Advocacy Alert! Library Funding

Every year, nearly $200 million in federal library funding is awarded to every state in the nation by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). IMLS can do that work, and gets the funding it needs, in no small measure because Congress passed and periodically “reauthorizes” the Museum and Library Services Act. It’s time … Continued

NCBLA Launches Upgraded OUR WHITE HOUSE Website with NEW Election and Presidency Content

Just in time for helping young people across America understand the presidential campaigns and election, the National Children’s Book and Literacy Alliance has launched a newly designed and updated version of its nonpartisan, presidential history and civics education website OurWhiteHouse.org. We invite you to explore this free, online companion to the NCBLA’s award-winning anthology Our … Continued

A library card provides endless opportunities for family engagement

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, a time when the nation’s public libraries highlight the value of a library card. As children head back to school, family time is often hindered by homework and afterschool and social activities. A public library card is your ticket to free educational resources and activities that bring families together. … Continued

Teachers! Check out these tips for creating a language-rich environment

As another school year begins, the NCBLA invites teachers to peruse our Teacher Handbook, which is filled with articles and resources focused on creating a setting of literacy excellence in your classroom. For example, check out these tried and true tips for creating a language-rich environment for your students this school year. Teachers, you may … Continued

Help Kids Understand the Birth of Political Parties

Both George Washington and John Adams despised the idea of political parties, but our two-party system took root during Washington’s administration anyway. In these final days before the Republican and Democratic presidential conventions, share the story of party politics with young people. Take time to discuss around the dinner table, while driving on a long … Continued

Great Reads Spotlight: JAMES RANSOME

What Great Read does author and illustrator JAMES RANSOME recommend for young people? Ransome recommends Back Home, written by Gloria Jean Pinkney and illustrated by Jerry Pinkey. “I chose Back Home because I was raised in the south and have fond memories of spending summer vacation with visiting cousins. Being an illustrator I am also, … Continued

Great Reads Spotlight: Jack Gantos

What GREAT READ does author JACK GANTOS recommend for young people? Gantos recommends Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh. “I chose Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh because when I read her book I wanted to be Harriet’s friend. But because she was a fictional character I began to practice her way of writing: she … Continued