IFLA MLAS Sets Strategic Priorities for 2025–2027 Aligned with IFLA Strategy and the IFLA 100th Anniversary

The IFLA Management of Library Associations Section (MLAS) is pleased to share news about its priority areas for 2025–2027 and its upcoming 2026 Midterm Meeting. MLAS has identified its key areas of focus for the new term, setting a clear direction to help strengthen library associations worldwide, in line with its charge, while contributing to the achievement of the IFLA Strategy 2024–2029 and its three Impact Areas. MLAS also expects to frame its work within the celebrations of the IFLA 100th Anniversary, recognizing the centenary as an opportunity to highlight the evolution, resilience, and future of library associations within IFLA’s global community.

To advance this work, MLAS members have created dedicated working groups to develop practical resources and initiatives in three priority areas:

1. Financial Sustainability of Library Associations

Ensuring that library associations are financially resilient is essential for long-term stability and effective advocacy. MLAS will develop activities to share good practices to help associations understand how to diversify funding, strengthen governance, and plan for sustainable growth.
 Linked IFLA Strategy Impact Areas:

  • Impact Area 02 – Libraries are recognised, represented and valued as partners, by helping associations build strong organizational foundations that enable them to advocate and collaborate effectively.

  • Impact Area 03 – Libraries are enabled to deliver meaningful change at all levels, by supporting associations to lead and deliver impactful initiatives through sustainable operations.

2. Membership of Library Associations: Recruitment, Retention and Engagement

Strong membership engagement is central to a thriving professional community. MLAS will explore strategies that help associations attract, retain, and meaningfully engage their members, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
 Linked IFLA Strategy Impact Areas:

  • Impact Area 01 – Libraries are connected and energised through vibrant, global professional communities, by fostering inclusive participation and strengthening the professional network of associations.

  • Impact Area 03 – Libraries are enabled to deliver meaningful change at all levels, by equipping associations to mobilize active, skilled, and connected members who can drive progress in their regions.

3. Marketing and Communications of Library Associations (Public Awareness)

Raising awareness of the vital role that library associations play in advancing literacy, access to information, and community development is key to strengthening their influence. MLAS will develop activities to support associations in enhancing their communication strategies, advocacy messages, and visibility within and beyond the library sector.
 Linked IFLA Strategy Impact Areas:

  • Impact Area 02 – Libraries are recognised, represented and valued as partners, by helping associations effectively articulate their value to policymakers, funders, and the public.

  • Impact Area 01 – Libraries are connected and energised through vibrant, global professional communities, by promoting international exchange and supporting library associations in showcasing their success stories and increasing their visibility.

Mentorship of Library Associations Pilot

MLAS continues to advance its Mentorship of Library Associations Pilot, an initiative designed to foster knowledge exchange and peer support among associations. This initiative reflects all three IFLA Impact Areas—by connecting professionals globally, strengthening advocacy capacities, and enabling meaningful change through collaboration and shared learning.

Looking Toward IFLA’s Centenary in 2027

In the spirit of the IFLA 100th Anniversary, MLAS will frame several of its activities within the centenary celebrations, recognizing both the historical achievements and the future potential of library associations. Planned initiatives will highlight the evolution of association leadership, the power of collaboration, and the shared vision of libraries as essential drivers of equitable access to knowledge.

2026 MLAS Midterm Meeting: Global Connection in Action

MLAS is pleased to announce that its Midterm Meeting will take place online on April 28, 29, and 30, 2026. The event will be thoughtfully scheduled to allow participants from all regions of the world to attend sessions in time zones that suit them best. The program will showcase the progress of the MLAS working groups, the outcomes of the mentorship pilot, and discussions connecting MLAS priorities to IFLA’s strategic goals and centenary vision.

Through these priorities and initiatives, MLAS reaffirms its commitment to contributing to build resilient, inclusive, and future-ready library associations—helping libraries everywhere deliver meaningful change and celebrate 100 years of collective impact within IFLA’s global community.