Covid-19
The 50th anniversary of Earth Day, April 22, is going to feel different, since many traditional observances involve a) not staying home and b) getting together in groups. But there are still plenty of ways to celebrate and further the cause of sustainability responsibly through the library.
Many people stuck inside all day have dived back into favorite TV series to pass the time. Between binge-watches, learn more about your favorite shows from these can’t-miss reads.
As public libraries around the United States close, Library Journal’s editors have been blown away by the creativity and dedication library workers have shown in delivering remote library services in a way that’s safe for patrons and staff alike. To honor those ongoing efforts, we offer this original cartoon by Mark Tuchman, Creative Director of School Library Journal.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced on April 13 that it would begin steps to distribute the first $30 million appropriated to the agency through the federal Coronavirus Aid Package, or CARES Act. The $2 trillion emergency funding legislation, which passed on March 27, included a $50 million package spearheaded by the Washington Office of the American Library Association (ALA) to help ensure that libraries could continue to provide workforce development, connectivity, and digital content during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, as well as to protect core library services in the face of future expected cuts and to help support library organizations.
Members of the book industry are finding that the current pandemic is accelerating changes that were already taking place.
Whether you’re a librarian doing storytimes from your couch or a library fan missing in-person visits, here are eight photos of light, bright, and beautiful libraries to ensure that next time you go on camera, the library’s behind you all the way.
Libraries have a vital role to play in the census—especially this year, as the process moved primarily online, increasing the potential for undercounts of those on the wrong side of the digital divide. Historically, libraries have assisted the U.S. Census Bureau in helping people apply for field operations jobs, promoting the census, providing informational materials, educating patrons about census misinformation, and assisting patrons in the library with filling out response forms. However, much has changed with the spread of COVID-19 and the closure of thousands of libraries.
Breadmaking has become popular during quarantine; as bread becomes harder to find on grocery store shelves, more people are making their own. These resources will help both new and experienced bakers get started.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) hosted a webinar on Monday, March 30, “Mitigating COVID-19 When Managing Paper-Based, Circulating, and Other Types of Collections.”