The Tribal Library Council: Strengthening Tribal Libraries, Empowering Communities
The Tribal Library Council (TLC) is a national network dedicated to advancing the needs, visibility, and impact of tribal libraries. Through collective action, shared knowledge, and community-driven leadership, TLC supports tribal libraries as essential cultural, educational, and community institutions.
OUR PURPOSE
The Tribal Library Council brings together tribal librarians, cultural knowledge keepers, educators, advocates, and allies to strengthen and expand library services in Native communities.
We work to:
- Elevate the role of tribal libraries as vital community assets
- Provide tools, training, and support tailored to tribal needs
- Advocate for recognition, resources, and policy change
- Build a strong, connected network of tribal library professionals
WHY TLC MATTERS
Tribal libraries face increasing challenges, including funding instability, evolving community needs, workforce shortages, and digital inequities. They also are playing a growing role in cultural preservation, language revitalization, youth engagement, and community wellbeing.
TLC FOCUS AREAS (What we are working toward)
- Establishing national priorities for tribal libraries through structured community listening
- Strengthening professional relationships and peer support among tribal library workers
- Advancing advocacy for recognition, policy inclusion, and sustainable funding for tribal libraries
- Supporting language revitalization and culturally grounded library programs
- Expanding technology infrastructure and digital access in tribal libraries
- Creating the first National Tribal Library Master Plan
WHAT WE’RE WORKING ON IN 2026 (What we are actively doing)
To advance these focus areas, TLC is engaged in the following work:
- Designing and delivering tribal library sessions and convenings at ATALM2026
- Convening a national summit to produce the National Tribal Library Master Plan (2027–2031)
- Coordinating member-led TLC teams to carry out defined projects in advocacy, training, digital equity, language and culture, and shared resources
- Hosting regular virtual gatherings and training opportunities for TLC members
- Developing practical resources for tribal libraries, including model policies, templates, funding guidance, and program toolkits
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
CONTACT the TLC: Libraries@atalm.org
Funding Provided By:
