REFORMA

Established in 1971 as an affiliate of the American Library Association (ALA), REFORMA has actively sought to promote the development of library collections to include Spanish-language and Latino oriented materials; the recruitment of more bilingual and bicultural library professionals and support staff; the development of library services and programs that meet the needs of the Latino community; the establishment of a national information and support network among individuals who share our goals; the education of the U.S. Latino population in regards to the availability and types of library services; and lobbying efforts to preserve existing library resource centers serving the interests of Latinos. Nationally there are 20 active REFORMA chapters. These function autonomously, working through their local library systems, state library associations, and local organizations to achieve local objectives. The goals of REFORMA include: -Development of Spanish-language and Latino-oriented library collections -Recruitment of bilingual, multicultural library personnel -Promotion of public awareness of libraries and librarianship among Latinos -Advocacy on behalf of the information needs of the Latino community -Liaison to other professional organizations