The American Library Association (ALA) is a national nonprofit organization that promotes libraries and library professionals, advocating for equitable access to information, intellectual freedom, literacy, and lifelong learning. Founded in 1876, it works to strengthen library services and ensure public access to information across the United States.
ALA typically pursues legislative policies related to federal and state library funding, intellectual freedom, privacy and data protection, broadband access, copyright and information access, education funding, digital equity, and opposition to censorship efforts.
The organization is primarily funded through membership dues, conference and event revenue, publishing, grants, and donations.
Affiliates include the American Association of School Librarians, the Association of College and Research Libraries, the Public Library Association, United for Libraries, and various state library associations.
Non-profit professional association
