Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services

ODLOS logo on colorful bokeh background

Mission

The ALA Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services supports library and information science workers in creating responsible and all-inclusive spaces that serve and represent the entire community. To accomplish this, we decenter power and privilege by facilitating conversations around access and identity as they impact the profession and those we serve. We use a social justice framework to inform library and information science workers' development of resources. We strive to create an association culture where these concerns are incorporated into everybody's everyday work.

Featured

ODLOS supports library and information science workers creating responsible and all-inclusive spaces that serve & represent the entire community.

Initiatives & partnerships promoting equity, diversity & inclusion in libraries and the library profession.

Find & connect with library experts in the areas of equity, diversity & inclusion.

Strategic planning, workshops, webinars, and other presentations for library audiences.

Through the Spectrum Scholarship Program, ALA affirms its commitment to diversity and inclusion by seeking the broadest participation of new ...

ODLOS works closely with 8 groups to serve marginalized voices and communities.

Initiatives

Resources, grants, and initiatives supporting literacy across the lifespan.

Read the latest EDI news every month.

Initiatives and programs geared to promote access to library services to all.

Engaging Multilingual Communities Guide

cover of booklet

Did you know that in the United States over 67 million people speak a different language rather than English at home? This guide is designed to support library personnel who serve multilingual patrons through events, collections, and enrichment opportunities.

Inside, you'll find examples of programs, services, and more for your community.

Download PDF

News

Intersections

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion eLearning

08
Jan
eLearning
Webinar

Learn how to partner with local agencies to create an uplifting environment of connection and support for older adults.

11
Jan
eLearning

The presentation is focused on the responsibilities of Trustees in ensuring that their libraries are truly welcoming to

14
Jan
eLearning
Forum

Are you interested in fostering increasing retention in the library workplace? Join us for a conversation about

14
Jan
eLearning
Webinar

Connect with colleagues and hear from PLA member-leaders at this free virtual town hall.

14
Jan
eLearning
Forum

Are you interested in fostering increasing retention in the library workplace? Join us for a conversation about

21
Jan
eLearning

This webinar shows how to draw from new approaches and technologies to harness experimentation as a tool for testing

22
Jan
eLearning
Webinar

Learn to create engaging spaces for library patrons of all ages from real-life examples and outcomes.

03
Feb
eLearning

A four-week asynchronous course on Inside Interlibrary Loan

05
Feb
eLearning
Webinar

Learn how to create a culture of empathy and action by developing micro-communities to combat loneliness.

18
Feb
eLearning
Forum

Join this e-Forum to discuss your successes, your not-so-successful endeavors, and to learn how to incorporate project

18
Feb
eLearning

A presentation on using book kits in libraries to promote conversations about racial equity and inclusion with children

18
Feb
eLearning
Forum

Join this e-Forum to discuss your successes, your not-so-successful endeavors, and to learn how to incorporate project

26
Feb
eLearning

Move beyond “autism acceptance” and let your library become a place of autistic joy.

27
Feb
eLearning
Webinar

Learn best practices for cardholder registration that reduces barriers and increase access for all.

04
Mar
eLearning

Learn how to support your patrons who struggle with reading!

26
Mar
eLearning

This 60 minute webinar will help make sense of historical newspapers and guide researchers to a better understanding of

31
Mar
27
Apr
eLearning

A four week asynchronous course on project management.

14
Apr
12
May
eLearning

Where can I find child support guidelines? What are the laws in Nevada on gun ownership? How do I copyright my name? Any

19
May
13
Jun
eLearning

Connecting Information Literacy Efforts to Student Retention is a four-week asynchronous course discussing the

04
Aug
31
Aug
eLearning

This four-week course by librarian and gerontologist Fatima Perkins helps libraries engage older adults. It covers

Contact Us

225 N Michigan Ave
Suite 1300
Chicago, IL 60601
1-800-545-2433 ext. 4294
Fax: 312-280-3256
Email: [email protected]

Kevin Strowder
Director
[email protected]
800-545-2433 ext. 5295

Hillary Pearson
Program Manager, Accessibility Services
[email protected]
312-724-9251 ext. 5020