The American Library Association (ALA) stands as the oldest and largest library association in the world, a venerable institution founded in 1876. For nearly a century and a half, ALA has served as the preeminent voice for the nation’s Libraries and the librarians and library workers who staff them. Its enduring mission centers on providing robust leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of Library services, while simultaneously championing the profession of librarianship itself. This multifaceted role extends to enhancing learning opportunities and steadfastly ensuring access to information for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

At its core, ALA functions as a powerful advocate for the values and principles underpinning modern librarianship. It plays a pivotal role in shaping Public policy related to Libraries, fostering professional growth among its members, setting industry standards, and defending intellectual freedom in an ever-evolving information landscape. Through its diverse programs, initiatives, and organizational structure, ALA works tirelessly to support the vital role Libraries play as cornerstones of democracy, education, and Community engagement, truly embodying its commitment to an informed and literate society.

Work of the American Library Association

The work of the American Library Association is expansive and deeply integrated into the fabric of the library profession and the broader Information science sphere. Its activities span advocacy, professional development, standard-setting, Public awareness, and the defense of core library values. This comprehensive approach ensures that libraries remain dynamic, accessible, and responsive to the needs of their communities.

Advocacy and Public Policy: A cornerstone of ALA’s work is its vigorous advocacy on behalf of libraries and their users at local, state, and national levels. The ALA Washington Office is a dedicated arm that monitors legislation, lobbies Congress, and educates policymakers on issues critical to libraries. These issues include federal funding for library programs, Intellectual property rights (such as Copyright and fair use), privacy rights in the digital age, net neutrality, and equitable access to broadband internet. ALA actively participates in coalitions with other organizations to amplify its message and influence policy decisions that directly impact Library services and access to information. Through initiatives like National Library Workers Day and Library Legislative Day, ALA mobilizes its members and supporters to engage directly with elected officials and demonstrate the profound value of libraries.

Intellectual Freedom and Access to Information: Perhaps the most defining aspect of ALA’s work is its unwavering commitment to intellectual freedom. The association is a staunch defender of the right of individuals to seek and receive information from all points of view without restriction, a principle enshrined in the Library Bill of Rights, a foundational document adopted by ALA. The Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) serves as a vital resource for librarians facing challenges to library materials, providing guidance, support, and legal counsel. OIF tracks censorship attempts, promotes intellectual freedom principles through publications and educational programs, and organizes events such as Banned Books Week, which draws national attention to censorship issues and celebrates the freedom to read. ALA believes that intellectual freedom is essential to a functioning democracy and an informed citizenry.

Professional Development and Education: ALA is a primary provider of professional development opportunities for librarians and library staff at all career stages. It hosts two major conferences annually: the ALA Annual Conference and LibLearnX (formerly the Midwinter Meeting). These events offer a rich array of workshops, presentations, networking opportunities, and an extensive exhibit hall showcasing the latest library products and library services. Beyond conferences, ALA supports continuing education through webinars, online courses, and professional institutes designed to equip library professionals with current skills and knowledge in areas such as digital literacy, Emerging technologies, collection management, and Community engagement. Its various divisions and round tables also offer specialized professional development tailored to specific types of libraries or professional interests.

Setting Standards and Best Practices: ALA plays a critical role in developing and promoting standards and Best practices that guide the library profession. This includes technical standards related to cataloging (e.g., RDA - Resource Description and Access), Preservation, and interoperability of library systems. It also encompasses ethical guidelines, such as the ALA Code of Ethics, which outlines the professional responsibilities of librarians. Through its committees and divisions, ALA creates and disseminates guidelines on various aspects of Library service, from collection development policies to accessibility standards for library buildings and digital resources, ensuring consistent quality and equitable access across the nation.

Research and Publications: As an intellectual leader, ALA supports and disseminates research pertinent to libraries and Information science. It publishes a wide range of professional literature, including scholarly journals, practical guides, monographs, and professional development resources. Notable publications include American Libraries, the official magazine of the association; Booklist, a critical reviews journal for public and school libraries; and Choice, a reviews journal for academic libraries. ALA Editions is its publishing imprint for professional books. These publications serve to inform members, promote Best practices, and contribute to the ongoing scholarly discourse in the field.

Public Awareness and Outreach: ALA understands the importance of educating the public about the value and impact of libraries. Its “Libraries Transform” campaign, for instance, highlights the innovative ways libraries serve their communities, emphasizing their role as vital centers for learning, technology, and community connection. The association also sponsors numerous awards and honors that bring national recognition to outstanding books, media, and Library services, such as the prestigious Newbery and Caldecott Medals for children’s literature, the Printz Award for young adult literature, and various awards recognizing Diversity in publishing and library practice. These awards not only celebrate excellence but also raise the profile of libraries and reading.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): A growing and central focus of ALA’s work is its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the library profession and in library services. The Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services (ODLOS) champions initiatives that promote cultural competency, recruit and retain a diverse library workforce, and ensure that library collections and services reflect the needs of all community members, including those from marginalized and underserved populations. ALA works to dismantle barriers to access, promote literacy in all its forms, and advocate for library services that are inclusive and representative of the nation’s diverse populace.

