At CMLE, we so enjoy all our different types of libraries, archives, and other members! Seeing all the work you are doing is so inspiring; and we want to return the favor by helping you to find some of the great programming going on around the profession.

Each week we will share an interesting program we find. It may inspire you to do exactly the same thing; or to try something related; or just to try out some different programming ideas.

Financial planning programs are always popular in libraries – all of us would like to be better with handling  money! Try out some of the suggestions given in this press release from ALA, or adapt other ideas to your own community’s interests!

Libraries offer a wealth of personal finance programs during Money Smart Week®, April 21 – 28, 2018

Earning a living can be hard. But knowing how to spend, save and invest your money wisely can be even more of a challenge. And with the recent changes in the tax code, being financially savvy is imperative.

Libraries help by providing the resources that can help you make the right choices. Our nation’s librarians and library workers are trained in offering unbiased sources of information that guide us in making sound fiscal choices.

From April 21-28, 2018, more than 1,000 of our nation’s libraries will be participating in Money Smart Week®. Library events will focus on such diverse financial issues as first-time home buying, obtaining renovation loans, preparing a personal spending plan, the property tax appeal process, evaluating financial aid packages, choosing the proper Medicare plan and the basics of wills and trusts. Libraries are also offering programs that week on options for tax-free savings and charitable tax strategies.

In addition, libraries in Georgia, North Carolina and Wisconsin will be offering Money Smart Week® Kids Read programs aimed at children aged 5-8 and their parents and/or guardians. Children will be choosing from two free books, “Those Shoes” and “Planet Zeee and the Money Tree,” and then participating in adult-led presentations on key money management messages in the book.

Created by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago in 2002, Money Smart Week® is a public awareness campaign designed to help consumers better manage their personal finances. The American Library Association (ALA) is among several partnering organizations.

For more information, visit www.moneysmartweek.org, which contains an interactive map that will guide you to events across the nation.