Before I accepted the position of full-time Children’s Librarian at Lake Region Public Library (LRPL), the position at our library was only part-time. I couldn’t wait to dive in and expand on the legacy that our previous Children’s Librarian built here. I wanted our collection to better represent the youth of the Lake Region, to expand programming, and create a space that was accessible, equitable, and available to all families. I knew it could be done and I was excited to get started.
Author: Guest Contributor
Fall Harvest Stories – These Books Look Good Enough to Eat!
September is a perfect time to start celebrating the bounty of Fall. Here are some delicious reads that you can feature in a fun food themed storytime perfect for young readers ages two to five years old. If possible, invite a local farmer or grower to bring some of their crops in for a demonstration so little ones can explore and experience Fall’s bounty for themselves. If that is not available, see about picking up some of the featured fruits and veggies at your local stores or farm stand. For an easy to share snack serve small cups of store bought unsweetened applesauce. Keep the container handy in case of any questions about food allergies and make sure to advertise that food will be served.
Reunification! September 1st is Almost Here
In just a few days, on September 1, ALSC and YALSA will officially come together as one division. I wanted to write a short reminder of what that means for you, where to find more information, and, of course, an invitation to get involved.
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?
Reimagine, Reenergize, Reunite
It is a joy and an honor to write my first blog post as your 2026-2027 President of ALSC. Thank you to everyone who reached out leading up to and during ALA Annual Conference with encouragement and offers of help in this year of Reunification. Seeing members from both Divisions expressing excitement, hope, and eagerness to be involved was deeply heartening.
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.