Since joining HSLI, I have appreciated the conferences, ad hoc workshops, community support, “Member of the Quarter” recognition, and every other opportunity offered to me. I am a better librarian today because of HSLI. It is an honor to serve as your President, and I thank each of you for your efforts and commitments, including your valuable time. Additionally, I want to thank Past President Eric Edwards for his support during this time of transition and Treasurer Jonna Peterson for her continued work to maintain our tax-exempt status and all financial affairs.
As you know, the Legislative Committee continues to track federal and state legislation of importance to health sciences and medical librarians. After many years of service, Carmen Howard stepped down as co-chair. I am pleased to announce that Isabel Ryan (tracking federal legislation) is Cara Forster’s (tracking state legislation) new co-chair. Thank you both for your work on this committee! And thank you to Carmen Howard, who has co-chaired this committee since May 2016!
It’s hard to believe another year has passed so quickly. That means it is time to renew your membership to HSLI, a member-drive organization. That makes the new year a great time to consider what you hope to gain from your HSLI membership. If there are topics you’d like to learn more about, please share those with me. I am guessing we may have members with that expertise who would be willing to share during an ad hoc webinar. If you are searching for a stronger community connection, please consider attending the informal “Coffee and Conversation” gatherings that Secretary Frances Drone-Silver (Frances.drone-silvers (at) carle (dot) com) graciously hosts. There is no agenda, and these networking opportunities are not recorded. She invites you to bring your wins, losses, and challenges to share. The next meeting is January 16. One topic of discussion might be how we you are doing with the new EBSCOhost interface. Also, the 2025 Conference Planning Committee has held its first meeting. Thank you to those who completed conference surveys. As always, we strive to make this year’s meeting as accessible and meaningful as possible.
If you have any questions, ideas, comments, or anything else, please do not hesitate to contact me at esterner (at) niu (dot) edu.
I wish you all a healthy and happy 2025.
Elizabeth (Betsy) Sterner
2024-2026 HSLI President