By Marva Hinton

From petting zoos to field trips, these initiatives forge strong ties with communities.

Brian Selznick’s new book originated as a movie with Steven Spielberg six years ago. When production stalled during the pandemic, Selznick created a 528-page illustrated novel instead.

These public library programs reach out to all kids. 

Greater representation serves young library users and the profession. But more effort is needed to bring in—and retain—Black librarians.

SLJ spoke with five school librarians about how they came to the profession, the work they do each day, and their connection with students.

Cynthia Leitich Smith, Joseph Bruchac, Carole Lindstrom, and more share how the market for children’s books by Indigenous authors has changed for the better.

Children can handle the hard truths about slavery, say educators.  Literature can help the conversation.

“We’re like jazz musicians in that we decide on a structure, but a lot is left up to improvisation,” says Griffin about working with Reynolds. Read more about how this SLJ starred book came together.

Advocates for queer young people say support from caring adults is crucial. Here's how librarians are standing up for their students.