¹ú²úÊÓƵÍøNew Membership Model FAQs
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Why is the membership model changing?
¹ú²úÊÓƵÍøworked with an outside consulting firm to conduct research initiatives, including surveys, and focus groups, to determine the immediate needs and concerns of members. By listening to the voices of our members, we learned the following:
- The membership experience is too confusing with multiple member types and dues.
- ¹ú²úÊÓƵÍøpersonal member dues are expensive, especially when compared to other library institutions (state associations, etc.). It is a challenge to decide where to spend money.
As a result of this multi-year effort, both the ¹ú²úÊÓƵÍøCouncil and Executive Board approved the following changes to the personal membership structure.
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What are the changes to membership types?
Member types will be consolidated from 11 types to four, allowing ¹ú²úÊÓƵÍøto be more nimble in assessing and updating benefits. The new member types are as follows:
- Individual Type I – All Regular members (full definition follows)
- Individual Type II - Those earning <45k, Support Staff, Retired, and International members.
- Supporter – Associates, Friends, and Trustees
- Student
Lifetime and Continuing Memberships are not impacted
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What are the new member dues?
Current Member Types 1st year Regular Member ($81), 2nd year Regular Member ($123), and 3rd year Regular Member ($162) transition to the new Member Type of Individual Type 1 ($125) on September 1, 2024
Current Member Types: Earns <45k ($58), Support Staff ($58), Retired ($58), and International ($58) transition to the new Member Type of Individual Type 2 ($55) on September 1, 2024
Current Member Types: Associate ($73), Friends ($73), and Trustee ($73) transition to the new Member Type of Supporter ($70) on September 1, 2024
Current Member Types: Student ($43) transition to the new Member Type of Student ($40) on September 1, 2024
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How do I determine my new membership type?
- Individual Type I: Librarians and other employees in library and information services or related positions that: (a) require a master’s degree; (b) require a state-level certification; or (c) are managerial. (Any 1st year, 2nd year, 3rd year, or more librarian who is not an Individual Type II.)
- Individual Type II: Librarians and other employees in library and information services or related positions that: (a) earn <45k annually; or (b) work outside the U.S.; (c) are retired; or (d) are not listed in Type I.
- Supporter: Those not employed in library and information services or related activities who, through their personal commitment and support, promote library and information services.
- Student: Individuals enrolled in a program for a certificate or a degree in library and information studies. Student membership is limited to five total years.
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When will the new membership structure become active?
The new membership types and dues will be implemented on September 1, 2024.
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Will this impact my Division or Round Tables renewal?
Membership type changes will not affect your Division or Round Table memberships. Please note that Division dues may have changed independently of this program, so you may see a nominal dues change. To view your membership details, please visit .
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What if I have questions about my membership type, dues, or renewal?
Contact membership@ala.org or call 800-545-2433
