SCLA President’s Message – 2010

Ray's ALA Midwinter 2010 Report

Greetings,

As this professional organization begins its 95th year, it is my pleasure to have the wonderful honor and responsibility of being the 2010 President of the South Carolina Library Association (SCLA). The mission and purpose of the Association remains the same as it did when fourteen librarians and library supporters met at the University of South Carolina’s library to form SCLA in 1915. The purposes were: 1) “to arouse and stimulate an interest in the development of libraries;” 2) “to be the medium of information in (that) regard” and 3) “to bring into touch her library force that they may gather additional strength and inspiration for the work.” Our role as Library Information Specialists and the use of our unique skills, abilities and united resources are more important than ever as we assist South Carolina and our individual users as they work toward economic recovery. As we continue to move forward in 2010, we will work for greater public understanding of libraries and library services, monitor state and national legislation affecting libraries and promote the professional growth of librarians and library support staff through our annual conference and other educational opportunities.

We have an exciting year planned for you that includes maintaining the viability and stability of the Association as well as working with other library organizations to ensure that the importance of libraries and the library profession remains in the fabric of South Carolina. Our First Vice President, Adam Haigh is also planning an exciting Annual Conference in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, themed South Carolina Libraries: Advocacy from the Ground up. The Conference will be held at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel, October 20-22, 2010. Keep your browser pointed to the 2010 Conference Information page for conference updates.

In closing, I invite you to join us for this amazing year and become an active member of a vital library association with your best interest at heart. We look forward to your participation in and with the South Carolina Library Association.

With my best regards, I am,

Sincerely yours,
Rayburne J. Turner
2010 President