Background Information
Acronym: ASCLA
Address:  50 E. Huron St.
City:  Chicago
State:  Illinois
Zip:  60611
E-mail: ascla@ala.org
Web Address:  http://www.ala.org/ascla/

Name and Title:  Cathleen Bourdon, Executive Director
Telephone:  (312) 280-4395
Fax:  (312) 944-8085
E-mail:  cbourdon@ala.org

Name and Title:  Cathleen Bourdon, Executive Director
Telephone:  (312) 280-4395
Fax:  (312) 944-8085
E-mail:  cbourdon@ala.org

• The Interlibrary Cooperation and Networking Section (ICAN) stimulates and assists members to achieve effective coordination of library resources and services through multitype library cooperation designed to provide a nationwide information delivery system which equalizes access to information resources.
• The Libraries Serving Special Populations Section (LSSPS) is a user-focused group that provides information and support to librarians working to improve the quality of library services for people with special needs, their families, and the professionals who work with them.
• The State Library Agency Section (SLAS) develops and strengthens the unique role and functions of state library agencies in providing leadership and services that foster and improve the delivery of library services.
• The Independent Librarians' Exchange Section (ILEX) works to expand the definition of librarianship by supporting ALA members who work outside of traditional library settings and by providing programs, information exchange and networking opportunities.

Professional society representing the interests of state, specialized, and multitype library agencies, and libraries serving special clientele.  Responsibility covers those functions and services relating to the general improvement and extension of service to the clientele and agencies served.  Develops and evaluates goals and plans for types of libraries represented; represents and interprets their role, functions, and services; develops policies, studies, and activities in matters affecting areas of concern; establishes, evaluates, and promotes standards and service guidelines; identifies the interests and needs of all persons, encouraging the creation of services to meet their needs; stimulates professional growth and promotes the specialized training and continuing education of library personnel at all levels, and encourages membership participation in appropriate type-of-activity divisions within the ALA.