In this Issue:

From the Desk of the Editor

Membership Renewal Time!

MAHSLIN Education Committee Report

Annual Meeting Update

AHIP

Consumer Health Classes

People & Places

MLA’s Academy of Health Information Professionals Program: An Opportunity for Advancement

As health sciences librarians, our commitment to excellence is demonstrated daily in the high customer service standards we strive to maintain. As information professionals, we know that to maintain this service level, a commitment to lifelong learning is an integral part of our professional and personal development. Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned librarian, the Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP), Medical Library Association’s peer-reviewed credentialing program, can help you achieve your goals. The academy program recognizes your achievements in continuing education, teaching, publishing, research, and other contributions to the profession.

Why Join the Academy?
? Career Advancement: Credentialing is a tangible way to demonstrate a commitment to professional development to current and future employers. A 2001 MLA salary survey reported that the mean salary of academy members was 28.5% higher than non-academy respondents.
? Recognition: The Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and other organizations recognize academy membership as a necessary credential for health sciences librarians.
? Career Planning: The academy program is structured to help you plan your career goals through the use of portfolio development and mentors.
? Personal Achievement: Academy membership is a way to measure your career progress and give you pride in your accomplishments.

Why wait? Visit the academy’s Website at www.mlanet.org/academy/ for further information and downloadable applications, or contact Lisa C. Fried, MLA Professional Development, at 312.419.9094 x28 or mlapd2@mlahq.org.

With the Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP), your future is in your hands!

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Irish, MLS, AHIP
Credentialing Committee Member

MAHSLIN Network News

January 2005

Volume 25 (1)