Here is a note I took from ROI 2.0 at 2009 SLA Conference

"It is 2.3 times more expensive to use other services instead of libraries"

What's "special" about special librarians? What's "special" about the Special Libraries Association? In 2009, does "special" convey what it did in 1909, when SLA was founded? Does our association name convey the idea of forward-thinking, technologically savvy information professionals?

Once again, it's time to consider changing the name of our association. Members will be asked to vote on the name later this year.

This has always been an emotionally charged issue. Many SLA members, especially long-time members, are very attached to a name they associate with a professional organization which has served them well. Some members equate abandoning the word "libraries" or "librarians" with abandoning the traditions and serve aspects of the profession. Still others feel that, while the current name is less than ideal, no better options have been presented. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it," also was a common refrain.

Well, it is broke. And sentiment and emotional attachment don't carry weight with decision makers who affect our budgets and access to resources. SLA's leaders have developed the SLA Alignment Project "to generate a sharper focus on the perceived value of the Association and the profession" as part of the association's Centennial celebration. A clear message from the research done to date is that our name does not resonate with executives and fails to convey the value we bring as information professionals.

"SLA has embarked on a thorough examination to bring clarity and unity to the core identity and values of the Association and the profession... This alignment project will not only help refine our current positioning in the marketplace, but provide a framework for discussing the inherent value in the profession and the Association in a clear, compelling and cohesive voice."

SLA CEO Janice LaChance has posted "Why SLA Must Consider a Name Change" on SLA's Executive Connections blog. Please consider the points raised, and use the blog or our division wiki as a forum for registering your opinions. I'd love to see us having a spirited debate on this subject and the larger issue of how to convey our value.