Washington Library Association

The Washington Library Association (WLA) is a nonprofit professional organization dedicated to supporting librarians and library workers in the U.S. state of Washington. It was originally formed in 1905, with roots tracing back to a meeting in Tacoma, and has undergone several reorganizations, ultimately being re-established in its current form on June 30, 1932.

Mission and Values

The WLA provides essential resources, support, and advocacy for libraries across Washington. Its mission emphasizes the importance of libraries as vital public goods in democratic societies. Key values include promoting community engagement, upholding integrity and professionalism, and ensuring responsiveness to the needs of its diverse membership and the broader library community[2].

Structure and Divisions

The WLA is structured into four main divisions: Academic, Public, School, and Special Libraries. Additionally, it has numerous interest-based sections:

• Collection Development & Technical Services (CATS)
• Children's and Young Adult Services (CAYAS)
• College Libraries Across Washington State (CLAWS)
• Intellectual Freedom Section (IFS)
• Leadership is For Everyone (LIFE)
• Library & Information Student Section (LISS)
• Serving Adults in Libraries (SAIL)
• Social Responsibilities Round Table (SRRT)
• WA Library Employees (WALE)
• WA Library Trainers (WALT)
• WA Library Friends, Foundations, Trustees, and Advocates (WLFFTA)

Publications and Conferences

The WLA publishes an academic journal called Alki, which has been in circulation since 1983. Initially available in print, Alki shifted to online-only publication in 2012 and became peer-reviewed as of 2021[5]. The WLA also hosts conferences and events, providing opportunities for professional development and networking among its members.

Advocacy and Community Engagement

A significant part of the WLA's work involves advocating for libraries and intellectual freedom. It supports various committees focused on advocacy, legislative affairs, and professional development, ensuring libraries remain a vital part of Washington's communities[3][4].

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Library_Association [2] https://www.wla.org/assets/AboutUs/wla%20strategic%20plan%202013%20update.pdf [3] https://www.wla.org [4] https://www.wla.org/ifs [5] https://alki.pubpub.org/history