ALA plays a key role in the formulation of national and international policies and standards that affect library and information services. It's mission is to provide leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all. Through the generous support of members and friends, ALA is able to fulfill its role as the leading advocate for the public's right to a free and open information society.
Key Action areas: Diversity, equitable access to information and library services, education and lifelong learning, intellectual freedom, advocacy for libraries and the profession, literacy, and organizational excellence.
Founded by Justin Winsor, Charles Ammi Cutter, Samuel S. Green, James L. Whitney, Melvil Dewey (Melvil Dui), Fred B. Perkins, and Thomas W. Bicknell in 1876 in Philadelphia and chartered in 1879 in Massachusetts, ALA’s head office is now in Chicago.
ALA membership is open to any person or organization, though most of its members are libraries or librarians. Most members live and work in the United States, with international members living in more than 80 countries.
ALA is governed by an elected council and an executive board. Policies and programs are administrated by 11 membership divisions representing public, school, academic and special libraries, 17 round tables and various committees, member groups and affiliations, and online communities that address specific issues and areas of interest, encompassing every aspect of library and information science.
How This Organization is Funded