REFORMA, National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish Speaking

Established in 1971 as an affiliate of the American Library Association (ALA), REFORMA has actively sought to promote the development of library collections to include Spanish-language and Latino oriented materials; the recruitment of more bilingual and bicultural library professionals and support staff; the development of library services and programs that meet the needs of the Latino community; the establishment of a national information and support network among individuals who share our goals; the education of the U.S. Latino population in regards to the availability and types of library services; and lobbying efforts to preserve existing library resource centers serving the interests of Latinos. The organization is governed by an Executive Board which includes the officers, committee chairs, and the Presidents chapters and our one affiliate. Nationally there are 20 active REFORMA chapters. These function autonomously, working through their local library systems, state library associations, and local organizations to achieve local objectives. One of REFORMA's most noteworthy activities is the annual scholarship drive. The association awards a number of scholarships to library school students that express interest in working with Latinos. Other activities that benefit the members include the publication of a quarterly newsletter which keeps members abreast of the latest developments in the organization and in library services to Latinos; publication of an annual Membership Directory which has, in effect, established a national network of librarians, library trustees, community and library school students with mutual concerns; and programs and workshops that focus on serving Latinos. We warmly invite all interested persons to join us in our efforts. The goals of REFORMA include: - Development of Spanish-language and Latino-oriented library collections - Recruitment of bilingual, multicultural library personnel - Promotion of public awareness of libraries and librarianship among Latinos - Advocacy on behalf of the information needs of the Latino community - Liaison to other professional organizations