Southwestern Library Association: A History of Regional Librarianship
The Southwestern Library Association (SWLA) served as a vital professional hub for librarians and library workers across the southwestern United States and Mexico for over six decades. Established to foster collaboration and professional growth, the organization bridged the gap between diverse regional libraries, ensuring that practitioners had the resources and networking opportunities necessary to improve literacy and information access.
Founding and Early Leadership
The SWLA was officially founded on October 26, 1922, in Austin, Texas. Its creation was the result of dedicated efforts by several pioneering figures in the field. Elizabeth H. West, who served as the State Librarian of Texas, became the organization's first president. She was supported by Dorothy Amann, the president of the Texas Library Association from 1921 to 1922, who traveled to states bordering Texas to recruit members and encourage regional participation.
Another key figure in the organization's inception was Lillian Gunter, the founder of the Cooke County Library, who is recognized as a co-founder of the association.
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Organizational Scope and Operations
While headquartered in Stillwater, Oklahoma, the SWLA operated under the umbrella of the American Library Association. The organization was specifically designed to support library associations and professional librarians within a specific geographic cluster, including:
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Louisiana
- New Mexico
- Oklahoma
- Texas
Communication and Professional Development
To maintain connectivity among its members, the SWLA published the Southwestern Library Association Newsletter from 1959 to 1967. However, the organization is perhaps most remembered for its SLICE program (Southwestern Library Interstate Cooperative Endeavor). This initiative focused on interstate networking and continuing education, providing librarians with the tools to share knowledge and standardize practices across state lines.
The Decline and Dissolution of SWLA
The stability of the association began to waver in the early 1980s. A significant turning point occurred in 1983 when Louisiana departed the organization to join the Southeastern Library Association. This shift, combined with dwindling financial support, led to the formal dissolution of the Southwestern Library Association in 1983.
Key Facts
- Founded: October 26, 1922, in Austin, Texas.
- Headquarters: Stillwater, Oklahoma.
- Parent Organization: American Library Association.
- Primary Program: SLICE (Southwestern Library Interstate Cooperative Endeavor).
- Dissolved: 1983.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Active Years | 1922–1983 |
| First President | Elizabeth H. West |
| Member States | AZ, AR, LA, NM, OK, TX |
| Key Publication | SWLA Newsletter (1959–1967) |
| Reason for Dissolution | Financial decline and loss of member states |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Southwestern Library Association founded?
The SWLA was founded on October 26, 1922, in Austin, Texas.
What was the SLICE program?
SLICE stands for the Southwestern Library Interstate Cooperative Endeavor, a program dedicated to continuing education and interstate networking for librarians.
Who were the key founders of the SWLA?
The key figures included Elizabeth H. West (the first president), Dorothy Amann, and Lillian Gunter.
Which states were served by the SWLA?
The association served Arizona, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.
Why did the Southwestern Library Association dissolve?
The organization dissolved in 1983 due to a lack of financial support and the departure of Louisiana to the Southeastern Library Association.