The History and Strategic Role of the Management of Library Associations Section (MLAS): Building Strong Library Associations in an Era of Global – Transformation An Institutional History of MLAS, 1983–2026

Abstract

This paper presents an institutional history of IFLA's Management of Library Associations Section. tracing its evolution from the Round Table for the Management of Library Associations (RTMLA), established in 1983, to its current role in strengthening library associations worldwide. It examines key milestones, including the transition from RTMLA to an IFLA Section in 2002, the recognition of library association representation within IFLA governance, and the expansion of MLAS’s work in leadership development, capacity building, advocacy, mentoring, and international collaboration.