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What would an association gathering look like if it didn't have a theme, some sessions to attend, and a healthy dose of politics? Based upon experience, it's safe to say it wouldn't look like an SLA annual conference. In mid-June, as typically happens each year, specialized librarians gathered en masse for their annual conference. This year was especially meaningful for the knowledge workers who specialize, as they celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Association's founding. The theme for 2009 could be none other than the centennial. From 57 members at its founding in July 1909, the Special Libraries Association has grown to almost 11,000 members in 75 countries. The centennial-year conference in Washington, D.C., drew more than 5,850 attendees from 30 countries. That puts attendance up 16% from the 2008 conference and higher than any SLA conference in the last 6 years. Most would agree that the numbers look good for these economic times.

The Centennial Theme

Outward and visible signs of the centennial celebration included the logo, the Centennial Showcase, and Centennial Proclamations and Greetings on display. These came from such luminaries as Adrian Fenty, mayor of the District of Columbia; William Jefferson Clinton, 42nd U.S. president; Stephen Harper, prime minister of Canada; Laura Bush, former first lady; and Arnold Schwarzenegger, governor of California. Special events included a champagne and cake reception following the opening keynote.

With the centennial theme, association leaders and conference planners sought to leverage this occasion into a demonstration of the profession's longevity, value, and vision for the future. According to the conference program book:

SLA's founders were pioneers in a new kind of librarianship, one devoted to using practical information to achieve positive results in business, government, social agencies, and parts of the academic community. As we celebrate our first one hundred years, SLA's members are focused on mastering knowledge, skills and connections that will give their organizations a competitive advantage in the next century.

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Conference planners followed through on the theme by providing numerous opportunities to look toward the skills needed to thrive in the coming years. Opening keynote speaker Colin Powell drew a huge crowd as attendees sought to hear from the former secretary of state, national security advisor, and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Surely here is a man who would have wisdom and advice to share with info...

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