ALIA at a glance

The Association's role
The objects of the Association are to:

• promote and improve the services of libraries and other information agencies;
• improve the standard of library and information personnel and foster their professional interests and aspirations;
• represent the interests of members to governments, other organisations and the community; and
• encourage people to contribute to the improvement of library and information services by supporting the Association.

The structure of the Association
The Association's organisation allows representation from all areas of interest to ensure that all views and interests are represented in the decision-making process. Policy is determined by ALIA General Council, an elected body, with input from the Association's divisions and members. The executive director and staff of ALIA's National Office implement these policies.

However, the Association exists and pursues its objectives largely through the voluntary efforts of its members, achieved via representation at local, regional and national level. There is a branch of the Association in each state and territory. In addition, regional groups, sections and special interest groups represent and foster a broad range of interests, specialisations and community activity.

Much of the focus within the Association is on education, training, continuing professional development, advocacy, industrial support and advice, and the development of strong lines of communication through a wide range of publications, promotions such as Australian Library Week and a comprehensive collection of seminars and conferences.

Who can be a member of the Association?
ALIA welcomes as members any individual or institution interested in promoting the objects of the Association. In December 1998, the Association had 6117 personal and 1477 institutional members, both groups composed of a variety of categories of membership.

Membership application forms are available from ALIA National Office.