The mission of the American Library Association is to provide leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all. 1.3 Priority Areas and Goals ALA operates under a five-year planning cycle. Priority Area A. Access to information ALA will promote efforts to ensure that every individual has access to needed information at the time needed and in a format the individual can utilize, through provision of library and information services. All individuals have equal access to libraries and information services. Instruction in information use is available to all.
Government information is widely and easily available.
Library collections are developed, managed, and preserved to provide access for users to the full range of available knowledge and information. Access to information is facilitated by bibliographic organization. Fees are not a barrier to library access and service. Means will be developed for facilitating the effective competition of libraries for public funds as well as for funds from the private sector. ALA members are well informed about opportunities for raising funds from private sources.