Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship (COSWL)

Charge

To officially represent the diversity of women’s interest within ALA and to ensure that the Association considers the rights of the majority (women) in the library field. To promote and initiate the collection, analysis, dissemination, and coordination of information on the status of women in librarianship. To coordinate the activities of ALA units that consider questions having special relevance for women. To identify lags, gaps, and possible discrimination in resources and programs relating to women. To help develop evaluative tools, guidelines, and programs in cooperation with other ALA units designed to enhance the opportunities and the image of women in the library profession, thus raising the level of consciousness concerning women. To establish contacts with committees on women within other professional groups and to officially represent ALA concerns at interdisciplinary meetings on women’s equality. To provide Council and Membership with reports needed for the establishment of policies and actions related to the status of women in librarianship, and monitor ALA units to ensure consideration of the rights of women.

Roster

When you are logged in as an ALA member, the roster will display the committee members' contact information, in addition to their names, positions, and terms.

Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship Roster

Public Posts from ALA Connect

Resources

Composition

The Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship (COSWL) consists of eleven members appointed from the membership at large serving two year staggered terms and led by chair, serving a one year term.

Subcommittees & Task Forces

Advancing Women in Library Leadership Subcommittee
Research on Women’s Issues Subcommittee
Bibliography/Clearinghouse Task Force

National Women's History Month Resources

Origin

Established by Council as a Council Committee on July 23, 1976 (on recommendation of the Ad Hoc Committee with the same name, which had been appointed by the President in December, 1975, and of the Committee on Organization.

Get Involved

ALA values committed and active committee members. Qualified members are welcome to volunteer to serve on the Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship (COSWL). Committee members must have an interest in the work of the committee; be able to attend Annual Conferences and Midwinter Meetings to participate in the meetings and activities of the committee; and be able to work between conferences via e-mail and ALA Connect. Express your interest in serving on this or other committees by filling out an application form. Appointments take place once a year, during the spring. Committee service usually begins following Annual Conference, about July 1.

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