Creates Standards that Matter
Standards are increasingly important in the practice of all library fields. Library schools introduce the basics of standards but ongoing exposure and familiarity with relevant details in your field of specialization is a part of ongoing professional development. ALA members have access to developing standards at all phases – from discussion in committees, to testing in the field, to promotion through publications and programs, to ongoing training in their use and application.
One example of relevant ALA standards comes from Jennine Bloomquist, SLMS Annsville/Camden School District, about using the new Standards for the 21st Century Learne from AASL.
ALA is actively engaged, both directly and in coordination with other national and international library associations, in ensuring the recognition and use of globally relevant and internationally recognized standards, both domestically and in global librarianship.
How you can get involved
Members set the standards that the next generation of libraries will implement. ALA provides assistance our members through our publications, training programs, and information programs. Relevant committees for discussing current standards and practice exist in every division, section and round table of ALA. In addition, at the ALA level there are several committees that set standards and conduct surveys that inform new standards. If ensuring that the future of the profession and libraries is secure in its practice, follow the links below for more ways to get involved as a member.
Resources
Key IF Statements and Policies
ALA Connect Groups and discussions around Standards
Office for Research and Statistics
ALA, Division and Round Table Committees that address standards for the profession
AASL Standards and Guidelines Implementation Task Force
ACRL Information Literacy Standards Committee
ALCTS Continuing Resources Standards
ASCLA Standards Review Committee
LITA Technology and Access Committee
