Who We Are
American Booksellers Association is a national trade association that supports and advocates for the success of independent bookstores. We provide members with education, networking opportunities, advocacy, resources, and technology. In turn our members support local schools through book fairs, donations and author visits; promote literacy; provide inclusive community centers; connect readers and books; add character to neighborhoods; champion and center diverse and new voices; and contribute to the local economy. We feel honored to support over 3,200 independent bookstores in their work.
ABA is governed by a volunteer board that is elected by the membership. In addition to the Board of Directors service, members also serve on a number of advisory councils, including the ABA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council (DEIC) in support of ABA’s commitment to antiracism, representation, equity, and access.
126 Years of ABA
ABA is currently celebrating its 126th anniversary. To see the organization through the years or read some reflections from some of its leaders, click here.
Governance and Finances
Board of Directors
- Board of Directors, 2026-2027
- Board Minutes
- Board of Directors, Dualities of Interest
- BTW Board Editions
- Nominate for the Board
- Letters from the ABA Board President and CEO
Annual Report
Councils, Committees, and Task Forces
- ABA Booksellers Advisory Council (BAC)
- ABA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council (DEIC)
- ABA Children's Group Advisory Council
Governance Documents
- ABA Ends Policies
- ABA Governance Policies (This document includes details about the Governance Process Policies, Board/CEO linkage, and more.)
- ABA Bylaws
- ABA Investment Policy
- Antitrust Guidelines
- ABA Articles of Incorporation
- ABA Governance: Carver Method Infographic
Policies
- ABA Code of Conduct
- ABA Values
- ABA: Good Citizen
- ABA Vendor Review Policy
- Institute Speaker/Panelist Compensation Policy
- Member and Customer Grievance Policy
Board of Directors Nominations and Election Process
Membership Meeting Reports
Community Forum/Annual Meeting
The ABA hosts an annual meeting via Zoom each May. A community forum takes place immediately following the annual meeting to give members an opportunity to share concerns and issues pertaining to the industry directly with the Board. Additional opportunities to talk with the Board or the ABA Staff occur throughout the year on Zoom. These meetings are advertised in BTW and appear on the ABA Events Calendar.
Consolidated Financial Statements (including independent auditors' report)
ABA Tax Form 990
Previous years’ forms may be accessed via the GuideStar website.