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The year in reviewIt is an exciting time for the library and information sector. Information technology continues to provide opportunities for growth and development of library services. It also imposes additional costs which, in a period of fiscal restraint, present some challenges for library managers. The public policy debate associated with developments in digital information has embraced issues such as copyright, privacy, content regulation, preservation, legal deposit and censorship. Indeed, the policy debate has lagged well-behind the introduction of on-line services to library clients adding further to the complexity of the issues involved. Management reform, including the introduction of compulsory competitive tendering of public library services, has imposed additional burdens.In this context the Australian Library and Information Association has taken on the important task of representing the interests of the library community across a broad range of matters. ALIA has introduced an advocacy program targeted at the key decision-makers in the Federal Government as well as assisting members to lobby effectively at the branch and regional level. The development of Lobby for libraries - our advocacy skills program - has been one of the highlights of 1995 and represents an initiative which will be further developed into the future. The program recognises that the strength of our Association is in our members and that effective lobbying at all levels within the organisation will bring a greater chance of achieving the outcomes we seek. ALIAnet was launched in March 1995. It was the first web site constructed by a national association in Australia and, importantly, sends a clear message that the library and information sector is at the leading edge of digital communication. In addition to the kudos we have earned through this project, ALIAnet has provided the platform for improved communications with our members and with the wider community. Initially a joint project of the National Office and the ACT Branch, ALIAnet has become home to information about a variety of association activities across the country. Our 1995 Annual report encompasses information about our major activities. It demonstrates the influential role that the Association has adopted in the public policy arena and foreshadows the direction of future activities. Importantly, it shows that ALIA is in a healthy financial position; a fundamental requirement for a confident approach to the years ahead. Virginia Walsh
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