Understanding what “Conference-approved” literature means can help groups, newcomers, and trusted servants feel confident about the materials they use in A.A. Because A.A. values clarity and unity, this label plays an important role in the communication of our message.
The term “Conference-approved” refers to written or audiovisual material that the A.A. General Service Conference has reviewed and approved for publication by the General Service Office (GSO). This approval ensures the content aligns with A.A. principles. It also confirms that the material deals directly with A.A.’s recovery program or provides accurate information about our Fellowship.
Although the Conference approves some materials, the term does not apply to anything published outside GSO. It also does not mean the Conference disapproves of other helpful resources. Many alcoholics benefit from reading literature produced by outside organizations, and A.A. does not instruct members on what they may or may not read.
Conference approval reassures the Fellowship that a piece of literature reflects solid, shared A.A. experience. Every booklet or pamphlet goes through a detailed review process. Throughout this process, A.A. members across the U.S. and Canada read the drafts and offer input. Because of this, the final product represents broad A.A. wisdom rather than one person’s opinion.
You can easily check whether a book, pamphlet, or film is Conference-approved. Look for this statement:
“This is A.A. General Service Conference-Approved Literature.”
If that wording appears, the item has gone through the full Conference process.
Local central offices and intergroups often create brochures or booklets for their communities. These pieces are not Conference-approved, yet they may still be entirely appropriate for local use. When they meet the needs of their area, they are legitimately considered “A.A. literature.”
There is no conflict between AA World Services (AAWS)—publisher of Conference-approved literature—and local intergroups or central offices. Instead, the two complement each other. In addition, GSO produces some items, such as service material, guidelines, and bulletins, that do not require Conference approval.
Most A.A. groups display and share a variety of Conference-approved pamphlets. Many also offer hardcover books. Central offices and intergroups typically stock these materials as well. Groups usually make pamphlets free to members and sell books at cost. You can also order literature directly from GSO.
All Conference-approved material is copyrighted through the U.S. Copyright Office. This protects the integrity of the A.A. message and helps prevent distortion or dilution. Because of this, groups must obtain written permission from AAWS before reprinting content.
However, A.A. newsletters, bulletins, and meeting lists already have blanket permission to quote from Conference-approved literature. They only need to provide proper credit. This protects the copyright while allowing trusted servants to share accurate information.
Special Copyright Notes
A.A. Preamble — Copyright © The A.A. Grapevine, Inc.
Use this credit line:
“Reprinted with permission of The A.A. Grapevine, Inc.”
The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions — Copyright © A.A. World Services, Inc.
Use this credit line:
“Reprinted with permission of A.A. World Services, Inc.”
You can purchase conference approved literature from our website right here. Or directly from AAWS or AA Grapevine.
