MISSION & HISTORY

Southern Lit Alliance (So Lit) is a longstanding literary arts organization in Chattanooga, Tennessee originally established along with twelve other agencies by a Ford Foundation grant in 1952. The organization has undergone several name changes as the mission grew and developed.  We were previously known at the Arts and Education Council until 2012.

We know that the literary arts embody the whole of human experience in every time and place. Through extensive programming, outreach, and stewardship, we connect individuals and entire communities with the uplifting power of literary arts.  Each year we serve over 6,000 adults and children in the community.

With the prominent use of the internet, research is showing a change in the way our brains comprehend information.  On the internet, users browse articles and often don't read the complete piece, but move on to another.  This is affecting our critical thinking skills, ability to concentrate, and to analyze complicated subjects. Now more than ever, we need to encourage children and adults to "hit the books."  Research has also shown people who read literature are more empathic, a result of seeing issues and problems through the characters thoughts. 

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Our Mission:

To deliver literary arts experiences that encourage people to read and to write.

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Our Vision:

Establishing Chattanooga as a national model for engaging everyone to be passionate readers and writers.

Contact Us

We are located in the Arts Building

301 E. 11th St. Suite 301

Chattanooga, TN 37403

423-267-1218

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Lynda LeVan, Executive Director