American Library Association to receive lifetime achievement award from National Book Critics Circle

CHICAGO – The American Library Association (ALA) has been selected to receive the prestigious Toni Morrison Achievement Award from the National Book Critics Circle.

The award, established by the NBCC in 2021, honors institutions that have made lasting and meaningful contributions to book culture.

"This award is a testament to all the hard work ALA members and staff have done to promote the freedom to read and improve librarianship. We are grateful for this recognition and look forward to continuing our mission to support library professionals and ensure the access to information for all,” said ALA President Emily Drabinski.

The National Book Critics Circle Awards, founded in 1974 at the Algonquin Hotel and considered among the most prestigious in American letters, are the sole prizes bestowed by a jury of working critics and book review editors. The awards for publishing year 2023 will be presented on March 21, 2024, at the New School in New York City, in a ceremony that will be free and open to the public.

ALA will be honored alongside renowned author Judy Blume, who is set to receive the Ivan Sandrof Lifetime Achievement Award.

ABOUT AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
The American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, ALA has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org.