By SLJ Staff

We've rounded up some contests for all ages, found more story hours, finish out January's free streaming opera, and more free activities for kids

Check out the latest must-have works for kids and teens, including poetry collections, fantastical middle grade, and heart-pounding YA.

The children's literature world was shocked by the unexpected death of author Kathleen Krull, who had recently been diagnosed with cancer. Also in this edition of News Bites, Ibram X. Kendi makes a deal with Netflix; opportunities for funding; and more.

The second annual News Literacy Week comes amid calls to make teaching these skills a priority. 

Though Halloween has passed, these three beastly titles keep the age-appropriate frights (and laughs) coming.

These engaging picture book biographies spotlight two influential Black female tennis players: Althea Gibson and Serena Williams.

It's been quite a year. And we have lists.

Give us a snapshot of your 2020 and your hopes for 2021. Happy New Year!

The CDC recommends teachers and support staff get the coronavirus vaccine in the next round of distribution; the Black Caucus of ALA has put out its Best of the Best 2020 booklist; applications are being accepted for the Library of Congress Librarian in Residence program; and more in this edition of News Bites.