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To join CML, simply fill out our membership application and mail it along with your check (made out to CML) to Citizens for Maryland Libraries, PO Box 267 Funkstown, MD 21734-0267.

Who we are

Citizens for Maryland Libraries (CML), a non-profit organization, is a strong statewide network of individuals and organizations — people who value Maryland libraries.

Since 1982, Citizens for Maryland Libraries has been the major voice of citizen advocates for library service and libraries across the state of Maryland

Citizens for Maryland Libraries works to build greater public awareness of the need for and services of our Maryland libraries.

What we do for libraries and our members

Dedicated to insuring the best possible library service for all the people of Maryland, Citizens for Maryland Libraries:

... testifies at national, state and local hearings in support of library service, libraries and library legislation,

... studies library issues and develops positions on relevant major public policy debates,

... campaigns for increased funding for Maryland libraries at both the state and local level,

... collaborates with national, state and local community organizations dedicated to the development and improvement of library service and libraries,

... has an agreement with the Maryland Library Association allowing CML members to attend MLA events at member rates,

... fosters, promotes, and assists local libraries and their support groups through conferences and meetings,

... produces a quarterly newsletter, THE CITIZEN, featuring library news and activities across the state of Maryland,

... honors longtime library advocates with its annual Satterthwaite award, and library technology innovators with the McCarn award,

... maintains a web site on the Internet with library statistics, lists of Friends groups and information on upcoming CML activities.

CML Goals For This Year

Collaborate with the Maryland Library Association Legislative Panel, local libraries, and the Division of Library Development and Services (DLDS) to keep the Maryland Legislature informed about the importance of adequate library funding.

Inform citizens of pending legislative action that could influence their libraries, and encourage citizen participation.

Cooperate with DLDS and the Maryland library community in marketing library services throughout the state.

Continue to give attention to CML's relationship to public library directors to assure sustaining membership initiative.

Encourage more of the local Friends groups in Maryland to join CML and participate in advocacy activities of CML.

Encourage all CML Board members as well as the CML Membership Committee to recruit members.

Recognize achievements in the library field by continuing the Marion Satterthwaite Award (for advocacy) and the Davis McCarn Technology Award.