Caregivers and children work side by side as they investigate electronic components during a hands-on library program. Photo courtesy of Katie Hom.
The Hidden Power of Shared Experiences in School-Age Library Programs
Category: Guest Blogger
Small Library, Big Conference: A Rural Librarian’s First ALA
As someone still new to the library profession, I had no idea what to expect from my first ALA Annual Conference. Being selected as a recipient of the 2026 Penguin Random House Young Readers Group Award made attending this milestone event possible. While I was incredibly grateful for the opportunity, I also felt pressure to make the most of every minute.
Wonder first: what a coral snake taught me about writing children’s books
Why did you become a children’s librarian? I suspect it wasn’t simply to help children find information. I often find myself asking a similar question: why do I write children’s books?
Scratch, Read, Repeat: Bringing a Little Extra Joy to Summer Reading with Scratch-off Cards
Every summer, libraries look for creative ways to encourage children and families to keep reading. We spend months planning exciting performers, ordering prizes, and designing promotional materials. But last year, we decided to rethink one of the most familiar parts of Summer Reading: the reading log.
“A very exciting time to consider running for the board!”
An Interview with Incoming ALSC Board Member, Heather Love Beverly Are you interested in learning more about running for a leadership position in ALSC? In this blog post, Heather Love Beverly shares her experience serving in YALSA, what excites her about serving on the ALSC Board, and advice for those interested in serving in a leadership position within the association.
Why This Small Library Hired an Artist instead of a Librarian
With shrinking budgets and expanding roles, librarians everywhere have to continue to wearmany hats. Or maybe just one big hat with “Other Duties As Assigned” embroidered on it.With that reality, most librarians must do EVERYTHING, including their own marketing theirown programs. In comparison, larger metropolitan libraries with multiple branches have wholeteams dedicated to just that task. But Mukwonago Community Library, a smaller library in Mukwonago, Wisconsin with only 25 employees total, found a way to strike a balance between the two extremes.
Kid approved! Conferencing with a kid and picking out books at #alaac26
This year, I am traveling with my nine-year-old reader at ALA annual, so on conference day one I picked up my badge and purchased a child’s pass at the registration desk (only available in person), and additional tickets for her to attend some of the events on my schedule. I opted to find a local babysitter for the first day, to give myself time to settle into the conference, and so my daughter could explore the city.
Bilingual programs beyond storytime
When an #alaac26 session starts with all attendees waving colorful scarves to a welcome song, you know you will leave more energized than you walked in. As one of the last sessions of this 4-day conference, this was key for myself and over 40 other attendees to stay until the very end.