News and Updates

A library lover in Washington, D.C., has made a record-setting $25 million bequest to the American Library Association to fund library school scholarships for students with demonstrated financial needs.

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.

This holiday season, show the world how much you love libraries and support ALA at the same time with hats, shirts, hoodies, mugs, and more goodies from the ALA Graphics Gift Shop. Save 25% on everything and enjoy FREE shipping through December 8!

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.

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.

When Bigfoot and a host of other famous cryptids were spotted in a Virginia park in October, area kids set out on foot to find them with help from their local library.

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.

To celebrate his latest nonfiction title, “The Secret Lives of Booksellers & Librarians," Patterson made a special donation to award bonuses to more than 200 ALA members from across the U.S. The nomination period for the award was announced in April when Patterson's book was released.