ALA-APA

The American Library Association-Allied Professional Association (ALA-APA) is a nonprofit professional organization and companion to the American Library Association. It promotes the mutual professional interests of librarians and other library workers, with a focus on professional development, workplace issues, and the status of library employees.

ALA-APA offers certification programs for library support staff and managers. Its Library Paraprofessional and Support Staff Certification Program provides six self-paced courses combining video lectures, instructor support, readings, practical activities, and assessments. The program builds knowledge of information sciences, library ethics, and core service areas. The Library Managers Certification Program also includes six courses, covering library management, budgeting and finance, human resources, facilities, advocacy, and emergency response.

The association provides publications, salary survey data, research, occupation fact sheets, and workplace resources. These include Library Worklife, pay equity information, a Better Salaries Toolkit, and wellness initiatives. ALA-APA also supports professional engagement through committees, social media, and events such as National Library Workers Day, and welcomes donations to support its work.