The Illinois Library Association is a 501(c) non-profit, educational, and professional membership organization that represents Illinois libraries and the millions who depend on them. Founded in 1896, it is the third-largest state library association and a chapter of the American Library Association. ILA has more than 2,000 personal and 500 institutional members, made up of public, academic, school, and special libraries as well as librarians, library assistants, trustees, students, and library vendors.
On May 16, 2024, the ILA Executive Board voted to approve the association’s strategic plan for 2024-2029.
This plan is intended to guide our focus over the next few years. It is not a “to-do list,” nor is it a comprehensive description of the ILA portfolio of activities. Rather, a strategic plan is a directional document and statement of priorities for the near future.
We are so very appreciative of all those who have helped in the development of this plan by sharing with us your hopes, aspirations, praise, and constructive criticism of and for the association!
Vision
Collaboratively shaping a strong future for libraries in Illinois.
Mission
Advocacy, equity, learning, and engagement, for the benefit of Illinois libraries.
Core Strategic Values
- Energizing, visionary leadership
- Adaptation to change
- Long-term strategic perspective/direction
- Member service focus
- Partnerships and alliances
- Diversity and equity of opportunity
Core Values of the Profession
Information access, equity, intellectual freedom, and objective truth.
Strategies and Goals
Strategy: Advocacy
Goal: Political Advocacy
- Desired outcome: Advocate for equitable and exceptional library services for the benefit of all Illinois libraries and the communities they serve.
Goal: Legislative Collaboration
- Desired outcome: Collaborate with stakeholders statewide in crafting and gathering support for library positive legislation.
Strategy: Member Engagement
Goal: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
- Desired outcome: Incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion into training offerings, with an emphasis on raising up marginalized library leaders throughout Illinois.
Goal: Education
- Desired outcome: Offer diverse, equitable, and responsive educational opportunities focusing on professional development at all career stages.
Goal: Membership
- Desired outcome: Attract and retain members via regular communication and collaboration opportunities.
Strategy: ILA Organizational Health
Goal: ILA Staff
- Desired outcome: ILA will continue to focus on attracting, supporting and retaining talented employees.
Goal: Diversify Revenue
- Desired outcome: ILA will actively pursue a variety of revenue streams.
Approved by the ILA Executive Board, May 16, 2024.
iREAD Summer Reading Programs
Latest Library JobLine Listings
