Southern California access services unites with CLASS

In the past, Southern California’s library access services professionals in higher education had to travel across the country for professional development and networking opportunities, but this is no longer the case. Now, through California Library Access Services South (CLASS), Southern California’s Access Services professionals can network, collaborate, and learn from each other closer to home. Planning for this regional access services-focused organization began in February of 2018 and in May 2019 CLASS held its inaugural event. The CLASS event was well attended by both librarians and staff from public and private institutions across Southern California. Event evaluation feedback was overwhelmingly positive and reflected a strong interest in future participation and continued programing. This article will discuss the need for CLASS, process of establishing the organization, event planning and assessment, and the future of CLASS.