Public Library Programs and Services

Still a predominantly white profession, librarianship has a legacy of racial discrimination, and we must face and better understand the ways in which race impacts how we meet users’ needs both now and in the future. Amanda L. Folk and Tracey Overbey, authors of two ALA Editions Special Reports, posit that identifying and acknowledging implicit and learned bias is a necessary step for moving forward.

Children's librarians are taking seriously our profession’s calls for equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). They already know that popular storytimes can be an effective way to increase community representation and belonging at the library.

Free PDF—Stay Well, Stay Inspired

During this time of uncertainty library workers are finding new ways to provide crucial information and services.

In the view of author Hillary Dodge, with ties to information needs, social justice, and the maker movement, food literacy initiatives are a natural fit for libraries. Her new book Gather ‘Round the Table: Food Literacy Programs, Resources, and Ideas for Libraries doesn't just make that case, it also showcases a host of food literacy programs from libraries across the country.

As technology consultant David Weinberger puts it, “A platform provides resources that lets other people build things.” The library is an ideal platform for creativity; a new book from Erinn Batykefer and Laura Damon-Moore, creators of the Library as Incubator Project, proves it.

ALA Editions/ALA Neal-Schuman is pleased to present a selection of free programs at the 2019 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition exploring the profession’s issues and trends. The programs scheduled to take place at the ALA Store, located near the main entrance to the Exhibit Hall on the lower level of the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, are:

Saturday, June 22

Shop and browse the ALA Store at the 2019 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition for products that meet the widest range of your promotional and continuing education/professional development needs—as well as fun gift items. Located near the main entrance to the Exhibit Hall on the lower level of the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the ALA Store hours are:

"Probably the best thing you can do to set yourself up for success is to create dedicated time during your week to use your organization system," says Kate Hall.