Best San Diego Public Library Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 99: 2024 Author Chats by Call Number with American Libraries 20:23

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10M ago20:23

20:23

As 2024 comes to a close and we look ahead, Call Number with American Libraries reflects on the important work of librarians and our beloved institutions.In Episode 99, the Call Number team presents exclusive clips from conversations with authors we interviewed this past year, including Hanif Abdurraqib, Kwame Alexander, Connie Chung, Kate DiCamill…

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Episode 98: Small Libraries, Big Ideas 31:02

11M ago31:02

31:02

Small and rural libraries don’t always have the same resources and opportunities that urban libraries do. But they still have big ideas about how to serve their communities—and, as we hear in Episode 98, they find ways to realize them.At Burlingame (Kans.) Community Library, sensory spaces and a new loanable resource collection are improving the li…

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Rebroadcast of Episode 31: The Haunting of Peoria Public Library 47:11

12M ago47:11

47:11

Books flying off the shelves. Shadowy figures roaming the hallways. Unexplained sounds.What’s going on at Peoria (Ill.) Public Library? Is the building possessed by spirits hovering above cursed ground? Or are these apparitions just a sign that librarians have been spending too much time in the stacks?Do not attempt to adjust your audio. In this re…

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LGBTQIA+ Committee 17:00

12M ago17:00

17:00

In this bonus episode, Bob hangs out with library workers Carrie Sanabria, Jeremy Davies, and Craig Wimberly, members of the San Diego Public Library's LGBTQIA+ Committee. They discuss various aspects of the committee's work, including SDPL's annual Pride Card Contest, outreach at the Pride festival, and their year-round advocacy efforts. Pride 202…

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Bonus Episode: Check Out Your Library 7:48

1y ago7:48

7:48

Libraries are so much more than their physical collections. They offer digital resources, innovative programs, essential services, new technologies, and opportunities to socialize. But not everyone knows this. That’s why OverDrive has started Check Out Your Library, an initiative that aims to reintroduce communities to their local libraries.In this…

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Rebroadcast of Episode 87: Protecting the Right to Read 35:52

1y ago35:52

35:52

The recent wave of book bans and other censorship attempts have threatened democracy, restricting access and the rights of many readers. In Episode 87, Call Number looks at how libraries and library workers are on the front lines defending intellectual freedom. First, American Libraries Associate Editor and Call Number host Diana Panuncial speaks w…

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Rebroadcast of Episode 75: Rethinking Your Space 28:04

1y ago28:04

28:04

As any library staffer who has gone through a building renovation knows, significant behind-the-scenes work goes into updating or overhauling a facility. From working with architects to communicating with committees to soliciting community feedback, rethinking a library doesn’t happen overnight. On Episode 75, the podcast team focuses on library de…

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Episode 97: For the Love of Music 33:50

1y ago33:50

33:50

Summer is in full swing. This means getting outside, soaking up some sunshine, and listening to our favorite tunes—from oldies-but-goodies to today’s hits. In Episode 97, Call Number covers music.Some libraries offered programs, hosted listening parties, and transformed into mini concert venues to celebrate their favorite musician’s latest release.…

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Episode 96: Sunny San Diego 28:05

1+ y ago28:05

28:05

Next week, we’re on route to San Diego for the American Library Association’s 2024 Annual Conference and Exhibition. In Episode 96, Call Number explores “America’s Finest City” through the lens of local librarians. First, American Libraries Associate Editor and Call Number host Diana Panuncial speaks with Tim Tully, instruction and outreach librari…

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Episode 95: Sustainability Strategies 26:45

1+ y ago26:45

26:45

In Episode 95, Call Number highlights ways libraries are practicing and promoting sustainability. First, American Libraries Managing Editor Terra Dankowski pays a visit to the Sulzer Regional branch of Chicago Public Library, which hosts a repair café every month. At these events, participants bring household items in need of mending to the library…

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Homeless and Mental Health Outreach 24:44

1+ y ago24:44

24:44

In this season finale, Bob catches up with Sciences Manager, Michelle Ruiz, and Mission Valley Branch Manager, Karen Reilly about library services for individuals experiencing homelessness. Bob also speaks with Aaron Basila and Gedalyahu Ben-Shimeon from the National Alliance on Mental Illness about NAMI's partnership with the Central Library. Ment…

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Episode 94: Preserving History 38:56

1+ y ago38:56

38:56

In Episode 94, Call Number celebrates Preservation Week, this year held April 28–May 4. With the theme of “Preserving Identities,” the week’s events aim to raise awareness of the role libraries and cultural institutions play in protecting historic and culturally significant collections. First, American Libraries Managing Editor Terra Dankowski spea…

