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SIRLS is off the elimination list

I am elated to report that the School of Information Resources and Library Science (SIRLS) has been removed from the "proposed elimination list" As you know, SIRLS was one of 16 programs in the University proposed for elimination in the wake of major budget cuts last January. SIRLS prepared a comprehensive business plan that describes the means for SIRLS to achieve a measure of self-sufficiency. That plan, together with sustained and vocal support from alumni, employers, students, colleagues and organizations around the country led the President and Provost to remove SIRLS from the elimination list.

In a statement listing the strengths of the school they said: We are aware of the several strengths: demand for the program within the state, the region and the nation; the programs excellence in serving university diversity goals; and the intellectual synergies with information science and technology overall...we have reached the conclusion that SIRLS should not be eliminated, and that it shouldretain its academic home in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences."

This could not have happened without the support of the Arizona State Library (GladysAnn Wells), the efforts of Carla Stoffle, Dean of the Libraries and Center for Creative Photography at the University of Arizona, and a host of supporters who wrote letters to President Likins, Provost Davis, the Legislature and the Board of Regents.

As we knew they would, supporters quickly organized by starting a fund raising campaign, and students were extremely visible and vocal at Open Forums on campus! Their professionalism in all of this makes us proud.

A loyal group of SAVE SIRLS supporters met weekly to assess the situation and plan the gala J.A. Jance Benefit Dinner for this Saturday evening. The debt we owe this group is immeasureable! We raised over $15,000 for scholoarships, a wonderful accomplishment.