Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct Purpose

The Texas Library Association (TLA) is committed to fostering a professional and welcoming community that reflects our core values. The TLA Code of Conduct sets expectations for behavior that supports a respectful environment where all members, staff, volunteers, speakers, vendors, and partners can engage meaningfully and safely.

This Code applies to all TLA-related spaces, including conferences, virtual and in-person meetings, online forums, social media, professional development or training, and any situation where individuals are representing the association or participating in TLA activities.

Our Core Values in Action

This TLA Code of Conduct is grounded in our core values:

Community – TLA creates a community that is inclusive of and accessible to all members.

Professional Growth – TLA believes individual professional growth drives a vibrant library community.

Forward-Thinking – TLA is a forward-thinking organization that ensures the future of libraries.

Intellectual Freedom – TLA protects equitable access to information and ideas for all.

Libraries are Essential – Libraries and trusted library professionals are essential to all Texas communities.

Expectations for Conduct

Respectful Communication and Behavior

Members interact with fellow members, staff, authors, speakers, presenters, and vendors in ways that demonstrate professionalism, kindness, and respect.

TLA members will:

• Listen actively and seek to understand perspectives different from their own.
• Disagree thoughtfully and respectfully, without personal attacks or dismissive behavior.
• Communicate professionally in all settings, including in-person events, online spaces, social media, and written correspondence.
• Maintain confidentiality when sensitive and/or proprietary information is shared in meetings or leadership contexts.
• Contribute to a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all participants.
• Actively cultivate a welcoming community where all members feel included and respected.
• Represent TLA with integrity by engaging in respectful, context‑aware communication in all public settings.

Inclusion, Belonging, and Accessibility

TLA is committed to inclusivity of people of all backgrounds, abilities, identities, and perspectives.

TLA members will:

• Treat all people with dignity and respect, honoring differences across age, sex, gender identity or expression, religion, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, ability, and other protected characteristics.
• Speak for themselves rather than on behalf of groups or communities they do not represent.
• Actively contribute to environments that are welcoming and accessible.
• Be mindful of unintentional barriers to participation, including accessibility considerations such as the use of microphones, readable presentation materials, and inclusive facilitation practices.
• Respect differences of opinion, philosophy, and belief while maintaining a community that does not alienate or marginalize others.
• Value and embrace all library types and roles as essential parts of the broader library ecosystem.

Professional Integrity and Accountability

Members are responsible for their actions, commitments, and how they represent TLA.

TLA members will:

• Take responsibility for their words and actions.
• Adhere to all association policies, and support the TLA mission, vision and core values.
• Be responsive to TLA staff and respect their professional expertise, training, and experience.
• Recognize that their conduct, both within and outside of formal TLA spaces, reflects on the association.

Fairness, Equity and Transparency

TLA is committed to fair, equitable, and transparent operations and leadership practices.

TLA members will:

• Act with integrity and fairness in decision-making processes.
• Support equitable distribution of leadership opportunities, member recognition, and access to resources.
• Take responsibility for their role in promoting transparency and trust within the organization.

Nonprofit Requirements and Political Activity

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, TLA is prohibited from participating or intervening, directly or indirectly, in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office. Accordingly, discussion of political candidates is not permitted in TLA online spaces or forums, and speakers at TLA events may not endorse, oppose, or otherwise promote or disparage political candidates.

Consistent with its nonprofit status, TLA may engage in nonpartisan discussion of legislative or public policy issues affecting libraries. Such discussions are permitted within TLA spaces, provided members express views respectfully and without targeting, harassing, or excluding others.

Why this matters: These standards help protect TLA’s nonprofit status while ensuring our spaces remain inclusive, nonpartisan, and welcoming to members with diverse perspectives.

Reporting and Accountability

Upholding the Texas Library Association Code of Conduct is a shared responsibility among members, leaders, and staff. TLA has developed reasonable, fair, and accessible reporting practices that support a professional, inclusive community. Concerns may be reported through multiple channels, including TLA staff, unit or committee leadership, or directly to the Executive Director or TLA President. All reports will be handled with discretion and care.

TLA’s approach prioritizes education and correction. Initial responses may include a conversation to clarify expectations, address the impact of behavior, and outline how similar situations should be handled in the future. Repeated or serious violations may result in corrective action, which could include formal warnings, removal from leadership roles, or restrictions on participation in TLA activities. Such actions are considered a last resort and will be determined by the Executive Director and TLA President, with the goal of protecting the integrity, safety, and values of the association.

Reinforcing a Culture of Respect

TLA commits to setting expectations early and often so this Code of Conduct becomes part of everyday organizational culture. This may include:

• Brief Code of Conduct reminders at meetings, workshops, and events
• Inclusion in onboarding materials for leaders and volunteers
• Regular review and reinforcement through training and communication

By participating in TLA activities, members affirm their commitment to upholding this Code of Conduct and contributing to a professional, inclusive, and forward-thinking library community.