In this introduction to the Alabama Virtual Library, first we will discuss how to access it. To get to the AVL, you will simply launch your internet browser and navigate to www.avl.lib.al.us. This is the URL for the Alabama Virtual Library. The next thing you will see is the AVL’s landing page. It is important for all students, families, and citizens in general to know that this is a great resource for citizens in Alabama but especially vital for us to be aware of why and how we have this great tool. The best place to go for that would be to go here to the Archives page. This explains how the AVL came to be, which was the result of a grassroots effort by Alabama citizens. There was a resolution passed in 1999 that was very visionary for that point in time. People knew that an increasing need would exist to ensuring access to quality information sources to all demographics across the state. The AVL was created and functions today to meet the information needs of every citizen in our state.

The next important bit of info here is the governing body of the AVL. We can learn about the AVL Executive Council by clicking on this tab on the left hand side of the screen. The establishing legislation specified five agencies who are permitted to send three representatives each to attend Council meetings and participate as voting members of the AVL Council. Those five agencies are: the Alabama Department of Education, the Alabama College System, the Alabama Council on Higher Education, the Alabama Public Library Service and the Alabama Supercomputer Authority. By including leaders from each of these fields, the information needs and interests of all Alabamians are represented. You can learn more about the Council and its functions by exploring this page.