Welcome to the Association of Children’s Librarians of Northern California (ACL). Founded in 1935, ACL’s members include public and school librarians, library school students, and others interested in children’s and young adult literature and librarianship. We review books, host events, participate in professional development, and work together to build the future of library service for young people.
ACL’s lively and informative meetings are a wonderful way to network and build professional connections. Meetings are held either in person or by Zoom on the second Friday of the month. In person meetings are typically hosted at the Oakland Public Library. For up-to-date information, please check our calendar.
ACL organizes and hosts two annual events: The ACL Performers’ Showcase offers librarians the opportunity to meet and evaluate a variety of children’s performers active in the Bay Area. The ACL Institute is a day-long symposium on current trends and topics in the field of youth literature and librarianship with panels of leading authors, educators, experts, and more.
ACL also publishes BayViews, a journal of member-written book reviews and opinions with a western perspective, and the annual Distinguished Books list with annotations.
ACL welcomes new members. Join us! If you are an aspiring children’s librarian, our Dorothy Helfeld Fellowship may be just right for you.
ACL Mission Statement
This organization is an association of people interested in library work with children and young adults. Its purpose shall be to strengthen and maintain work with youth in the libraries of Northern and Central California according to the highest standards of professional librarianship by:
- Reviewing and evaluating children’s books and other materials produced for young people
- Working actively to further the cause of library work with children
- Discussing various phases and problems of this work
- Cooperating in the solution of problems of mutual concern
- Encouraging and stimulating the personal friendships of its members