Fall Book Club Picks (May 30, 2023) Book clubs bring communities together, encourage thoughtful conversation, and open readers’ minds up to new authors, experiences, and cultures. From fiction to memoir, thrillers to social commentary, these titles will be perfect additions to any reading group! Join us Tuesday, May 30 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for a free, one hour webinar featuring presentations from Macmillan Library Marketing, Dudurn Press, Crooked Lane Books, Sourcebooks, and Kensington Publishing. Moderated by Booklist’s senior editor, Collection Management and Library Outreach, Susan Maguire.
Summer Scares YA Panel (May 24, 2023) Make sure your cabin in the woods has Wi-Fi, because you won’t want to miss the discussion of this year’s YA horror selections for the Summer Scares Reading Program, a program designed for libraries by the Horror Writers Association, in partnership with United for Libraries, Book Riot, and Booklist. Moderator Emily Vinci, Librarian and Chair HWA Library Advisory Council, will sit down with Summer Scares creators Maggie Tokuda-Hall and Lisa Sterle (SQUAD), Suzanne Walker (MOONCAKES), and Cat Winters (IN THE SHADOW OF BLACKBIRDS) to discuss their books and all things horror. This free, one-hour Booklist webinar will take place on Wednesday, May 24 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. Register now—or else.
Page-Turning Picture Books (May 16, 2023) Springtime is upon us and with the incoming warmer weather also comes new and exciting picture books! Join us for a free one-hour webinar on Tuesday, May 16, moderated by Sarah Hunter, Editor for Books for Youth and Graphic Novels to hear about some phenomenal new picture books. We’ll hear representatives from Tundra Books, Albert Whitman, Simon & Schuster, and Phoenix International Publications as they present their upcoming titles!
Summer Scares Middle-Grade Panel (May 12, 2023) Gather ‘round the campfire for a spine-tingling discussion of this year’s middle-grade horror selections for the Summer Scares Reading Program, a program designed for libraries by the Horror Writers Association, in partnership with United for Libraries, Book Riot, and Booklist. Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith will gab with Summer Scares authors Katherine Arden (Small Spaces), K. G. Campbell (A Small Zombie Problem), and Dan SaSuWeh Jones (Living Ghosts & Mischievous Monsters) about all things horror and why scary stories belong on children’s shelves, both at home and at the library. This free, one-hour webinar will take place on Friday, May 12th at 1 pm CT / 2 pm ET. Register now, or the banshees will haunt you forever.
Fall 2023 Librarian Preview with HarperCollins Children’s Books featuring Joanna Ho, Mac Barnett & Shawn Harris, and Elana K. Arnold (May 11, 2023) Join HarperCollins Children’s Books on Thursday, May 11 at 12 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. CT for a FREE Booklist webinar to learn about new picture books, middle grade, and YA titles coming in fall 2023. Hear from award-winning authors Joanna Ho (Say My Name), Mac Barnett & Shawn Harris (The First Cat in Space and the Soup of Doom), and Elana K. Arnold (The Blood Years) on their forthcoming fall titles. The author talks will be followed by the HCCB library marketing team’s presentation of some exciting titles coming your way this fall. This is a can't-miss event—register now! Moderated by Booklist’s Books for Youth senior editor Ronny Khuri.
Thrillers, True Crime, and Mysteries, Oh My! (May 2, 2023) Love a surprising twist, a cozy whodunit, or a fast-paced thriller? Well we have exactly what you need! Join us for a free one-hour webinar on Tuesday, May 2 at 1 p.m. CT! You’ll hear representatives from Macmillan Library, Crooked Lane, ECW Press, CamCat Books and Dreamscape Audio tell you all about their upcoming mysteries, thrillers, crime fiction, and more! Moderated by Annie Bostrom, Booklist’s Senior Editor of Adult Books.
New & Notable Nonfiction Picture Books from Random House Children’s Books (April 24, 2023) Join Charnelle Pinkney Barlow (Little Rosetta and the Talking Guitar), Rachel Ignotofsky (What’s Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon), Liz Montague (Jackie Ormes Draws the Future), and Melissa Stewart (Whale Fall) as they discuss their new and upcoming nonfiction picture books and biographies. Register now for this one-hour free webinar on Monday, April 24 at 1 PM CT/2 PM ET! Sarah Hunter, Editor for Books for Youth and Graphic Novels, will moderate.
Authors & ARCs (April 13, 2023) Authors, free eARcs, lots of book love—it’s the next best thing to a conference! Join us on Thursday, April 13 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for the next installment of our Authors & ARCs program! Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from some incredibly talented authors and download free eARCs of their books. We’ll be joined by P. Djèlí Clark (Starscape); Kristen Simmons (Tor Teen); Stephen Bramucci (Bloomsbury); and Emery Lord (Bloomsbury). Register now for this free, one-hour webinar moderated by Booklist’s Books for Youth senior editor Maggie Reagan.
Library Love for LibraryReads (April 11, 2023) Stunning debuts, moving memoirs, escapist fiction—you’ll find your next great read at our free, one-hour webinar on Tuesday, April 11 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. Panelists from HarperCollins Publishers, Simon & Schuster, HTP Books, and Union Square & Company will showcase adult titles hitting the shelves this summer that are bound for success with your patrons and perfect for LibraryReads nominations! LibraryReads is a librarian-driven venture where public library staff can help build word-of-mouth for new books. We’ll hear from Executive Director Rebecca Vnuk about the latest happenings in the library world and the important role libraries play in creating audiences for all kinds of authors. Register now! Moderated by Susan Maguire, Booklist’s Senior Editor, Collection Management and Library Outreach.
Homeschooling and Series Nonfiction (April 4, 2023) Whether they are navigating hybrid learning or looking for additional materials to supplement school, parents, students, and educators all need resources to help spark reading interests and inspire critical thinking. Join Booklist on Tuesday, April 4 at 11 a.m. PST / 1 p.m. CT / 2 p.m. ET for a free, one-hour webinar that will help your patrons find books that will boost students’ educational development. We’ll hear from Rourke Educational Media, Scholastic, Holiday House, National Geographic Kids, and the Creative Company. Moderated by Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith. Register now!
YA Announcements (March 30, 2023) As the weather turns warmer there’s so much to look forward to, including gorgeous new YA books! Join us on Thursday, March 30th at 1pm CT/2pm ET for a free one-hour webinar showcasing amazing YA titles that are soon to come! We’ll hear representatives from Disney Publishing, Soho Press, Sourcebooks and North Star Editions! Senior Editor of Books for Youth, Ronny Khuri, will moderate. Register now!
Random House Children’s Books Summer 2023 Preview (March 29, 2023) Join Random House Children’s Books on Wednesday, March 29 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT to hear from special guest speakers and staff as they tell you about their Summer 2023 list! This free, 90-minute Booklist webinar will kick-off with special guest speaker Kim Johnson discussing her sophomore novel Invisible Son with Associate Publisher of Random House Children’s Books, Caroline Abbey. Following, the RHCB School & Library team will present new and exciting titles coming in Summer 2023. From picture books to Middle Grade and YA, this is a can't-miss event—register now! Moderated by Booklist's Books for Youth senior editor Maggie Reagan.
Keys to Reaching Every Reader (March 22, 2023) The school year may be more than half over, but there’s still time for you to draw students into your school’s digital collection and set them up for summer reading success! Learn how from expert librarians from OverDrive, who will guide you through recommended reads that can help you reach learners across your entire school community.
Whether your students are learning to read or reading to learn, digital offers a little something for everyone. Looking for phonics books? Awesome audio titles? Hi-Lo adventures? Magazines? Books for language learners? We’ll cover all of this – and more. Don’t miss out! Join us Wednesday, March 22 at 1 PM CT/2 PM ET! Audiobooks editor Heather Booth, will moderate.
Picture Book Parade (March 21, 2023) Riveting nonfiction, imaginative stories, and insightful biographies, picture books provide layers of rich reading that spark imagination and celebrate new perspectives. Join Booklist on Tuesday, March 21 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for a free, one-hour webinar showcasing upcoming picture books from Capstone Publishing, Publishers Spotlight, Pajama Press, Charlesbridge Publishing, and North Star Editions. Register now! Moderated by Booklist’s Books for Youth senior editor Ronny Khuri.
Lee & Low Spring-Summer 2023 Showcase (March 15, 2023) Discover what's new for Spring-Summer 2023 at Lee & Low on Wednesday, March 15 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT! During this free, one-hour webinar, you'll learn about new picture books, chapter books & YA titles about everyone & for everyone from the largest multicultural children's book publisher in the country. Then hear from the creative team behind the picture book, I Can Be...Me!: Lesléa Newman & Maya Gonzalez. Register today! Moderated by Booklist's Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter.
Spring Book Club Picks (March 14, 2023) Are you looking for the next great title for your book club? Then you must come check out our free one hour-webinar for titles will ignite lively discussion for any reading group! Join us Tuesday, March 14 at 1 PM CT/ 2 PM ET for the hottest upcoming titles that your book club is sure to love! We’ll hear title presentations from Bloomsbury Publishing, Penguin Random House Library Marketing, and Simon and Schuster! You won’t wanna miss it, register now! Moderated by Booklist’s senior Editor, Collection Management and Library Outreach, Susan Maguire.
DK School & Library Summer 2023 Preview (March 9, 2023) Get a glimpse of DK’s top children’s and adult titles coming in summer 2023—from decodable books and brand-new reference to inspirational reads and cookbooks from well-known chefs. Discover Rebel Girls Growing Up Powerful, delve into The Met Degas, and find inspiration in the kitchen with Nick DiGiovanni’s Knife Drop. Plus, hear from The T Guide authors and transgender icons Gigi Gorgeous and Gottmik in a Q&A with Booklist’s Annie Bostrom, as they discuss their forthcoming adult book, a guide to all things gender expression in which they share their unique stories and valuable insight. Register now for this free, one-hour webinar on Thursday, March 9 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT.
HarperCollins Children’s Books Spring 2023 Librarian Preview with Corey Tabor, Jerry Craft, and E.L. Shen (March 1, 2023) Join HarperCollins Children’s Books on Wednesday, March 1st at 12PM ET/11AM CT for a FREE Booklist webinar to learn about new picture books, middle grade, and YA titles coming in spring/summer 2023. Hear from Geisel Medalist and Caldecott Honoree Corey Tabor (Simon and the Better Bone), Newbery Medalist Jerry Craft (School Trip), and acclaimed author E.L. Chen (The Queens of New York) on their forthcoming titles. The author talks will be followed by the HCCB library marketing team’s presentation of some exciting titles coming your way this spring. This is a can't-miss event—register now!
Amazing Audiobooks (February 28, 2023) Year after year, audiobooks prove to be among the most widely circulated collections at libraries across the country! From picture book read-alongs that combine the audio and visual into one smoothly connected reading experience to full cast performances to celebrity memoirs, audiobooks appeal to all readers and should have a prominent place in your library! Join us on Tuesday, February 28 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for a free, one hour webinar showcasing upcoming titles from LATW, Dreamscape Media, Penguin Random House Library Marketing/Books on Tape, and Yen Press! Treat your earbuds to something special and register now! Moderated by Booklist’s Audio Editor Heather Booth.
