RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Library of Virginia has been approved as the newest member of the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries (ASERL), a significant opportunity that expands Virginia’s role in one of the nation’s most active regional research library consortia. The announcement follows a vote of ASERL’s membership at its Fall 2025 meeting, where the organization welcomed the Library of Virginia into its growing community of research institutions.  

Founded in 1956, ASERL brings together leading research libraries across the Southeast to advance shared goals in resource sharing, professional development and collaborative innovation. With the addition of the Library of Virginia, the consortium now includes more than three dozen institutions committed to expanding access to knowledge and improving services for researchers, students, and the public. 

“We are most pleased to have the Library of Virginia rejoin our tight-knit community of research libraries,” commented Leslie Sharp, president of ASERL’s Board of Directors and dean of libraries at Georgia Tech.  “LVA is unique among state library agencies, holding vast collections of unique and rare materials dating back to our country’s earliest days.  We are confident this will be a mutually beneficial partnership for years to come.” 

As a member of ASERL, the Library of Virginia will participate in shared programs that support professional growth, strengthen digital and print resource networks and foster new partnerships with peer institutions.  

“We are honored to join ASERL and look forward to contributing to the consortium’s longstanding commitment to excellence,” said Librarian of Virginia Dennis T. Clark. “This membership aligns with our mission to preserve Virginia’s history, support lifelong learning and expand access to information for all Virginians. We are excited to collaborate with colleagues across the Southeast on initiatives that enhance research, digital access and public engagement.” 

The Library of Virginia serves as the Commonwealth’s library and archives, preserving more than 134 million collection items and supporting libraries, researchers, educators, and the public statewide. Membership in ASERL will further extend the Library’s ability to collaborate regionally and contribute to national conversations about library innovation. 

For more information about the Library of Virginia, visit www.lva.virginia.gov. To learn more about ASERL, visit www.aserl.org. 

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ABOUT THE LIBRARY OF VIRGINIA  

The Library of Virginia is the leading source of information on Virginia’s history, government and people. The Library’s collections, containing more than 134 million items, document and illustrate the lives of both famous Virginians and ordinary citizens. Our online resources draw nearly 2 million website visits per year, and our on-site records, exhibitions and events bring in thousands of visitors annually. The Library is located in downtown Richmond near Capitol Square at 800 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23219. Learn more at www.lva.virginia.gov. 

ABOUT ASERL 

Founded in 1956, ASERL is one of the largest of regional research library consortia in the United States and recognized as a national leader in cooperative research library programming. ASERL provides highly acclaimed programming, cultivates important conversations, and nurtures relationships among library leaders in the Southeast. By working together, ASERL members provide and maintain unique, top-quality resources and services for the students, faculty, and citizens of their respective communities.  ASERL is housed within the Robert W. Woodruff Library at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Learn more at www.aserl.org.