The American Library Association (ALA) is a non-profit organization that serves as the oldest and largest library association in the United States. Founded in 1876, the ALA is dedicated to promoting libraries and library services, advocating for intellectual freedom, and fostering professional development for librarians and library staff.
With a membership of over 57,000 individuals and institutions, the ALA represents a diverse range of library professionals, including librarians, library administrators, educators, and library supporters. The association is governed by an elected council and led by an executive director, who oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization.
One of the primary goals of the ALA is to advocate for libraries and library services at the national level. The association works closely with policymakers and legislators to promote legislation that supports libraries and ensures access to information for all individuals. The ALA also engages in public awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of libraries in communities and to educate the public about the services and resources that libraries provide.
Intellectual freedom is a core value of the ALA, and the association actively defends the rights of individuals to access information and express their ideas freely. The ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom provides resources and support to libraries facing challenges to their materials or services, and the association frequently speaks out against censorship and other threats to intellectual freedom.
Professional development is another key focus of the ALA. The association offers a wide range of educational opportunities for library professionals, including conferences, workshops, and online courses. These programs cover a variety of topics, such as library management, collection development, technology integration, and advocacy. The ALA also provides resources and support for library staff at all stages of their careers, from students and new professionals to experienced librarians.
In addition to its advocacy and professional development efforts, the ALA also plays a crucial role in setting standards and guidelines for libraries. The association's divisions and roundtables develop and maintain standards for various aspects of library services, such as cataloging, reference services, and children's and young adult literature. These standards help ensure that libraries provide high-quality services and resources to their communities.
The ALA is also actively involved in promoting diversity and inclusion in libraries. The association's Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services works to increase access to library services for underserved populations, including people of color, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency. The ALA also supports initiatives to promote diverse representation in library collections and staff.
Overall, the American Library Association is a vital organization that supports and advocates for libraries and library professionals across the United States. Through its advocacy efforts, professional development programs, and commitment to intellectual freedom and diversity, the ALA plays a crucial role in ensuring that libraries continue to serve as essential community resources.
