On April 24, 1972, Robert Wedgeworth was named the first African American Executive Director of the American Library Association (ALA). A trailblazer in both library science and literacy advocacy, Wedgeworth led the ALA through a pivotal era of modernization, expanding its reach and influence globally. His tenure emphasized equity in library services, international cooperation, and intellectual freedom. Under his leadership, the ALA grew in both membership and policy impact, cementing his legacy as a pioneer in American cultural and educational institutions.
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