Public librarians, library staff, and trustees are challenged to keep up with the ever-changing needs of their communities and patrons. Staying informed is a necessity if you are to contribute to the success of your library.
In Print
Public Libraries, published six times a year, is the official journal of the Public Library Association (PLA) and the only ALA journal devoted exclusively to public libraries. Each issue includes important industry news, PLA and ALA updates, and columns and feature articles that offer strategies and ideas that can make a difference in your career.
As a PLA member you receive a free subscription to this valuable resource (a $65 value). Subscriptions are also available for non-members.
- Issues dating back to 2015 are available to current PLA personal members in PDF and digital flipbook (beginning with May/June 2020 issue) formats in the PLA Member Library (login required*).
- Indexes of past issues dating back to 1994 are also available.
- Want to share your unique knowledge or experiences? Write for Public Libraries! All submissions are also eligible for our Feature Article Contest.
- Meet the editors who bring each issue of Public Libraries to you
Online
Public Libraries Online
An online complement to the printed journal, Public Libraries Online offers three full articles from each issue of the printed edition as well as expanded content exclusive to the Web. Become a Public Libraries Online contributor!
The Public Libraries Podcast
Want an easy way to keep up on exciting public library projects, initiatives, and related news? Want to hear the nuts and bolts of great library programs? Or, maybe you just want great public library content to listen to on your daily commute. Check out The Public Libraries Podcast. Episodes average around 20 minutes, so you can get a lot of great information without investing a lot of time! See our complete list of episodes.
Interested in advertising in Public Libraries in print or online? See our Advertiser Instructions.
*You will be asked to login to confirm your current PLA personal membership. If you’ve forgotten your login information, you'll be able to retrieve your username/password or create a login if you don't have one from the "Login" page.