What ALA Does
The American Library Association is a voluntary member organization of librarians and library workers, trustees, friends and advocates dedicated to promoting library services, funding and library use. ALA is not a union, but ALA does advocate for equitable funding for libraries as well as the visibility of librarians in their communities. 
ALA is active nationally in a number of places, particularly intellectual freedom, equity of access to information, and 21st century literacy. The level, amount and nature of involvement of any individual members is up to that person. ALA does not have a ‘litmus test’ for membership. We solicit active and engaged discussion among the membership before making any public statements or taking action on their behalf. Join ALA Today
Through initiatives such as National Legislative Day, National Library Week, Banned Books Week, and National Library Card Sign-Up Month, ALA works to bring our outlook to life.
ALA addresses issues at a federal level for our members, including civil liberties, intellectual freedom, privacy, copyright, government information, library funding, federal library programs, and internet access.
ALA works for its members by offering conferences, continuing education, certifications, and employment services. We promote the profession by setting standards of accreditation for library schools and by recruiting new library workers. Scholarships are offered through ALA to students. Numerous grants and awards are available to librarians and library workers to further their professional development. ALA also issues the most widely known book and media awards, recognizing the best works for all ages.
Learn more about what ALA does for librarians, library workers, and the libraries where they work, click on any of the links below:
Advocates for Libraries
Champions Intellectual Freedom
Creates Standards that Matter
Conducts Policy Analysis
Delivers Resources through the Web
Hosts Professional Networks that Work
Offers the Best in Continuing Education
Holds Conferences that Inspire
Provides an International Reach
Sets Accreditation Standards
