CHICAGO- The American Library Association (ALA) is launching its new public advocacy Web site, www.ilovelibraries.org, at the start of the ALA 2007 Annual Conference, June 21-27, 2007.
The Web site strives to increase the visibility of today's library, as well as about the issues facing libraries in communities throughout the country."The idea behind ilovelibraries.org is simple."
said 2006-2007 ALA President Leslie Burger, who made the Web site one of the top initiatives of her presidential year. "We want to reach out to people who use and love libraries and offer them a chance to get involved in the health and vitality of America's libraries."
The site will contain a variety of features designed to attract - and hold the attention of -- library lovers of all kinds: reviews of new and award-winning books , fast-breaking library news, library spotlights, a "find a library" feature, blogs and newsfeeds, as well as library related links on YouTube and flickr. Interactive software will allow users to share their library stories, connect with other library lovers, and contact Congress about library issues.
"We are excited to launch a Web site that will appeal to the ultimate advocate for libraries: the general public. Ilovelibraries.org will provide the information necessary to help library lovers make the case for libraries of all types, at the local, state and national levels," says Keith Michael Fiels, ALA Executive Director.
"We know that we need to be reaching out to the millions of people that care deeply about libraries, and want to help. The site we're rolling out at conference is a big step for ALA, but it's just the beginning. As the site moves forward, we are looking to our membership and the community at large to contribute stories, examples and ideas to help strengthen and grow this valuable tool."
