Our Story

Founded in 1923 as the Civics Group, we rank as SLA’s second oldest division. Our members are librarians and information professionals working in foundations, associations, universities, research organizations, corporations, law firms, all levels of government, and international agencies and organizations.

Sections

There are five sections within the Social Science Division, which provide an opportunity for networking and information exchange on a wide variety of topics.  If you have not already selected one of these sections and would like to join, use the SLA membership change form.

International Affairs Section

This section includes librarians who work in foreign relations, economic development, social issues, and peace and conflict management.  For more information about the International Affairs Section, email Ann Sweeney

Nonprofit Section

This section includes librarians who work with philanthropy, research, and special interests. For more information about the Nonprofit Section, email Sophia Guevara

Public Policy Section

This section includes libraries who work with policies and plans developed by governmental institutions and directed toward social needs and public problems, including topics such as health and human services, economics, urban affairs, employment and training, community development, aspects of the social safety net, and planning.  For more information about the Public Policy Section, email Matthew Von Hendy

Geography and Map Section

This section includes the professions of geography and map librarianship. as well as the production, procurement, processing, and utilization of geographic and cartographic materials. In 2003, the Geography and Map Division merged with the Social Science Division and became a section.  For more information about the Geography and Map Section, email Vanette Schwartz

Labor Issues Section

This section includes information professionals from labor unions, academic institutions, and research organizations concerned with industrial relations, social issues affecting workers, and broader issues of employment and the workplace around the world. Members have an interest in employment relationship issues, compensation and benefits, family labor issues, work arrangements, and workforce quality. The section provides an opportunity for sharing among those interested in related public policy, research, and legal issues. Members share a deep concern for archiving and preserving the records of the social history of the working person.  For more information about the Labor Section, email Larry Guthrie