The District of Columbia Library Association (DCLA) is a chapter of the American Library Association (ALA) and the local service organization for librarians and library workers in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

The purpose of an ALA chapter is to promote general library service and librarianship within its geographic area, to provide geographic representation to the Council of the American Library Association, and to cooperate in the promotion of general and joint enterprises with the American Library Association and other library groups.

One example of DCLA’s strong partnership is our annual sponsorship of National Library Legislative Day. Every year, DCLA members come out to provide support for librarians and library workers from all over the United States that visit Washington, DC to speak with their elected officials.

The American Library Association is a non-profit institution and a recognized charity under the rules of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. Contributions to the ALA and its chapters, round tables, and divisions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

DCLA is a volunteer organization, operated under the guidance of an elected Board of Directors. Membership in the American Library Association is not required to join DCLA.  If you would like to get involved in activities of the DCLA, join the organization and reach out to a DCLA Board member or Committee chair. Your contributions, input and support are what make DCLA a vibrant and engaging organization!