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Queue Time with Scott 25:13

1+ y ago25:13

25:13

In this episode, Bob hangs with Listeners' Advisory cohost and Library Shop Manager, Scott Ehrig-Burgess for a second installment of the pop-culture recommendation segment, Queue Time. Recommendations range from non-fiction reads, to crime shows, to marathon interview podcasts on the limits of LLMs. Scott's recs Welcome the Wretched: In Defense of …

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READ/San Diego 15:39

1+ y ago15:39

15:39

In this episode, Bob hangs out with staff from READ/San Diego, the city's premier literacy service. He chats with Program Administrator Nicole Settle about the program's mission and history, as well as with Coordinators Stephanie Contreras and Tim Donolon about READ's two prongs of service: Adult & Family Literacy. They also discuss the recent 35th…

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Romance Recommendations 19:56

1+ y ago19:56

19:56

In this third and final installment of our romance series, Jessica catches up with three librarians and romance enthusiasts to hear about how they got started with the genre, recommended authors and titles, and where newbies can get started. Authors Mentioned: Victoria Holt Julia Quinn Tessa Dare Jayci Lee Leah Brunner Sabrina Jeffries Kate Bateman…

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Episode 93: Decoding AI 23:34

1+ y ago23:34

23:34

From chatbots to image generators to robot companions, artificial intelligence (AI) is a hot topic across many industries right now. In Episode 93, Call Number explores how AI is emerging in libraries.First, American Libraries Associate Editor Megan Bennett speaks with Cheryl Eberly and Larry Singer, both from Santa Ana Public Library in California…

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Library Master Plan Pt. 3 12:30

1+ y ago12:30

12:30

In this episode, Scott presents his third and final report on the now City Council approved Library Master Plan. Scott gives us a sneak peek into the library’s efforts to collect feedback from the community in the form of listening sessions as well as presentation highlights from the consulting firm, Group 4, that was hired to put the plan together…

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Queue Time 16:09

1+ y ago16:09

16:09

In this episode, Bob hangs with Deputy Director of Customer Experience and Listeners' Advisory Executive Producer, Jennifer Jenkins, for a new segment titled Queue Time. Queue Time participants discuss what they're currently reading, listening to, and watching so listeners can enjoy popular culture recommendations beyond the collections of the San …

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Episode 92: The Wide World of Librarians in Sports 33:04

1+ y ago33:04

33:04

Still reeling from Super Bowl excitement? In Episode 92, Call Number features conversations with librarian athletes who represent three sports: wheelchair racing, pickleball, and powerlifting.First, American Libraries Associate Editor Megan Bennett speaks with Paralympian and librarian Amanda McGrory. McGrory, a seven-time medalist, has competed in…

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Romance Tropes, Steam, and Everything In Between 29:47

1+ y ago29:47

29:47

In this episode, Romance Librarian, Jessica Buck hangs with podcast host and romance author, Kelly Reynolds and podcaster, Bookstagram Bree. They discuss common tropes of the genre, spice levels, content warnings, terms, and more. *Warning, this episode contains language that is sexually explicit in nature.* Kelly Reynolds - Boobies and Newbies Boo…

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Cory Doctorow 31:40

1+ y ago31:40

31:40

In this episode, cohost Scott presents his extended interview with Red Team Blues author and journalist, Cory Doctorow. They discuss a wide range of topics that include Artificial Intelligence, differentiating fables and predictions, issues of intellectual property, and absurdist potentials for technology-driven dystopias. Cory Doctorow’s Craphound…

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Episode 91: Good Morning, Baltimore! 30:58

1+ y ago30:58

30:58

In Episode 91, Call Number explores Baltimore, where ALA will hold its 2024 LibLearnX conference, January 19–22. First, American Libraries Associate Editor and Call Number host Diana Panuncial speaks with David Thomas and Tonya Thomas, both chefs and food historians. The husband-and-wife duo is behind Baltimore’s H3irloom Food Group, a culinary org…

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History of Romance 26:04

2y ago26:04

26:04

In this episode, Youth Services Librarian Jessica Buck chats with historian Steve Ammidown and Becca Title, owner of Meet Cute Book Shop, about the history of the romance genre. They share their personal connections to the genre, discuss its roots, and aspects of its continuing evolution. Jessica Buck - College-Rolando Branch Library Steve Ammidown…

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Homeschool Resource Center 19:52

2y ago19:52

19:52

In this episode, Bob speaks with Mission Valley Branch Library Manager, Karen Reilly and Youth Services Librarian, Marika Jeffrey about the branch's new Homeschool Resource Center. They discuss identifying the community need for the center, the homeschool community that relies on the space, and all else the Center has to offer. Mission Valley Branc…

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Episode 90: 2023 Author Chats 18:29

