In 1975 the UBC Librarians' Association was established in response to negotiations between the UBC Faculty Association and the University to establish a Framework Agreement for Collective Bargaining. During this process, the need for librarians to determine their collective position on any issue became apparent, notably where the interests of librarians and teaching faculty may differ. As a result, the first constitution of the Association was adopted in July 1975. The Association works to secure and improve conditions of employment for its members; keep members informed of University affairs outside the Library; provide a forum for discussion of internal Library matters, and foster their continuing professional development. Through its Collective Bargaining Committee, the Association presents librarians' contractual demands to the Faculty Association, negotiating terms with the University. The Association also works closely with the Library to foster librarians' professional development through staff training and travel grants.
In 2000 the name was changed to the University of British Columbia Librarians and Archivists Association (UBCLAA) to recognize the distinct professional identity of archivists in the Association. The Association was absorbed into the UBC Faculty Association in 2012; the interests of librarians and archivists are now represented by the Faculty Association Standing Committee for Librarians and Archivists.