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.
Help Shape the Future of BHM Programming
This study aims to explore the current state of Black History Month library programming.
Join the "Books for All" Campaign
The “Books for All” campaign enables people all over the country to participate, including library systems.
Creating Accessible Programming Spaces
Whether it be in a meeting room or open library floor, are your programming spaces accessible?
Build a Better Book
Teens design accessible books and activities for people with disabilities.
8 Fun Programs Using Primary Sources
These 8 programs utilize a few of the thousands of primary sources available from the Library of Congress.
LTC: Accessible Small and Rural Communities
Apply for grants of $10k and $20k to increase accessibility services.
Build Caring Communities
How can libraries build caring communities?
Collaborative Library Program Success Stories
Partnering with civic groups, and artists are just a few ways to create lasting community connections.
How Libraries Can Create Joyful Communities
How can libraries create joyful communities?
Respecting and Integrating Newcomers
How can libraries make communities more welcoming?
How Libraries Can Increase Community Economic Vitality
How can libraries make communities more economically vital?
Promoting Wellbeing
How can libraries make communities healthier?