Discover the people, policies, and pivotal moments that shaped the ALA and the libraries we all rely on. Our anniversary blog is your behind-the-scenes look at the legacy we’re honoring and the future we’re building, with regular stories on how we’re celebrating.
The History of School Library Month
April is School Library Month, when school librarians across the U.S. are encouraged to host activities to help their school and local community celebrate the essential role that strong school libraries play in transforming learning. For more than 40 years, School Library Month has highlighted the vital role school libraries play in the lives and education of our nation’s youth. It has a fascinating history.
Explore ALA and Library History with Wayne Wiegand
In a special episode of ALA’s “How I Library” podcast, show host and I Love Libraries editor Phil Morehart speaks with library historian and author Wayne Wiegand about the beginnings of ALA as the Association celebrates its 150th anniversary.
Twenty-Five Years of the Sibert Medal
As the American Library Association celebrates its 150th birthday this year, one of the Association’s prestigious book awards also reaches a milestone anniversary. For 25 years, the Robert F. Sibert International Book Medal has been awarded annually to the author(s) and illustrator(s) of the most distinguished non-fiction informational book published in the United States in English during the preceding year.
ALA Wants to Hear from You During Its 150th Anniversary
The American Library Association (ALA) is seeking website and podcast contributions from ALA members as it celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2026. We want stories that reflect experiences with ALA, its legacy, and its history to be featured on ala150.org and ALA’s How I Library podcast.