Susanna Kwan: Books Belong to Us All

Susanna Kwan’s debut novel, Awake in the Floating City, takes place in a flooded San Francisco of the future, where a surprising connection forms between a 130-year-old woman named Mia and her caregiver, an artist named Bo. The author lives in San Francisco herself, where her favorite library branch is a fifteen-minute walk away from her apartment.

Libraries: Your Lifeline During Natural Disasters

There are few things in life more unpredictable than nature, especially during the springtime, which is known for its severe weather. Experiencing a natural disaster can be a significant source of disruption and uncertainty, particularly when you and your home are badly affected.

Library Supporters are Taking on MAGA in Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, California, has become ground zero for MAGA's relentless attacks on American libraries and your right to read.  We need people like you to take action and help us fight back!

Safeguarding Our History: The Vital Role of the National Archives in Preserving Military Records

Among the many alarming actions taken by the current administration was the firing of the national archivist (and other senior staff), raising significant concerns about the future of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). The work done by NARA, particularly in terms of military records, is crucial to American history and policy and deserves attention—and preservation. Read on for what you need to know. Note: Actions at the federal level are occurring and changing rapidly. The following information was current at the time of writing and publication.

Child’s Play: Books to Help Children Cope with Hospital Matters

Even though it affects all of us, finding reliable healthcare information can often be really tricky. This is partly due to the fact that our scientific knowledge expands almost daily and also because healthcare information tends to be written in jargon.

What Were the Real Reasons that Trump Fired the Librarian of Congress?

The Trump administration fired one of the most respected, celebrated, and qualified librarians in America.

Supporting the IMLS Amid Budget Cuts

The IMLS federal agency awards significant grants to US libraries and museums. Unfortunately, it's facing threats of budget cuts and the elimination of vital team members who support the community needs of library facilities. Here’s what you need to know about the IMLS and why canceling current grants will devastate US community members.

School Library Musings: Good Noise, Good Trouble!

Old television shows from the 1950s through the 1990s that featured kids in schools would inevitably set a scene or two in the library. Students would be sitting around large library tables, books open, whispering to each other. Should any of those whispers rise above a certain decibel, the stereotyped librarian’s harsh “SHHH!” would ring out over the room.

Little Free Libraries Deliver Big Benefits

On a stroll around the neighborhood, the whimsical birdhouse-like box catches your eye. A glass door and shelves brimming with fascinating finds invite you to look inside, with everything from classic novels to brightly illustrated children’s books on display.

Why We Need to Save IMLS

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) does a lot to help libraries and museums, but it has recently come under attack. While IMLS has faced the threat of funding cuts before, the department is now being gutted, its future uncertain. Many people probably have never heard of IMLS, but it is actually a vital lifeline for libraries and museums across the United States.