American Library Association

About ALA & Our Mission The ALA Mission: To provide leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and to ensure access to information for all. Our Strategic Priorities [Advocacy](https://www.ala.org/advocacy) ALA and its members work with libraries, the broader library community and members of the public to advocate for the value of libraries and for public support for libraries of all types. [Information Policy](https://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/ppa) The American Library Association's Public Policy and Advocacy office represents libraries on Capitol Hill. The team is charged with following and influencing legislation, policy, and regulatory issues of importance to the library field. [Professional and Leadership Development](https://www.ala.org/educationcareers) ALA provides resources to support all aspects and all stages of your library career: School, jobs, continuing education and professional growth. [Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion](https://www.ala.org/advocacy/diversity) ALA recognizes that equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) impacts all aspects of work among members of the Association, within the field of librarianship, and within the communities served by libraries. **Our Core Values** Access Access provides opportunities for everyone in the community to obtain library resources and services with minimal disruption. Library workers create systems that ensure members of their community can freely access the information they need for learning, growth, and empowerment regardless of technology, format, or delivery methods. Equity Library workers play a crucial role in fostering equity by actively working to dismantle barriers and create spaces that are accessible, welcoming, and beneficial for all. This is accomplished by recognizing and addressing systemic barriers, biases, and inequalities to create inclusive library environments where everyone can benefit from the library's offerings and services. Intellectual Freedom and Privacy Intellectual freedom empowers people to think for themselves and to make informed decisions while respecting each individual’s dignity and independence. Library workers encourage people to cultivate curiosity and form ideas by questioning the world and accessing information from diverse viewpoints and formats without restrictions or censorship. The right to privacy is a crucial safeguard to this freedom, ensuring everyone has the right to develop their thoughts and opinions free of surveillance. Public Good Public good is working to improve society and protect the rights to education, literacy, and intellectual freedom. Libraries are an essential public good and are fundamental institutions in democratic societies. Library workers provide the highest service levels to create informed, connected, educated, and empowered communities. Sustainability