Two types of noncyclic proton-ionizable ionophores such as lipophilic quinaldic acid and nitrophenol derivatives selectively transported lithium ion from the basic source phase to the acidic receiving phase through the emulsion liquid membrane (ELM) and the results were compared with those obtained in the bulk liquid membrane (BLM) system. The transport velocity was greatly increased in comparison with that of the latter system, though the lithium ion selectivity was moderate. Proper selection of the emulsifier was found to play a determining role in the success of constructing the ELM. The structural effect of the ionophores on the transport properties was also examined.