The Japan Library Association (JLA) () is a
professional organization for librarians in Japan. Its mission is to promote libraries and librarian education throughout Japan. It is also a member of the
International Federation of Library Associations.
History
The JLA was established in 1892 as the Nihon Bunko Kyōkai ( Japan Book Organization). They changed their name to the Nihon Toshokan Kyōkai in 1907. The organization was founded by Tanaka Inagi, after the
American Library Association and the
Library Association
The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, since 2017 branded CILIP: The library and information association (pronounced ), is a professional body for librarians, information specialists and knowledge management, knowle ...
were founded in 1876 and 1877, respectively. The first annual All-Japan Library Conference was held in 1906, and the JLA began publishing the ''Toshokan Zasshi'' a year later in 1907. It became a member of the International Federation of Library Associations in 1929. The JLA became an Incorporated Association in 1930, and began making close ties with the
Ministry of Education.
When
Japan was under allied occupation after World War II, a law was passed to make Japanese libraries operate similarly to American ones by making them free to use and funded by taxpayers. The JLA also created and implemented the
Nippon Decimal Classification
The Nippon Decimal Classification (NDC, also called the Nippon Decimal System) is a system of library classification developed for mainly Japanese-language books maintained and revised by the Japan Library Association since 1948. Originally devel ...
system, the Nippon
Cataloging Rules, and the Basic
Subject Headings. They also adopted a statement on
intellectual freedom in 1954.
Structure
The JLA has six divisions that serve different types of libraries, including
school,
public,
special and
academic libraries. There is also a division for library education. The JLA also has 29 committees covering topics like intellectual freedom, services to the disabled, and
copyright.
Members elect councilors, who make up the decision-making body of the organization. The Board of Councilors elects the Board of Directors, who manage the organization. The chairman of the Board of Directors is the official spokesperson for the JLA.
Activities
Conferences
The All-Japan Library Association conference is held annually in October. It is held in a different city every year. Many symposiums and lectures are also held throughout the year.
Awards
The JLA has given out the Library Architecture Award annually since 1985.
See also
*
List of library associations Library associations connect libraries and library workers at the local, national, and international level. Library associations often provide resources to their individual and institutional members that enable cooperation, exchange of information, ...
*
National Diet Library
The is the national library of Japan and among the largest libraries in the world. It was established in 1948 for the purpose of assisting members of the in researching matters of public policy. The library is similar in purpose and scope to ...
References
External links
Official website
{{Authority control
1892 establishments
Professional associations based in Japan
Library-related professional associations