Alabama LM Update January 2026
đź“… First Fridays Continue January 9th!
We’re excited to keep the momentum going with our monthly First Fridays professional learning sessions designed for librarians!
Join us for two engaging sessions on January 9th:
If the direct link for registering in PSPL doesn't work, you can search by the session number. All registration details are available on the First Fridays website, and you’ll also find a graphic showing all of the First Fridays sessions. Let’s keep growing together through collaboration and shared learning!
Important Reminders:
âś… Register in PSPL before attending to receive credit
âś… If joining with a group, enter your name in the chat
âś… If your display name differs from your PSPL registration, enter your name in the chat
âś… Otherwise, no need to enter your name to avoid duplicate entries
✅ Platform login information is available in the “Notes” section of PSPL when you register
MĂłnica Farris, Ed.D., NBCT, Education Specialist for English Language Learners, highlights innovative ways Madison City Schools is celebrating and strengthening multilingual family engagement.
In the article below this one, you’ll find a link to the Phones in Focus survey. This study aims to give all educators an opportunity to inform and improve school cell phone policies and their implementation.
In addition, I’ve created a special survey just for Alabama public school K–12 librarians. After speaking with many librarians across the state, we’ve heard reports of increased circulation and engagement since the Focus Act went into effect.
We would like feedback from all public school K-12 librarians in Alabama. Please take a few minutes to complete this librarian-specific survey by February 28. Your feedback will help us understand any impact the Focus Act may have had on your library and its services.
Alabama’s Multi-Tiered system of Supports (AL-MTSS) is built on the belief that every student can learn when the right support is in place at the right time. While classroom instruction and interventions often take center stage, library media specialists play a vital, yet sometimes overlooked, role in strengthening Tier I, II and III systems. As outlined through guidance from Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) and AL- MTSS Problem-Solving Team (PST) resources, effective MTSS implementation is a shared responsibility, not the work of one role or department.
At Tier I, library media specialists support high-quality core instruction by curating standards-aligned resources, promoting literacy across content areas, and creating inclusive spaces that foster belonging and engagement. These universal supports help reduce barriers before students struggle, aligning with the preventative intent of AL-MTSS. Through collaboration with teachers and instructional leaders, the library becomes a hub for access and academic enrichment.
Alabama Library Media Online (ALMO) is your one-stop site for everything library media. From guidance to professional learning, ALMO keeps you informed and supported.
What’s Inside ALMO?
- Library Handbook & Guidelines – Current standards and resources.
- First Fridays & Office Hours – Stay connected and get real-time help.
- Library Enhancement Funds – Clear usage guidelines and examples.
- Compliance Monitoring – Policies, schedules, and support documents.
- Shoutouts – Recognize outstanding libraries and librarians.
- Newsletter & PL Opportunities – Subscribe and grow professionally.
Why ALMO?
It saves time, answers questions, and connects you with statewide initiatives. Bookmark ALMO today and make it your go-to resource!
Enjoy this book review and lesson plan from Amara Alexander, AMSTI K-5 Science Administrator
Author: Alice McGill
Illustrator: Chris Soentpiet
Molly Bannaky tells the true story of Molly Walsh, a young English woman living in the late 1600s. After being accused of stealing milk, Molly faces harsh punishment under English law. To avoid execution, she becomes an indentured servant and is sent to the American colonies. When her term of service ends, Molly earns her freedom and starts a farm in Maryland. She later marries a freed African man, defying social norms of the time. Together, they raise a family, and Molly becomes the grandmother of Benjamin Banneker, a brilliant African American scientist, mathematician, and astronomer.