Organization of the American Library Association

The American Library Association is a complex and dynamic organization, structured to effectively serve its broad membership and achieve its extensive mission. Its governance model combines representative democracy with a robust professional staff, allowing for both member-driven policy setting and efficient operational execution.

Membership: ALA’s strength lies in its diverse membership, which comprises individual librarians, library support staff, library trustees, educators, students, and other library advocates. Membership types include personal, organizational, and corporate, each offering different benefits and opportunities for engagement. Members gain access to professional development, publications, networking opportunities, and the ability to influence the direction of the profession.

Governance Structure: The primary governing bodies of ALA are the Council and the Executive Board.

  • Council: The ALA Council is the primary legislative body of the association. It consists of approximately 175 members, including elected councilors-at-large, representatives from ALA divisions, and councilors representing state and regional chapters. The Council meets twice a year, typically during the ALA Annual Conference and LibLearnX, to debate and approve policies, resolutions, and strategic directions for the association. It is the ultimate authority on ALA policy.
  • Executive Board: The Executive Board manages the affairs of the association between Council meetings and implements the policies established by the Council. It acts as the administrative and financial oversight body. The Board is composed of the ALA President, President-Elect, Past President, Treasurer, and eight elected members. The ALA Executive Director, though not a voting member, serves as a key administrative officer and reports to the Board.

Officers: The top elected officers of ALA include:

  • President: The President serves a one-year term after serving as President-Elect. They are the chief spokesperson for the association, preside over Council and Executive Board meetings, and typically champion a specific initiative or theme during their term.
  • President-Elect: Serves for one year before becoming President, assisting the President and preparing for their own term.
  • Past President: Serves for one year after their presidency, providing continuity and mentorship.
  • Treasurer: Manages the financial oversight of the association.
  • Executive Director: The chief administrative officer of ALA, responsible for the day-to-day operations of the headquarters and staff. This is a salaried, professional position, not an elected one.

Divisions: Divisions are autonomous units within ALA, each focusing on a specific type of library (e.g., academic, Public Library, school) or a particular type of library service (e.g., cataloging, children’s services). There are currently eight divisions, which provide specialized professional development, publications, and advocacy within their respective areas:

  • American Association of School Librarians (AASL): Focuses on school libraries and their role in education.
  • Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL): Serves academic and research libraries.
  • Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC): Dedicated to librarians and staff serving children in libraries.
  • Core: Leadership, Infrastructure, Futures: Formed from the merger of ALCTS (Association for Library Collections & Technical Services), LITA (Library Information Technology Association), and LLAMA (Library Leadership and Management Association), focusing on technology, collections, and management.
  • Public Library Association (PLA): Represents public libraries and their services.
  • Reference and User Services Association (RUSA): Focuses on reference, genealogy, and user services.
  • Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA): Dedicated to librarians and staff serving young adults.
  • United for Libraries: A division for library trustees, foundations, friends, and advocates.

Each division has its own board, committees, and membership, offering specialized professional homes for members.

Round Tables: Round Tables are less formal groups within ALA that focus on specific issues or types of libraries not fully covered by divisions. They are more flexible in structure and offer opportunities for members to explore niche interests, engage in discussions, and undertake projects. Examples include the Social Responsibilities Round Table (SRRT), the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table (GLBTRT), and the Library Research Round Table.

Committees and Task Forces: Much of ALA’s work is carried out through numerous committees and task forces, both standing and ad-hoc. These groups address specific aspects of library service, develop policy recommendations, plan conferences, select award winners, and engage in various projects vital to the association’s mission. Examples include the Committee on Intellectual Freedom, the Committee on Accreditation (for library education programs), and various award selection committees.

Chapters: ALA has a network of state and regional library associations that are affiliated as Chapters. These chapters provide a local presence for ALA’s mission, addressing issues specific to their regions and serving as vital links between the national association and grassroots library professionals. They often host their own conferences and professional development events, fostering community and advocacy at a more localized level.

Affiliates: ALA also has affiliations with other independent organizations that share common interests, such as the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) or the American Indian Library Association (AILA). These relationships allow for collaboration and mutual support on issues of shared importance.

Offices and Departments: ALA maintains a professional staff primarily at its headquarters in Chicago, Illinois, and its Washington Office. These offices and departments are responsible for the day-to-day operations, financial management, communications, conference planning, membership services, and implementation of Council and Executive Board directives. Key offices include the Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF), the Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services (ODLOS), and the Communications and Marketing Office.

The American Library Association’s enduring influence stems from its dual commitment to fostering a robust profession and safeguarding the public’s right to information. Through its meticulously structured organization, which integrates member-driven governance with dedicated professional staff, ALA effectively champions the critical role of libraries in an informed society. It provides essential platforms for professional development, sets crucial industry standards, and vigorously advocates for policies that ensure equitable access to knowledge for all.

The multifaceted work of ALA, encompassing everything from leading national discussions on intellectual freedom and combating censorship to promoting literacy and fostering diversity within the profession, underscores its indispensable contribution to the educational and cultural fabric of the nation. As technology continues to reshape information access and societal needs evolve, ALA remains a vital, adaptive force, continuously striving to empower libraries and librarians to serve as dynamic community anchors and essential gateways to learning and discovery. Its legacy is one of unwavering dedication to the principles that underpin a truly democratic and enlightened populace, ensuring libraries remain vibrant and relevant for generations to come.