Oh MG News

Kidlit Authors: Go Back to School!

By on September 1, 2025   /   Oh MG News   /   Leave a comment

Exciting news on the education front! A brand-new low-residency MFA program geared towards building the careers of children’s and YA authors has been announced, and they’re already taking applications for its inaugural 2026 entering class.

The MFA for Young Readers program,  headquartered at the University of San Francisco, is the brainchild of kidlit authors Martha Brockenbrough, A.S. King, and David Macinnis Gill, reports Publishers Weekly, and other faculty include Tracey Baptiste, Ann Dávila Cardinal, Erin Entrada Kelly, An Na, and Dashka Slater.

write books for young readers participant holds up art that says "Our Stories Matter" Students will gather twice a year at the University of San Francisco campus, and otherwise will work remotely. The program is for any and all kidlit authors, whether you write fiction or nonfiction, graphic novels, poetry, and starting with picture book all the way through YA. Every six months 20 more students will join the program.

Write books for young readers faculty photos

Interested in applying? You’ll need:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in any field
  • Academic transcripts
  • Two letters of rec
  • Short essay responses to questions
  • A writing sample

Request information and learn more about the program, fees, dates, application process, and more here. 

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What’s Going on at SLJ?

By on August 1, 2025   /   Oh MG News  
Blue background, white letters: SLJ

For over 70 years, School Library Journal (SLJ) has prided itself on being “the premiere publication for librarians and information specialists who work with children and teens.” As a professional resource, its magazine and website are relied upon by librarians and educators who want to stay informed about book reviews, literacy, best practices, and education policy.

 

July Lay-Offs

That’s why it was big news when, in late July, parent company Media Source, Inc. (MSI) laid off Kathy Ishizuka, Editor in Chief, and Rebecca T. Miller, Group Publisher of SLJ and two related publications, Library Journal and Hornbook. Ishizuka has been with the company since 2020, and Miller has worked there since 1998. According to Publisher’s Weekly, “MSI provided no rationale for the layoffs of Ishizuka and Miller.”

 

MSI reports that this change will facilitate their broader work to increase the visibility and impact of libraries. There is also a plan to provide professional development that will equip librarians to become leaders and advocates in challenging times.

 

Leadership

Robert Gogel, President & CEO of MSI, told SLJ, “As libraries continue to evolve, our role is to inform and empower them. Our goal is not only to help librarians meet the needs of their communities, but also to elevate the visibility, impact, and enduring importance of libraries in society. We’re committed to investing in the platforms, content, and leadership that help librarians anticipate change, advocate for their communities, and inspire lifelong readers.” 

 

Former editor in chief of Library Journal Hallie Rich has been named Editorial Director of both  LJ and SLJ. She will be responsible for content development and editorial strategy. Elissa Gershowitz will remain Editor in Chief of The Horn Book.

 

Looking Ahead

With a new school year on the horizon, we’ll watch the changes play out. Will the company be able to balance its advocacy efforts with its support of literacy and best practices? Will librarians feel better supported when facing book challenges and bans? Will the magazine and website continue to provide highly respected reviews of new books? 

 

Time will tell.

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Summer Book Project: Show Up #ForOurLibraries

By on July 1, 2025   /   Oh MG News  

All of us — authors, educators, parents/caregivers, engaged, curious citizens, and of course, readers — have benefitted from America’s libraries. Libraries are the beating heart of our communities, doing everything from hosting events, offering free resources, helping us research, creating special spaces for kids, and being a safe place we can all gather together.

Show Up For Our Libraries

Libraries are also all-too vulnerable to budget cuts, and they desperately need the support of each and every one of us. This summer, do you have five minutes to take on one or more suggested activities to Show Up #ForOurLibraries? Here are ways to help, from quick, five-minutes-or-less actions or bigger swings:

EveryLibrary.org suggests:

  • Attend library board and city council meetings so you can weigh in on important matters related to your local library.
  • Run for the library board.
  • Raise awareness by sharing news about your local library on social media and with your social circle.
  • Sign up for the EveryLibrary email list to keep abreast of the latest library news.

The American Library Association (ALA) suggests:

Libraries have been there for us. Now let’s make sure we’re there for them!

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