Public Libraries

A handy set of key links on COVID-19; free resources and newly free access to learning services; and tips for energizing online instruction.

As more children and teens are taught at home, libraries are stepping up to serve them.

The discussions in the spring set of free, one-hour professional development programs will tackle serving striving readers, information inequity, and news literacy.

Legislators in Tennessee want to create a parental oversight board to decide what children can and cannot access at their local public library; Jeff Kinney to hit the road for Rowley; and grants and professional opportunities in this edition of News Bites.

The Boston Children’s Museum and the Institute of Museum and Library Services are doubling the number of states participating in a school readiness initiative. Creating a coalition of museums, libraries, and community groups is key to its success.

Addressing technology’s negative impact on parent/child engagement and group participation.

More U.S. librarians are using this interactive programming model, in which human "books" speak with patrons about their life experiences.

For the fourth year in a row, the proposed federal budget calls for defunding IMLS and makes cuts to education spending as well. Library advocates and educators are being asked once again to speak out to protect the funding.

Tips for self-care can be useful but are not always practical. So proactive administrations and public library management are taking steps to support their stressed-out staff.