Public Libraries Magazine
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*).
- Since 2020, the May/June and July/August issues of Public Libraries magazine are delivered digitally. You can access the issues via the PLA Member Library (members only) or go here and enter the password that was emailed to you. If you have any questions about the digital issues, email editor Kathleen Hughes, khughes@ala.org, or pla@ala.org.
- 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
At Public Libraries Online, the online counterpart to Public Libraries magazine, we strive to deliver valuable and actionable content that empowers professionals in the field. We cover a wide range of topics, including emerging trends, innovative practices, community engagement, books and authors, technology advancements, and more. Our goal is to equip public librarians with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive in an ever-changing information landscape. With a focus on immediacy, we provide up-to-date articles that shed light on current hot topics and critical issues affecting public libraries. Our platform facilitates engagement and interaction, allowing readers to join the conversation through comments and social media sharing.
- Become a contributor: We are always seeking new contributors to add their voices to the site. We invite you to become a part of PL’s dynamic, high-profile team of writers. If you are interested in contributing to the site, the expectation is that you will produce at least one 800–1200 word, library-related blog post per month. These are volunteer positions. If you are interested in participating contact us at publiclibrariesonline@gmail.com. Be sure to include a bit about your library and writing background and topics that you might be interested in writing about, as well as a writing sample. We are looking for a diverse group of contributors, so don’t be shy! Our site targets the public library world, so we ask that contributors are in (or retired from) that field.
FYI: The Public Libraries Podcast
Looking for a convenient way to stay updated on the latest public library trends, initiatives, and news? Dive into FYI: The Public Libraries Podcast! Explore over 75 episodes covering the nuts and bolts of exceptional library programs. Perfect for your daily commute, each episode averages around 20 minutes, delivering a wealth of valuable information without demanding too much of your time. Plus, new episodes are released monthly, ensuring there's always fresh content to enjoy. Discover our complete list of episodes and start listening today!
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