ready to get started, the packets were confiscated – the story would not be read that day. Why? Staples. Jenkins had stapled the packets together.
Moving Away From the Barrier of Program Registration While Keeping Free of Chaos
For many years, public libraries required phone or walk-in program registration to regulate the number of attendees and who to expect. It was a cumbersome process with no-shows and waiting lists, but it was a routine that had yet to be evaluated.
Programs to Teach Adult Patrons Internet Literacy
These program ideas teach media and internet literacy skills that allow patrons to think critically about how the architecture of the internet influences what they see and do online.
Putting “Nothing About Us Without Us” into Practice in Small and Rural Libraries
How are conversations with people with disabilities impacting libraries’ accessibility work?
Welcoming Patrons with Disabilities in Rural Libraries
How are small and rural libraries addressing the needs of patrons with disabilities?
Library Programs to Help Scout Troops Earn Badges
Try out these 11 fun programs libraries have used to help Scout troops earn badges.
Our New Look
Welcome to the new (and, we think, improved) Programming Librarian! Not to worry — beyond looks, not too much has changed. Learn about a few new features here.
Sara Jaffarian School Library Program Award
K-12 school librarians are invited to apply for a $5,000 award recognizing outstanding programming.
Working with Juvenile Detention Facilities
Two experienced librarians share helpful things to know about working with juvenile detention facilities.
Moving Away From Program Registration
How often is registration necessary for library programs?
Peggy Barber Tribute Grant
The Peggy Barber Tribute Grant supports meaningful programs in libraries with limited programming budgets.
Libraries Transform Communities Engagement Grant
The fifth annual community engagement grant will support two libraries' work in community empowerment.
Support Cultural Communities
As you make your end-of-year donations, help our communities shine a little brighter.
Celebrate SustainRT's 10th Birthday
Join SustainRT for a virtual celebration with networking opportunities and prize giveaways.