History of Kansas Library Association

	Annie LaPorte Diggs Kansas State Librarian, circa 1900? [Courtesy of The Kansas State Historical Society, Topeka]

Annie LaPorte Diggs invited a group of citizens to discuss library matters. On May 17, 1900 this group called a meeting for the purpose of organizing a state library association. The organizational meeting was held in the offices of the state librarian on Dec. 27-28, 1900, with 23 librarians in attendance. James L. King of Topeka was elected the first president. Dues were set at 50 cents.

An earlier organization by the same name had been hastily organized in 1891 for the purpose of meeting a trainload of distinguished ALA leaders, including R.R. Bowker and Charles Cutter. The membership consisted of four Topekans and disbanded after 48 hours.

The association has met annually with the exception of 1918, when the nationwide flu epidemic caused a cancellation and 1943, when wartime travel restrictions caused KLA to forgo a meeting.

Sections and roundtables have been a part of KLA since at least 1911, when two sectional meetings were held: one for college and reference librarians, the other for public librarians. Other sections or round tables organized included the Junior Members (1936), catalogers (1941), children's librarians (1948), and special librarians (1952). 
 

KLA Presidents 1900 - Present

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

"A Distinguished Past, A Dynamic Future"

Kansas Library Association celebrated its centennial during 2000.   Events included publication of a book of library and KLA history, Shining the Light, researched and written by Robert Richmond, retired assistant director of the Kansas State Historical Society; the making of a centennial quilt; a traveling exhibit on the history of Kansas libraries; recognition of major benefactors of libraries in all communities of the state; and a Centennial Bash at Tri-Conference 2000.

The Centennial Bash took place at the Boathouse in Wichita and featured a buffet meal. The after-dinner program included Professor Joan Stone in a portrayal of "The Populist March of Annie Diggs". Diggs, the State Librarian who called the meeting which resulted in the formation of the Kansas Library Association, is a fascinating figure who was one of the state's major Populist leaders and suffragette. At the time of her appointment, she was the highest ranking female state official in the state's history.

Other program highlights included the unveiling of the traveling exhibit, the centennial quilt, and Robert Richmond's book; the recognition of donors to the KLA centennial celebration; and recognition of former KLA presidents.  20 former KLA presidents were in attendance, including Jerome Cushman, who served in 1950-51.

The Centennial Bash concluded with live music, a cash bar, a gourmet dessert buffet, and a dance.

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Last modified: 27 October 2008