SLA is getting ready to introduce a potential new name for members to consider as we start our second century. The SLA Board is discussing the issue tomorrow (Thursday, Oct. 8), and may have an announcement on www.sla.org later in the day Oct. 8. Check it out!
The association's name is only part of the Alignment Project, which is meant to give members the tools to show their value to employers and other audiences. We have about 50 people attending tonight's session with SLA President-Elect Anne Caputo, where Alignment will be the topic of the evening.
These are some points to consider regarding Alignment and the name change proposal:
1. We need a name that reflects our value and our passion for providing actionable information and analysis that moves our organizations forward.
2. Pride in our 100-year legacy is important, but nostalgia has no worth to our organizations. If the terms "special libraries" and "special librarians" are of little value to our clients, we can't hold on to those terms.
3. Changing our name and changing our game this time is backed by thorough research readily available on the SLA site and via communications to members. Take the time to read the research so you can make an informed decision.
Eric Schwarz
NJSLA President
