PBS Books and Booklist Announce Booklist Reader Partnership

CHICAGO – Booklist, the official book review journal published by the American Library Association (ALA), and PBS Books, a multi-platform initiative celebrating the love of reading, are pleased to announce a partnership.

Booklist launched Booklist Reader for library patrons and visitors digitally in September 2021 and in print in January 2023. Beginning in May 2023, PBS Books content will be featured each month in Booklist Reader. This new partnership adds a multimedia dimension to Booklist Reader and will inform patrons and the public about must-watch author interview videos, detail highlights of online events and panels, and showcase exciting PBS series companion book talks.

Aligned in their efforts to highlight diverse reading recommendations for readers of all ages, Booklist Reader and PBS Books together will reinforce a joint commitment to libraries as public spaces central to supporting culture, community, and creativity. This partnership will extend value to readers’ advisory librarians and staff, library patrons, and all who love to read and listen.

“I am proud that PBS Books is launching this exciting partnership with ALA’s Booklist Reader to share with library patrons its important work and significant PBS programming that supports the diversity of our great nation,” said Heather-Marie Montilla, national director of PBS Books. “We are thrilled to engage audiences, deliver quality digital programming, and highlight our dedication to libraries as the critical gathering place of communities.”

Rich Homberg, president and CEO of Detroit Public Television, said, “From the beginning, PBS Books has been dedicated to providing unique book experiences to audiences across the country—what better way to engage people across the country than to partner with the American Library Association’s Booklist Reader as they aim to provide special insights into books and authors.”

Booklist Editor and Publisher, George Kendall noted that “the PBS Books partnership ensures that library workers and library patrons can now rely on Booklist Reader to provide the most unique, engaging, impactful, and immersive content experiences for all ages and all communities.”

ALA Executive Director, Tracie D. Hall remarked: “PBS is nationally regarded for producing content that invites its audiences to think critically, while ALA is committed to enhancing education and ensuring access to information for all. That makes for a natural partner.”

The partnership will begin with the May 2023 Booklist Reader issue, which publishes in early May 2023.

About PBS Books

PBS Books is a multi-platform initiative celebrating the love of reading. Through social and digital engagement and live coverage of important literary events across the country, PBS Books celebrates books and writers and works to foster a passion for reading among public media viewers and listeners.

About Booklist

Booklist is the American Library Association’s nationally distributed book and media review publication. Since 1905, Booklist has been proud to publish thousands of book and audiobook reviews each year, helping library and education workers decide what to buy and how to guide patrons and students of all ages in choosing what to read, view, or listen to. Booklist Publications includes two print magazines, an extensive website and database, e-newsletters, webinars, podcasts, and other literature-based resources that support librarians in collection development and readers’ advisory. For more information on Booklist Publications, including how to become a Booklist reviewer, visit booklistonline.com.

About the American Library Association

American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, ALA has been the trusted voice of libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit ala.org.