Dues Proposal and Bylaws Changes On July Ballot
After much careful consideration and discussion, the California Library Association Assembly and the Executive Committee agreed to place a new dues structure for personal members on this year's ballot for member approval. The change will represent an increase for some members in personal dues and a decrease for many members who earn less than $30,000 a year. CLA personal dues have not changed for over ten years.
The new dues structure, developed by CLA's Membership Committee, streamlines the dues categories. A new category, for individuals making more than $85,000 annually, was added. While our organization runs extremely effectively and efficiently, costs have risen approximately 22% over the last ten years. The proposed change will increase revenue for the association by 9%.
An annual adjustment of dues based on the Consumer Price Index is also being proposed. In the last ten years, the CPI has run between 1.6% - 3.4% annually; it averaged 2.5%. This adjustment should insure dues revenues keep pace with the cost of providing member services.
Proposed Personal Dues Revision
| Full Membership $85,000 and over $55,000 - $84,999 $40,000 - $54,999 $30,000 - $39,999 Under $30,000 Library Student Trustee, Ret., Unemp., Friend, Out of State First Time Member (non-student) Supporting Membership |
Current Dues $125.00 $125.00 $105.00 $85.00 $35.00-$65.00 $15.00 $35.00 $35.00 $25.00-$35.00 | Proposed Dues $165.00 $140.00 $120.00 $95.00 $40.00 $20.00 $40.00 $40.00 $25.00 |
Members will also be asked to vote to change the current calendar year membership provision in the bylaws to an anniversary date membership. This will allow new members to receive a full year of member benefits, regardless of the date joined.
CLA provides leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services, librarianship, and the library community. A strong CLA is a powerful voice for California's libraries, librarians, and library workers. CLA membership is a great value at any price. CLA counts on your continued support.