The American Library Association's "National Directory: Library Paraprofessional Associations" (1996 edition) lists 46 active library paraprofessional associations or subsidiary groups in the United States. Reviews reasons why paraprofessionals began forming associations, compares selected associations, and examines their place within…

Presents an overview of the types of international library associations that exist today. Issues and trends that exemplify these associations include their ability to communicate with their members, their ability to create relevant programs and conferences, and their need to evaluate their successes. Highlights five international library…

Active participation in professional associations can make a positive difference in a librarians' careers. Associations are relevant sources of current information where effective communication and leadership skills are learned or enhanced and a sense of professional community is nurtured. The impact of active participation in professional…

Issues relating to library association staff roles and responsibilities are explored. Reasons for their sometimes conflicting relationships with member volunteers are examined. Suggestions and recommendations for promoting effective use of these valuable partners on the association scene are offered. (Author/AEF)

People who were president of a state or regional library association from 1985 through 1994 were surveyed. Issues of gender and ethnicity are explored as well as the forms of support available from associations, employers, and families. Recommendations focus on the ways in which individuals can better prepare themselves for a presidential role,…

Assesses the history and development of library services to Latinos. Discusses the history, role, and impact of key professional associations. Identifies, analyzes, and discusses the relevance of major studies, reports, and other publications, calling attention to the paucity that prevails in professional literature addressing this population.…

Professional associations in the library/information science field are viewed from the perspective of the value they bring to the field. Research and professional development are reviewed in this context based on the efforts of ALA (American Library Association), ALISE (Association for Library & Information Science Education), ASIS (American…

Libraries must identify and foster the inherent personal characteristics and skills considered most relevant for leadership in the field of information management. Professional library associations play an important role in teaching and developing skills by providing experiential opportunities for their membership. Career models for academic or…