Herewith, 2018 in School Library Journal, cover by cover. Hat tip, Mark Tuchman, SLJ creative director.

In a difficult year, SLJ readers raised up good books for kids and teens, seeking out and celebrating the best in publishing. The most popular posts of the year included lists featuring Latinx and Native American themes and characters.

The “Freedom” line of women's footwear sports the First Amendment engraved on the sole of each shoe. For every pair purchased, Samuel Hubbard will donate $20 to the News Literacy Project.

Librarians respond to the challenge of where to put diverse books once they have them in their collections.

Famed actor and activist George Takei will kick off School Library Journal’s annual Summit. This year’s theme: Making “good trouble.”

The majority of public and K–12 librarians consider it "very important" to have a diverse book collection for kids and teens, according to SLJ's nationwide survey. But there are hurdles, including a lack of quality titles in specific areas.

Three works of fiction for middle grade, a novel in verse, and a graphic memoir are this year’s finalists for the 2018 National Book Award.

What’s in store for the 2019 award season? SLJ’s "Pondering Printz" columnists will consider the contenders for the Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature.

School Library Journal has relaunched “First Steps,” its early learning column, with two new co-authors.