ALA 150th Life Membership
150 Years of ALA
150 Years. A lot has changed in the world since 1876, and libraries have often been at the crux of that change. Democracy, freedom, community, and belonging aren’t empty words. They are pillars of our country and synonymous with the work libraries do every day. We’ve done a lot in 150 years, and ALA’s century-and-a-half legacy is a testament to your commitment, resilience, and ingenuity. So, for that—we say, “Thank You."
As we celebrate our legacy, we believe yours should be honored as well. That’s why ALA is excited to offer a once-in-a-century opportunity—the ALA 150th Lifetime Membership. Whether you’re a student, long-time member, or a dedicated library advocate who values our mission, this special $1,500 lifetime membership is your chance to show your support for libraries and help shape the next 150 years of ALA.
No hassle. No age requirement. Just complete one simple ALA150th Life Member Interest form and call 800-545-2433 (option 1) to make one payment of $1,500 or two payments of $750 before December 31, 2026.
A Lifetime of Support
Together we’ll shape the next 150 years. Your ALA 150th Life Membership will play a major role in ensuring libraries remain the foundation of thriving communities. While enjoying a lifetime of ALA resources and career-advancing volunteer opportunities, you’ll also help ALA advocate for libraries and library workers, defend intellectual freedom, and help the profession innovate throughout the 21st century and beyond.
Giving the Gift of ALA 150th Life Membership
Did we mention the savings? For a 25-year-old, paying for another 40 years of membership, until retirement, at current rates, would cost about $7,500. or students and recent graduates under the age of 45, dues throughout their career would cost $4,000 or more. Give the gift of Lifetime Membership and they’ll immediately start receiving the benefits of ALA membership without the hassle of annual renewals. If you're interested in giving Lifetime Membership as a gift, complete the ALA 150th Life Member Interest Form.
Frequently Asked Questions
For questions about ALA 150th Life Membership, please call Member Relations and Services at 800-545-2433 or email membership@ala.org.
Your Savings Over Time
| Your Age | Projected Years of Membership | Cost of dues at current rates | ALA 150th Life Membership Dues | Your Lifetime Savings |
| 25 | 60 | $7,500 | $1,500 | $6,000 |
| 30 | 50 | $6,250 | $1,500 | $4,750 |
| 35 | 45 | $5,625 | $1,500 | $4,125 |
| 40 | 40 | $5,000 | $1,500 | $3,500 |
| 45 | 35 | $4,375 | $1,500 | $2,875 |
| 50 | 30 | $3,750 | $1,500 | $2,250 |
| 55 | 25 | $3,125 | $1,500 | $1,625 |
| 60 | 20 | $2,500 | $1,500 | $1,000 |
| 65 | 15 | $1,875 | $1,500 | $375 |
Potential Adjusted ALA 150th Life Member Lifetime Savings
(adjusted with the current 5-year average Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase)
The annual inflation rates for the past 5 years have been approximately:
2020: 1.2%
2021: 4.7%
2022: 8.0%
2023: 3.4%
2024: 2.9%
The 5-year average is 4.0% annually.
The following table shows what ALA 150th Lifetime Members could potentially save over time if membership dues increase 4.0% annually:
| Your Age | Projected Years | Starting Dues | Total Cost with 4% Annual Increase | ALA 150th Life Membership Dues | Your Lifetime Savings |
| 25 | 60 | $125 | $15,604 | $1,500 | $14,104 |
| 30 | 50 | $125 | $12,272 | $1,500 | $10,772 |
| 35 | 45 | $125 | $10,403 | $1,500 | $8,903 |
| 40 | 40 | $125 | $8,699 | $1,500 | $7,199 |
| 45 | 35 | $125 | $7,141 | $1,500 | $5,641 |
| 50 | 30 | $125 | $5,714 | $1,500 | $4,214 |
| 55 | 25 | $125 | $4,407 | $1,500 | $2,907 |
| 60 | 20 | $125 | $3,210 | $1,500 | $1,710 |
| 65 | 15 | $125 | $2,116 | $1,500 | $616 |
