The Library Association of Bangladesh (LAB) was founded in 1956 in Dhaka . Its mission is “to provide leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.” ‘LAB has a clear and succinct mission statement, all the activities the Association are suppose to match with the aims and objectives. Although the Association, from time to time changes its strategies, but the mission statement is very much generalized and has never been changed’. Its membership is open to “any person, library, or other organization interested in library service and librarianship…upon payment of the dues.”
It is governed by an elected Executive Council , its policy-making body, and an Executive Council which “acts for the Council in the administration of established policies and programs.” LAB members elect the LAB President , who serves a three-year term as President, including Vice Presidents (3), General Secretary , and Treasurer who serve a three-year term. Policies and programs are proposed by standing Committees, designated as sub-committees of the Association or committees of Council. Headquartered in Dhaka , its operations are directed by the General Secretary and implemented by staff through a structure of programmatic Offices and support units.
LAB is home to eleven membership divisions, each focused on a type of library or type of library function. It also includes round tables, groups of members “interested in the same field of librarianship not within the scope of any division.” A network of affiliates, institutions, associations and other organizations enables LAB to reach a broad audience.
OUR ASSOCIATION focuses on the governance and policies of the Association, on the committees and discussion groups and other opportunities for active member participation, and on the services and products available to members. |