Diane Fagen is Library Assistant at UIC Crawford Library of the Health Sciences – Rockford.
How did you first learn about HSLI and become a member? What were your expectations when you joined?
When I became a nursing school librarian in 1978, the hospital librarian affiliated with the nursing school told me about HSLI. Her name was Pru Dalrymple. Having come from a public library, I was new to health sciences libraries, so I was hopeful that I would meet individuals and learn of continuing education that would help me in my new position.
What is the most significant change you have observed in HSLI during your time as a member?
Because I have been a member only intermittently, as I have changed jobs into other fields–law, veterinary, finance, etc.–I needed to join other organizations that were more appropriate to my various fields, so I am not immediately conversant with changes. I have just re-joined for this year.
What is the most worthwhile or memorable experience you have had as an HSLI member?
In 1978 or 1979, Rockford Memorial Hospital (Rockford, IL) hosted the conference. One of the continuing ed. classes (“Statistics for Libraries”) was taught by Art Hafner. Memorable!
Another more recent meeting had a presenter who discussed copyright, but, unfortunately, she had misinformation and in answering a question gave an entirely incorrect answer. Also memorable!
How has your involvement in HSLI affected you, professionally and personally?
Networking has been useful, and learning about the different ways in which health science libraries are organized and operate has been interesting.
What is one aspect of HSLI that you believe makes it truly unique as a library organization?
While it is certainly structured, it has a more egalitarian feel, and seems to me to be more democratic and inclusive.