Sacramento Library to Launch Community Storytelling Project

The Sacramento Public Library and PBS KVIE will debut a new storytelling initiative across local branches this November.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Isometric editorial illustration depicting a quiet, modern library interior with wooden shelves and open reading spaces, representing a community project. — The Sacramento Public Library and PBS KVIE are launching the 'Tell Me More' project in November 2026 to capture local community narratives. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Starting in November 2026, the Sacramento Public Library and Abridged by PBS KVIE will launch the Tell Me More community storytelling project. The initiative aims to capture untold local narratives through library-hosted activities and listening sessions.

Why it matters

This partnership seeks to establish a new model for collaboration between local newsrooms and public libraries. By facilitating these conversations, the project aims to elevate voices and stories from across the Sacramento region.

The library secured a competitive national grant from More Perfect and the Urban Libraries Council to fund the program. While the project is confirmed, the specific list of host library branches is still under development.

The players

Sacramento Public Library

This public institution serves the Sacramento region and operates as the primary hub for local information, literacy, and community resources.

Abridged by PBS KVIE

This local news-focused initiative from public television station KVIE produces content aimed at increasing civic engagement in the community.

More Perfect

This organization focuses on elevating civic storytelling and supporting initiatives that connect residents to their local democratic processes.

Urban Libraries Council

This professional organization supports public libraries in North America by providing leadership, research, and grant opportunities to improve community services.

The details

Patrons at participating library branches will engage with the project by responding to provided storytelling prompts. Staff members will oversee the collection of these stories through organized listening sessions and creative activities designed to foster local connection.

November 2026 marks the launch of the project across library branches in the county.
Community members may begin visiting select branches to participate during the second week of November 2026.

Political Context

This project faces potential skepticism from groups who worry that collaborations between public media and libraries could lead to editorial bias in community programming. Opponents often argue that library resources should remain strictly neutral and avoid partnerships with news organizations that may have specific political slants.

Sacramento residents can visit their local library branches starting in November 2026 to share their personal stories through facilitated prompts. This engagement allows citizens to document local history and potentially influence how community narratives are reported by local news outlets.

The takeaway

This partnership provides a unique opportunity for residents to preserve their lived experiences within their local public archives. Interested patrons should contact their nearest library branch in November to learn how to contribute their own perspectives to the project.

What happens next

The initiative will begin at library branches throughout the county in November 2026, with participation windows opening during the second week of that month.