Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services

ODLOS logo on colorful bokeh background

Mission

The ALA Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services supports library and information science workers in creating responsible and all-inclusive spaces that serve and represent the entire community. To accomplish this, we decenter power and privilege by facilitating conversations around access and identity as they impact the profession and those we serve. We use a social justice framework to inform library and information science workers' development of resources. We strive to create an association culture where these concerns are incorporated into everybody's everyday work.

Featured

ODLOS supports library and information science workers creating responsible and all-inclusive spaces that serve & represent the entire community.

Initiatives & partnerships promoting equity, diversity & inclusion in libraries and the library profession.

Find & connect with library experts in the areas of equity, diversity & inclusion.

Strategic planning, workshops, webinars, and other presentations for library audiences.

Through the Spectrum Scholarship Program, ALA affirms its commitment to diversity and inclusion by seeking the broadest participation of new ...

ODLOS works closely with 8 groups to serve marginalized voices and communities.

Initiatives

Resources, grants, and initiatives supporting literacy across the lifespan.

Read the latest EDI news every month.

Initiatives and programs geared to promote access to library services to all.

Engaging Multilingual Communities Guide

cover of booklet

Did you know that in the United States over 67 million people speak a different language rather than English at home? This guide is designed to support library personnel who serve multilingual patrons through events, collections, and enrichment opportunities.

Inside, you'll find examples of programs, services, and more for your community.

Download PDF

News

Intersections

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion eLearning

03
Dec
eLearning

This webinar will explore the technical and political processes of overhauling and streamlining LibGuides and an A-Z

09
Dec
eLearning

A panel discussion on fostering Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion among library staff, designed for children's services

10
Dec
eLearning

December 2024 Learning Live: Hone your storytelling skills.

10
Dec
eLearning

Capture new ideas, affirm old ones, and connect with fellow members in this series of fast-paced exchanges.

12
Dec
eLearning

A presentation on the Hatchlings programming within libraries and strategies for reaching families with the early

18
Dec
eLearning
Webinar

Learn how Fred Rogers’ work can inform the evaluation of library services and support the wellbeing of library staff.

08
Jan
eLearning
Webinar

Learn how to partner with local agencies to create an uplifting environment of connection and support for older adults.

11
Jan
eLearning

The presentation is focused on the responsibilities of Trustees in ensuring that their libraries are truly welcoming to

21
Jan
eLearning

This webinar shows how to draw from new approaches and technologies to harness experimentation as a tool for testing

22
Jan
eLearning
Webinar

Learn to create engaging spaces for library patrons of all ages from real-life examples and outcomes.

03
Feb
eLearning

A four-week asynchronous course on Inside Interlibrary Loan

18
Feb
eLearning

A presentation on using book kits in libraries to promote conversations about racial equity and inclusion with children

31
Mar
eLearning

A four week asynchronous course on project management.

Contact Us

225 N Michigan Ave
Suite 1300
Chicago, IL 60601
1-800-545-2433 ext. 4294
Fax: 312-280-3256
Email: diversity@ala.org

Kevin Strowder
Director
kstrowder@ala.org
800-545-2433 ext. 5295

Hillary Pearson
Program Manager, Accessibility Services
hpearson@ala.org
312-724-9251 ext. 5020