Matchmaking with Macmillan (February 23, 2023) Join the Macmillan Library Marketing team for a Spring 2023 Preview as we match Adult + YA books with new readers! We’ll hear from panelists Amanda Crimarco, Library Marketing Senior Manager, Emily Day, Library Marketing Associate Manager and Samantha Slavin, Library Marketing Coordinator! Adult Books Editor Donna Seaman will moderate. Join us on Thursday, February 23, 1pm CT/ 2pm ET!
Magnificent Middle Grade (February 21, 2023) It’s rare to find books that can cover a wide range of subjects and still produce fresh, heartfelt writing relatable to all readers. From kids coming to the rescue, to magical adventures, to STEAM-driven stories, middle-grade continues to showcase the best of literature. Join us Tuesday, February 21 at 12:00 p.m. MST / 1:00 p.m. CT / 2:00 p.m. ET for a free, one-hour webinar featuring the best of upcoming MG titles from Norton Young Readers, Shadow Mountain Publishing, Disney Publishing, Charlesbridge Publishing, and Albert Whitman. Register now! Moderated by Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith.
Terrific Teen and Dazzling Debuts: Four 2023 Debuts from Bloomsbury (February 16, 2023) Join Booklist and Bloomsbury on Thursday, February 16 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for a special event showcasing new titles from new voices! We'll be joined by Trang Thanh Tran (She Is a Haunting); Gabi Burton (Sing Me to Sleep); Jen St. Jude (If Tomorrow Doesn't Come); and debut duo David Bowles and Guadalupe García McCall (Secret of the Moon Conch). Register now for this exciting webinar moderated by Booklist's Annie Bostrom.
MacKids School & Library Spring 2023 Preview Event (February 15, 2023) RSVP now for the MacKids School & Library Spring Preview Event on February 15th at 2:00pm ET / 11am PT. We will preview upcoming picture books, middle grade, and young adult titles. Our special guest is New York Times-bestselling author Dashka Slater of The 57 BUS: A True Story of Two Teenagers and the Crime That Changed Their Lives, the Escargot books, the Feylawn Chronicles, and more. Dashka will be in conversation with Executive Editorial Director of Farrar Straus Giroux Books for Young Readers, Joy Peskin, talking about the research and journalist storytelling behind Dashka's newest young adult narrative nonfiction novel, Accountable: The True Story of a Racist Social Media Account and the Teenagers Whose Lives It Changed. This free, 75-minute Booklist event is free and will be moderated by Booklist's Books for Youth and Graphic Novels editor Sarah Hunter. Register now!
Adult Faves (February 14, 2023) Book awards season might be coming to a close but that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of hot new books to add to your TBR! To learn all about this latest batch of must-have adult books, join us for this free, one-hour webinar! We’ll hear presentations from Disney Books, Sourcebooks, Hachette Book Group, W. W. Norton & Company and Soho Press on Tuesday, February 14 and 1 PM CT/2 PM ET. Spend your Valentine’s Day with us and find a new favorite to love! Booklist’s Susan Maguire, Senior Editor, Collection Management and Library Outreach, will moderate.
Disney Publishing Preview (February 13, 2023) Join Disney Publishing for a preview of 2023 kids and YA titles from across Disney Publishing, including National Geographic! During this free, one-hour Booklist webinar on Monday, February 13 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT, you'll hear from some amazing authors including Jade Adia (There Goes the Neighborhood), Crispin Boyer (Zeus the Mighty: The Voyage on the Oddest Sea), Leah Johnson (Ellie Engle Saves Herself), Stacey Lee (Winston Chu vs. the Whimsies), Mark Oshiro (The Sun and the Star), and Gretchen McNeil (Three Drops of Blood). You’ll also get a sneak peek of 2023 titles from the School & Library Marketing team! Register now! Moderated by Booklist's Books for Youth senior editor Ronny Khuri.
Discover 2023 YA Debuts (February 8, 2023) Hear all about the new voices in YA literature, directly from the authors themselves. From historical fiction to romance to books about identity and family secrets, these debuts provide something for every reader! Discover the new voices and books your teens will be asking for in 2023! Join Penguin Young Readers and Booklist on Wednesday, February 8th, 2023 at 1PM CT/2PM ET for this free, hour-long discussion where YA debut authors Krystal Marquis (The Davenports), Mae Coyiuto (Chloe and the Kaishao Boys), and Lila Riesen (Free Radicals) will discuss their debut novels with Booklist's Books for Youth senior editor, Maggie Reagan. Register now!
Graphic Novels for Adults and Young Adults (February 7, 2023) Looking for the hottest Graphic Novels for adults and young adults alike? It’s all here in our #ReadGraphic webinar on Tuesday, February 7 at 1 p.m. CT! Featuring Fantagraphics Books, Yen Press, Diamond Book Distributors, and Image Comics, attendees will hear about the best thought-provoking, educational, and adventurous titles for you or the graphic novel reader in your life! Whether you’re introducing graphic novels into your library or expanding your #ReadGraphic shelves, you won’t want to miss this free, one-hour webinar hosted by Graphic Novels and Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter.
Me and You: Celebrating the Importance of Relationships with Albert Whitman & Company (January 24, 2023) Join Albert Whitman authors to discuss new picture books that celebrate the importance of building strong relationships, from family to friends. Booklist's Books for Youth Senior Editor Julia Smith will talk with Moni Ritchie Hadley (Anzu and the Art of Friendship); Betty Tekle (The Coolest Beard); and Frances Park and Ginger Park (Grandpa's Scroll) during this free, one-hour webinar on Tuesday, January 24 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. Register now!
Authors & ARCs (January 19, 2023) Ring in the new year with a celebration of four fantastic authors! Our Authors & ARCs series is back, and we can’t wait to share these wonderful new books that will inspire young readers everywhere! Join us Thursday, January 19 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT when we hear from Andrew Varga (Imbrifex Books); Erin Bow (Disney Publishing Worldwide); Gillian McDunn (Bloomsbury); and Tracey Hecht (Fabled Films Press) as they introduce their new titles and talk with Booklist’s Books for Youth and Graphic Novels editor Sarah Hunter. Register for this free, one-hour webinar now!
New Year, Balanced Life (January 10, 2023) Join Penguin Random House Library Marketing along with their distribution partners, North Atlantic Books, Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Shambhala Publications, Hay House, Watkins Publishing, and Parallax Press for a New Year, Balanced Life webinar as they kick off 2023 with the perfect selection of titles to enhance health, wellness, and balance in the new year. Register now for this free, 75-minute webinar on Tuesday, January 10 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. Moderated by Booklist’s Adult Books editor, Donna Seaman.
Persevering in the Face of Book Challenges (Nov 17, 2022) The increase in book challenges at school and public libraries has left many library workers stunned, weary, and worried about what comes next. But our important work must continue! Join our panel of boots-on-the-ground library workers including Cindy Hohl, Director of Branch Operations at Kansas City Public Library; Olathe East High School Librarian Shelly McNerney; and Gavin Downing, Kent School District librarian and winner of the Candace Morgan Intellectual Freedom Award, for a frank and inclusive conversation about how we press on to do the best for our patrons and communities, for intellectual freedom, and for ourselves in these difficult circumstances. Register now for this free, one-hour webinar on Thursday, November 17 at 5 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. CT moderated by Booklist editor Heather Booth.
DK School & Library Spring 2023 Preview (Nov 10, 2022) Get a glimpse of DK’s top children’s and adult titles coming in spring 2023—from picture books and leveled readers to the best picks for history buffs, lifestyle gurus, and avid and armchair travelers. Discover the new DK SUPER READERS, delve into THE SCIENCE OF GARDENING, explore new horizons with UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEYS EUROPE, and so much more. Plus, hear from 1000 Hours Outside author Ginny Yurich in a Q&A with Booklist's senior editor, Books for Youth, Maggie Reagan, as they discuss Ginny's forthcoming book and the importance of the 1000 Hours Outside movement she founded, which strives to match kids’ annual outdoor time with their screen time and encourages families to get out into nature together. Join DK and Booklist on Thursday, November 10, from 2:00-3:00 p.m. ET, for this one-hour webinar moderated by DK assistant director of marketing Kristen Pozzuoli. Register now!
Meet Booklist Reader (Nov 9, 2022) For the first time ever, bring Booklist's expertise directly to patrons! Our new magazine, Booklist Reader, features recommendations for readers and listeners of all ages and interests, along with content from our partner, LibraryReads. Join us for a free webinar on Wednesday, November 9 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT to learn how you can use Booklist Reader as a patron resource and readers' advisory tool. Featuring Booklist editors, LibraryReads Executive Director Rebecca Vnuk; Special Collections Librarian at the Indianapolis Public Library, Montoya Barker; and Kaite Stover, Director of Readers’ Services at Kansas City Public Library, attendees will receive expert tips about how to use both the print and digital issues of Booklist Reader to expand readership, increase circulation, and train library staff. Plus, all registrants will be entered to win a free three-month trial of Booklist Reader in print for their library. Register now!
Revise. Refocus. Reshape. A Candid Conversation on Collection Development. (Nov 2, 2022) What collection is always in high demand, is rich in genre and topical diversity, brings accessibility to all patrons without added tech, and is reaching new audiences by the day? In this free webinar, three librarians will discuss how they have repositioned large print in their collections to change public perceptions, accentuate all the format has to offer, increase circulation, and satisfy community demand.
Librarians Monique Franklin of Fort Bend, TX; Jill Haile of Jacksonville, FL; and Emily Vinci of Schaumburg, IL will discuss their collection strategies, communities, and more. The panel will be moderated by Booklist audio editor Heather Booth.
What's News in Debuts? (Nov 1, 2022) There’s not much that's more exciting than reading an incredible debut novel. And in the book world, we’re always excited to celebrate new voices, new characters, and new stories! Join representatives from HarperCollins, Macmillan, and Simon & Schuster on Tuesday, November 1 at 1PM CT/2PM ET for this free, one-hour webinar, where publishers will be featuring exciting new upcoming debuts titles for you to add to your ever growing TBR list! Moderated by Annie Bostrom, Senior Editor for Adult Books.
Winter 2023 Librarian Preview with HarperCollins Children’s Books featuring Lois Lowry, Loren Long, and Ibi Zoboi (Oct 27, 2022) Join HarperCollins Children’s Books on Thursday, October 27th at 2 PM ET/1 PM CT for a FREE Booklist webinar to learn about new picture books, middle grade, and YA titles coming in early 2023. Hear from Newbery Medalist Lois Lowry (The Windeby Puzzle), bestselling illustrator Loren Long (Never Forget Eleanor), and award-winning author Ibi Zoboi (Nigeria Jones) on their forthcoming titles. The author talks will be followed by the HCCB library marketing team’s presentation of some exciting titles coming your way next year. This is a can't-miss event—register now!
Big Reads from Small Presses (Oct 26, 2022) Unique styles, powerful subjects, and incredible authors, these sophisticated books will enlighten and challenge all readers. Join Penguin Random House Library Marketing along with their distribution partners, Seven Stories Press, Steerforth Press, Catapult Books, Beacon Press, Melville House, The Library of America, Astra House, and Verso Books, as they showcase forthcoming adult fiction and nonfiction titles in this free, 75-minute webinar on Wednesday, October 26 at 2 p.m. ET /1 p.m. CT. Moderated by Booklist’s Adult Books editor Donna Seaman.
