On September 13, HSLS, the Regional Medical Library (RML) for the National Network of Libraries of Medicine, Middle Atlantic Region (NN/LM MAR), hosted a meeting for the Region’s Resource Library directors. The Middle Atlantic Region includes 29 Resource Libraries in Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania: 24 (including HSLS) are located in medical schools or other academic institutions, two in cancer specialty hospitals, two in large health systems, and three independent academy libraries. These libraries are named Resource Libraries based on quality, scope and size of collections, special strengths and uniqueness of collections, geographic location, and past record of participation as a resource library. Resource Libraries participate in resource sharing activities within the National Network.
Resource Libraries also assist the RML in planning, coordinating and implementing a variety of Network and outreach programs. At the meeting, Renae Barger, NN/LM MAR executive director, presented an overview of the 2011–2016 program, including planned Network and outreach activities, funding opportunities and funding structure. Barbara Epstein, NN/LM MAR director, presented an overview of the advisory structure and the role of Resource Libraries. The library directors had an opportunity to discuss and provide input into planned NN/LM MAR activities.
Mary Lou Klem, HSLS reference librarian and co-investigator for the Value of Libraries Study, gave an update on the study and discussed future directions for the project. Martha Fishel, NLM, chief, Public Services Division, ended the meeting with a discussion of NLM’s program to ensure the preservation and continued access to historical literature through a new national cooperative medical journals print retention program.
NN/LM MAR has a talented group of Resource Library directors. The services they provide to the Network, and their guidance and support of the NN/LM MAR program are indispensible.
~ Renae Barger