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Who We Are and What We Stand For
Who We Are
The Sri Lanka Library Association (SLLA) is the national professional organisation representing the library, documentation and information profession in Sri Lanka.
Established in 1960 as the Ceylon Library Association (CyLA) by senior librarians committed to strengthening the library profession, the Association was incorporated by Law No. 20 of 1974 and renamed the Sri Lanka Library Association. Its statutory mandate was subsequently strengthened by Act No. 7 of 2004.
For more than six decades, SLLA has served as the professional voice of librarians and information professionals and has contributed to the development of library, documentation and information services throughout Sri Lanka.
What We Stand For
SLLA stands for a strong, respected, ethical and professionally recognised library and information profession, supported by effective policies, appropriate professional standards and equitable opportunities for those who serve the sector.
At the heart of our mandate is the protection and promotion of the rights, privileges, status, interests and welfare of librarians and information scientists. We advocate for the professional recognition and fair treatment of our members and for conditions that enable them to contribute effectively to the development of the country
Our Professional and National Role
SLLA has a particular responsibility to advise and assist the Government and relevant authorities on matters of national interest relating to libraries, documentation and information services.
We therefore:
- advocate for appropriate recruitment policies, schemes of service and professional recognition for librarians and information professionals;
- raise concerns regarding salary structures, allowances, benefits and conditions of service, including anomalies and disparities affecting the profession;
- make professional representations on promotional policies, career structures and opportunities for advancement;
- advocate for the appropriate recognition of professional qualifications in recruitment, appointment and career progression;
- contribute professional expertise to the formulation and review of national policies, plans and standards relating to libraries and information services;
- promote the development of a strong, adequately staffed and professionally managed national library and information system and
- represent the collective professional interests of the library and information community before relevant authorities and institutions.
Our responsibility extends beyond the interests of individual professionals. A strong and professionally recognised library workforce is essential to ensuring strong, equitable and sustainable library and information services for the people of Sri Lanka.
Connecting the Profession
SLLA promotes collaboration among library and information professionals and institutions across Sri Lanka and maintains professional relationships with library associations and related organisations in Asia and other parts of the world.
Through its engagement with international professional bodies, including the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), and as a founding and executive member of the Organisation of Professional Associations (OPA) of Sri Lanka, SLLA connects the Sri Lankan profession with international developments, knowledge and good practice.
Our Commitment
After more than 66 years of service, SLLA remains committed to providing a strong and independent professional voice for the library and information profession.
We stand for the rights and welfare of our members, the recognition and advancement of our profession, professional standards and integrity, informed national policy, and strong and equitable library and information services for all.
Above all, we stand for a strong library and information profession contributing to a knowledgeable, informed and inclusive Sri Lanka.
From a Professional Association to a Recognised Statutory Body
28 August 1960
The Ceylon Library Association (CyLA) was established by a group of professional librarians to develop and strengthen librarianship in Sri Lanka.
1960
Professional education and training became a major priority. A professional course in librarianship was introduced, based on the UK Library Association programme with local adaptations.
1970
SLLA became a member of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA).
1972
SLLA was a founder member of the Commonwealth Library Association (COMLA).
1974 Incorporation
Law No. 20 of 1974
A landmark achievement that gave SLLA statutory status and strengthened its role in representing the profession and influencing national library development.
1975
SLLA became a founder member of the Organisation of Professional Associations (OPA) of Sri Lanka.
1981
student membership was discontinued, and membership was focused on professionally qualified persons, strengthening the professional identity of SLLA.
Amendment Act,
No. 7 of 2004
The legislation was amended, strengthening the legal framework, membership structure and professional designations of SLLA.
