On Corporate Sponsorship Issues

Adopted at 1993 Midwinter Meeting

WHEREAS there can be little quarrel with the American Library Association seeking funds from private sources to support worthwhile projects; but

WHEREAS the recent collaboration between ALA and McDonald's Family Restaurants on the "Together is Better" national reading program has resulted in an advertising windfall for McDonald's, libraries clearly and deliberately being used as a promotional and marketing medium for fast foods;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Social Responsibilities Round Table urges ALA to avoid collaboration or funding arrangements in the future that in effect equate books, reading, and libraries with hamburgers or other commodities;

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be sent to Marilyn Miller, ALA President; Ed Rensi, McDonald's President/CEO; American Libraries; Library Journal; and School Library Journal.