deep in the heart of

ARCHIVES

April 29–May 2, 2026

Waco, Texas and Virtually via Zoom Events

An archive is more than a collection of documents, books, and media. These materials are processed, exhibited, and stewarded by the dedicated individuals who make up our profession. At the heart of every archive is an archivist. Whether you’re a lone arranger or part of a team, archivists are passionate, resourceful, and ready to help. For this year's conference, we want to focus on the library, archive, and museum professionals that contribute to this amazing work. Please join us in Waco to find out what's “deep in the heart” of your colleagues. Tell us what you are passionate about in your collections and what issues matter to you. Discuss how we as archivists can help each other. Share with us your fears and concerns and let's encourage a sense of mutual support and community. Do what you do best by sharing what you know and love with folks throughout our region and beyond.

Session proposals are welcome on any subject, training, or topic relevant to library, archive, and museum professions. Proposals will be evaluated on the completeness of the description, the originality of the topic, and the diversity of speakers. Abstracts outlining presentations should be 200 words or less.

The 2026 Annual Meeting will be held both in-person in Waco, Texas, and virtually, allowing for broader participation and engagement.

Proposals must be submitted no later than Friday, November 21, 2025. Click here to submit your proposal.

The Program Committee invites submissions in the following formats:

• Panel Discussion

A traditional session with three or four speakers, each giving 15 to 20 minute presentations on a single theory or perspective on a given topic, followed by time for questions. One of the speakers should act as a moderator or session chair.

• Roundtable Discussion

A roundtable discussion consists of one to three presentations of 10 minutes each that describe a theory, issue, or initiative followed by small group discussions where participants and speakers share ideas. A session chair is not required.

• Lightning Talks

A large panel of eight to ten speakers that deliver five minute talks on a common theme or issue, keeping a lively pace and sharing relevant take-away ideas. A session chair is required to compile presentation materials and maintain the time schedule.

• Skills Training

Are you a whiz at making phase boxes? Do you have advanced Excel skills or other technical expertise? Share your skills with other members in a mini-workshop setting. Focus on one or two skills that can be shared in a 60 or 90-minute session. Skills training sessions should have one or two speakers. Proposals should include details of the speaker’s relevant experience or training.

• Lunch Meetings/Discussion

Are you part of a state or local archival organization that would like to meet up at SSA? Want to start a book club or a study group? Get your special interest in the program to reach more potential members.

Have a session idea and are looking for other folks with the same interests? Use our 2026 Annual Meeting Proposal Connector Spreadsheet to build sessions with other folks in the region. 

Click here to submit your proposal. Have a question? Email us at program@southwestarchivists.org.

Please note conference registration is required for presenters whose proposals are accepted. 

Join us in Waco as we explore what’s deep in the heart of archives!