American Library Association launches Public Policy Advisory Council

As part of its National Policy Convening, the American Library Association (ALA) announces the establishment of a Public Policy Advisory Council (PPAC) to strengthen the engagement of the library community in national public policy. The Council will be made up of members from a broad range of non-library sectors—including technology, publishing, telecommunications, trade associations, government, foundations and other non-profits, health, financial services, and think tanks—reflecting the diverse range of policy areas of relevance to the library community.

"Libraries have transformed to advance important national goals and deliver effective entrepreneurship, education, empowerment, and engagement in communities," said ALA President Sari Feldman. “More than ever, we must increase understanding by decision makers and influencers and amplify the message that libraries create individual opportunity and community progress." The Council will provide vision, creativity, innovation, and energy to guide the ALA and US libraries toward effective policy advocacy and outcomes. “Working within their own communities and networks, Council members seek out opportunities to leverage library strengths and resources to advance shared priorities,” said Alan S. Inouye, director of ALA’s Office for Information Technology Policy. “We look forward to the Council’s guidance on advancing the National Policy Agenda for Libraries."