The Maryland Library Association provides leadership for those who are committed to libraries by providing opportunities for professional development and communication and by advocating principles and issues related to librarianship and library service.
MLA was founded in 1923 to promote library service in the state. Among members are library staff and trustees, library school students, libraries, and friends of libraries representing the full spectrum of librarianship in Maryland. In 1974, MLA became a legally chartered non-profit, tax exempt corporation. The Association is a state member of the American Library Association, with an elected chapter councilor serving on its governing board.