How Experiences Impact Our Stories: Learning about Crouton the Cat with Author and Illustrator Kristine A. Lombardi EP 84

Staying True to Yourself & Combatting Stereotypes with Shifa Saltagi Safadi EP 88

It's finally summer! To kick off summer reading, Elizabeth is speaking with authors about their books. In this episode, Elizabeth speaks with Shifa Saltagi Safadi, the author of the Amina Banana series and Kareem Between. They begin by talking all about the Amina Banana series--where she got the idea for the series and how she decided to tackle tough topics in the books. Elizabeth and Shifa discuss writing authentically and how Shifa represents the culture authentically so that her character's backgrounds are truly seen. The conversation ends with ideas for kids about how to write bravely--and how parents and teachers can encourage this. Check out Shifa's work: https://shifasafadi.com/ [https://shifasafadi.com/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

Libraries Offer Kids Access to All Levels of Books

The American Library Association is hosting its Annual Conference this month--and to gear up for the conference, this episode is about the library! Should your child only read books on their level? The short answer is no! So, to look for books that your child will enjoy on a variety of levels, hit the library! And, now is a great time--to get your summer reading stack! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

Changes, Challenges, and Core Values: Talking about the Role of Libraries with Dan Montgomery EP 87

The American Library Association is gearing up for its Annual Conference (June 25-29, 2026)--and joining Elizabeth is Dan Montgomery, who is the Executive Director of the ALA. In our conversation, Dan talks about the importance of celebrating 150 years of the ALA, what to expect at the Annual Conference (and why you should go!), and what the ALA is facing today. Libraries are facing challenges in these changing times, but there are core values that they are upholding. To learn more about the ALA's Annual Conference, check out their website: https://2026.alaannual.org/ [https://2026.alaannual.org/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

Libraries Have More Than Books

To celebrate the American Library Association's 150th Anniversary and their upcoming Annual Conference, this week's mini episode is library themed! Libraries are known for books and reading materials, but they also have materials and resources that serve their particular community. Listen to this episode to learn about some of the materials libraries lend out--then check out your library to see what they have in store for you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

150 Years of the American Library Association with Sam Helmick! EP 86

It's the 150th Anniversary of the American Library Association! Joining Elizabeth is the current President of the ALA, Sam Helmick, who is talking about the ALA's annual conference and why this year is so special. In this episode, you will hear Sam speak about: • The ALA’s 150th Year and how they are celebrating at this year’s conference; • A few of the speakers at this year’s conference (you won't want to miss this announcement!); • Why you should consider attending this year’s conference; • And, what challenges libraries are facing today and how you can help. The ALA's annual conference is being held in Chicago at the end of June (June 25-29). Check out their website for more information about this wonderful event: https://2026.alaannual.org/ [https://2026.alaannual.org/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]