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Worldwide (English) Change

The OCLC cooperative belongs to librarians.

Librarians founded and built the cooperative and member libraries own the cooperative today. The role that OCLC members play in the guidance, health and growth of the organization cannot be overstated. Put simply, everything OCLC does is intended to provide increased value for its members.

CouncilAt the most recent meeting of the OCLC Members Council, a new definition of membership was voted on and approved, which states that any library, museum or archive that participates in cooperative services with OCLC is considered a member. The benefits of membership are not linked to financial contribution, but are equally available to all institutions that are part of the cooperative.

Our model is built on the same ideals shared by the institutions we serve—sharing, community and efficiency. And the benefits of OCLC membership are likewise similar to those experienced by users of memory institutions: access to shared resources, a community of study, systematic improvements and opportunities to advance the profession.

For information about becoming a member, send an e-mail to membership@oclc.org.

Membership is open to libraries and other memory organizations of all types and sizes. We encourage current members and those interested in joining OCLC to explore more fully:

  • WorldCat
    Share your holdings through WorldCat and other OCLC union catalogs.
  • Contributing to OCLC governance
    One of the most vital aspects of the cooperative is the opportunity for librarians to participate in its governance.
  • Membership benefits
    Membership cooperation has enabled OCLC to develop close ties with the library community and to build services targeted solely at strengthening library services.
  • Reports and papers
    OCLC initiatives include in-depth studies and topical surveys that let you understand issues and trends that affect librarianship.

Membership News

OCLC Members Council discusses issues facing libraries worldwide

OCLC Members Council met May 17-19 in Dublin, Ohio, USA, to discuss issues facing libraries around the world, pass resolutions to implement the previously approved Global Council and three Regional Councils, and look back on 31 years of accomplishments as Members Council concluded its final meeting.

More news ››

OCLC welcomes the following new member institutions: