ALA announces election ballot measure results

CHICAGO -  Today the American Library Association (ALA) announced the outcomes of three ballot measures regarding a proposed membership dues adjustment and an amendment to ALA executive director education requirements.  

The proposed amendment to ALA Policy A.4.1.1, which would require ALA’s next executive director to hold an ALA-accredited master’s degree was not approved. A minimum of 25 percent of ALA members was required to vote in order to carry the amendment forward. A total of 10,405 voted on this question, representing 20.79 percent of the eligible voters. 3,890 voted for MLS preferred, and 6,515 voted for MLS required. The Executive Board will now proceed with planning for the search process. 

By a vote of 7,663 to 2,684 personal member dues will increase between $1 and $5 in September 2018, depending upon the membership type. On a separate measure, by a vote of 7,420 to 2,862, ALA members approved a dues adjustment that will increase association dues over the next five years not to exceed the percentage change in the national average Consumer Price Index (CPI), with the review and approval of the ALA Executive Board.

Additional election results, including those for ALA president, council, divisions and round tables, are available on the ALA website. 

The American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the ALA has been the trusted voice of libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit ala.org.