Graphic Novels for All! (Oct 25, 2022) Through their accessible format, imaginative illustrations, and wide-ranging subject matter, graphic novels have become a necessity for any book collection, and we’re here to help you expand! Join us on Tuesday, October 25 at 1 p.m. CT for a #ReadGraphic webinar that will help you build your graphic novel selection and turn you into a readers' advisory expert! We’ll hear from Diamond Book Distributors, TKO Presents, Quarto Kids, Yen Press, Image Comics and Viz Media about upcoming titles for adult, teen, and young readers! Moderated by Sarah Hunter, Editor for Graphic Novels and Books for Youth at Booklist.
MacKids School & Library Winter 2023 Preview Event (Oct 19, 2022) RSVP now for the MacKids School & Library Winter Preview Event on October 19 at 2:00pm ET / 11:00am PT where they'll preview upcoming picture books, middle grade, and young adult titles in this free, 75-minute Booklist webinar! You’ll hear from talented authors Zeena M. Plisk (Egyptian Lullaby), Zach Weinersmith (Bea Wolf), Katherine Marsh (The Lost Year), and Deb JJ Lee (In Limbo: A Graphic Memoir).
Also, joining live is special guest Nick Brooks, award-winning filmmaker and author of Promise Boys, who will discuss the inspiration behind his debut young adult novel with Brian Geffen, Senior Editor at Henry Holt Books for Young Readers. Plus, don’t miss an exclusive first look at You Will Do Great Things, a lyrical and magical picture book from Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and author Amerie and illustrator Raissa Figueroa. Register now to see Amerie’s Q&A with Editorial Director of Roaring Brook Press, Connie Hsu
The Books are Afoot (Oct 18, 2022) Spooky woods, haunted houses, a suspicious note left at your door---it’s not Halloween, it’s Booklist’s mystery webinar! Join us Tuesday, October 18 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT when we hear from HarperCollins Publishers, Soho Press, Severn House, and Oceanview Publishing about upcoming thrillers and mystery titles that are sure to leave your patrons guessing (and looking over their shoulder). True crime, cozy mysteries, or a chilling thriller, we’ll have it all during this free, one-hour webinar. Moderated by Booklist’s Adult Books senior editor Annie Bostrom.
How To Bring Digital Content to the Forefront of Your District (Oct 14, 2022) When it comes to meeting your students’ literacy needs, digital books might seem like a no-brainer – and they are! But in order to truly prioritize digital content in your district, it takes a little bit of organization.
Join Bill Bass, Innovation Coordinator at Parkway Schools (MO) and Quinn Sobieszczanski, Account Manager from OverDrive Education, for this discussion on how his district adopted strategies make ebook and audiobooks a focal point for Parkway. You’ll learn:
- How to use Class Sets, title assignments and more to get more from your collection for less
- Why pairing a shared digital collection with individual school-level collections can help you save budget and better meet your students unique reading requirements
If you’re an educator seeking real-world strategies to bring digital books to the forefront in your own district, you won’t want to miss it! Join us Friday, October 14 at 2 PM ET/ 1PM CT! Booklist Audio Editor, Heather Booth, will moderate.
Random House Children’s Books Spring 2023 Preview (Oct 12, 2022) Join Random House Children’s Books on Wednesday, October 12 at 2:00 p.m. ET / 1:00 p.m. CT to hear from special guest speakers and staff as they tell you about their Spring 2023 list! This free, 90-minute webinar will kick-off with Joy Harjo, the 23rd Poet Laureate of the United States, in conversation with illustrator Michaela Goade about their upcoming picture book Remember. The conversation will be moderated by their editor, Lee Wade who is the VP & Publisher of Random House Studio. Following, the RHCB School & Library team will present new and exciting titles coming in Spring 2023. From picture books to Middle Grade and YA, this is a can't-miss event—register now!
Fall and Winter Picture Books (Oct 11, 2022) The turn of the weather is just around the corner, and with the seasons changing come new and fabulous picture books! Join us for a free webinar on Tuesday, October 11th at 1pm CT/2pm ET to hear about incredible upcoming Fall and Winter Picture Books! We’ll hear from representatives from Charlesbridge, Tundra Books, Clavis, Random House Children’s Books, and Publishers Spotlight. Senior editor of Books for Youth, Maggie Reagan will moderate.
Fall in Love with Series Nonfiction (Oct 6, 2022) Fall is here and school is in full swing. It’s time to use your library’s collection to enhance young patrons’ learning experience with these new series nonfiction titles! Join us Thursday, October 6 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for a free, one-hour webinar featuring Reference Point Press and the Creative Company presenting their upcoming SNF list. Plus, librarian Kathleen McBroom will discuss the importance of a strong series nonfiction collection in your library. Perfect for supplementing school texts or for STEM and SEL learning, these fun and informative books will engage young readers and renew their curiosity about the world! Register now! Moderated by Booklist’s Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith.
Library Love for LibraryReads (Oct 4, 2022) LibraryReads is a librarian-driven venture that allows public library staff to vote on and spread the word about exciting new titles, connecting readers to as many books as possible. Join us for this free, one-hour webinar on Tuesday, October 4, where representatives from HarperCollins Publishers, Sourcebooks, Simon & Schuster, and W.W. Norton & Company will share forthcoming titles perfect for public libraries—and for LibraryReads nominations. Plus, attendees will get the latest scoop on all things LibraryReads from its executive director, Rebecca Vnuk. Booklist’s Susan Maguire, Senior Editor, Collection Management and Library Outreach, will moderate.
Educate, Empower, Engage: Building Empathy & Supporting Youth with Paw Prints Publishing (by Baker & Taylor) (Sept 29, 2022) Join Baker & Taylor’s CATS and their new publishing arm, Paw Prints Publishing, as they discuss future titles and how to build impact through storytelling and programming in this free, one-hour Booklist webinar on Thursday, September 29 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT.
Educate: Bobbie Bensur (CATS) will share the publishing mission of Paw Prints Publishing and highlight a few titles from their fall 2022 and spring 2023 list that all aim highlight social-emotional development, empathy-building, as well as diverse groups of people and life experiences.
Empower: Paw Prints Publishing author, Jesse Byrd, will discuss his nonprofit Each Story Matters and the writing workshop paradigm that supports it. Learn how your library can host your own Each Story Matters workshop and empower your young patrons through the act of writing and storytelling. Paw Prints Publishing will publish that workshop’s title for their portfolio!
Engage: Listen to author, Misty Lee Coolidge, as she talks about her upcoming picture book about volunteering at your local food pantry, and encourage your patrons to get involved.
Celebrating Indigenous Stories and Storytellers (Sept 28, 2022) Native American Heritage Month is every November, but we should celebrate Indigenous stories and storytellers year-round. This panel discussion, hosted by Penguin Young Readers and Booklist, intends to do just that. With incredible indigenous authors who are intentionally uplifting nonfiction and fiction stories from their communities, this event is not to be missed.
Join Penguin Young Readers and Booklist on Wednesday, September 28th at 1PM CT/2PM ET for this free, hour-long discussion where Indigenous authors Traci Sorell, David Treuer, and Ria Thundercloud will discuss their new books. The panel will be moderated by Cindy Hohl (Santee Sioux Nation), director of branch operations at the Kansas City Public Library and past president of the American Indian Library Association. Register now!
What's Cooking: 2022 (Sept 27, 2022) Craving great recipes, amazing food photography, or a cookbook for a special diet? You’re bound to find it all in this mouthwatering webinar starring Workman Publishing and the Penguin Random House Library Marketing team. Plus, we'll be joined by librarian and author Bobbi Newman who will discuss her new book, Fostering Wellness in the Workplace: A Handbook for Libraries. For wellness tips and a delectable batch of cookbooks focusing on various cuisines, star chefs, and more, join us on Tuesday, September 27 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for a free, one-hour webinar. Booklist Adult Books senior editor Annie Bostrom will moderate. Bon appetit!
Breaking Bans: A Celebration of Challenged Books (Sept 21, 2022) Join Penguin Random House and Booklist for a special Banned Books Week event to hear from authors Nikole Hannah-Jones (The 1619 Project), Renée Watson (The 1619 Project: Born on the Water), Kim Johnson (This is My America), and Kyle Lukoff (Different Kind of Fruit and Too Bright to See), who have all experienced first-hand having their work censored—sharing stories of how librarians and communities fought back, their personal experiences with bans, as well as how their books impacted individual readers at schools and libraries across the country.
Moderated by Dr. Emily Knox— associate professor in the School of Information Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and author of Book Banning in 21st Century America—this hour-long webinar will celebrate the right to read and librarians’ role in providing access for all. Ten lucky LIVE webinar attendees will win a prize pack of challenged books and Banned Book Week resources for their library. Register now for this important event on Wednesday, September 21 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT.
Middle Grade, Latest and Greatest (Sept 20, 2022) What’s hottest in middle grade right now? Join us to find out in this free, one-hour webinar showcasing the most magnificent middle-grade titles that are sure to captivate enthusiastic young readers everywhere. On Tuesday September 20th at 1pm CT/2pm ET, we’ll hear representatives from Shadow Mountain Publishing, Yen Press, Annick Press and Pajama Press, talk about their latest and greatest! Register now to add these sophisticated reads to your collection! Moderated by Booklist’s senior editor of Books for Youth, Ronny Khuri.
Trending Titles for Back to School (Sept 14, 2022) Autumn is a time for change, from leaves on trees to the start of the school year and the new experiences it can bring. OverDrive's annual Back to School sale is the perfect time to fall in love with savings while you find titles to meet the changing needs of juvenile and young adult readers in your community. Join three of OverDrive's Digital Content Librarians in a roundtable discussion as they discuss current content trends, highlight their favorite titles from the sale, and share best practices for increasing user engagement of your digital collection. Register now for this free, one-hour Booklist webinar on Wednesday, September 14 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. Moderator by Heather Booth.
Romance and Love Stories for All Ages (Sept 6, 2022) Dry wit, swoon-worthy banter, and heartwarming happily-ever-afters? That’s right, it’s time for our romance and love stories webinar! Prepare to feast your heart eyes on must-have upcoming romance novels for all ages from Sourcebooks, Shadow Mountain Publishing and Bethany House. Donna Seaman, editor for Adult Books at Booklist, will moderate. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 6 at 1 PM CT; it’s a date!
Early Readers & Picture Books (Aug 30, 2022) It’s never too early to get young readers excited about books, and with titles like these, you won’t be able to keep them away! Join us Tuesday, August 30 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for a free, one-hour webinar featuring early reader titles from Charlesbridge, Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, Capstone Publishing, Shell Education, and Owlkids Books. Plus, we'll be joined by Macmillian Children's Publishing Group author Remy Lai who will introduce attendees to the Surviving the Wild series! Register now to help your young readers achieve success by jumpstarting their passion for reading! Moderated by Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith.
