A great degree of diversity exists among ALA's external relationships. Most units and committees have written policies and procedures governing the selection of liaisons and representatives in their manuals, however conflicts exist Association-wide. Liaisons and representatives are members of their respective units. Most liaisons and representatives serve 1-4 years. Some relationships require that units pay dues and many prepare formal reports to their committees and units.
Relationships are formal, informal and ad hoc .
ALA's policies on outside relationships are workable with a little tweaking and should be upheld. Some policies on external relationships do at first glance appear to be in conflict with each other, however closer scrutiny suggests that the conflict may be more interpretations and technicalities than realities or intentions. All current external relationships should be examined specifically for conflicts with ALA policies. To begin the certification process, the Policy Monitoring Committee might ask committees and units to certify that current relationships comply with ALA policies, especially 9.1-9.5. If outside organizations wish to acknowledge ALA's assistance or advice, it should do so in such a way as not to imply ALA endorsement or agreement with a specific project or the organization's policies.