Merchandise

New book spotlights ways to advance entrepreneurship in public libraries

CHICAGO — Libraries have a distinctive role to play in the small business ecosystem and can effectively partner to complement existing business services in the community. A nationwide initiative that launched in 2020, Libraries Build Business (LBB) aims to build capacity in libraries offering programming or services to local entrepreneurs and the small business community, prioritizing low-income and underrepresented entrepreneurs. And libraries have already begun to transform communities.

Cullingford’s updated special collections handbook

CHICAGO — The new third edition of “The Special Collections Handbook,” published by Facet Publishing and available through the ALA Store, has been revised and updated to reflect the growth and complexity of the environment in which special collections operate. It remains an essential resource for staff working with special collections in a wide range of settings, including academia, public libraries, and museums.

New Banned Books Week materials and more debut in spring/summer ALA Graphics catalog

CHICAGO – The Spring/Summer 2022 ALA Graphics catalog delivers a range of exciting posters and bookmarks to inspire and encourage readers of all ages. The cover displays the new Banned Books Week poster which offers the important and timely message that “Books Unite Us.

Save 50% on more than 400 products during the ALA Store Spring Sale

CHICAGO — Spring has sprung and ALA would like to put a spring in your step with savings on a wide range of materials. Now through June 3, head to the ALA Store and save 50% on more than 400 products, including professional development books, posters, bookmarks, gift items, t-shirts, and more.

Learner-centered techniques for academic library instruction

CHICAGO — When you stand alone in front of the class, being in command of your content is only the first step. Knowing how to engage students’ participation in ways that foster “ownership” ensures that learning is both active and lasting. In her new guide “Practical Academic Library Instruction: Learner-Centered Techniques,” published by ALA Editions, Jo Angela Oehrli shares tried and tested techniques honed from 20 years of practice in both traditional and nontraditional settings.

Readers’ advisory to genre blends for children and young adults

CHICAGO — It’s no wonder that genre blends are some of most popular books for children and teens. When you mash up two different traditional genres, it’s like doubling what makes each one pleasurable on its own. The first of its kind, “The Readers’ Advisory Guide to Genre Blends for Children and Young Adults,” published by ALA Editions, will help public and school librarians, teachers, and collections staff identify genre blends for readers' advisory, curriculum development, or creating core collections.

Literacy and wellbeing at school libraries

CHICAGO — Research has repeatedly linked school libraries and qualified staff to student literacy gains. With the number of students who struggle with basic literacy skills increasing in many nations, school libraries can play an important role in improving the academic, vocational, and social outcomes for these young people, thereby increasing their opportunities. Fostering student wellbeing is also a key priority for schools given the challenges young people face in current times.

An updated introduction to information science

CHICAGO — The new second edition of “Introduction to Information Science,” published by ALA Neal-Schuman, gives a comprehensive overview of all aspects of the subject, bringing it up-to-date with analysis of the changes in the information environment, now largely digital, and their implication for the discipline and professions.