Get to know ACRL.
We're the higher education association for academic libraries and library workers.
Representing nearly 9,000 individuals and libraries, the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL), the largest division of the American Library Association, develops programs, products, and services to help those working in academic and research libraries learn, innovate, and lead within the academic community. Founded in 1940, ACRL is committed to advancing learning, transforming scholarship, and creating diverse and inclusive communities.
Advancing Learning, Transforming Scholarship
ACRL leads academic and research librarians and libraries in advancing learning and transforming scholarship in higher education. As an association, we envision a future where academic and research librarians and libraries are essential to a thriving global community of learners and scholars.
Read our Plan for Excellence.
Core Commitment: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
ACRL is dedicated to creating diverse and inclusive communities in the Association and in academic and research libraries. This core commitment permeates the work of the Association, cutting across all ACRL sections, committees, interest and discussion groups, and communities of practice.
Learn more.
Membership
Academic and research librarians are motivated by the extraordinary possibilities that higher education offers, and are indispensable partners in making our educational communities more effective. As a member of ACRL, you're part of a diverse and engaged community of colleagues serving every kind of academic and research library.
Become a member.
Get Involved
ACRL provides a variety of meaningful opportunities to become active and engage with your community. Our valued members give back to the Association and the profession, and gain essential experience in return. Explore the possibilities and find your home!
Learn how to get involved with ACRL.
Give to ACRL
Donations to ACRL directly support the development of programs and services specifically for the academic and research library community.
Learn more about giving.
Directory of Leadership
Who's who in ACRL? Our Directory of Leadership has information about the Board of Directors, Committees, Sections, Task Forces, and other groups that make up ACRL's structure.
Staff List and Contact Info
Meet the ACRL staff. We're here to help!
History
Learn more about the history of ACRL in this article from the Encyclopedia of Library and Information Sciences, Third Edition.
Annual Report
A lot happened last year in the world and in ACRL. See for yourself in our 2021-2022 Annual Report, published each year in the December issue of College & Research Libraries News. You can also check out past reports.
Read our Annual Report.
More Information
Acronyms
Have you ever wondered what AAMES-IG or STS stand for? Don't worry, we've put together a handy list of common ACRL acronyms and their meanings.
Bylaws
The ACRL Bylaws were first approved April 29, 1998, with revisions approved April 11, 2018; April 29, 2011; and May 2, 2008.
Elections
Check out ACRL election results, candidate listings, statements from the candidates for vice-president/president-elect, and more.