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CHICAGO — The Public Library Association (PLA) will officially turn 75 years old on Oct. 13, 2019, and the entire public library field is encouraged to be a part of PLA’s Diamond Anniversary celebration. From now through the , we will recognize this milestone by reflecting on our storied history, commemorating our achievements, honoring the people who have contributed to our success and preparing for an even brighter future.

PLA came into being on Oct. 13, 1944 when the °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±app’s governing council approved the creation of a Division of Public Libraries. Since its inception, PLA has grown by leaps and bounds, from a small group of charter members to nearly 10,000 professionals representing public libraries large and small.

“Over the past three-quarters of a century, PLA has evolved symbiotically alongside public libraries to support the unique needs of public library professionals,” remarks PLA President Monique le Conge Ziesenhenne, PhD. “The 75th Anniversary celebration is not only about remembering our past, but also about shaping a future in which public libraries serve at the intersection of vibrant communities and a strong democracy.”

PLA will commemorate the 75th Anniversary at various over the next several months, including at the 2019 Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. and the PLA 2020 Conference in Nashville, Tenn.

Throughout the year, PLA is also gathering for its 75th Anniversary website. We want to hear how PLA has made a difference in your professional life and supported your work in public libraries. to share your story.

To learn more, please visit , read our monthly e-newsletter, PLA e-News, and follow the hashtag #PLA75 on social media. Watch for more information and ways to participate—including contests, articles and stories in PLA e-News and Public Libraries magazine—and a chance to help create new library leaders by supporting to a new scholarship campaign for the PLA 2020 Conference.

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About the Public Library Association

The (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 10,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders. For more information about PLA, contact the PLA office at 1 (800) 545-2433, ext. 5PLA, or pla@ala.org.

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