Public Programs Office (PPO)

Apply to host a space, earth science or technology exhibition at your public library

CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) Public Programs Office, in collaboration with the Space Science Institute’s National Center for Interactive Learning, the Lunar and Planetary Institute and the Afterschool Alliance, invites public libraries to apply to host one of three science- and technology-focused traveling exhibitions.

The interactive exhibitions are designed to promote STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) learning opportunities for all ages.

ALA 2015 Midwinter Meeting programs will help libraries lead positive community change

CHICAGO — All communities have challenges. Libraries are uniquely positioned to help conquer them — given the right tools.

The American Library Association (ALA) will offer a series of free learning sessions at its 2015 Midwinter Meeting that will help libraries leverage their trusted position in the community to engage people on issues that matter.

The 2015 ALA Midwinter Meeting & Exhibits will take place Jan. 30 to Feb. 2 at McCormick Place in Chicago.

Ferguson Library Director Scott Bonner to share thoughts on leading in times of crisis at ALA Midwinter Meeting in Chicago

CHICAGO — Libraries and their staffs are agents of positive community change, even under the most challenging and tension-filled circumstances. Ferguson (Missouri) Municipal Public Library Director Scott Bonner will discuss the recent turmoil in his community — and how the library managed to lead through it — at the American Library Association’s (ALA) 2015 Midwinter Meeting & Exhibits in Chicago.

NEH grants ALA $1.5 million for ‘Latino Americans: 500 Years of History’ programming initiative

CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) has been granted nearly $1.5 million by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) in support of Latino Americans: 500 Years of History, a public programming initiative for libraries and other cultural institutions.

Public libraries invited to apply for ‘StoryCorps @ your library’

CHICAGO – StoryCorps, in partnership with the American Library Association (ALA) Public Programs Office, is accepting applications from public libraries and library systems interested in hosting StoryCorps @ your library programs.

ALA releases report on library programming impact, calls for feedback from the field

CHICAGO — A report released today by the American Library Association (ALA) explores the growing area of library programming and proposes an ambitious, eight-year research plan to explore how programs reach library users and impact communities.

Free webinar series teaches libraries to 'turn outward' and lead positive community change

CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) invites library professionals to view a free webinar series designed to help libraries strengthen their role as core community leaders and work with residents to bring positive change to their communities.

Get beyond deadlock with free 'Naming and Framing' webinars

CHICAGO — The American Library Association (ALA) Center for Civic Life and the David Mathews Center for Civic Life will offer a free webinar series to help librarians lead their communities in dealing with challenging public issues.

The series — “Naming and Framing Public Issues” — will be offered in three one-hour sessions:

Free webinar explores the makings of an award-winning school library program

CHICAGO — Creating a library program can be daunting regardless of an audience’s age. Developing a program for K-8 students— one that aligns with curriculum, stays on budget and keeps kids engaged — comes with a unique set of challenges.