What is a Special Librarian?
According to SLA, a special librarian is an “information resource expert dedicated to putting knowledge to work to attain the goals of their organizations. They are employed most frequently by corporations, private businesses, government agencies, museums, colleges, hospitals, associations, and information management consulting firms.” Their key function is to “add value to information” and “facilitate decision making” within their organizations.
SLA’s Mission
The Special Libraries Association (SLA) mission is “to advance the leadership role of special librarians in putting knowledge to work in the information society.” Through a variety of programs and services, the organization is committed to the profession’s growth and aims to develop the profession to meet the challenges of the changing information management and technology environment.
SLA Services
Chapters
SLA is organized into 57 regional chapters which elect officers, issue bulletins or meeting announcements, hold three to nine program meetings during a year, and initiate special projects. Membership in one chapter is part of the national membership fee. The UNC student chapter will announce any upcoming events of the North Carolina Chapter. Click to learn more about SLA’s List of Chapters
Divisions
SLA is also organized in 25 divisions representing subject interests, fields, or types of information-handling techniques. Each division elects officers and publishes a bulletin or newsletter, and most conduct professional programs during the Association’s Annual Conferences. Membership in one division is part of the national membership fee. Click to learn more about SLA’s List of Divisions
Events
SLA, at the national and local levels, host a variety of events, programs, and conferences to keep members current on the trends, challenges, and issues facing the profession. Click to learn more about SLA’s Event Calendar