Talking Points & Tools

ALA's advocacy and public policy staff are committed to helping library workers, policy analysts, government officials, and the public to identify and prepare for the future. Our research covers a broad range of issues, all related to how libraries serve the public and uphold the public's right to free and open information. Explore our Policy Briefs and Perspectives page or browse our other tools in the left-hand menu.

Resource Highlight: Gen Z and Millennials: How They Use Public Libraries and Identify Through Media Use (PDF)

Policy Briefs and Perspectives

June 2025 Investing in Prison Libraries A Cost-Effective Path to Safer Communities and Second Chances.	March 2022 Keeping Communities Connected Library Broadband Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic.	September 2020 Built by E-Rate A Case Study of Two Tribally-Owned Fiber Networks and the Role of Libraries in Making It Happen.
October 2018 Libraries and the 2020 Census Libraries are essential partners in achieving a complete count in the 2020 Census.	September 2018 Equitable Opportunity for Tribal Communities Broadband is essential for learning, working, and daily life overall.	January 2018 Leveraging E-rate to Provide Opportunity The work of libraries demands robust and reasonably-priced internet connectivity.
April 2017 Careers for America’s Youth in the Digital Age Libraries represent a cost-effective method for developing opportunities for youth to code, thus driving job growth and innovation.	March 2017 Libraries Help and Honor Our Veterans: Employment, Education, and Connection As service members become Veterans, America’s libraries are well-positioned to address them.	January 2017 From Baby's First Words: Libraries Promote Early Learning Libraries are trusted leaders in boosting early learning and strengthening K–12 school learning.