Why is it important for journalists, librarians and community members to collaborate on local information and storytelling initiatives? What becomes possible when librarians and community members practice journalism together rather than simply consume it? How might librarians build relationships with local reporters, and vice versa?
Next month, Library Futures will begin tackling these questions—and more—during our series on library-civic media collaborations. We believe information professionals and journalists are natural partners connected through stories, research, and a commitment to local information needs. Yet, despite these similarities, they often work separately.
Across the country, there are few journalists and librarians currently working together to help communities fill information gaps, build social connections, and participate more fully in civic life. Hear from some of the people doing this work during our three-part virtual series. Local journalists, librarians, and others can explore practical tools and approaches for building and sustaining similar ideas in their own communities.
All events are held on Thursdays at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT. RSVP for FREE at the links below.
Library-Local News Collaborations: Strengthening Community Connection and Civic Participation
Thursday, October 1, 2026
This first session offers an entry point into the topic. It is for anyone curious about how libraries fit into their community’s local news and civic media ecosystem, how library-newsroom collaborations work on the ground, or how to begin building a similar project.
You’ll hear from the Library Newsroom Project, El Tímpano, Kansas City Public Library, and Plymouth District Library about the work they’ve done to strengthen local news and civic media in the communities they work in. After the presentation, the moderator will lead a conversation among panelists and the audience.
How to Talk to a Reporter
Thursday, November 5, 2026
In a world of rampant challenges to library materials, how we speak to the public and particularly to the press can have massive ramifications. In How to Talk to a Reporter, you’ll hear from librarians, journalists, and library communications experts to learn from their experiences, and you’ll get an introduction to “The Pickle of the Persistent Press Hound,” the latest scenario in Imagine IF, an intellectual freedom training game from Library Futures.
How to Launch a Collaborative Local Information Initiative at Your Library
Thursday, November 19, 2026
How do journalists, librarians, and community members work together in practice? What does it take to build a collaboration rooted in local needs and participation that can be sustained over time?
Library Futures will tackle the practicality of building these collaborations with the Library Newsroom Project. Library Newsroom Project founder and award-winning journalist Terry Parris Jr. will offer an overview of the process, from conception to assessment, along with practical ideas for exploring a collaboration in attendees’ own communities.
Attendees will be invited to submit questions and project ideas to shape this webinar.
If you’re interested in starting a project with or at your library, this session is for you!