Submitted by Joan Zivich
Lacera Memorial Library, Community Hospital, Munster, IN
The Indiana Health Science Librarians Association 2008 Meeting was held in Martin House in Indianapolis, April 10-11. The theme of the meeting was "Don't Hesitate! Innovate: Transforming the Future of Medical Librarians."
The meeting kicked off with a (free to members) 4 hour CE on "Health Literacy: You Can't Tell by Looking" presented by Melinda Orebaugh. Attendees learned of the magnitude and ramifications of the lack of health literacy in the United States and much helpful information on what we, as medical librarians, can do to help with this issue.
After the meeting, attendees were whisked by bus to the Indianapolis Museum of Art for a guided tour of haute couture and a visit to the gift shop. This interesting event was followed by a group dinner at Russia House, where the group enjoyed fellowship and tasting intriguing Russian salads, soups, main dishes, and desserts while we listened to balalaika music.
The next day began at 7:00 a.m. with a delicious breakfast buffet and a presentation by Melinda Orebaugh "Don't Pave the Cow Path: The Future or Medical Librarians" where we were urged to engage the world, empower people, think more ambitiously, and take risks. We were also treated to Wisconsin cow pies, which turn out to be giant caramel and nut candies covered in dark chocolate. Melinda enlightened us and turned us into cow pie consumers at the same time! Melinda's presentation was followed by a panel discussion about the evolving skills of librarians and how they can be applied to various situations.
We had ample time during the meeting to interact with our vendors during a break in the exhibit room and at lunch. We were able to learn about many new products and services that are being offered by our vendors.
Then, we had a presentation on the use of new technologies in the health care setting. Christina Creech Wray presented on the various aspects of creating and maintaining a blog, while Chuck LeGuern presented on the practical use of a wiki in his hospital. We also had updates from NN/LM GMR, MEDLINEplus, INCLOSA, and IU SLIS, which were quite informative.
These additional looks at our future were followed by the business meeting. Scott Loman was given the IHSLA Ovation Award. The Ovation Award was established in 2005 to "honor a member who has made outstanding professional contributions impacting IHSLA their individual library, and/or the provision of health information." Scott has been the IHSLA treasurer for many years, has hosted the annual meeting, and has initiated innovative programs at his hospital. Scott received $100.00, a beautiful award, and a letter will be sent to his supervisor. This was an especially fun award as Scott serves on the executive committee (which picks the winner,) and writes the checks as treasurer, but he was kept in the dark by the other officers and was totally surprised!