From Deborah Lauseng, 2009 Midwest Chapter President
Health Sciences Libraries, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
As we enter 2009, we are surrounded by all kinds of change. Some change brings hope. Some change is historic, like the inauguration of our first African-American president, Barack Obama. Some change will be challenging, particularly in light of the current economic environment. In the midst of change, whether positive or demanding, we have opportunities for rethinking our services and considering new initiatives.
Integrating new technologies into how we conduct our Midwest Chapter business may keep us from being hindered by shrinking budgets. Today's economics are impacting all of us. Due to increased travel costs and reduced (if not eliminated) travel funding, the Executive Board has had recent conversations about alternatives to our in-person spring board meeting. At the March 27 board meeting in Chicago we will be discussing these alternatives and possibly sampling online meeting software. Even the MLA Board is experimenting with web conferencing. As Plato wrote, "Necessity is the mother of invention."
Staying connected with one another during periods of challenging change is important. Knowing that beyond our individual institution or organization we have health sciences library colleagues at the state, regional and national levels also experiencing similar changes helps build support. Sharing solutions and innovations can lend to success by many. ConnectMidwest and MIDLINE, as well as state organization blogs and newsletters, are just some means of learning about how libraries are addressing change in their institutions. Take time to share how your library has responded to change, whether adjusting existing services or creating new initiatives.
Change is not always easy, though through change we can realize new prospects if we are willing to explore and share.