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.
Category: Guest Blogger
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.
The Hidden Power of Shared Experiences in School-Age Library Programs
Caregivers and children work side by side as they investigate electronic components during a hands-on library program. Photo courtesy of Katie Hom.
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.