Everyday Existence

Abstract

The American Library Association (ALA), a nonprofit educational and service organization based in Chicago, Illinois is the world's oldest and largest professional library association. Founded in 1876, it currently has over 56,000 members - primarily librarians, but also trustees, publishers, and library supporters. Its mission is 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 ensure access to information for all. In 1995, ALA embarked on a five year strategic initiative - ALA Goal 2000 - to advocate for the public's right to a free and open information society. As part of this initiative ALA has expanded its Washington Office, now celebrating its 50th anniversary, to increase its ability to influence national issues, policy and legislation. Additionally, ALA established an Office for Information Technology Policy, also in Washington, D.C., to address complex technology policy issues and promote the development and utilization of electronic access to information as a means to ensure the public's right to a free and open information society.