Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship (COSWL)

Officially represent the diversity of women's interest within ALA and to ensure that the association considers the rights of the majority (women) in the library field. Promote and initiate the collection, analysis, dissemination, and coordination of information on the status of women in librarianship. Coordinate the activities of ALA units that consider questions having special relevance for women. Identify lags, gaps, and possible discrimination in resources and programs relating to women. Help develop evaluative tools, guidelines, and programs in cooperation with other ALA units designed to enhance the opportunities and the image of women in the library profession, thus raising the level of consciousness concerning women. Establish contacts with committees on women within other professional groups and to officially represent ALA concerns at interdisciplinary meetings on women's equality. Provide council and membership with reports needed for the establishment of policies and actions related to the status of women in librarianship, and monitor ALA units to ensure consideration of the rights of women. Related materials can be found in Record Group 81 at the ALA Archives.