Join ALA and Expand Your World

Work together to change the world for the better through libraries and librarians! Join the American Library Association.

ALA personal membership provides resources and benefits that help move your career forward with continuing education, networking opportunities, and the latest library trends.

Save on Annual Conference & Exhibition registration when you become an ALA Member. 


Not a member? With a variety of personal memberships available to meet individual needs — there’s never been a better time to Join ALA.

Includes librarians as well as others employed in library and information services or related activities in positions that: (a) require a master's degree; (b) require a state level certification; or (c) are managerial. First and second year memberships are subsidized by ALA at $75 and $115 dollars respectively.

Includes individuals enrolled in a program for a certificate or a degree in library and information studies. Certain state library associations (chapters) offer Joint Memberships with ALA for $44. Student membership is limited to five total years.

Includes librarians earning less than $30,000 per year or not currently employed. In a difficult economy this category can be helpful to those in career transition or those just beginning their careers.

Includes others employed in library and information services or related activities.

Includes those who have retired from library and information services or related activities.

Includes individual friends of libraries and members of special citizens caucuses interested in participating in association work.

Includes those not employed in library and information services or related activities who, through their personal commitment and support, promote library and information services as members of governing boards, advisory groups, etc.

Includes those not employed in library and information services or related activities who, through their personal commitment and support, promote library and information services as members of governing boards, advisory groups, etc.

Includes librarians who do not hold U.S. citizenship and who are not employed in the United States or US possessions, regardless of salary level.



Want to support a Non-Member? Gift an ALA Membership

Gift a membership to a friend or colleague so they can attend the ALA Annual Conference.

Apply for the ReMember Fund

Need assistance maintaining your membership? Consider non-salaried membership or apply for assistance through the ReMember Fund.

Learn more about the benefits of ALA membership, other types of membership, and opportunities to join divisions and round tables that focus on your professional needs and interests.

Join ALA