Public Library Association (PLA)

Ideas for pivoting during the pandemic

CHICAGO — When the pandemic suddenly forced many public libraries to close their doors or limit patron access, library staff redoubled their efforts to serve their communities in every way possible. Demonstrating their resilience by quickly pivoting to new modes of service, public libraries are continuing to offer innovative yet practical ways to connect patrons to the information and services they need and enjoy.

New PLA initiative helps public libraries prepare communities for in-demand jobs

CHICAGO – The Public Library Association (PLA) and Microsoft are teaming up to promote tools for libraries to support job seekers in growth careers. Since 2018, PLA and Microsoft have been collaborating to help libraries, often in rural communities, secure needed equipment such as hotspots, connect families to low-cost internet plans, and offer programs to teach community members technology skills.

Public libraries critical to health coverage during public health crisis

CHICAGO - The eighth open enrollment period of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) began on Sunday, November 1, 2020 and will run through December 15, 2020 during what may be the most challenging year in its ten-year history. Millions of Americans have lost jobs due to the Coronavirus pandemic, leaving many without employer-sponsored health coverage.

PLA’s new Learning Tapas offers bite-sized professional development for public librarians

CHICAGO – In October, the Public Library Association (PLA) released two new professional development resources exclusively available to PLA members. PLA's new Learning Tapas are quick, self-paced videos with corresponding guidebooks designed to provide a "taste" or introduction to the topic at hand.

PLA’s 2021 early literacy calendars now available

CHICAGO – For the third year in a row, the Public Library Association (PLA) has developed and released an Early Literacy Calendar, featuring daily literacy-building activities that libraries can share with families in their community.

Big programming ideas for small budgets

CHICAGO — When you’re a solo librarian or only have a few volunteers to rely on (with a tiny budget to match) you’ve got to make the most of everything. With creativity, flexibility, and heart, you can offer programming that engages people of all ages and backgrounds. “209 Big Programming Ideas for Small Budgets,” published by ALA Editions in partnership with the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL), shares ideas and guidance for being the anchor your community needs.

Twenty-One public libraries awarded funding to encourage Affordable Care Act enrollment

CHICAGO – Through its health insurance enrollment and education initiative, Libraries Connecting You to Coverage, the Public Library Association (PLA) is encouraging enrollment in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace for 2021. Today, PLA announced it will award $1,000 and $2,000 contracts to 21 public libraries across the U.S.