Ruby Bridges. Photo: Tom Dumont Photo

This Is Your Time

January 22, 2021

Hayden opened the conversation with condolences to Bridges for the loss of her mother, Lucille, who died in November from cancer. Calling Lucille her “guardian angel,” Bridges said her mother was a driving force and influence in her family. “She was a beacon for me and my siblings,” Bridges said. “She was adamant about having … Continue reading This Is Your Time



Top Tweets Midwinter Virtual

Midwinter 2021 Top Tweets—Day 0

January 22, 2021

https://twitter.com/corindawn/status/1352145640399253504   Oh my stars! #alamw21 has both @FLOTUS and @TheAmandaGorman! What a conference this will be! https://t.co/ZqhDEckbim — Arika is ready for the YMA’s! (@arikadickens) January 21, 2021   Looking forward to hearing multitalented, #EthanHawke, speak on his new book, A Bright Ray of DarknessEthan Hawke: Featured Speaker https://t.co/p2aRQC0oAb #alamw21 — Alene Sen (@Alene_Sen) … Continue reading Midwinter 2021 Top Tweets—Day 0


Emmanuel Acho. Photo: Ali Rasoul

Newsmaker: Emmanuel Acho

January 20, 2021

American Libraries caught up with Acho ahead of his January 24 appearance at the American Library Association’s 2021 Midwinter Meeting & Exhibits Virtual to discuss his series and book, as well as equity in professional sports and the power of libraries. Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man—the name of your YouTube series and book—is such … Continue reading Newsmaker: Emmanuel Acho


Meet the 2021 I Love My Librarian Award Winners

January 11, 2021

“During an unprecedentedly challenging year, librarians have risen to the occasion, providing much-needed resources to their communities from a safe distance,” said ALA President Julius C. Jefferson Jr. “Congratulations to this year’s I Love My Librarian Award winners, who have worked tirelessly to assist, engage, and empower the people they serve.” Honorees will each receive … Continue reading Meet the 2021 I Love My Librarian Award Winners


2021 Midwinter Preview

January 4, 2021

Many of this year’s elements will be familiar, including a slate of speakers from the worlds of literature and activism, the announcement of prestigious literary awards including the Newbery and Caldecott medals, and the Symposium on the Future of Libraries. There will be a mix of livestreamed sessions, some of which have been designed for … Continue reading 2021 Midwinter Preview


By the Numbers: Midwinter

By the Numbers: Midwinter

January 4, 2021

107 Number of times the American Library Association (ALA) has held its Midwinter Meeting since 1908. This year’s event, which will be conducted virtually, is the last in its current format; ALA plans to introduce a new concept for 2022. 7 Number of times that ALA did not host an annual Midwinter Meeting since its … Continue reading By the Numbers: Midwinter


Newsmaker: Ziggy Marley

January 4, 2021

Marley spoke to American Libraries ahead of his appearance at the American Library Association’s 2021 Midwinter Meeting & Exhibits Virtual about his creative process during a lockdown, oral traditions, and voting for the first time. Your latest album was written and recorded during the pandemic. What was that like, and did you intend to create … Continue reading Newsmaker: Ziggy Marley


From the President, by Julius C. Jefferson Jr.

A New Year of Hope

January 4, 2021

Similarly, 2020 made an indelible impression on the history of our country, and it has left us collectively exhausted. Many will remember it as the year we were locked down, Zoomed out, and either lonely or wanting to be alone. We lost loved ones, icons, and champions. We were confronted with furloughs and loss of … Continue reading A New Year of Hope



Wes Moore

2020 Midwinter Wrap-Up

February 6, 2020

“How much pain are we willing to tolerate when we know we don’t have to?” asked opening speaker Wes Moore, CEO of anti-poverty organization Robin Hood, US Army combat veteran, and one of many speakers who addressed race and inequality. His forthcoming book (with Erica L. Green) Five Days: The Fiery Reckoning of an American City … Continue reading 2020 Midwinter Wrap-Up


Immersive Classrooms for All

January 28, 2020

Immersive classrooms—spaces that use large displays and interactive elements to simulate environments—have been in use at large academic institutions for years. They generally require expensive screens, projectors, and interactive devices as well as expert-level development to design and adapt content. However, Fort Hays (Kans.) State University (FHSU) received a National Leadership Grant from the Institute … Continue reading Immersive Classrooms for All