Carmen Howard is an Instructor and Regional Health Sciences Librarian at the University of Illinois Chicago’s Library of the Health Sciences-Peoria. She received her MSLS from the University of Kentucky and started her career working for OCLC. Howard has been a member of HSLI since 2013 and is currently Co-Chair of the Legislative Committee. She likes doing home improvement projects and spending lots of time with her family and dogs.
How did you first learn about HSLI and become a member? What were your expectations when you joined?
Not long after I started at the Library of the Health Sciences in Peoria, Jo Dorsch suggested I join HSLI. I wasn’t sure what to expect because I was new to health librarianship. Previously, I’d been active in only ALA.
What is the most significant change you have observed in HSLI during your time as a member?
It is a lot easier to attend meetings remotely now! When I first started attending Board meetings, I frequently called in and the sound was usually horrible. Now that we use meeting software and are all better at virtual meetings, I feel much more involved when I attend remotely.
What is the most worthwhile or memorable experience you have had as an HSLI member?
There have been a lot of them, but one that sticks out was a few years ago when I attended the Annual Conference in person (in Champaign). I chose to go on the Sunset Walk and tour The Early Intervention Clearinghouse Library. The weather and the walk were fabulous, the library was a little-known gem, and just chatting with colleagues was lovely.
How has your involvement in HSLI affected you, professionally and personally?
HSLI has given me the opportunity to expand my professional network, present a poster, learn about legislative issues, and connect in person with my friends and colleagues.
What is one aspect of HSLI that you believe makes it truly unique as a library organization?
It is such an easy organization in which to be truly involved. Your membership and work can have a real impact on the organization.