2y ago18:29

18:29

As we say farewell to 2023, we look back at another year of unprecedented book challenges, efforts to defund libraries, and other threats to the profession. But one silver lining has been the authors who have voiced their support for librarians, books, and democracy.In Episode 90, Call Number presents its “2023 Author Chats.” Hear never-before-rele…

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Shereen Marisol Meraji 26:32

2y ago26:32

26:32

In this episode, Bob speaks with Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism Professor and former host/producer of the NPR podcast, Codeswitch, Shereen Marisol Meraji. They discuss race and culture reporting, growing up in the Bay Area, and a subject near and dear to both Shereen and Bob, hip hop music. "Can't Truss It" - Public Enemy "Humpty Dance" - D…

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New Central Turns 10! 20:02

2y ago20:02

20:02

In this Season 3 premier, Bob speaks with Supervising Librarian, Monnee Tong about the 10 year celebration of the Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common. They discuss Monnee's history with SDPL, some of the enduring features of the new building, and what we can expect from Central's future. Bob also catches up with Listener's Advisory cohost,…

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Episode 89: Services for the Incarcerated 31:25

2y ago31:25

31:25

Libraries can be a lifeline for incarcerated or detained individuals and their families. In Episode 89, Call Number discusses creative programs in prison libraries.First, poets and prison reform activists Reginald Dwayne Betts and Randall Horton talked with former ALA Executive Director Tracie D. Hall back in an interview conducted last July. Betts…

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Episode 88: Every Witch Way 30:31

2y ago30:31

30:31

Grab your spell books, get those cauldrons bubbling, and ready your broomsticks. In Episode 88, Call Number delves into the world of witchcraft.First, American Libraries Associate Editor Megan Bennett speaks with Dan Lipcan, of Phillips Library at Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts. The two discuss the library’s vast collection of materia…

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Banned Books Week 2023 9:53

2y ago9:53

9:53

In this bonus episode, Bob conducts several lightning round interviews with his colleagues about their favorite banned books and why they matter. Bob also makes a couple announcements regarding a new service and the upcoming third season of Listeners' Advisory! I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings - Maya Angelou And Tango Makes Three - Peter Parnell and…

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Episode 87: Protecting the Right to Read 38:39

2y ago38:39

38:39

The recent wave of book bans and other censorship attempts have threatened democracy, restricting access and the rights of many readers. In Episode 87, Call Number looks at how libraries and library workers are on the front lines defending intellectual freedom. First, American Libraries Associate Editor and Call Number host Diana Panuncial speaks w…

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Episode 86: What's New in Library School 33:55

2y ago33:55

33:55

It’s that time of the year again: School is back in session, including for students working toward their master’s degrees in library and information science.In Episode 86, Call Number looks at what’s new in library school.First, American Libraries Associate Editor and Call Number host Diana Panuncial explores iBlackCaucus, a student organization fo…

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Episode 85: The Colorful World of Comics 29:20

2y ago29:20

29:20

Episode 85 of Call Number dives into the colorful world of comics, graphic novels, and manga.First, American Libraries Associate Editor Megan Bennett speaks with Jenny Robb, head curator of the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum at Ohio State University in Columbus, which houses the world’s largest collection of print cartoon art.Then, Americ…

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Episode 84: Welcome to Chicago 34:25

2+ y ago34:25

34:25

The American Library Association’s 2023 Annual Conference and Exhibition will take place in its hometown: Chicago!In Episode 84 of Call Number, find out where to go, what to see, and what to eat during your visit to the Second City.First, American Libraries Associate Editor and Call Number host Diana Panuncial speaks with Steve Dolinsky, author of …

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Episode 83: Supporting Small Business 28:30

2+ y ago28:30

28:30

Small businesses are a big part of every community, and libraries offer a wealth of resources to support them. From research assistance to specialized programs and grants, libraries help entrepreneurs of all kinds flourish.In Episode 83, Call Number highlights how libraries and librarians are supporting small business owners—particularly those who …

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Bonus Episode: Bringing Films and Series to the Library 19:04

2+ y ago19:04

19:04

Providing programs and services that are both enriching and entertaining is a major goal of most librarians. In this bonus episode, sponsored by Kanopy, Call Number looks at how one librarian is using the video streaming service’s platform to bring movies, television shows, and instructional programs to patrons at home while staying within her libr…

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Episode 82: Sexual and Reproductive Health Information 32:08

2+ y ago32:08

32:08

When we discuss access to information, that includes information about our bodies and our health. Libraries have long been a lifeline to patrons looking to connect with health care resources, dispel misinformation, and find answers discreetly—even when our institutions are under attack.In Episode 82, Call Number explores sexual and reproductive hea…

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Our Favorite Podcasts and Cory Doctorow 24:46