Riveting and Page-Turning YA (Aug 25, 2022) Strong heroines, heart-stopping action, thrilling twists—it’s all here in our free, one-hour webinar on Thursday, August 25 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. Join Booklist’s Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter as she talks with Random House Children’s Books authors Gina Chen (Violet Made of Thorns); E. Lockhart (Family of Liars); and Karen M. McManus (Nothing More to Tell) about their new titles that are sure to give your patrons the thrills and chills. Register now!
YA Announcements (Aug 23, 2022) Looking to add the best upcoming YA books to your TBR list? Come check out our free one-hour webinar, as presenting publishers talk about the best new YA books that are about to hit your shelves! Join us Tuesday, August 23, where we’ll hear representatives from Macmillan, Algonquin Young Readers, Disney Publishing Worldwide, CamCat Books, and Skybound talk about their awesome upcoming titles! Moderated by Books for Youth senior editor Maggie Reagan.
Fall Adult Faves (Aug 16, 2022) What pairs nicely with autumn sweaters and pumpkin spice lattes? New fall books! Whether you are looking for your next great read, searching for a great book club pick, or doing your holiday shopping early, you’ll want to make sure these upcoming adult titles are on your radar. Join us Tuesday, August 16 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT when we hear from Macmillan Publishers, Workman Publishing, Bloomsbury, HarperCollins Publishers, and W.W. Norton & Company in this free, one -hour Booklist webinar. Register now! Moderated by Adult Books editor Donna Seaman.
Celebrate Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month with Random House Children’s Books (Aug 15, 2022) Kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place from September 15 through October 15—and celebrates the history and culture of Latinx and Hispanic communities in the U.S.—early! In this special panel-style program hosted by Booklist and Random House Children’s Books, attendees will hear from Christina Diaz Gonzalez, author of The Bluest Sky; Stephen Briseño, author of The Notebook Keeper; and Jose Pimienta, author of Twin Cities. Each author will discuss their latest releases and participate in a Q&A led by a Booklist editor. Register now for this free, one-hour webinar on Monday, August 15 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT !
Graphic Jam!: Graphic Novel Book Buzz Part 2 (Aug 2, 2022) July is Graphic Novels month at Booklist, and we’re celebrating with a special two-part series. Join us Tuesday, August 2nd at 1 p.m. CT as we close out our series with “Graphic Jam!” a free, one-hour webinar showcasing upcoming #ReadGraphic titles from Fantagraphics, Penguin Young Readers, IDW, Random House Children’s Books and HarperCollins Children’s Books! Hosted by Sarah Hunter, Booklist’s Books for Youth editor.
New Worlds, New Books: Upcoming Fantasy and Adventure Titles (July 29, 2022) Dragons, fairytales, outer-space—books can take readers anywhere! Making the ordinary extraordinary, these fantasy and adventure titles will offer your patrons the chance to escape into another world while also provoking thoughtful insights into human nature. Join Booklist for a free, one-hour webinar on Friday, July 29 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT when we hear from Tor and the MIT Press about upcoming fantasy and adventure titles that are a must for your shelves. Plus, we’ll be joined by author Margi Preus to talk about her forthcoming middle grade fantasy from Amulet Books, an imprint of ABRAMS: Windswept. Register now! Moderated by Books for Youth senior editor, Maggie Reagan.
Fall Series Nonfiction (July 26, 2022) Summer may have just started, but there’s still lots to look forward to for fall, including new up and coming series nonfiction titles! Catch up with us and representatives from Rourke Educational Media, Child's World, and Bellwether as they present their fall series nonfiction titles in a free, one-hour webinar on Tuesday July 26th at 1pm C.T.! Moderated by Booklist Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith.
Be Prepared! The GNCRT Guide to Addressing Comic Book Bans, Censorship, and Challenges (July 21, 2022) In the last few years schools and libraries have experienced some of the highest number of bans to comics since the 1950s. To meet this challenge, GNCRT’s newest committee has created a Toolkit on Preparing For & Addressing Comic Book Bans, Censorship, and Challenges in Libraries. During this webinar, Amie Wright, Julia Lanter, Gabriel Lopez, and Ryan Grant will participate in a lively discussion moderated by Robin Brenner presenting their Toolkit and findings from their recent survey of 100+ schools and libraries on comics censorship. Register now for this free, one-hour Booklist webinar on Thursday, July 21 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT.
MacKids School & Library Fall 2022 Preview Event (July 13, 2022) Join Booklist for the MacKids School & Library Fall 2022 Preview Event on July 13 at 2:00 p.m. ET / 11:00 a.m. PT where they'll preview upcoming picture books, middle grade, and young adult titles in this free, 75-minute webinar! You’ll hear from well-loved authors like Tae Keller (Mihi Ever After), Carole Boston Weatherford and Rob Sanders (A Song for the Unsung: Bayard Rustin, the Man Behind the 1963 March on Washington), and Aiden Thomas (The Sunbearer Trials).
Also, joining us live is special guest Jas Hammonds, author of We Deserve Monuments, who will discuss the inspiration behind their debut young adult novel with Mekisha Telfer, Editor at Roaring Brook Press. Plus, don’t miss an exclusive first look at The Midnight Children, a warm and magical middle-grade mystery from acclaimed author and former teacher-librarian Dan Gemeinhart. Register now to see Dan’s Q&A with Senior Editor of Holt Books for Young Readers, Brian Geffen, and be the first to receive a digital review copy of The Midnight Children!
Get Down with Graphic Novels!: Graphic Novel Book Buzz Part 1 (July 12, 2022) July is Graphic Novels month at Booklist, and we’re celebrating with a special two-part series. Join us Tuesday, July 12 at 1 p.m. CT as we kick off our series with “Get Down with Graphic Novels!” a free, one-hour webinar showcasing upcoming #ReadGraphic titles from Simon & Schuster, Scholastic Press, Yen Press; Little, Brown and Company; and Tuttle Publishing! Hosted by Sarah Hunter, Booklist’s Books for Youth editor.
Audio for All (June 30, 2022) Audiobooks continue to grow in popularity at record rates, expanding their audience of library users across the country. With the rapid shift to a digital world, readers of all ages are entering the audio realm in new ways: through podcasts, audio-original titles, graphic novels, and stunning full-cast performances. Join us Thursday, June 30 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for a free, one-hour webinar featuring upcoming audiobooks from L.A. Theatre Works, ECW Press, and Graphic Audio. Plus, we’ll hear from special guest, Leah Kleynhans, Senior Producer and Chief Operating Officer at Deyan Audio, who works to enhance books’ enjoyment and assure their accessibility for all listeners. Tune in to learn more about that behind-the-scenes process and what to look for to find audiobook excellence for your patrons. Register now! Moderated by Booklist’s audio editor Heather Booth.
Must-Read Mysteries (June 16, 2022) The clues are coming together. The puzzle is nearly complete. But—twist! Was the whole thing a dream? Join us Thursday, June 16 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for a free, one-hour webinar featuring upcoming mystery, thriller, and true crime titles from Dundurn Press, Oceanview Publishing, Severn House, and Soho Press that will leave your patrons guessing with every turn of the page. Register now! Moderated by Adult Books associate editor Annie Bostrom.
Random House Children's Books Fall 2022 Librarian Preview (June 15, 2022) Join Random House Children’s Books on Wednesday, June 15 at 2:00 p.m. ET / 1:00 p.m. CT to hear from a special author guest and staff as they tell you about their Fall 2022 list! This free, 90-minute webinar will begin with Carole Boston Weatherford, author of Standing in the Need of Prayer in conversation with Booklist's Books for Youth associate editor Ronny Khuri. Following, the RHCB library team will present new and exciting titles coming in Fall 2022. From picture books to Middle Grade and YA, this is a can't-miss event—register now!
Amazing Picture Books (June 14, 2022) The sun is finally gracing us with warmer weather and with the changing of the seasons comes new and amazing picture books! Join us for a free, one-hour webinar on Tuesday, June 14 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT, where we’ll hear from representatives from Phoenix International Publications, Owlkids, Creative Company, Second Story Press, Greystone Kids and Scribble Kids Books about their exciting and engaging upcoming picture books for summer and fall. Moderated by Julia Smith, Senior Editor, Books for Youth.
Queer Peers and Graphic Novels: Creating Space for LGBTQ+ Readers (June 3, 2022) Moderator Jonathan Khan facilitates conversation between Graphic Novel Librarian Amanda Toth and some of the most prominent queer voices in the graphic novel community. Join us to hear more about how these creators make fantastical worlds for LGBTQ+ readers to immerse themselves in as well as how librarians can find queer graphic novel and manga content and position them in their libraries. Join us Friday, June 3 at 2:00 PM ET/1:00 PM CT for this free 1 hour webinar, introduced by Susan Maguire, Senior Editor, Collection Management & Library Outreach at Booklist.
Authors & ARCs (May 20, 2022) Authors, free eARcs, lots of book love—it’s the next best thing to a conference! Join us on Friday, May 20 at 2 p.m. ET/1 p.m. CT for the next installment of our Authors & ARCs program! Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from some incredibly talented Adult authors and download free eARCs of their books. We’ll be joined by Lydia Millet (W.W. Norton & Company); Michael Paul Kozlowsky (Imbrifex Books); and Anastasia Zadeik (SWP Press). Register now for this free, 75-minute webinar moderated by Booklist’s Adult Books editor Donna Seaman.
Knowledge is Power: Authors Celebrating Inquisitive Characters (May 18, 2022) Join authors Stacia Deutsch (The Jessie Files), Gillian King-Cargile (Vaccines Change the World), and Andrea J. Loney (Abby in Orbit) as they share characters and stories that spark curiosity from their upcoming chapter and middle-grade books. Meet the super Sleuths from the first Boxcar Children middle-grade series, a plucky space explorer who is always looking for her next adventure, and learn about the scientists who preserved in order to discover lifesaving vaccines as Albert Whitman & Company celebrates stories that show readers the importance of staying curious. Register for this free, one-hour Booklist webinar on Wednesday, May 18 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT now! Moderated by Books for Youth associate editor Ronny Khuri.
Picture Books (May 17, 2022) Looking for the hottest upcoming summer/fall picture books? Look no further. With their wit, whimsy, and ability to spark the imagination, picture books remain a constant source of inspiration for readers of all ages. Join Booklist’s Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith in this free, hour-long webinar on Tuesday, May 17 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. We'll hear from representatives from Charlesbridge, Clavis Publishing, Penguin Random House Library Marketing, and Holiday House, as well as featuring ABRAMS Children’s Books author Thyra Heder, who will be discussing her forthcoming picture book SAL BOAT(Aug 2022)!
Fall 2022 Librarian Preview with HarperCollins Children’s Books with ERIC VELASQUEZ, COLIN MELOY, and JODI LYNN ANDERSON with a special message from Dr. Ibram X. Kendi (May 12, 2022) Join us at a FREE WEBINAR on Thursday, May 12th at 12:00 PM ET/11:00 AM CT for a sneak peek at new picture, middle grade, and YA books coming in 2022 from HarperCollins Children’s Books. You will hear directly from special guests, including award-winning illustrator, ERIC VELASQUEZ (Going Places: Victor Hugo Green and His Glorious Book), bestselling author and The Decemberists’ frontman, COLIN MELOY (The Stars Did Wander Darkling), New York Times bestselling author JODI LYNN ANDERSON (Each Night Was Illuminated)! Plus catch a special message from Dr. Ibram X. Kendi on his remarkable new project honoring the works of Zora Neale Hurston. Don't miss out on your chance to learn about great new books coming in Fall 2022 from HarperCollins Children’s Books. Register now! Moderated by Booklist's Books for Youth senior editor Maggie Reagan.
