New Reads for a New Year
Are you looking to start the new year with a new book? The editors at Booklist, the American Library Association’s book review journal, share a wealth of suggestions on the latest episode of their podcast.
Public Libraries Share Their Most-Borrowed Books of 2024
NPR’s Neda Ulaby scanned the most-borrowed-books lists of 2024 from several public libraries across U.S. to see what library-goers were reading throughout the year. The selections are a mix of new titles and some older favorites.
Empathy, Homelessness, and the Library
I Love Libraries editor Phil Morehart spoke with author Ryan Dowd about his book, “The Librarian’s Guide to Homelessness: An Empathy-Driven Approach to Solving Problems, Preventing Conflict, and Serving Everyone,” as a part of ALA Editions/ALA Neal-Schuman’s new online book club. It was a fascinating discussion about libraries and homelessness in the U.S. that also offered tools that can improve human relations across the board.
‘How I Library’ Episode 13: Raj Tawney
In episode 13 of the “How I Library” podcast, show host and I Love Libraries editor Phil Morehart speaks with writer and journalist Raj Tawney about his new book, “All Mixed Up,” the semiautobiographical story of a multi-ethnic American boy who forges a complex friendship with a Pakistani immigrant in the wake of 9/11.
Get ‘Wicked’ at the Library
Idina Menzel starred as the green-hued witch Elphaba in the original Broadway production of the musical, “Wicked,” which is now a smash film. Along with her sister, author and educator Cara Mentzel, she served as honorary chair of Library Card Sign-up Month in 2022. “Let your imagination sing at the library,” said Idina.
Librarians Celebrate Latino and Spanish-Language Graphic Novels
Are you a comic book or graphic novel fan looking for a new read that will both educate and broaden your horizons? The American Library Association’s Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table and REFORMA, the National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish-Speaking, have announced a list that highlights some of the best graphic novels that showcase Spanish-speaking and Latino stories and creators.
Ali Velshi: Libraries Are Indispensable in the Fight for Social Justice
Ali Velshi, host of “Velshi” and chief correspondent for MSNBC, believes libraries are indispensable in the fight for social justice; places where everyone can explore and learn about new worlds, cultures, and perspectives to help create a world of better understanding and equality.
‘How I Library’ Halloween Episode with David Dastmalchian
For this special Halloween episode of the “How I Library” podcast, I Love Libraries editor and show host Phil Morehart speaks with actor, writer, and producer David Dastmalchian. Dastmalchian joins the show to discuss his love of comics and horror movies, his writing career, and of course, how he libraries.
Celebrate Let Freedom Read Day with Beth Ferry’s ‘Roar for Reading’!
On Let Freedom Read Day, the last day of Banned Books Week, we’re spotlighting an amazing new picture book, “Roar for Reading” by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Andrew Joyner. In this special episode of the How I Library podcast, Ferry dives into the book’s inspiration and the ongoing battle against book banning.
“Roar for Reading” follows a brave little lion named Julius, who learns to speak up and “roar” against book bans. It’s a powerful, fun story for young readers that encourages them to use their voices to protect their favorite books. Ferry uses the acronym R.O.A.R. (Recognize, Organize, Act, Respect) to break down how kids and adults alike can stand up for the freedom to read.
In her interview with host Phil Morehart, Ferry talks about the real-world issue of book banning and why libraries are so important. She shares her hope that Roar for Reading helps kids understand what’s at stake and encourages empathy for others whose access to books is being limited.
Listen to the full episode and check out Beth’s read aloud of “Roar for Reading” on YouTube.
Let’s celebrate Freedom to Read Day with a roar!
The How I Library podcast is available for download or streaming on Soundcloud, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Or listen below.
HowILibrary · Episode 10: Beth Ferry
The book’s publisher, Simon and Schuster, has an activity guide available to accompany Roar for Reading.
Love Andrew Joyner’s artwork in “Roar for Reading”? Check out the Roar for Reading poster and bookmarks available at the ALA Store.
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Beth Ferry is a New York Times bestselling author of numerous picture books for children including “Prunella” and “Stick and Stone.” She also writes chapter books and graphic novels.
Andrew Joyner is an Australian illustrator and cartoonist who lives in Strathalbyn, South Australia, with his family and nineteen pets.
‘How I Library’ Episode Nine: Max Greenfield
The latest episode of our “How I Library” podcast features actor and author Max Greenfield. Greenfield’s TV acting credits include “New Girl,” “The Neighborhood,” and “Bob’s Burgers.” He is also a successful author of books for kids. He joins us to discuss his writing career, the inspirations for his latest book, “Good Night Thoughts,” and, of course, his love of libraries.
