The TexasLibrary Association is a 5013 educational, charitable non-profit; it is a group that promotes libraries in Texas. It was founded in 1902 and is the largest statewide organization of librarians in the United States. Mission statement: The mission of the Texas Library Association is to empower library personnel and supporters to develop library excellence for the people of Texas. How we serve Texans: Any library, any person, any time! Each and every Texan recognizes the value that libraries bring to their lives. TLA enables libraries in Texas to offer open access to information resources and services to all people. The people who work for and support Texas libraries add significant value to the lives of all Texans. TLA is a positive role model and valued leader, partner, resource, and advocate for Texas libraries. TLA reaches Texas communities, expanding access both physically and virtually, to bring literacy and lifelong learning to the forefront. TLA seeks innovation and sustainability of resources to connect and inspire all Texans to grow, learn, and reach for excellence. Where we are located: Headquartered in Austin, Texas, the association is governed by a Council made up of voting and non-voting members. The Council meets twice at the TLA Annual Conference and twice at the Annual Assembly. As the association’s policy-making and chief governing body, the Council adopts the annual budget and legislative platform. The Executive Board serves as the central management board and recommends matters of policy, budget, and operations to the Council. Board members are elected annually by the membership.
TLA has more than 6,000 members made up of librarians and library workers from academic, public, school and special libraries. Membership also includes library advocates, educators, vendors, and others who support libraries, reading, and literacy. Among its many activities, the organization has established annual awards and scholarships that honor excellence in the library profession. It also curates lists each year of the highest-quality titles for multiple age groups, ranging from fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, picture books, to bilingual and multicultural books. Advocacy: TLA actively supports library interests by advocating for policies and funding that support libraries, librarians, and educational initiatives. Reading Lists: TLA offers expertly curated reading lists and programs for ages 2 - 102 - from fiction, nonfiction, and graphic novels, to picture books, bilingual and multicultural lists. Annual Conference: For more than 100 years, TLA has hosted an annual conference that regularly draws 5,000+ librarians for a four-day event that includes speakers, educational sessions, networking events and more. In 2020, for the first time, TLA hosted a Virtual Annual Conference, with renowned YA author Jason Reynolds giving a live keynote speech. Texas Bluebonnet Award: One of TLA's best-known activities is the Texas Bluebonnet Award. Each year, thousands of third-through-sixth graders read at least five books on a carefully curated list of top titles selected by TLA librarians, and then vote on their favorite book in their grade level. The TBA winner is celebrated at the TLA Annual Conference.
