A Message from...
Canadian Library Association (CLA)

I am honoured, on behalf of the members of the Canadian Library Association, to extend our congratulations to the National Library of Canada on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of its founding. The National Library has had an illustrious history, essential to both the current information needs of Canadians and the preservation of our country’s published heritage. The National Library represents a major cultural resource and a cornerstone of innovation, and symbolizes the importance of all library resources and services in Canada.

Our institutions have had a long history of cooperation and mutual support. In fact, part of the impetus for the creation of CLA in 1946 was the recognized need for a national library for this country. From those humble beginnings, our two organizations have forged a strong relationship that continues today as we work together on important initiatives to ensure the continued growth and development of information and resources for the millions of people who benefit from libraries.

The marking of this milestone also coincides with the beginning of a new era for the National Library. The announced merger with the National Archives of Canada, while changing the structure of the institution, does not change the importance of its mandate, nor will it lessen CLA’s continued support of the best of interests of the Library and Archives of Canada.

Best wishes as the National Library celebrates this historic occasion.

Wendy Newman, MLS
President
Canadian Library Association (CLA)