IATUL's mission statement is to create a one world library, one that offers a "High quality tertiary education, supported by university-level research that is the key factor in the further development of any part of our knowledge-driven global society".

[3] Dr. Hemlin from Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden was the founder of IATUL and also its first President, and in this capacity he did much to develop the Association.

These changes led to an increased need for the provision of technical education and training, resulting in the founding of "trades and craft schools" and polytechnic institutions throughout Europe.

During the last twenty years there has been a steady growth in IATUL members coming from all parts of the world, resulting in a truly international organization.

IATUL holds an annual conference, which provides members and other interested professionals with the opportunity to discuss issues facing tertiary education libraries.