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Federal Legislation and Libraries

All types of libraries – public, school, academic, federal and research – are resources the American public use to find jobs, support education and lifelong learning, gain access to information and telecommunications services, empower their families, and engage in civic activities.  By promoting literacy, advancing research and connecting communities, libraries serve as “agents for change” and offer individuals at all stages of life and in all types of communities access to information and education and to develop essential skills needed to function in the digital age.

The role of the American Library Association’s Washington Office is to advocate at the federal level for legislation that preserves and promotes fundamental library values by lobbying Congress, partnering and working with others “inside the Beltway” and beyond and engaging in grassroots advocacy on behalf of the public.

For updated legislative and regulatory activity on specific library-related issues, please see Issues & Advocacy.

Additional related resources:

  1. American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
    Information, resources and tips on the ARRA for librarians and library advocates
  2. Federal Library Legislative and Advocacy Network (FLLAN)
    As part of our effort to influence legislation, the ALA Washington Office has launched an initiative to establish a national grassroots advocacy network with ALA chapter representatives from every state.
  3. Federal Library Funding
    What is federal funding? Federal funding is the money for libraries that comes from the U.S. government. The majority of federal library program funds are distributed through the Institute of Museum and Library Services to each state.
  4. Library Advocacy Day
    For one year only, Library Advocacy Day will replace National Library Legislative Day (NLLD). On June 29, 2010, library advocates from all 50 states and Washington, D.C. will meet at Upper Senate Park on the U.S. Capitol grounds. The event, which will begin at 11 a.m., will feature guest speakers, photo ops, and a chance to cheer on libraries! After the rally, participants will meet with their elected officials and their staffs.

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