A Brief History: The 1980's

Changes in the professional environment in which health science librarians practice probably impacted upon our members and the Chapter more heavily in the 1980s than in any other decade. Some of these forces were technological developments, such as the microcomputer and telefacsimile; some new on-line adaptations applicable to library and information science-DOCLINE, CDROM, IAIMS; some were in health care and administration-DRGs, Consumer health information, and the expanding role of librarians in hospital politics and academic affairs. These and many other factors affected the speakers and discussions at our meetings, and the exhibits, CE courses and learning laboratories offered there. Our first joint meeting (with MidContinental Chapter) was held in 1980.

Additionally, there were many activities of the Medical Library Association that had Chapter repercussions, most notable the establishment of the Chapter Council (Dana McDonald was our first  representative in 1981-82); the credential discussions which led to setting up the Academy of Health Information Professionals; and the Strategic Plan. Partly due to the increased professionalism and assertiveness of our leaders and members alike, we found ourselves more willing to raise issues and react to things we saw presented to us, often acting more independently of MLA from a position of strength, particularly in regard to using our funds outside the Chapter's interests. However, forums on MLA and RML became a regular part of annual meetings. Professional relationships remain close, although technically Chapter members do not have to be affiliated with either organization.

Aware that worsening economic conditions affecting health care institutions made it impossible for many members to attend annual meetings on a regular basis, the Board continued its efforts to increase the effectiveness of MIDLINE as a communications vehicle. A task force in the late 1980s addressed the role of our representatives-at-large as they represent members in our nine state region: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio and Wisconsin. A mail survey on annual meeting sites was taken. Membership cards and a brochure were developed, and a banner was designed to be displayed at meetings.

A wrenching experience for the Chapter was the tragic death in mid-term in 1989 of our president, Bill Leavens. The Board was able to pull together under Sharon Phillips and we survived a difficult time.