Cynthia McClellan
Wow! Have you found yourself humming the tune “Let it Snow,” as I have? With record-setting snowfall, 2010 certainly has supplied plenty of “winter wonderland” so far. And, while the snow may have kept us indoors—and often telecommuting—this period of quiet has provided the opportunity to recharge. For me, the winter has provided the time to clear out some clutter, complete existing projects, learn a few new things, and also to consider and plan new undertakings. And although (as of this writing) we are still chilled by Punxsutawney Phil’s shadow, the first inklings of spring are all around. To the first fat robin I saw in my yard last week, to the commencement of the Flower Show, it surely won’t be very long before our crocuses start popping up.
It is my pleasure to report that the Board has discussed the topic of merger with another MLA Chapter at length. We were unanimous in our desire to remain as we are for the foreseeable future. While we may be a small chapter, we are certainly a unique and lively organization, headquartered in a historically significant location, abundant in healthcare information resources and leaders.
In other Board news, we welcome Christina Daley to the Board (Director, Health Sciences Library at Lancaster General Health) as Development Co-Chair. Christina volunteered for this position in response to a request from Development Chair Ellen Justice in advance of her maternity leave. Thanks to you both for your contributions, and for coordinating the sharing of these duties. (And of course, we all extend Ellen and her family the happiest of wishes with their new bundle of joy!)
I also want again to say how much I appreciate our Board members for all of their “thankless” work. Their innumerable “behind the scenes” efforts greatly benefit our Chapter. I am very grateful for everyone’s recent hard work on revamping our organizational Policies & Procedures Manual as a dynamic wiki. Progress on updating this publication is moving swiftly, and we anticipate that it will be very helpful to us and to future Boards of Directors. Sincere thanks to all of you!
Additionally, I am pleased to report that:
- The final financials on 3 by the Sea have been issued. An astounding $18,150 was gained in overall profits, translating to $3993 (22%) for our Philadelphia Chapter–a very nice boost to our Treasury!
- We are offering a $500 Continuing Education grant this year to one of our members.
- We were able to contribute $2000 in support of the Middle Atlantic Region of NN/LM’s important study on “The Value of Library and Information Services in Patient Care.”
- Furthermore, we have pledged our support and participation for an upcoming series of MAR Leadership Institutes, to be coordinated among three Mid-Atlantic Region Chapters: NY/NJ, UNY/OC (Upstate New York and Ontario Chapter) and our Chapter. Anne Seymour will serve on the Planning Committee. (Details will follow as they become available.)
In closing, I would like to remind you to visit MLAPhil.org for updates and events. We will be hosting an MLA Distance Education Webcast on March 24th, entitled “Understanding the Electronic Health Record Maze and Health Sciences Librarians’ Roles” <http://www.mlaphil.org/wp/ce/2010/02/18/ehr-webcast-will-be-march-24th/>. We will also be posting details on our upcoming Annual Meeting, which is shaping up to be an informative and sumptuous event. And, as ever, I urge you to become involved through volunteering with our organization. It’s a great way to do something worthwhile for our profession, and to get to know some of your wonderful colleagues. Curious? I welcome any questions you might have—feel free to contact me any time.
Wishing everyone a safe and happy winter’s end, and a wonderful new spring beginning (soon)!
Cynthia McClellan
Chair, 2009-2010
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