State and Local Resources

Strengthening libraries of all types and build stronger communities across the country

ALA engages with a national network of partners to strengthen libraries of all types and build stronger communities across the country. The Public Policy and Advocacy Office coordinates those efforts at the state and local level in collaboration with other ALA offices and divisions, state chapters, affiliates and grassroots library supporters, in accordance with the association's state & local protocol.

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Resource Guide for Library Safety and Preparedness

The past months have seen threats directed to public and school libraries and library workers, including the forced temporary closure of five public library systems due to bomb and shooting threats. With the safety of our members being our utmost priority, PLA and ALA have compiled a range of resources and knowledge to help library workers and patrons stay safe and prepared. We will add to these resources on a rolling basis.

State and Local Resources

Join a network of advocates working to keep #LibrariesStrong.

Need assistance right away? Click here to connect with ALA staff contacts.

Find information and assistance for advocacy across issue areas.

Build a team of effective advocates with trainings and continuing education.

Learn about recent ALA projects that support the advocacy efforts of library workers and supporters.

State Chapters

ALA works with state chapters to amplify the voices of local advocates, and offers advocacy software that connects library supporters with legislators and decision-makers at all levels of government.

Visit ALA Chapters for information about our 57 state and regional associations.

Committee on Library Advocacy

The Committee on Library Advocacy (COLA) is ALA's member group that advises on and advances the work of state and local advocacy.

COLA also has an Ecosystem Subcommittee that guides ALA's State Ecosystem Initiative.

Federal Policy and Advocacy

Visit ALA's Federal Resources page for information about ALA's national policy and advocacy work.

Ballot Measures

Learn more about the impacts, importance, and logistics behind local ballot measures and referenda.

Contact Us

For additional information, contact ALA's Public Policy & Advocacy Office, advocacy@ala.org