Association of Children's Librarians of Northern California

Dorothy Helfeld Fellowship 2026-27 application period is OPEN

Applications are due Friday, July 10, 2026.

Dorothy Helfeld Fellowship Dorothy Helfeld Fellowship The 2026-27 application period is OPEN! Fellowship application Applications are due Friday, July 10, 2026. We’ll announce the 2026-27 Helfeld fellows in September 2026. Who is eligible? We encourage Northern California students, colleagues new to the field, or people wit...

Wonderful Mother’s Day wishes from your friends at The World of Eric Carle! We hope your day is extra special, filled with smiles, family time and fun!

Building bridges of understanding: Outstanding International Books to share in storytime Discover the joy of reading International Books recognized by USBBY, perfect for storytime and understanding diverse cultures.

Zohra Anwar Chunawala, 2025 New Voices Award winner for her picture book manuscript

The Dabbawalas of Mumbai
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWl32UpFC9x/

🎉Lee & Low Books is excited to announce that Zohra Anwar Chunawala of St. Louis, Missouri, is the winner of the company’s twenty-fourth annual New Voices Award! Her picture book manuscript, The Dabbawalas of Mumbai, introduces young readers to India’s legendary lunchbox delivery workers who navigate the bustling city of Mumbai with unmatched precision, ensuring that thousands of home-cooked meals reach hungry people on time. 📚Zohra Anwar Chunawala is a freelance content writer and henna artist. About her inspiration for the story, Chunawala said, “I deeply admire the grit, consistency, and incredible work ethic of the Dabbawalas, and I hope kids walk away inspired by their dedication. These are everyday heroes, and I want young readers to see that.” When asked about her writing process and motivation to enter the contest, Chunawala shared, “I draw ideas from my lived experience, which is varied in the absolute sense: my childhood growing up in one of the busiest, most hyperactive cities in the world, Mumbai, and my kids’ experiences of being diaspora. I started writing three years ago when I realized there was still so much room on bookshelves for stories that represent kids like mine and families like ours.” Chunawala will receive a publication contract and a $5,000 advance. ✨Learn more about the New Voices Award: https://www.leeandlow.com/authors-illustrators/writing-contests/new-voices-award/

Dinosaurs 101 for Librarians
Watch a recording of “Dinosaurs 101 for Librarians,” a webinar on the core concepts and techniques used by the American Museum of Natural History in teaching paleontology to young learners. Recorded March 27, 2026.

Professional Development – Collaborative Summer Library Program Professional Development AMNH Dinosaurs 101Summer Symposium 2025Archived WebinarsAMNH Dinosaurs 101 Dinosaurs 101 for Librarians Watch a recording of “Dinosaurs 101 for Librarians,” a webinar on the core concepts and techniques used by the American Museum of Natural History in teaching paleontol...

In June 2025, Jason Reynolds released Soundtrack, an audio-book original that went on to win an Odyssey Award Honor. In April 2026, Soundtrack will become available in a printed format.

An SLJ Exclusive Interview with Jason Reynolds The man of many talents sat down with SLJ to talk about taking an audio-only story to a print version, advice for young people who are interested in poetry, and a wish for more whimsy in picture books.

https://www.cityarts.net/event/mac-barnett-jon-klassen/

EENY, MEENY, MINY – NO! THE HISTORY OF RACISM IN CHILDREN’S MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
https://www.cmnonline.org/event-6619413

Hip Hip HOORAY for St. Patrick’s Day! Wishing you a wonderful holiday filled with rainbows, luck and family fun!

Colonial Games Day: A Family Program for America’s 250th Birthday - Home | Youth Services Playbook If games are popular at your library—and let’s be honest, they usually are—take this opportunity to build on that excitement. You can also celebrate an important historical milestone. In 2026, the United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary. It is the perfect time to explore what everyd...