Publications and Products
PLA offers its members resources for career advancement, problem-solving, continuing education, and library information, in articles and monographs written by public librarians and public library staff members specifically for public librarians and public library staff members.
PLA publications deliver the information you need to perform at your greatest potential!
Public Libraries Magazine
Public Libraries, published six times a year, is the official journal of the Public Library Association (PLA) and the only ALA journal devoted exclusively to public libraries.
Public Libraries Online
At Public Libraries Online, the online counterpart to Public Libraries magazine, we strive to deliver valuable and actionable content that empowers professionals in the field. We cover a wide range of topics, including emerging trends, innovative practices, community engagement, books and authors, technology advancements, and more. Our goal is to equip public librarians with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive in an ever-changing information landscape. With a focus on immediacy, we provide up-to-date articles that shed light on current hot topics and critical issues affecting public libraries. Our platform facilitates engagement and interaction, allowing readers to join the conversation through comments and social media sharing.
- Become a contributor: We are always seeking new contributors to add their voices to the site. We invite you to become a part of PL’s dynamic, high-profile team of writers. If you are interested in contributing to the site, the expectation is that you will produce at least one 800–1200 word, library-related blog post per month. These are volunteer positions. If you are interested in participating contact us at publiclibrariesonline@gmail.com. Be sure to include a bit about your library and writing background and topics that you might be interested in writing about, as well as a writing sample. We are looking for a diverse group of contributors, so don’t be shy! Our site targets the public library world, so we ask that contributors are in (or retired from) that field.
FYI: The Public Libraries Podcast
Looking for a convenient way to stay updated on the latest public library trends, initiatives, and news? Dive into FYI: The Public Libraries Podcast! Explore over 75 episodes covering the nuts and bolts of exceptional library programs. Perfect for your daily commute, each episode averages around 20 minutes, delivering a wealth of valuable information without demanding too much of your time. Plus, new episodes are released monthly, ensuring there's always fresh content to enjoy. Discover our complete list of episodes and start listening today!
Advertise with PLA
Advertising opportunities in Public Libraries, the official journal of PLA, and PLA's electronic products: Public Libraries Online, PLA Blog, and PLA Insider.
Benchmark: Library Metrics and Trends
The newest tool for data-driven planning and advocacy in public libraries, Benchmark provides libraries with visualizations for easy comparisons to peer and nationwide data. All US public libraries have free access to some components of the tool; subscribe for upgraded access to the data dashboards, reports, and custom peer comparisons.
Books and Products
Top-selling books and products covering a wide range of public library concerns and issues.
Every Child Ready to Read
PLA, together with the Association for Library Service to Children, have incorporated the latest research in early literacy, into a series of turnkey parent and caregiver workshops that provide public libraries with vital tools to help prepare parents for their critical role as their child's first teacher.
PLA Annual Survey Reports
PLA conducts an annual topical survey and publishes a free report on the national results. The complete, interactive results for the annual topical surveys and historic Public Library Data Service (PLDS) data are available to subscribers via Benchmark.
PLA Gift Shop
You'll find great gift ideas for your friends, family, staff—and even yourself—in the updated PLA Gift Shop! From a dewey decimal apron to library-themed iPhone cases and apparel, there's something for every sort of book and library lover. Most orders ship in 24 hours.
Publish with PLA
Interested in sharing your unique knowledge or experiences with other public librarians? Consider publishing with PLA!