Windows & Mirrors (May 10, 2022) We live in unprecedented and ever-changing times, but there is one constant throughout it all: books continue to have the power to inspire and to change. Books can be both a reflection of personal experiences, but also a gateway to experiences and mindsets that differ from our own. And those mindset shifts can open up worlds we might never have known or experienced otherwise. Join us Tuesday, May 10 at 1p.m. central where we will hear from Annick Press, Salaam Reads and Denene Millner Books, imprints of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, Tundra Books, and Second Story Press about titles that can inspire self-reflection and build an awareness of new perspectives, inspired by Dr. Bishop's research. Moderated by Ronny Khuri, Associate Editor, Books for Youth.
Notable and New Nonfiction from Astra Books for Young Readers: Why We Love Nonfiction -- And You Should, Too! (May 5, 2022) What are the elements of a great nonfiction book for young readers? What are the trends and timely topics? And how does research and original writing pair up to make a nonfiction book kids really want to read?
Join Booklist and Astra Books for Young Readers for answers to these questions, along with an engaging book buzz and author panel that's all about nonfiction. Carolyn Yoder, Editorial Director of the award-winning imprint Calkins Creek, will talk about upcoming titles she's particularly excited about, and will be joined in conversation by YALSA Nonfiction winner Gail Jarrow as well as noted author Beth Anderson. And help celebrate the 30th anniversary of Kane Press with Publisher Juliana Lauletta as she discusses an exciting new nonfiction series and the benefits and challenges of incorporating nonfiction content into fiction stories. Register now for this free, one-hour webinar on Thursday, May 5 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT.
True Crime, Thrillers and Mysteries, Oh My! (May 3, 2022) Love a good cozy whodunit, true crime or thriller title? We’ve got just the thing for you. Join us for a free one-hour webinar on Tuesday, May 3 at 1 p.m. central! You’ll hear representatives from Macmillan Library, HarperCollins Publishers, Sourcebooks, Tor, and Simon & Schuster tell you all about upcoming mysteries, thrillers, crime fiction, and more, helmed by Annie Bostrom, Booklist’s Associate Editor of Adult Books.
Youth Authors & ARCs (April 22, 2022) Authors, free eARcs, lots of book love—it’s the next best thing to a conference! Join us on Friday, April 22 at 2 p.m. ET/1 p.m. CT for the next installment of our Authors & ARCs program! Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from some incredibly talented Youth authors and download free eARCs of their books. We’ll be joined by Stephanie Kuehn (Disney Publishing Worldwide); J. Elle (Bloomsbury); Tasha Spillett-Sumner (Owlkids); Hallee Adelman (Albert Whitman); and Ken Niimura (Yen Press). Register now for this free, 75-minute webinar moderated by Booklist’s Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter.
Talking to Tweens: Middle Grade Authors You Need to Know (April 20, 2022) Big feelings, big concepts and big conversations. Booklist and Tundra Books present an engaging author panel featuring authors Susan Juby (Me Three), Salma Hussain (The Secret Diary of Mona Hasan) and David A. Robertson (The Misewa Saga: The Stone Child) as they discuss navigating tough topics for tweens in their upcoming middle grade novels. Register now for this free, one-hour webinar on Wednesday, April 20 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT moderated by Books for Youth associate editor Ronny Khuri.
Youth Social-Emotional Learning (April 19, 2022) As children and teens everywhere continue to deal with constant changes in their routines, schooling, and socialization due to the ongoing pandemic, social-emotional learning—and mental wellness—remain of utmost importance. But how can we continue to teach children about interpersonal skills, self-awareness, decision making and more in their day to day lives? In this free, hour-long webinar, representatives from Charlesbridge, Tundra Books, New Harbinger Press, Lorimer Children & Teens, will provide a jumping off point, presenting forthcoming fiction and nonfiction titles for young readers that put SEL and mental wellness at the forefront. Join us on Tuesday, April 19, at 1 p.m. CT to hear all about them. Moderated by Maggie Reagan, Senior Editor, Books for Youth, Booklist and Book Links.
Shake Up Your Shelves: Examining AAPI Representation in Library Collections and Classrooms (April 14, 2022) Now more than ever, it is important for teachers and librarians to include culturally authentic books in curricula and library collections that uplift and center Asian-American and Pacific Islander voices. Join NEWBERY MEDALIST LINDA SUE PARK as she leads a discussion on how we can Shake Up Our Shelves by examining AAPI representation in our current collections and asking what to consider when adding new books by or about AAPI community members. You’ll also hear from NEWBERY MEDALIST ERIN ENTRADA KELLY, NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR JOANNA HO, 2022 NEWBERY HONOR AUTHOR RAJANI LAROCCA, and DEBUT AUTHOR XIXI TIAN as they share what it means to be part of the AAPI community and the process of writing those lived experiences for children today. Please join HarperCollins Children's Books and Booklist for this free, 75-minute webinar on April 14th at 12 PM ET.
Library Love for LibraryReads (April 12, 2022) Stunning debuts, moving memoirs, escapist fiction—you’ll find your next great read at our free, one-hour webinar on Tuesday, April 12 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. Panelists from HarperCollins Publishers and Sourcebooks will showcase adult titles hitting the shelves this summer that are bound for success with your patrons and perfect for LibraryReads nominations!
LibraryReads is a librarian-driven venture where public library staff can help build word-of-mouth for new books. We’ll hear from Executive Director Rebecca Vnuk about the latest happenings in the library world and the important role libraries play in creating audiences for all kinds of authors. Plus, we’ll talk about our newest publication, Booklist Reader, a digital, patron-friendly magazine featuring diverse readers’ advisory content and created in partnership with our friends at LibraryReads. Moderated by Annie Bostrom, Adult Books associate editor.
Homeschooling and Upcoming Series Nonfiction (April 5, 2022) Homeschooling is still a large part of many parents’ and educators’ lives. As the pandemic continues and many schools are working through hybrid learning, this everchanging environment has prompted many parents to take on a more direct role in their children’s education. But where can parents find the resources to help bridge the gap during these difficult times? Join Booklist on April 5, 2022 at 1 PM CT for a free, one hour webinar that will help your patrons find books that will help boost students’ educational development. We’ll also learn what series nonfiction publishers have in store for readers this summer. We’ll hear from Rourke Educational Media, Scholastic, Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, Jump!, and Bearport. Moderated by Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith.
Random House Children’s Books Summer 2022 Librarian Preview (March 30, 2022) Join Random House Children’s Books on Wednesday, March 30 at 2:00 p.m. ET / 1:00 p.m. CT to hear from authors and staff as they tell you about their Summer 2022 list! This free, 75-minute webinar will begin with Stephen Briseño and Magdalena Mora (creators of The Notebook Keeper) in conversation with Charnelle Pinkney Barlow and Pauline David-Sax (creators of Everything in Its Place), followed by the RHCB library team’s presentation about new and exciting titles coming in Summer 2022. From pictures books to Middle Grade and YA, this is a can't-miss event—register now! Moderated by Booklist's Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter.
Strong Women and Girls (March 17, 2022) Celebrate the strength and power of women and girls everywhere with our annual Strong Women and Girls webinar on Thursday, March 17 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. This free, one-hour program will feature titles for both youth and adult readers that showcase the contributions, accomplishments, and challenges of all women and girls. With presentations from Crooked Lane Books, Sourcebooks, Astra Books for Young Readers, and Chicago Review Press, you won’t want to miss these books that put important voices front and center. Plus, we’ll hear from Kate Kelly, author of Ordinary Equality: The Fearless Women and Queer People Who Shaped the U.S. Constitution and the Equal Rights Amendment from Gibbs Smith and Kate Hannigan, author of Nellie vs. Elizabeth and A Lady Has the Floor from Astra Books for Young Readers. Moderated by Booklist’s Adult Books editor Donna Seaman.
Spring Picture Books (March 15, 2022) With their wit, whimsy, and ability to spark the imagination, picture books remain a constant source of inspiration for readers of all ages. And what better time than now to peruse upcoming picture-book releases for the spring and summer? Please join Booklist’s Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith in this free, hour-long webinar on Tuesday, March 15 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT featuring representatives from Owlkids, Charlesbridge, Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, Zonderkidz, and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group.
From learning to read to reading to learn: Building literacy in your emergent readers (March 14, 2022) For kids in grades K-2, much of the time they spend in the classroom is dedicated to establishing critical foundational skills to prepare them for the next level of education. That’s why consistency is key — and why learning interruptions can have disproportionate impact on this age group in particular.
However, with the right digital reading resources, educators can begin to bridge these gaps and meet their youngest learners where they are on their road to reading. In this must-see webinar on Monday, March 14 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT, led by expert librarians from OverDrive, you’ll discover high-interest ebooks and audiobooks that can spark kids’ interest and encourage them to initiate their own independent reading practice.
Attendees will also learn how to leverage content like graphic novels, world language books, Read-Alongs to teach students the fundamentals of reading comprehension, give them tools to help prepare for digital testing and provide a scaffolding for lifelong reading success.
How to Lock in ESSER Funds for Literacy (March 11, 2022) Not sure how to get ESSER funding? Looking for a step-by-step guide that walks you through the process of providing evidence that there is need? Get all of your questions answered during this one-hour webinar on Friday, March 11 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT.
Julie A. Evans, Ed.D. and CEO of Project Tomorrow, will demonstrate how the results of her year-long, nationwide study on the efficacy of large print can give you more than enough T2 and T3 Evidence to obtain the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funding your school needs. Plus, Christina T. Shepard Norman, Ed.D, a textbook and library coordinator from Birmingham City Schools (AL), will join the discussion to share her experiences with large print and how she successfully accessed grant funding to support student literacy. All attendees will get a detailed guide explaining how to obtain ESSER funds so you can begin building, or enhancing, your school’s large print collection.
Why should I consider large print? Schools who offer large print support equitable access to all students. Large print is a simple and proven way to build confidence, stamina, and literacy outcomes for struggling readers as well as avid and at-grade-level readers. During the webinar, author Jeff Kinney will speak more to the question “Why Large Print?” in a never-before-seen pre-recorded video. If you can’t make the webinar, be sure to watch it on demand!
HarperCollins Children's Books Summer 2022 Librarian Preview (March 9, 2022) Join us at a FREE WEBINAR on Wednesday, March 9th at 12:00 PM ET/11:00 AM CT for a sneak peek at new picture, middle grade, and YA books coming in 2022 from HarperCollins Children’s Books. You will hear directly from special guests, including author-illustrator, Lindsay Moore (Yoshi and the Ocean), graphic novelist, Johnnie Christmas (Swim Team), and Stonewall Honor author Eliot Schrefer (Queer Ducks)! With a special video message from Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris! Don't miss out on your chance to learn about great new books coming in Summer 2022 from HarperCollins Children’s Books. Register now!
