As libraries begin to consider offering services and programming in new or reimagined ways, some are looking at how to use outdoor spaces as a way to connect and engage with their communities. From parking lots to baseball diamonds, there are public spaces in every community that can provide ways for people come together, while remaining safely distanced.

Project for Public Spaces, an organization dedicated to helping people create and sustain public spaces that build strong communities, has been exploring ways that placemaking can help bring people together in outdoor spaces for many years, and the principles are especially important... Read more

Each day we discover new ways libraries are expanding their online offerings in response to this challenging time. In this latest edition of our Social Library series, we're highlighting examples of online cooking classes! There are classes for kids, classes for adults and some for all ages, and one library just hosted an Edible Book Contest. You'll also find a few examples from libraries that are collecting and featuring their new collections of video programming. If you'd like to see your library featured in an upcoming edition of the Social Library, let us know via social@webjunction.org or find us on... Read more

In part two of a two-part series, Saroj Ghoting, early childhood literacy consultant, looks at ways to connect with families during virtual storytimes, to share tips and support with parents and caregivers.

Now that you've engaged with children in your virtual storytime, another goal might be to connect with families in your community who are seeking activities to do with their children. You can offer many tips sprinkled throughout your storytime or you may decide the information warrants its own presentation, just for families.

Think about how families are experiencing this separation from the reading resources of the library.... Read more

REopening Archives, Libraries and Museums (REALM) is a research partnership between OCLC, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and Battelle to create and distribute science-based information and recommended practices designed to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 to staff and visitors who are engaging in the delivery or use of museum, library, and archival services.  
Visit oc.lc/realm-project for more information on the project, research timeline, and committee members. Project updates and resources will be added to this information hub as they become available.

We encourage you to sign up to receive project updates by email and/or... Read more