Revisiting we are MLA: an exploration of member engagement and commitment with the Medical Library Association’s caucuses

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/jmla.2026.2183

Keywords:

Medical Library Association, Health Science Librarians, Community Engagement, Organizational Commitment, Professional organizations, organizational change, library association management

Abstract

In 2019 the Medical Library Association (MLA) transitioned to a community structure composed of caucuses. Four years after the transition, the 2023-2024 MLA Rising Stars cohort was asked to investigate how the caucuses were currently functioning and any challenges to their sustainability. This Special Paper will describe the study conducted by the Rising Stars cohort, and its research findings. Preliminary recommendations include greater standardization of annual reporting, additional guidance and discussion forums for caucus leadership, and an increase in events focused on professional development, networking, and information sharing such as those held during Experience MLA.

Author Biographies

Rachel Whitney, AHIP, Medical University of South Carolina

Research and Education Informationist, MUSC Libraries

 

Kimberly R. Powell, AHIP, Auburn University

Health and Life Sciences Librarian, Auburn University Libraries

Michelle Keba Knecht, AHIP, Florida Atlantic University

Senior Medical Librarian and Head of the Medical and Health Sciences Collection and User Services Department, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine

Rachel Lane Walden, Vanderbilt University

Assistant Director for Research and Education Services, Annette and Irwin Eskind Family Biomedical Library and Learning Center

References

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Published

2026-02-17

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Section

Special Paper