Spring Book Club Picks (March 8, 2022) Looking for your book club’s next great read? Look no further. From fiction to memoir, thrillers to social commentary, these titles will ignite lively discussion for any reading group! Join us Tuesday, March 8 at 1 p.m. CT for a free, one hour webinar featuring Penguin Young Readers, CamCat Books, and Europa Editions to hear about upcoming adult and YA titles destined to be group favorites. Whether your group is meeting virtually or in person, these picks will be sure to spice up conversation and invoke thoughtful responses from all readers! Moderated by Booklist’s senior Editor, Collection Management and Library Outreach, Susan Maguire.
Magnificent Middle Grade Books from Random House Children’s Books (March 2, 2022) Join Booklist and Random House Children’s Books on Wednesday, March 2 at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT for this special middle-grade program starring Emma Otheguy (Sofía Acosta Makes a Scene), Tae Keller (Jennifer Chan is Not Alone), Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich (Operation Sisterhood) and Lisa Yee (Maizy Chen’s Last Chance). Each author will discuss their latest release (all of which published—or are publishing—this year!) and participate in a brief Q&A led by Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter. These emotional, accessible, deeply heartfelt stories may be categorized as “middle grade,” but these reads—and this webinar—are for every reader. We can’t wait to see you there!
Global Citizenship (March 1, 2022) Fueled by human activity, the effects of global warming extend beyond environmental decay, causing disruptions to cities’ infrastructures and society as a whole. It’s important to bring environmental awareness to readers of all ages and encourage reliable research, sustainability, and activism. Join us Tuesday, March 1 at 1 p.m. CT to learn about upcoming books that spotlight this pressing issue and promote a greener future. Featuring titles from Penguin Young Readers, Charlesbridge Publishing, Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, Timber Press, and Albert Whitman, this is a can’t-miss free, one-hour webinar. Plus, we'll hear from Stacy McAnulty, author of Our Planet! There's No Place Like Earth. Moderated by Books for Youth associate editor Ronny Khuri.
Amazing Audiobooks (February 25, 2022) Audiobooks continue to grow in popularity at record rates, flying off the virtual shelves and into the earbuds of your patrons. From read alongs to graphic novels to stunning full cast performances, the listening world has exploded in recent years and you’ll want to make sure your library has a diverse and expansive collection to meet the needs of your community. Join Booklist, Penguin Random House/Books on Tape, Dreamscape Media, and Harper Audio on Friday, February 25 at 1 p.m. CT for a free, one-hour webinar featuring upcoming audiobook titles that are sure to be a hit! Plus, we’ll hear from María del Carmen Cifuentes from the Addison Public Library in Addison, Illinois, who will offer some tips of the trade for finding non-English audiobooks for your collection! Register now! Moderated by Booklist’s Audio Editor, Heather Booth.
Freedom to Read Roundtable (February 24, 2022) Join the Texas Library Association on Thursday, February 24th at 5:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. CT for a crucial roundtable discussion of censorship and tangible steps to protect the freedom to read. Voices from every aspect of this ongoing and constantly evolving issue will weigh in, including a teacher, librarian, parent, legislator, author, and student, using the recent book bannings in Texas and the response from teachers, librarians, and the community at large as an example of a way forward in protecting the first amendment nationwide. The ALA Office of Intellectual Freedom will close out the program and all attendees will receive resources following the event. This 75-minute event is sponsored by Booklist and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and is free to attend and open to all.
Magnificent Middle Grade (February 15, 2022) From inspiring literary characters to powerful narratives that offer a window into another experience, middle-grade books have a history of reaching the heart of all readers, and there can never be enough on your library’s shelves! Join Booklist on Tuesday, February 15 at 1 p.m. CT for a free, one-hour webinar showcasing upcoming middle-grade titles that are sure to captivate enthusiastic young readers everywhere. We’ll hear from Norton Young Readers, Workman Publishing, Disney Publishing Worldwide, Albert Whitman, and special guest Sheela Chari, author of KARTHIK DELIVERS from Amulet Books, an imprint of Abrams Books. Register now to add these sophisticated reads to your collection! Moderated by Booklist’s associate editor Books for Youth, Ronny Khuri.
MacKids School & Library Spring 2022 Preview Event (February 14, 2022) Join Booklist and the Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group School and Library team on Monday, February 14 at 2:00 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT for a free, one-hour webinar previewing upcoming picture books, middle grade, and young adult titles. Also, hear from special guests Jeannette Arroyo and Ren Graham, creators of Blackwater, in conversation about the inspiration behind their young adult graphic novel. Plus, don’t miss an exclusive first look at The Marvellers, a magical middle-grade debut from bestselling author and former school librarian Dhonielle Clayton.
New Homes, New Stories: An Illustrator Panel about Home and Family (February 11, 2022) While home can exist in many different locations and its physical appearance may vary across the globe, one thing is for certain: home is more than just a place. In these three picture books, home is defined not by a building but by the relationships, love, and personal growth each of the protagonists experience. Join Booklist and Bloomsbury Children’s Publishing on Friday, February 11 at 1 p.m. CT for a special panel featuring three illustrators discussing their upcoming picture books that showcase home and family in their own unique and creative way.
In this free, one-hour webinar we’ll talk with Frank Morrison, author and illustrator of Kick Push; Tracy Subisak, illustrator of Amah Faraway; and Zahra Marwan, author and illustrator of Where the Butterflies Fill the Sky, A Story of Immigration, Family, and Finding a Home. Register now to get a sneak peek into the illustrators’ processes, inspiration, and to find out what home means to them. Moderated by Books for Youth editor, Sarah Hunter.
STEMinist Reads: a PreK-12 Feminist Reading List (February 9, 2022) Women have been involved in science from the beginning of time, but women are still underrepresented in STEM fields. Join Booklist and Penguin Young Readers for this free, hour-long discussion on Wednesday, February 9 at 2 p.m. ET to learn about what it means to be a STEMINIST with this curated reading list for all little feminists out there.
This webinar will also feature guest author Chelsea Clinton who will be in attendance to talk about She Persisted in Science, the newest picture book in the She Persisted series, that focuses on incredible women in STEM. Moderated by Booklist editor Sarah Hunter, Chelsea and Sarah will talk about the ground-breaking picture book and chapter book series, why it’s so important to bring more women and girls into STEM fields, and some of the incredible women who have persisted in the arena.
Adult Faves (February 8, 2022) Year-end lists, book award season, dazzling 2022 debuts—that’s right, it’s officially reading season. What better way to pack your TBR list than with a preview of phenomenal adult books coming to a shelf near you this winter and spring. With title presentations from Workman Publishing, Bloomsbury, W.W. Norton & Company, National Geographic, and ECW Press, these are the big titles your patrons will be asking for! Register now for this free, one-hour webinar on Tuesday, February 8 at 1 p.m. CT. Moderated by Adult Books editor Donna Seaman.
Matchmaking with Macmillan Library (February 4, 2022) Join the Mac Lib team for a Spring 2022 Preview as we match Adult + YA books with new readers! Register now for this free, one-hour webinar on Friday, February 4 at 1 p.m. CT. Moderated by Booklist's Senior Editor, Collection Management and Library Outreach, Susan Maguire.
Graphic Novels for All (February 1, 2022) Biographies, adventures, history, romances, superheroes—it’s all here in our #ReadGraphic webinar on Tuesday, February 1 at 1 p.m. CT! Featuring Fantagraphics Books, Diamond Book Distributors, Image Comics, Yen Press, and Oni Press, attendees will hear about thought-provoking, educational, and adventurous titles ranging from young to adult readers. Whether you’re introducing graphic novels into your library or expanding your #ReadGraphic shelves, you won’t want to miss this free, one-hour webinar hosted by Adult Books associate editor Annie Bostrom.
Authors & ARCs, Part II (January 20, 2022) Inspiring authors, free e-ARCs, a riveting panel—it’s a conference without the crowds! Join Booklist on Thursday, January 20 for our second Authors & ARCs program of 2022! In part two of our webinar series, we’re focusing on youth authors whose books have the power to inspire all readers! We’ll hear from Gillian McDunn (Bloomsbury); Ellen Hagan (Bloomsbury); Jas Hammonds (Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group); Julie C. Dao (Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group); Leonarda Carranza (Annick Press); KC Oster (Annick Press); Monique Polak (Owlkids); Jennifer Ziegler (Holiday House); and Crystal Maldonado (Holiday House). Register now for this free, 75-minute webinar moderated by Booklist’s Books for Youth associate editor Ronny Khuri.
Authors & ARCs, Part I (January 18, 2022) Inspiring authors, free e-ARCs, a riveting panel—it’s a conference without the crowds! Join Booklist on Tuesday, January 18 for the premiere of our 2022 Authors & ARCs program! In part one of our two-part series, this adult-focused webinar will feature Megan Edwards (Imbrifex Books); Toni Shiloh (Bethany House Publishers); Erin Bartels (Revell); Mecca Jamilah Sullivan (W.W. Norton & Company); and Shelby Van Pelt (Ecco/HarperCollins Publishers). Plus, we’ll also hear about upcoming spring titles that will pair perfectly with these fantastic books! Register now for this free, 75-minute webinar moderated by Booklist’s Adult Books editor Donna Seaman.
Newbery on Newbery: Celebrate 100 years of the Newbery with four award-winning authors! (January 12, 2022) They are classroom and library favorites. Once the call is made, the announcement revealed, and the sticker placed, these books become perennial reads for young readers throughout the years. Celebrate 100 years of the Newbery with four Newbery award-winning authors: Tae Keller, Rebecca Stead, Veera Hiranandani, and Matt de la Peña as they discuss their Newbery titles, reminisce about the call, and how receiving a Newbery has enhanced and furthered the reach of their books and connected them with readers. Have your class or library join to ask questions of the authors about their Newbery and classroom favorite books! Join Booklist, Penguin Young Readers, and Random House Children’s Books for this one-hour long FREE webinar to discuss the Newbery on Wednesday January 12th at 2 PM CT, moderated by Kirby McCurtis. Director of Location Services, Multnomah County Library and ALSC Past President.
New Year, New Books: A First Look at 2022 (January 11, 2022) New year, new goals, new books! It’s time to turn the page on 2021 and start a new chapter full of fresh beginnings—and TBR lists! Join Penguin Random House Library Marketing along with their distribution partners Seven Stories Press, Archipelago Books, Catapult Books, Beacon Press, The Library of America, Verso Books, and North Atlantic Books talking the latest and greatest in adult fiction and nonfiction. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, January 11 at 1 p.m. CT for this free, 75-minute webinar and ring in the new year with these titles sure to fly off your shelves in 2022! Moderated by Booklist’s Adult Books associate editor Annie Bostrom.
Series Kickoff with Albert Whitman (December 2, 2021) Picture books are a fantastic vehicle to convey complex subjects, using beautiful illustrations and friendly text to engage young readers. Join us Thursday, December 2 at 1 p.m. CT to hear about these must-have new releases from Albert Whitman focusing on STEM and financial literacy. We’ll talk with Sheila Bair (Money Tales Series), author of Princess Persephone’s Dragon Ride Stand and Shark Scam; Sue Fliess (Kid Scientist Series), author of Marine Biologists on a Dive and Archaeologists on a Dig; and Catherine Stier (Science Makes it Work Series), author of Secrets of the Snow Globe and The Wonder of Color. Register now for this free, one-hour webinar moderated by Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter.
