Founded in November 1973, ALAN is made up of teachers, authors, librarians, publishers, teacher-educators and their students, and others who are particularly interested in the area of young adult literature.
The recipient may be a publisher, author, librarian, scholar, editor, or servant to the organization.
The Ted Hipple Service Award is given each year to the individual who has contributed to the ALAN organization.
It is named in honor of Ted Hipple, the first and long-time ALAN Executive Secretary, who died on November 25, 2004.
Beginning 2009 the Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award annually recognizes "a book that exemplifies literary excellence, widespread appeal, and a positive approach to life in young adult literature".