Summer Connections

June 1, 2026

While this is my first Annual as executive director, I attended the conference last summer in Philadelphia. There, I was blown away by the sheer number of participants, the depth of quality programming, and the infectious enthusiasm and energy from morning to night. This year, we expect approximately 15,000 conference attendees. As in previous years, … Continue reading Summer Connections


The winners of the 2026 I Love My Librarian Award

Meet the 2026 I Love My Librarian Award Winners

April 6, 2026

“As ALA marks its 150th anniversary, we recognize the remarkable contributions these ten librarians make for our communities, for learning, for our health, and for the public good,” ALA President Sam Helmick said in the announcement. “These librarians are people who power possibility in our neighborhoods, our schools, and our places of higher learning. Their … Continue reading Meet the 2026 I Love My Librarian Award Winners



Covers of the 2026 Caldecott Medal-wining Fireworks and the 2026 Newbery Medal-winning All the Blues in the World.

2026 Youth Media Award Winners

January 26, 2026

A complete list of the 2026 award winners follows. John Newbery Medal for the most outstanding contribution to children’s literature: All the Blues in the Sky, written by Renée Watson, is the 2026 Newbery Medal winner. The book is published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books, an imprint of Bloomsbury Publishing. Four Newbery Honor Books also were named: … Continue reading 2026 Youth Media Award Winners


A collage of Chicago recommendations: A swan boad, the IO Theater logo, a dome in the Chicago Cultural Center, Wrigley Field, The Light of Truth: Ida B. Wells National Monument, and a Pullman Porter hat

Welcome to the Windy City

June 1, 2023

This story was originally published in June 2023. Please check attraction websites for current prices and hours. Walk or bike from the convention center If you’re looking for a quick way to get some fresh air, the Burnham Wildlife Corridor starts at McCormick Place and runs south to 47th Street. Throughout this stretch of revitalized … Continue reading Welcome to the Windy City