April 28–May 1, 2027

Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Virtually via Zoom Events

Theme: Drilling Deeper Into Archives 

When you think of an archive what comes to mind? Perhaps you think of some of the traditional definitions; records of continuing value, primary sources, and an organization that collects said records of continuing value and primary sources. Now, what are some of the other aspects of an archive? For this year’s conference, we invite you to explore and investigate those aspects of archives that may complement, replace, or expand some of those traditional definitions of archives! Tell us about: partnerships you are engaging in, discoveries you are making or have made, programs you are redesigning or reassessing, confronting institutional debt, or anything else that explores the many layers of archives, archivists, and archiving! 

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 2027 Annual Meeting will be held both in-person in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and virtually, allowing for broader participation and engagement.

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 2027 Annual Meeting Proposal Connector Spreadsheet to build sessions with other folks in the region. 

Click here to submit your proposal by Friday, November 20. Have a question? Email us at program@southwestarchivists.org.

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

We can’t wait to see you in Tulsa and online as we drill deeper into archives!

Program Committee