Alabama Libraries’ Best Parenting Resource: “Homework Alabama”

Libraries across Alabama have the homework solution that every parent needs: Free, live ‘Homework Alabama’ tutoring.

Need a Clean, Well-Lighted Place with Free Wifi? Try the Library

If your idea of a public library includes dusty shelves and people getting shushed, you might be overdue for a visit to your local branch.

You Will Truly Understand Libraries and Librarians By Reading These Books

Books and libraries, libraries and books, two words that are inseparable in the public imagination. But how many people truly understand libraries and librarians beyond their association with books? Because I suspect that the answer is “not many”, I want to — ironic twist forthcoming — recommend some books to help you gain an understanding of my challenging, unusual, and ultimately fulfilling profession. If, however, you want to preserve the myth that librarians read all day, that’s fine. Stop here, do not pass go, do not collect $200. For those who want insight on librarianship, read these books!

Useful Hacks for Making the Library Your “Home” Office

We all know that libraries are typically quiet and peaceful places, home to millions of books for readers of all ages. But over the past two decades, these sanctuaries have been used for much more than just perusing through volumes of publications. With the rapid increase of the gig economy, many freelancers on a tight budget have discovered the library to the be their “secret” office space to focus and get work done. Whether you’re a freelancer or just looking for a place to work outside the office, here are some quick and easy insider tips on how to make the best of your new favorite workspace:

Garbage Info — Library Editorial Cartoon

“Information overload has been a continuous problem since the Internet came of age. Algorithms meant to personalize the information we see and sell us products related to whatever we search for have only complicated the problem. Fortunately librarians can help you through the deluge and find the information you need.” — Kevin Moore, 2017 EveryLibrary Artist in Residence

5 Spooky Situations That Give Librarians Goosebumps!

Halloween is right around the corner so it’s time to let you into the crypt of library secrets! Not many things have librarians and library workers quaking in the stacks, but a few things do. Behold! Five dreadful doozies you’ll not soon be able to forget:

The Important Emotional Labor of Librarians Most People Never Think About

For librarians, as with many other professions, “Other duties as assigned” is code for tasks that are distasteful, off-kilter, or just plain gross.

As a Business Librarian, I Help People Find Their Passion

I believe the best work is work where there are no typical days. I’m lucky, because I have that kind of work. I’m a Business Librarian.

7 Insidious Myths About Libraries and Reading (the first two kill me)

Ask around among librarians and there is one thing that every one of them will agree about: The general public believes all sorts of strange things about libraries and reading. It’s a fact that even library lovers, many of whom are voracious readers, will occasionally make pronouncements that make me go hmm. Often times, these seemingly logical, common-sense, assumptions are based on ill-informed editorials or narrowly-focused news articles, rather than actual evidence. To answer these misstatements of fact, I’ve collected a few library and reading myths to dispel. Hopefully, after reading this, you won’t go around repeating them anymore!

10 Experiential Learning Activities for Non-reading Kids

Gardening is a fun and rewarding activity for kids and adults alike.