Membership in the ILA offers professional growth opportunities, access to a wide range of useful publications, and opportunities to participate in workshops, conferences, and a variety of groups and committees. Through its legislative advocacy efforts, ILA continuously fights to protect the interests of Illinois' libraries. ILA was presented the Illinois Press Association's 1999 Legislative Service Award for outstanding commitment to the protection of free speech and free press issues.

Members have opportunities to participate in more focused groups and committees as well. ILA's special interest groups are free of charge to members and serve the diverse needs of ILA's membership. Activities throughout the year include special workshops, informal working groups, publications, seminars, and more. ILA also has a number of standing committees to which members are appointed for two and three-year terms. See the links in the right column for more information.