American Library Association Announces Michael Dowling as Recipient of the 2026 Humphry/OCLC/Forest Press Award for International Librarianship

CHICAGO —The American Library Association (ALA) is pleased to announce that Michael Dowling, longtime director of ALA's International Relations Office and Chapter Relations Office, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 John Ames Humphry/OCLC/Forest Press Award for International Librarianship.

The award includes a $1,000 prize and a certificate and will be presented at the International Librarians Reception during the 2026 ALA Annual Conference.

The Humphry/OCLC/Forest Press Award recognizes a librarian or individual who has made significant contributions to international librarianship. Established in honor of John Ames Humphry, former Executive Director of Forest Press, publisher of the Dewey Decimal Classification, the award celebrates leadership that advances international understanding, collaboration, and the global exchange of library knowledge and services.

For nearly three decades, Dowling has been one of the most influential leaders in international librarianship, building partnerships, fostering professional exchanges, and strengthening the role of libraries worldwide. Throughout his career at ALA, he has championed global engagement and helped position the Association as a leading voice in international library development.

"Michael Dowling exemplifies the spirit and purpose of the Humphry/OCLC/Forest Press Award," said supporters of his nomination. "His career reflects sustained excellence, principled leadership, and an unwavering commitment to strengthening libraries and librarianship around the world."

As Director of ALA's International Relations Office, Dowling guided the Association's engagement with the international library community, supporting the work of the International Relations Round Table (IRRT), leading U.S. delegations to international conferences, and coordinating ALA's participation in major global initiatives. He played a central role in organizing two of the largest gatherings of the international library community ever hosted in the United States—the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) World Library and Information Congresses in Boston in 2001 and Columbus, Ohio, in 2016.

Dowling's leadership extended beyond ALA through his service on the IFLA Governing Board and as Chair of IFLA's Management of Library Associations Section. He has represented ALA at dozens of international conferences, book fairs, and professional forums, advocating for libraries as essential institutions that promote lifelong learning, literacy, civic engagement, sustainability, and access to information.

Among his most notable accomplishments is the expansion of ALA's global partnerships through initiatives such as the Guadalajara International Book Fair and the Sharjah International Library Conference. Under his leadership, the ALA-FIL Free Pass Program enabled hundreds of librarians from across the United States to attend the Guadalajara Book Fair annually, resulting in significant acquisitions of Spanish-language materials that enhanced the diversity and cultural relevance of library collections nationwide.

Dowling also helped establish the Sharjah International Library Conference in partnership with the Sharjah Book Authority, creating one of the premier professional development opportunities for librarians across the Middle East and North Africa. The conference has grown into a major international forum for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration.

His influence can also be seen through ALA's internationally recognized "@ your library" public awareness campaign. Between 2001 and 2010, approximately 30 countries adopted the campaign, translating its messaging and branding into multiple languages, including all ten official languages of South Africa. The initiative demonstrated the global reach and adaptability of library advocacy efforts and reinforced the value of libraries in communities around the world.

Throughout his career, Dowling has secured grants and external funding that supported international exchanges, professional development programs, and collaborative initiatives across multiple continents. His work has included projects promoting civil society through libraries in the South Caucasus, facilitating cross-border collaborations between librarians in the United States and Mexico, supporting cultural understanding through international collections, and creating librarian exchange programs with associations in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria.

Dowling also coordinated ALA's international disaster relief efforts, helping provide support to libraries affected by natural disasters, armed conflict, and humanitarian crises in countries including Ukraine, Haiti, Japan, the Philippines, and Iraq. His leadership helped mobilize resources and strengthen global solidarity among library communities during times of need.

In addition to his international accomplishments, Dowling has been a dedicated mentor and advocate for librarians throughout the profession. Colleagues consistently praise his ability to build meaningful relationships, support emerging leaders, and foster collaboration across cultures, languages, and institutional boundaries.

"One of Michael's most enduring contributions has been his ability to build and sustain international networks that connect librarians across borders, cultures, and professional contexts," wrote one supporter. "His work reflects a deep understanding that librarianship is inherently global and that strong international partnerships are essential to the future of the field."

Another colleague noted, "Michael's legacy is visible not only in the programs he strengthened but in the global community of librarians who regard him with admiration and gratitude."

Through visionary leadership, dedicated service, and a lifelong commitment to international collaboration, Michael Dowling has advanced the profession of librarianship on a global scale. His contributions have strengthened institutions, connected communities, and inspired generations of librarians to engage in international work, making him a highly deserving recipient of the 2026 Humphry/OCLC/Forest Press Award for International Librarianship.

About OCLC

OCLC is a nonprofit global library cooperative providing shared technology services, original research and community programs so that libraries can better fuel learning, research and innovation.

About the American Library Association

The American Library Association (ALA) is the only non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated entirely to America's libraries and library professionals. For 150 years, ALA has provided resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. The ALA serves academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library's role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org.