By Kara Yorio

Librarians are responding to a rise in book challenges as parents target titles that deal with race, racism, or social justice in even the most tangential way, as well as books that have LGBTQ+ characters and themes.

With the release of Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot this week, Jeff Kinney gives young readers the comfort of familiar characters and a little bit of normal in these continued chaotic times.

Friends and colleagues remember Caldecott-winning illustrator Jerry Pinkney, who died this week at age 81.

The Reby Cary Youth Library opened in August with more than 8,000 square feet designed for and dedicated to children.

During this Banned Books Week, Jerry Craft and Kelly Yang saw their books challenged by parents, and authors discussed what it means to have their books "banned."

Natural disasters are taking a toll on schools and public libraries across the country. SLJ checked in with some librarians hit by Hurricane Ida and the Dixie and Caldor fires in California to see how they are and how people can help.

Books are being challenged across the country; districts in Pennsylvania and Texas dominate the news with their decisions to remove materials. 

The Georgia high school librarian and Read Woke columnist is one of 50 educators from around the world who are up for the $1 million honor.

As the sisters prepare to record their milestone episode, Betsy Bird and Kate Ramsey discuss the origins of the podcast, some favorite episodes, and plans for the future.