What have you done for me lately? - Executive Outlook

Information Outlook, August, 2002

In this month's message, I want to share some of what I presented at the annual business meeting in June. What SLA has done for its members over the past year includes the introduction of a wide array of new products and services, with many more to come. To view the full presentation made at the annual business meeting, visit the Executive Director Corner at www.sla.org.

In Strategic Learning, our focus has been on balancing distance and residence learning. Realizing that travel budgets are limited, we are revitalizing the HQ-chapter partnership to deliver high-quality, affordable learning in your locality. In Career Services, not only can you search and post jobs, but a new portal houses articles and guides pertinent to your career. And the Career Disruption Assistance Program includes a network of career mentors.

The Knowledge Exchange was redesigned to integrate information, knowledge, research and content into an almost exclusively Web-based service. The KEx is the gateway to SLA's virtual community of members. We ask that you get involved in this summer's member-refer-a-member campaign, as the expansion of the membership base will only enhance the number one benefit of SLA membership--networking!

Our publications and marketing materials have a look and feel that are reflective of the vitality of the profession. Through our award-winning magazine, we have created links between our members and high-profile and influential business and academic leaders. This past year, we have been published in more than 25 media outlets. In Public Policy, we have been active with the $10 million librarian education initiative; the European Union's Digital Rights Management; the Copyright Term Extension Act; and UCITA.

We have enhanced many online services. The conference planner and discussion lists have been upgraded. When you refer a member or renew your dues, you can do so online. The online dues system is long overdue but now a reality. The Online Who's Who allows you to search your network of colleagues, create directories and download contact files.

The annual conference was witness to the depth of our membership and profession. With more than 300 programs, unrivaled networking experiences, thought leaders and the INFO-EXPO, we attracted more than 4,600 participants. The Virtual Association Series was created to reach information professionals who could not attend in person. And it gets better each year. Next year's keynotes include Pulitzer Prize winner David McCullough, futurist Stuart Brand and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright.

As we all know, this past year has been extraordinary in ways we could never have imagined. All that has been accomplished could not have been possible without the dedication and strength of our leadership, staff, corporate partners and membership. When I first came to SLA, I was amazed at the level of commitment shown by the membership. That feeling has stayed with me for more than 12 years. Let's celebrate this feeling and remember to appreciate the connection this association brings to our lives.