Welcome to the Association of American Literary Agents
Supporting literary agents to better serve authors with integrity and excellence.
Who We Are
The Association of American Literary Agents (AALA) is an organization of professionals working at literary agencies. We are dedicated to helping our members develop and maintain their skills in a fast-changing publishing environment.
Our mission is to help members maintain and expand their professional skills, stay informed about developments in publishing, and work toward increased diversity in both the profession and the wider industry.
Join Us
Membership is open to professionals working at literary agencies. We’d love to have you.
What We Offer
Through strong interconnectedness, AALA provides:
• Education
• Networking
• Mentorship
• A commitment to the highest ethical standards
Supporting Our Members
AALA offers a wide range of resources and regularly holds:
• Panels
• Educational programs
• Social events
The AALA People of Publishing Conference
The AALA People of Publishing Conference is a premier gathering designed to bring together literary agents, editors, and publishing professionals for meaningful discussions, networking, and professional development. This event is sponsored and planned by the Association of American Literary Agents. The 2026 conference will take place on September 30 at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.
Literary Agents of Change
Dismantling the barriers to entry for members of historically underrepresented groups.
Literary Agents of Change, the nonprofit born out of American Association of Literary Agents’ (AALA) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, was formed to help dismantle the barriers to entry into a career as a literary agent for members of historically underrepresented groups, particularly people of color while recognizing the systems of overlapping oppressions in regard to race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, class, and ability.
Literary Agents of Change believes advancing the publishing industry must include attracting and cultivating a truly diverse workforce while also enhancing fair and equitable treatment, access, and advancement within the industry.