Youth Fiction and Nonfiction Announcements (November 23, 2021) Adventures? History? Superheroes? STEM? We’ll be hearing about a little of everything in this free, one-hour webinar featuring upcoming fiction and nonfiction titles for young readers. Join us Tuesday, November 23 at 1 p.m. CT when DK, Creative Company, Disney, and Clavis Publishing present the latest and greatest coming to a shelf near you this winter and spring! Moderated by Booklist’s Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith.
Dream Big: Secure ESSER Funding for Your School Library (November 18, 2021) “The latest round of ESSER Funding through the ARP Act is your district’s opportunity to dream big—incorporating a much more strategic spending plan to reform and reinvent education.”
—Heather Bassett, Government Affairs Liaison and Policy Analyst, Albuquerque Public Schools
The American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021, signed into law on March 11, allocated $122 billion for the ARP Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund. Unprecedented in its scope, the relief package works to assist educational agencies and school districts in safely reopening, providing essential resources, and addressing the life-altering effects of the pandemic on students and educators across the nation. As Heather Bassett states above, these funds have the potential to generate incredible opportunities for school districts everywhere. But the accompanying rounds of acts (CARES, CRRSA, ARP)—and their deadlines—mean that ESSER funds can be difficult to navigate, too.
In this one-hour, on-demand webinar, Joe Thompson, Chair of the Committee on Legislation for the American Library Association (ALA), will moderate a conversation with three experts leading the charge in securing this crucial funding: Heather Bassett, Government Affairs Liaison and Policy Analyst at Albuquerque Public Schools; Megan Cusick, Assistant Director of State Advocacy at the American Library Association; and Julie A. Evans, Ed.D. and Chief Executive Officer of Project Tomorrow. You’ll learn about the tools you need to understand and access funding—and the many resources you can apply it towards, from on-demand professional development to evidence-based digital curriculums.
Plus, you’ll receive additional resources designed to help your district tap into ESSER funds to recover lost learning, support social and emotional learning, and more, from partners at the American Library Association; Booklist; and Gale, a Cengage company..
Winter Arts & Crafts (November 16, 2021) It’s time to start a new project or finally get to that DIY fix—and we can help! Whether they’re expert makers or looking for a new hobby, your patrons will be delighted by these new arts & crafts books highlighted in this free, one-hour webinar on Tuesday, November 16 at 1 p.m. CT. Panelists from Tuttle Publishing, Search Press, and Timber Press are sure to inspire some fresh, new ideas for you and your patrons. Plus, we’ll hear from Nanette Donohue, Collections and Technical Services Manager at the Champaign Public Library in Champaign, Illinois about some tips on how to build your library's arts & crafts collection! Register now! Moderated by Booklist’s senior editor of Collection Management and Library Outreach Susan Maguire.
Random House Children’s Books Spring 2022 Preview (November 8, 2021) Join Random House Children’s Books on Monday, November 8 at 1:00 p.m. CT to hear from authors and staff as they tell you about the Spring 2022 list! This free, 75-minute webinar will begin with middle-grade authors Emma Otheguy, Lisa Yee, and Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich discussing their upcoming novels. Following, the RHCB library team will present new and exciting titles coming in Spring 2022. From pictures books to Middle Grade and YA, this is a can't-miss event—register now! Moderated by Booklist's Books for Youth associate editor Ronny Khuri.
R.J. Palacio in Conversation with Erin O’Leary and Mary Cotillo, AKA the “Crazy Reading Ladies” (November 4, 2021) Join Booklist and Random House Children's Books on Thursday, November 4 at 1 p.m. CT for an in-depth discussion with bestselling author R.J. Palacio about her newest middle grade novel, Pony. Crazy Reading Ladies Erin O’Leary and Mary Cotillo will moderate a conversation that will inspire and enlighten librarians, teachers and students alike looking to learn more about Pony, and R.J. Palacio’s writing process. Register for this free webinar now!
Debut Authors, Debut Titles (November 2, 2021) Is there anything more exciting than reading an incredible debut novel? No! Because in the book world, we’re always excited to celebrate new voices, new characters, and new stories! Join representatives from HarperCollins, Macmillan, and author Valerie Baeza on Tuesday, November at 1PM CT/2PM ET for this free, hour-long discussion where debut authors will be introducing attendees to their first novels. Publishers will also be featuring exciting new upcoming debuts titles that you won’t want to miss!
How one school leveled up their library with federal funding (October 29, 2021) Over the past two years, the passage of several federal COVID-19 relief packages has established new funding options for K-12 schools — particularly for the library media center. But for busy librarians, the hardest part of getting started just might be understanding which resources are available and knowing where to begin. To learn how you can use outside funding to build a school library that meets the needs of your school community, register for this can’t-miss webinar, led by School Library Director Angie Jameson (Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools — OH) and Sora reading app expert Ben Kowalczyk. You’ll learn the ins and outs of how Chagrin Falls successfully applied for grant funding to add new dimensions to their digital collection, plus discover how the right partnerships can create surprising new opportunities. Attendees will walk away with a template for how to recreate this success in their own districts, no matter how small or large. Moderated by Booklist’s audio editor Heather Booth.
Graphic Novels for All (October 26, 2021) Not all heroes wear capes…but they do work in libraries! Through their accessible format, imaginative illustrations, and wide-ranging subject matter, graphic novels have become a necessity for any book collection, and we’re here to help you expand! Join us on Tuesday, October 26 at 1 p.m. CT for a #ReadGraphic webinar that will help you build your graphic novel selection and turn you into a readers' advisory expert! We’ll hear from Diamond Book Distributors, Image Comics, Fantagraphics Books, Yen Press, and BOOM! Studios about upcoming titles for adult, teen, and young readers! Moderated by Books for Youth and Graphic Novels editor, Sarah Hunter.
Picture This: Home and Community (October 20, 2021) Over the last year and a half, the words “home” and “community” have taken on new meaning. “Home” has become office, school, and safe haven. Home has become the place we’ve stayed to protect our community as we have learned how interconnected the health and well-being of communities truly are. Libraries, which are so central to the foundation of our communities, have also been drastically affected this past year. We are so glad that through creativity, perseverance, and technological innovation, the book world has been able to reach far and wide to those who may not be able to meet in person. Four new picture books look at these concepts of what and who are home and community to young readers. Home can be a house through the seasons, home can be a beloved companion (stuffed or otherwise). Community can be those who share your red brick walls and those who share this planet. Hear from four of today’s best illustrators, Kevin Henkes, Dan Santat, Lian Cho, and Oge Mora, on how their art processes were informed by these themes and how creativity has given them a sense of home throughout their careers and particularly in the last year.
Must-Read Mysteries (October 19, 2021) Calling all armchair detectives! Whether you prefer your mysteries and crime fic cozy, hardboiled, paranormal, or procedural, you'll want to join us for this webinar on Tuesday, October 19 at 1 p.m. central, where representatives from Dundurn Press, ECW Press, Oceanview Publishing, Penguin Random House Library Marketing, and Severn House will clue you into the season's hotteset mysteries, thrillers, crime fiction, and more. Booklist's Donna Seaman will moderate.
Because Black Women: How Art and Story Bring Two Civil Rights Icons to Life for Young Readers (October 18, 2021) Martin and Rosa. Nina and Claudette. All of these people are civil rights icons in their own right, but some are more famous than others. The stories of Nina Simone and Claudette Colvin aren't taught in every school the ways that Martin Luther King, Jr and Rosa Parks's are, despite their contributions to the movement. Nina Simone brought a voice to the civil rights movement through her protest songs. Claudette Colvin, before Rosa Parks, refused to give her seat up on a bus and her nonviolent dissent helped spark the Montgomery Bus Boycotts. Now the stories of these incredible Black women can gain a wider audience with the help of these two picture book biographies.
Traci N. Todd and Christian Robinson, the creators behind Nina: A Story of Nina Simone, and Tracey Baptiste and Tonya Engel, the creators behind Because Claudette, are joining Booklist and Penguin Young Readers for this one hour long FREE webinar to discuss their new picture book biographies on Monday, October 18th at 3 PM CT. Both biographies focus on incredible Black women who helped shape American history and present their lives in a way that engages young picture book readers though both beautiful art and incredible story. Moderated by author and teacher Vera Ahiyya
HarperCollins Children's Books Winter 2022 Book Preview (October 14, 2021) Join us at a FREE WEBINAR on Thursday, October 14th at 12:00 PM ET/11:00 AM CT for a sneak peek at new picture, middle grade, and YA books coming in early 2022 from HarperCollins Children’s Books. You will hear directly from special guests, including the NYT bestselling illustrator of THE BAD SEED, PETE OSWALD, award-winning author LESLIE CONNOR, and debut graphic novelist LAURA GAO! Don't miss out on your chance to learn about great new books coming in Winnter 2022 from HarperCollins Children’s Books. Register now!
Middle Grade Trends (October 12, 2021) Space adventures? Historical fiction? Mysteries? What will be the next big thing in Middle Grade?! These professionals will tell us! Tune into this free, one hour webinar on Tuesday, October 12 at 1 p.m. CT to get the inside scoop on the hottest topics coming to the MG reading world. We’ll hear from the experts at Algonquin Young Readers, Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, Clarion Books, Shadow Mountain Publishing, and Chooseco. Make sure your library is stocked with the latest trends hitting the book scene! Register now! Moderated by senior editor Books for Youth, Julia Smith.
Phenomenal Picture Books (October 8, 2021) With their wit, whimsy, and ability to spark the imagination, picture books remain a constant source of inspiration for readers of all ages. And what better time than now to peruse upcoming picture-book releases? Please join us for this free, hour-long webinar, featuring representatives from Greystone Kids, Minedition, Owlkids, Quarto Kids, Second Story Press, and Tundra Books.
Winter Book Club Picks (October 5, 2021) Believe it or not, winter will be here before you know it, and you’ll want to make sure your book club is well prepared. Join us on Tuesday, October 5 at 1 p.m. CT when we’ll learn about upcoming titles from Penguin Random House Library, Sourcebooks, and the LibraryLoveFest team at HarperCollins Publishers. Plus, we’ll hear from Revell authors Jane Kirkpatrick (The Healing of Natalie Curtis) and Joanna Davidson Politano (The Midnight Dance). Stock up on these exciting, discussion-inducing titles perfect for your next book club! Register now!
Meet Your Favorite Radical Indie Publishers (September 30, 2021) Part meet-and-greet, part book buzz, this free, hour-long webinar will introduce you to six independent publishers who are transforming the industry with their dedication to social justice and their vision for a more equitable world: AK Press, Beacon Press, Haymarket Books, the New Press, Seven Stories Press, and Verso Books. To learn what sets each publisher apart, the values they share--and which of their key titles will be coming to shelves this winter and beyond--be sure to tune in on Thursday, September 30.
