ALA Editions/Neal-Schuman

CHICAGO — Public libraries everywhere have embraced inclusion and expanded their programming for youth with disabilities, especially autism. It’s imperative that libraries also offer rich and age-appropriate initiatives for adults with developmental disabilities (DD); after all, as youth now served by their libraries grow up and reach adulthood, they will continue to want and expect libraries to be responsive to their needs.

CHICAGO — Gallup’s 2019 State of the American Workplace Report found that 70 percent of employees are disengaged at work. Why is worker engagement so important? Engaged workers lead to engaged libraries — vibrant institutions that nurture their workers’ dedication, creativity, and innovation so they can serve their communities most effectively. “The Six-Step Guide to Library Worker Engagement,” published by ALA Editions, walks library managers and administrators through concrete steps to change their organization’s culture.

CHICAGO — Bestselling tech maven and editor Ellyssa Kroski is back with “32 Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality Programs for Libraries,” published by ALA Editions, a timely, all-in-one guide to planning, organizing, and running virtual events. Ranging from simple gaming activities utilizing VR headsets to augmented reality tours, exhibits, immersive experiences, and STEM educational programs, these ideas include something for every size and type of academic, public, and school library.

CHICAGO — Technical Services isn’t the hidden discipline it once was. Even so, despite all the cross-departmental interaction, misconceptions about the work are all too common. It’s incumbent on technical services staff to take a proactive approach by communicating to others their value to the library and institutional mission.