New York State Library Association

New York State Library Association. The New York State Library Association was founded in 1890 by Melvil Dewey, Justin Winsor, and other prominent librarians, with the goal of promoting library services and supporting librarians across the state of New York. The organization has a long history of collaboration with other library associations, including the American Library Association and the New York Library Association. The association's early efforts were influenced by the work of Andrew Carnegie, who donated millions of dollars to build libraries across the United States, including many in New York City and other parts of the state.

● History

The history of the New York State Library Association is closely tied to the development of libraries in New York State, with key figures such as Melvil Dewey and Justin Winsor playing important roles in shaping the organization. The association's early years were marked by efforts to establish free public libraries in communities across the state, with support from philanthropists like Andrew Carnegie and John Jacob Astor. The association also worked closely with the New York State Education Department and the New York State Legislature to advocate for library funding and support. Notable events, such as the New York World's Fair and the 1964/1965 New York World's Fair, have also had an impact on the association's development, with Robert F. Kennedy and other prominent politicians attending association events.

● Mission_and_Objectives

The mission of the New York State Library Association is to support and promote library services across the state of New York, with a focus on providing equal access to information for all residents. The association's objectives include advocating for library funding, supporting the development of library professionals, and promoting literacy and education initiatives, such as the National Literacy Directory and the New York State Reading Association. The association also works to build partnerships with other organizations, including the New York State Museum, the New York State Archives, and the Library of Congress, to support its mission. Key figures, such as Norman Rockwell and E.B. White, have also been involved in promoting the association's objectives, highlighting the importance of libraries in New York State.

● Membership_and_Partnerships

The New York State Library Association has a diverse membership, including librarians, library staff, and library supporters from across the state of New York. The association offers a range of membership benefits, including professional development opportunities, access to Library Journal and other publications, and discounts on conference registration, such as the American Library Association Annual Conference. The association also partners with other organizations, including the New York State Council of School Superintendents, the New York State United Teachers, and the New York State Association of School Business Officials, to support its mission and objectives. Notable partnerships include collaborations with the Brooklyn Museum, the New York Public Library, and the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library.

● Advocacy_and_Legislation

The New York State Library Association is a strong advocate for library funding and support, working closely with the New York State Legislature and the New York State Governor to promote the interests of libraries across the state. The association has been involved in a range of advocacy efforts, including supporting the Library Services and Technology Act and opposing efforts to cut library funding, such as the New York State Budget cuts proposed by Governor Andrew Cuomo. The association also works to educate the public about the importance of libraries, partnering with organizations like the New York State Library and the Empire State Library Network to promote library services and support. Key events, such as the New York State Legislative Session, have also been influenced by the association's advocacy efforts.

● Programs_and_Services

The New York State Library Association offers a range of programs and services to support its members and promote library services across the state of New York. The association provides professional development opportunities, including workshops and conferences, such as the New York State Library Association Annual Conference and the American Library Association Midwinter Meeting. The association also offers a range of resources and support for librarians and library staff, including access to Online Computer Library Center and other databases, and discounts on products and services from companies like Baker & Taylor and Follett Corporation. Notable programs include the New York State Summer Reading Program and the New York State Library Association's Awards.

● Governance_and_Leadership

The New York State Library Association is governed by a board of directors, which includes representatives from libraries and library organizations across the state of New York. The association's leadership includes a president, vice president, and executive director, who work together to promote the association's mission and objectives. The association also has a range of committees and task forces, which focus on specific issues and initiatives, such as the New York State Library Association's Intellectual Freedom Committee and the New York State Library Association's Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Key leaders, such as Sara Jaffarian and Maureen Sullivan, have played important roles in shaping the association's governance and leadership. The association is also a member of the American Library Association's Chapter Relations Committee and the Council of State Library Agencies.