2+ y ago24:46

24:46

In this Season 3 bonus episode, Bob hangs with Listeners' Advisory Executive Producer, Jennifer Jenkins and podcast cohost, Scott to discuss their favorite podcasts. Scott also speaks with science fiction writer, Cory Doctorow, about his new novel, Red Team Blues. Ghost Herd by Anna King Borrowed by Brooklyn Public Library (Sort of) the Story with …

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Episode 81: Pandemic Pivots 34:09

2+ y ago34:09

34:09

It’s been three years since COVID-19 brought the country to a standstill. In March 2020, the pandemic shuttered library buildings and prompted staffers to shift programming and priorities for a changing world.In Episode 81, Call Number hears from three libraries that expanded, pivoted, and reimagined their offerings to reach community members who n…

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Episode 80: Reading Romance 28:27

2+ y ago28:27

28:27

Love is always in season at the library. Whether helping readers find their next fictional crush or offering couples space on their wedding day, the library is a perfect place to pair up.In Episode 80, Call Number is head-over-heels for romance.First, American Libraries Managing Editor Terra Dankowski speaks with Jill Maneikis, deputy director of s…

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Episode 79: Back in the Big Easy 35:16

2+ y ago35:16

35:16

New Orleans is famous for many things—its sights, bites, sounds, and culture. And this January, it’s where the American Library Association’s LibLearnX conference will make an in-person debut with a vibrant array of speakers, educational sessions, and more. So, let the good times roll—or, as the locals say, Laissez les bons temps rouler!In episode …

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Episode 78: 2022 Author Chats 24:36

3y ago24:36

24:36

And just like that, 2022 is coming to an end. It’s been a tumultuous time for the profession: We’re on course for another record-breaking year of book challenges, politically driven groups are working to pass laws that censor materials and measures that defund libraries, and library workers continue to experience burnout. But one source of hope and…

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Episode 77: Medical Librarianship 35:38

3y ago35:38

35:38

In Episode 77 of Call Number, we explore the work of medical librarians by highlighting two initiatives presented at the 2022 Medical Library Association Annual Conference.First, American Libraries associate editor and Call Number host Diana Panuncial speaks with Jennifer Davis, Gail Kouame, and Lachelle Smith. The three collaborated on virtual rea…

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Haunted SDPL 21:21

3y ago21:21

21:21

In our season two finale episode, Skyline Hills Branch Manager Azalea Ebbay and Chula Vista Public Librarian Lydia Bringerud interview Library Assistant II, children's author, and paranormal investigator Tim Mountain. They learn about how paranormal investigations are conducted and discuss the connections between haunting and trauma in library work…

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Episode 76: Oh, the Horror! 34:09

3y ago34:09

34:09

Halloween is nearly here. And leading up to the holiday, many of us do all sorts of things to put ourselves in a spooky mood—take haunted hayrides, watch horror movies, carve pumpkins. Sometimes we dust off that shelf of Stephen King, Shirley Jackson, and Anne Rice books, and sink our teeth into a terrifying story that keeps us up at night.In Episo…

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Library Foundation SD 19:51

3y ago19:51

19:51

In this episode, Scott introduces listeners to the Library Foundation SD, the non profit advocacy organization that supports the San Diego Public Library through various programs and fundraising efforts. Scott interviews Library Foundation SD staff, current and former board members, as well as SDPL staff to discuss the Foundation’s impacts, history…

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Bonus Episode: Gale Presents Upskilling at the Public Library 11:42

3y ago11:42

11:42

These days, with our busy schedules, it can be difficult to find ways to develop professional skills. That’s why Gale has partnered with Udemy Business, a vast marketplace for online learning, to offer public libraries a program called Gale Presents: Udemy. The program is an online platform that provides instruction through more than 17,000 video-b…

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The City Archives 15:17

3y ago15:17

15:17

In this episode, Bob meets San Diego City Clerk Liz Maland, Archives Program Manager Sam Ely, and Archives Supervisor Anne Miggins. They discuss the history of the City Archives, the Digital Archives, and the 4th Annual Archives Month series of events. Bob also visits the Archives in person and learns about preservation measures and sees some reall…

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REBROADCAST: Banned Books Week 11:49

3y ago11:49

11:49

SEASON ONE REBROADCAST: In this episode, Bob speaks with Director of the American Library Association’s Office of Intellectual Freedom, Deborah Caldwell-Stone and SDPL Supervising Librarian of Technical Services, Robyn Gage-Norquist about intellectual freedom, censorship, and the ethics of librarianship. Banned Books Week Deborah Caldwell-Stone Lib…

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Episode 75: Rethinking Your Space 30:45

3y ago30:45

30:45

As any library staffer who has gone through a building renovation knows, significant behind-the-scenes work goes into updating or overhauling a facility. From working with architects to communicating with committees to soliciting community feedback, rethinking a library doesn’t happen overnight. On Episode 75, the podcast team focuses on library de…