An Afternoon of Art (September 29, 2021) Join Simon & Schuster and Booklist for a free, one hour presentation from seven incredible picture book artists about their craft and their newest publications. Join us Wednesday, September 29 at 1 p.m. CT. when we speak with Jacqueline Alcántara (Jump at the Sun: The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston); Terry Fan and Eric Fan (It Fell from the Sky); Brian Floca (Keeping the City Going); Scott Magoon (Chirp! Chipmunk Sings for a Friend); Charly Palmer (Keep Your Head Up); and Mark Teague (Cat Dog).
Identity-Celebrating Stories (September 14, 2021) No two readers are alike, and your library’s collection should reflect the vast readership looking to see themselves in books. Join us Tuesday, September 14 at 1 PM CT for a free, one-hour webinar discussing titles that celebrate identities of all kinds. We’ll hear from ECW Press, Second Story Press, Annick Press, Minerva Rising Press author Jyotsna Sreenivasan, and Lorimer Children & Teens. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about stories that joyfully highlight all readers! Moderated by Booklist’s Senior Editor, Collection Management and Library Outreach Susan Maguire
MacKids School & Library Winter 2022 Preview (September 13, 2021) MacKids School & Library will preview our Winter 2022 list of titles, including picture books, chapter books, middle grade, and young adult titles from all of our imprints at Macmillan Children's Publishing Group. Special guests include Lizz Huerta, young adult debut author of The Lost Dreamer, and Gary Paulsen, three-time Newbery Honor winner and author of the upcoming middle grade novel Northwind. Register to receive digital review copies of The Lost Dreamer and Northwind plus access to our Winter 2022 featured titles.
School Librarians: Agents of Change 2.0 (September 9, 2021) The COVID-19 crisis led to an unprecedented rise in remote and digital teaching across the nation. Teachers and school librarians had to learn—on the fly—completely new ways to do their jobs. After schools reopened, educators had to deal with many new realities amid a crisis. But as Sara Escobedo stated above, educators have the power to become change agents for their school communities, infusing each new undertaking and best practice with infinite value.
In this one-hour, on-demand webinar, Maggie Reagan, senior editor at Booklist, will moderate a conversation with educators at the forefront of such changes. You’ll learn how librarians and teachers can rely on each other and on the tools they already have at hand. Education experts Doreen Bergman and Sara Escobedo will delve into four of seven best practices, including driving librarianship by relationship, creating a strategic plan, utilizing existing structures, and prioritizing social and emotional learning.
Plus, you’ll receive the new insights brief from partners at the American Library Association; Booklist; and Gale, a Cengage company. School Librarians: Agents of Change 2.0 further details the best practices discussed in this webinar, including survey findings and guidance from dozens of other educators.
Anti-Racist Education: Building Your Inclusive Collection & Curriculum (September 8, 2021) Join us Wednesday, September 8 at 2 PM ET for a special event sponsored by Macmillan Children's Publishing Group where librarians and educators will learn how to use both nonfiction and fiction books in their anti-racist collections and classroom curriculums. Julia Torres, a teacher librarian in Denver Public Schools and a co-founder of #DisruptTexts, will lead a conversation with authors Dr. Crystal M. Fleming (Rise Up: How You Can Join the Fight Against White Supremacy), Bethany C. Morrow (So Many Beginnings: A Little Women Remix), and Aminah Mae Safi (Travelers Along the Way: A Robin Hood Remix). This conversation will address how educators can create more inclusive, representative and equitable curriculums by incorporating newly published works into school and library collections. Attendees will hear authors discuss ways to empower young people through literature with actionable steps to foster anti-racism in their communities.
Setting kids and teens up for success with your digital library (September 1, 2021) Demand for ebooks and audiobooks continues to grow, especially among kids and teens. With a new school year right around the corner, what can you do to be prepared to support the juvenile and young adult readers in your community? Join three OverDrive staff librarians in a roundtable discussion as they share best practices, including favorite titles, recent content trends, and how our Back to School sale can help you maximize budget while still meeting demand. Whether you are a new OverDrive partner looking for shopping tips & tricks or an established library wanting to dive deeper into our sale, you won’t want to miss this webinar happening Wednesday, September 1 at 1 p.m. CT.
Celebrate Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month with Random House Children’s Books (August 31, 2021) Kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place from September 15 through October 15—and celebrates the history and culture of Latinx and Hispanic communities in the U.S.—early! In this special panel-style program hosted by Booklist and Random House Children’s Books, attendees will hear from Jose Pimienta, author of Suncatcher; Karla Arenas Valenti, author of Lotería; and Areli Morales, author of Areli is a Dreamer. Each author will discuss their latest releases and participate in a Q&A led by Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter.
Chapter Books & Early Readers (August 24, 2021) It’s never too early to get young readers excited about books, and with titles like these, you won’t be able to keep them away! Join us Tuesday, August 24 at 1 p.m. CT for a free, one-hour webinar featuring chapter books and early reader titles from Albert Whitman, Second Story Press, Honest History, Once Upon a Dance, and Penguin Young Readers. Register now to help your young readers achieve success by jumpstarting their passion for reading! Moderated by Books for Youth senior editor Maggie Reagan.
Fall Adult Faves (August 20, 2021) These forthcoming releases are already beloved by publishers. And this fall, they’ll win spots on shelves—and in hearts, too. To learn all about this latest batch of must-have adult books, join us for this free, one-hour webinar (where yes, it’s OK to play favorites). Attendees will hear from representatives from Bloomsbury Publishing, HarperCollins Publishers, Macmillan Library Marketing, and Workman Publishing. And that’s not all! Authors Noah Charney (The Devil in the Gallery: How Scandal, Shock, and Rivalry Shaped the Art World) and Leonard Slatkin (Classical Crossroads: The Path Forward for Music in the 21st Century), will be joining in to offer insight into their upcoming nonfiction titles, both of which publish this September from Rowman & Littlefield
Booklist's Graphic Novel Panel, Part II (August 13, 2021) In part two of our #ReadGraphic panel series, we’ll be talking with Priya Huq, author and illustrator of Piece by Piece from ABRAMS Children’s Books; Kayla Miller, author and illustrator of Clash from Etch, an imprint of Clarion Books; Bowen McCurdy, co-creator of Specter Inspectors from BOOM! Studios; and BonHyung Jeong, author and illustrator of Kyle's Little Sister from JY, an imprint of Yen Press. Join us on Friday, August 13 at 1 p.m. CT for this can’t-miss event! Moderated by Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter.
Reading Graphic: Part Two (August 3, 2021) Our graphic novel celebration continues with part two in our Read Graphic webinar series! Join us Tuesday, August 3 at 1 p.m. CT for this free, one-hour webinar showcasing upcoming #ReadGraphic titles from Fantagraphics Books; JY, an imprint of Yen Press; Etch, an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Books for Young Readers; Penguin Random House; and Viz Media. The webinar will begin with young reader titles and conclude with adult titles. Register now!
Fantastic Fall Series Nonfiction (July 29, 2021) What do series nonfiction publishers have in store for readers this fall? Join us for this free, one-hour webinar featuring representatives from Bellwether Media, the Child’s World, and Teacher Created Materials—and find out! Titles presented will range from grades K through 12. Moderated by Booklist Books for Youth senior editor Julia Smith.
Booklist’s Graphic Novel Panel: Part I (July 23, 2021) July is Graphic Novels month at Booklist, and we’re celebrating with this must-see panel, the first in a special two-part series. In it, Books for Youth editor Sarah Hunter will chat with Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson, creators of Barb the Last Berzerker; Nidhi Chanani, creator of Jukebox; Huda Fahmy, creator of Huda F Are You?; Jennifer L. Holm and Savanna Ganucheau, creators of Turtle in Paradise; and Molly Knox Ostertag, creator of The Girl from the Sea. For insight into their creative processes and their exciting titles for middle-grade and young-adult readers, tune in on Friday, July 23 at 1 p.m. central. This event is brought to you by Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, Penguin Young Readers, Random House Children’s Books, Scholastic, and Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing.
Fall YA Announcements (July 20, 2021) Crisp leaves, sweater weather, and cooler temps, fall is always a delight, and it’s about to get so much better! Join us Tuesday, July 20 at 1 PM CT for a free, one hour webinar showcasing YA titles coming to your shelves this fall! We’ll hear from Macmillan Library, Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, Sourcebooks, and CamCat Books! Grab your favorite pumpkin-flavored drink and register now!
Reading Graphic: Part One (July 8, 2021) Booklist’s third-ever Graphic Novels in Libraries Month, a program devoted to providing librarians with the tools they need to select, curate, and promote graphic titles for patrons of all ages, will begin July 1 . . . and this graphic novel-packed webinar (the first in a two-part series) is here to kick things off. Join us and representatives from Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, Penguin Young Readers, Random House Children’s Books, Scholastic, and Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing for this free, one-hour program featuring upcoming graphic novels and guest appearances from author/illustrators, too—and get ready to #ReadGraphic all year long!
Random House Children’s Books Fall 2021 Preview (July 7, 2021) Join Booklist and Random House Children's Books on Wednesday, July 7 at 1 PM CT for a free, one hour webinar featuring debut authors Karla Arenas Valenti (Lotería); Tina Cane (Alma Presses Play); Lee Durfey-Lavoie; and Veronica Agarwal (Just Roll with It). Panelists will give a short presentation, followed by a Q&A moderated by Booklist's senior editor Julia Smith. Plus, get a sneak peek at the latest titles coming this fall from Random House Children's Books! Register now!
Disney Publishing Preview (June 28, 2021) We miss seeing and talking to you all at conferences, but until we can meet again in person, we’re hoping this is the next best thing! Join us for “story time” with our authors, Kendare Blake (In Every Generation), Ryan T. Higgins (Norman Didn't Do It), Lori M. Lee (Pahua and the Soul Stealer), Pam Muñoz Ryan (Solimar the Sword of the Monarchs), Ronald L. Smith (Black Panther the Young Prince: Spellbound), and Andrea Tsurumi (I'm On It!). They’ll not only be talking about their new books, but also reading from them. And attendees who join live can participate in our author/book trivia game as well.
Booklist's Read 'N' Rave (June 28, 2021) Collection development specialists from across the country will RAVE about their favorite forthcoming READS in this lively presentation. Attendees will have the pleasure of hearing from Montoya Barker, Public Services Librarian at the Indianapolis Public Library in Indianapolis, IN; Aryssa Damron, Librarian for the District of Columbia Public Library System in Washington, D.C.; Nanette Donohue, Collections and Technical Services Manager at the Champaign Public Library, Champaign, IL; and Sarah Hashimoto, Community Engagement Manager for Jackson District Library in Jackson MI. This hour-hour long, free event will be moderated by Donna Seaman, Booklist’s Adult Books Editor.
Inspiring SF&F for Teens: From Invasions and Revolution to Hope and Resilience (June 23, 2021) Hear from the voices behind new and upcoming science fiction and fantasy novels from Bloomsbury. This panel, moderated by Sarah Ressler Wright, educator and current ALAN president, features debut author Arnée Flores (The Firebird Song), New York Times bestselling author Brigid Kemmerer (Defy the Night), Pura Belpre Honoree Lilliam Rivera (We Light Up the Sky), and bestselling author Kalynn Bayron (This Poison Heart). Each novel explores themes of revolution, whether societal or internal, hope, and resistance—sure to inspire teens everywhere.