In 1945 the ALA announced the establishment of the Washington office (1).  It began operation on October 1, 1945 (2).  It was to be supported by the Library Development Fund which was planned to cover a five year period, but which was discontinued after one year (3).

The function of the Washington office is to maintain a representative of libraries who monitors federal government activities and regulations, makes official comments on proposed regulations and supports legislation benefiting libraries and library service (4) through press, radio, and personal contacts, in cooperation with state and local library agencies (5).  The Washington Office reported regularly in the ALA Bulletin (1945-69).  Its publications include the ALA Washington Newsletter and a biannual Legislative Report of the ALA Washington Office (1979- ).

The Associate Executive Director of the Washington Office is responsible to the ALA Executive Director (7).