2026 marks the 150th anniversary of the American Library Association (ALA). We have a full plate of celebrations planned for the year ahead, from stories on the ALA150 official website reflecting on and highlighting ALA’s history and impact to special oral histories of ALA on the “How I Library” podcast to special in-person events in June that coincide with ALA’s 2026 Annual Conference in Chicago.
To kick off the festivities, ALA President Sam Helmick has penned a thoughtful piece at ALA150.org on ALA’s anniversary and the year ahead for the Association, ALA members, and library and book lovers everywhere. Sam writes:
“For 150 years, the American Library Association has stood as a guardian of knowledge, a champion of access, and a beacon for democracy. Founded in 1876 by visionary library workers who understood the transformative power of books and information, ALA has fostered a profession committed to collections, but also to communities, equity, and the promise of lifelong learning. Our history is filled with moments of courage, innovation, and advocacy that remind us how central libraries are to the fabric of American life.
“Libraries have been, and remain, places of hope and possibility. They have carried books to soldiers in wartime, provided refuge and learning to children across every neighborhood, and adapted boldly in the face of societal and technological change. From hosting public lectures in the 19th century to offering digital literacy programs and community technology access today, libraries have continually evolved to meet the needs of their communities. They are spaces where every person, regardless of background, income, or circumstance, can encounter new ideas, challenge their assumptions, and engage with the world in informed, meaningful ways.”
They continue:
“This anniversary is an invitation: to imagine the libraries of tomorrow, to advocate fiercely for open access to knowledge, and to invest in the infrastructure, both digital and human, that makes libraries a foundation of thriving communities. Each of us has a role in shaping this next chapter, whether through innovation in our services, mentorship within our profession, or action in support of intellectual freedom. By embracing both tradition and transformation, we ensure that libraries remain vibrant centers of learning, creativity, and connection.”
Visit ALA150.org to read Sam’s piece in full, explore ALA history, and learn how you can help us celebrate this year!
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