Cooperation and Common Ground: 1 + 1 = 3

SBS and ALA are facing one of the most exciting and important steps forward in the evolution of both organizations. Each serves a uniquely different scientific niche, yet SBS and ALA members share more similarities than differences in terms of educational interests and organizational service priorities.

Over the years, SBS and ALA leaders and members have witnessed how strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations can yield progress and success that outpaces the momentum an individual organization can achieve on its own.

After nearly 18 months of extensive research, consideration and discussion, leadership teams from both SBS and ALA unanimously agree that sharing resources and influence will significantly advance the goals of both organizations. From enriching a shared portfolio of robust member programs to streamlining cost efficiencies, a merger of these two organizations promises increased leverage for maximizing opportunities and benefits today and tomorrow.

In the process, both SBS and ALA will retain their unique histories and continue to pursue their separate, but related, goals. While each individual section will focus on education and program development specific to its mission, the new merged organization (SLAS) will provide a supportive infrastructure to expand overall organizational scope, increase global influence, enhance membership diversity, streamline administrative efficiency and effectiveness, and ensure sound financial management.

This Web site outlines how the proposed merger between SBS and ALA into SLAS will work. In order for the proposed SBS-ALA merger to occur, SBS and ALA members must vote in favor of the Plan of Merger that was adopted by the SBS and ALA Boards of Directors. For the merger to become effective: (1) twenty percent (20%) of SBS's voting members must submit their vote, and two-thirds of those voting must vote to approve the merger; and (2) ten percent (10%) of ALA's voting members must submit their vote, and two-thirds of those voting must vote to approve the merger.

SBS and ALA members are strongly encouraged to read through the pages of this Web site and ask questions if anything is unclear or of concern.

This merger is earnestly and enthusiastically recommended by the SBS- and ALA-elected Boards of Directors. It is their hope that SBS and ALA members also will recognize and embrace this merger as an unprecedented opportunity to advance both organizations and the best interests of their members.