August 19, 2026 - Ally Dowds Appointed to Massachusetts Access to Justice Commission

The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ally Dowds, the MBLC’s Consultant to Special Populations, to the Massachusetts Access to Justice Commission.

"My appointment to the Access to Justice Commission is humbling and exciting,” said Ally Dowds. “Libraries exist to uplift one another, especially community members lacking vital access to informational outlets. My hope is to give voice to all libraries that amplify our roles as critical access points while taking this opportunity to learn from others who also strive to open doors to those often shut out."

Dowds joined the MBLC as Consultant to Special Populations in 2024, where she builds strategic partnerships and develops programs that strengthen library services for underserved and vulnerable populations including people with disabilities, individuals who are incarcerated, and New Americans.

Dowds will begin her 3-year term as a Commissioner for the Massachusetts Access to Justice Commission in the fall. Established in 2005 by the Supreme Judicial Court, the Massachusetts Justice Commission works to expand access to civil justice for all, especially for those who may not be able to afford legal representation. The Commission connects underserved communities to essential legal needs in partnership with organizations across the Commonwealth.

About MBLC

The Board of Library Commissioners (mass.gov/mblc) is the agency of state government with the statutory authority and responsibility to organize, develop, coordinate and improve library services throughout the Commonwealth. The Board advises municipalities and library trustees on the operation and maintenance of public libraries, including construction and renovation. It administers state and federal grant programs for libraries and promotes cooperation among all types of libraries through regional library systems and automated resource sharing. It also works to ensure that all residents of the Commonwealth, regardless of their geographic location, social or economic status, age, level of physical or intellectual ability or cultural background, have access to essential new electronic information technologies and significant electronic databases.

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