Dear Friend,

In celebration of National Library Week, we’re thrilled to announce the digital launch of the Drug Policy Archive, a groundbreaking collaboration between the Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) and the Substance Abuse Librarians and Information Specialists (SALIS).  

The Drug Policy Archive, a collection of 2,600 books, is hosted as part of the larger SALIS Collection at Internet Archive. The SALIS Collection is a comprehensive, free, online e-library of over 8,400 resources focused on alcohol, tobacco, other drugs, and addiction topics. Anyone, including you, can access these resources free of charge! 

A Legacy of Knowledge 
The origins of this archive can be traced back to the personal passion for drug policy reform and education of Ethan Nadelmann, Drug Policy Alliance’s first executive director. DPA’s library began as Ethan’s private collection of books, many of which had his handwritten notes in the margins. Over time, the library grew to include not only Ethan’s contributions, but also donations and carefully curated acquisitions from around the world.

Initially housed in DPA’s office in New York City, the library became a hub for researchers, activists, and academics. By the mid-1990s, the library had established itself as one of the best resources on drug policy and prohibition, housing a vast array of materials, including some of the most comprehensive information on methadone treatment available at the time. 

Why Digitization Matters 
Digitizing the library ensures that this treasure trove of knowledge remains accessible to a broader audience. Many of the resources within the archive include rare or out-of-print books and government reports that are notoriously difficult to find elsewhere. By preserving and sharing this collection online, the archive ensures that critical information on drug policy reform, harm reduction, and addiction studies is readily available to educators, researchers, advocates, and the general public.  

How to Access and Use the Archive 
Use this step-by-step pdf guide to learn how to access and navigate the archive. You’ll find instructions on searching the collection and downloading resources. 

We’re so excited for you to explore this one-of-a-kind resource and use it to advance your teaching, research, and advocacy. Whether you're teaching students, conducting your own research, or looking for resources to inform your practice, this archive is here for you!