SLA has established requirements and guidelines for student groups, which are abbreviated in this guide for clarity and conciseness.
The SLA Student Group Manual is a 2017 guide published by the Special Libraries Association for prospective and current student group officers and faculty advisors. It explains what SLA student groups are, the petition process for establishing a new group, governance and reporting requirements, bylaws, funding, and officer roles.
It also covers digital presence through email, websites, and social media, along with event and project planning. The manual closes with a calendar of required and suggested student activities, additional resources, and appendices listing useful contacts and web links.
Five or more student members of SLA enrolled in an LIS degree program may petition SLA to establish a group; all petition signers must be dues-paying SLA members.
Student groups must submit a report by November 30 with plans for the academic year, and a report by May 15 with an annual report and member list.
As of 2016, each student group in good standing receives $100.00 per year from SLA; the amount is determined by the SLA Board of Directors.
The President is responsible for the overall management, leadership, and direction of the group.