Professional Association Electronic Publishing for You

Stephen A. Kershner, MLA Executive Director

Libraries and librarians are all about communication. Communication in the 21st Century is about computers. Libraries and computers are natural partners in linking people with information. What better way to communicate writings on issues and topics important to people dedicating careers, avocations and volunteerism to libraries and librarianship than through the digital medium of electronic publishing?

An important function of an association is providing a central place for investigation and discussion of topics and issues of interest to members. A long time publisher of an association newsletter, MLA has also offered to members and the library community print publications ranging from monographs and bibliographies to reports and directories. These publications have filled specific needs for librarians and libraries to share information.

Now MLA brings to reality another need sought by members--the Michigan Library Association Forum: sponsored by the Academic & Research Library Division. This E-Journal will offer an on-line opportunity to provide and disseminate articles of interest to association members and the library community. The e-journal provides a cost-effective format and distribution avenue to address issues beyond the scope of a newsletter and fits nicely with MLA print documents and the MLA web site.

The MLA Forum will increase member participation and offer publishing opportunities while addressing issues and topics of interest in a timely fashion. A key to the success of this e-journal will be widespread participation and collaboration by MLA members and colleagues. I urge my colleagues to take advantage of this opportunity to utilize a new communications venue. Submit an article for consideration soon.

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