SLA forms new chapter in Australia/New Zealand

Information Outlook, Sept, 2004

SLA has formed a new chapter in Australia and New Zealand, the 59th geographically-oriented network within its membership. The SLA board approved the new chapter during its meetings at the annual conference in Nashville.

SLA member Sue Henczel (CAVAL, Ltd., Bundoora, Australia) organized the effort to support SLA members in Australia and New Zealand.

"For many years now information professionals in Australia and New Zealand have had the opportunity to affiliate with SLA for professional support, networking and professional development," she said.

"Now that we have our own regional chapter, we can gain leverage from SLA's resources, support services and infrastructure, including its effective global communication and networking channels. It will enable us to become more involved in international events, activities and discussions and to share our expertise, knowledge, innovative practices and experiences with information professionals throughout the world."

Henczel also committed to leading the chapter--she now serves as its first president and is a nominated candidate for the 2005 SLA Board of Directors.

"SLA is poised to grow rapidly in this very important region of the world, and build on our existing membership of 12,000 information professionals," said SLA Executive Director Janice R. Lachance. "Australia and New Zealand are important to the SLA community because they represent a very strategic area of the world. We must continue to grow globally, and establishing a chapter there just makes sense for the Association and for the worldwide community of information professionals."

The chapter acquired 48 members in its first four weeks of existence and is expected to continue to grow rapidly.