Student Membership
Student Membership is a special discounted membership available for students engaged in a program of study or certification in MLS/MLIS, NCATE, or LTA programs for no more than 5 total years of eligibility. This special dues rate is designed to help you access the benefits, networking, and career resources that come with membership. Student Members, whether full- or part-time, are also given the best rates for conference registration, often at discounts as high as 75% off. Student Members are eligible to serve on committees, run for office, and participate actively in the work of the association.
Joint Membership with over 15 state library associations is available for students who reside in or study in those states. For one price, Joint Members automatically receive full membership in both their state association and ALA.
Many ALA divisions and round tables have discounted dues for students as well. This is designed to help you affordably connect with other members across the association. You can also more easily learn about different areas of library service by receiving the journals and publications, and by participating in members only e-lists, blogs, and online communities. Student Members are actively encouraged to get involved with at least one division or round table while in school.
Student Members also receive Student AL Direct, the only e-newsletter covering job search, skills building beyond the classroom, and member-to-member networking for the library community. Student AL Direct supplements AL Direct and is sent monthly during the spring and fall semesters to all current Student Members of ALA.
The Student Member Wiki is a must-visit destination for all Student Members at any stage of your studies. Filled with tips on getting the most out of your membership, the Student Member Wiki helps you quickly find the resources you need to get involved with other students and established library professionals to advance your career and ideas. And since it is a wiki, it’s built not only by ALA staff and long time members, but also by students for students. Add your questions and answers today.
Get started as a member today by joining ALA online.
Resources for Student Members:
- New Members Round Table – the resources you need and the connections you want to get started with your ALA Membership right away
- ALA units on Facebook – connect with groups and pages, stay current, meet new friends, and get the inside track on special events.
- Student AL Direct – Don’t miss an issue of this invaluable student members-only resource. Make sure your email contact information is up to date.
- Membership 2.0 – blogs, wikis, and social networks
- Committee Service – the ins and outs of volunteering for an ALA, division or round table committee
- Financial Support – Your guide to grants, scholarships, and stipends offered by ALA units and supporting corporate members