MISSION & HISTORY
Founded in 1952, SoLit has become an essential literary arts hub for Chattanooga. Begun by a grant from the Ford Foundation, the organization has evolved over the years from various art programs to a focus on literature and writing. Recently known as Southern Lit Alliance, the organization delivers literary arts experiences that engage young people and adults in a life-long love of reading, writing, and community conversation. SoLit shares stories that matter. We serve over 6,000 adults and children each year through literature festivals, author visits, writing workshops, writing contests for children, and outreach to area jails and underserved communities.
In the last decade, research has found a change in how our brains comprehend information after the advent of the internet, making concentration and critical thinking more difficult as we constantly scan information. Fortunately, the benefits of reading literature and writing are far-reaching and include improved critical thinking skills, empathy for others, vocabulary, writing ability, imagination, and cultural literacy. Literature is vital to our community and has the incomparable power to inspire, connect, and uplift. As the internet and social media have garnered a large part of our time, it is more important than ever to reach the next generation with the power of the literary arts.
Our Mission:
To deliver literary arts experiences that engage young people and adults in a life-long love of reading, writing and community conversation.
Our Vision:
Engage everyone in our community as 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
Lynda LeVan, Executive Director
