Measures of excellence: the search for the gold standard.

Questions concerning some of the values we hold as librarians and the goals, standards, and other evaluation tools we derive from them are discussed in the context of the history of our profession and the present period of rapid change. The concepts of stable and changing paradigms and of "scientific communities" provide the foundation for consideration of how a changing conceptual framework can affect values and their application in the evaluation process. One of many possible scenarios for the future is briefly outlined to demonstrate how some traditional values may fare.     

Organizational change in the Medical Library Association: evolution of the continuing education program

"Change" is a critical dimension of contemporary experience. Library associations are not exempt, and they change in ways similar to other organizations. According to some authorities, four phases typify the process: diagnosis, design, implementation, and incorporation. Focusing on changes in the Medical Library Association's longstanding program of continuing education, the authors utilize the "phase framework" to chart that association's movement from a management system depending primarily upon volunteers to one in which professional staff figure prominently. The historical review serves a heuristic purpose for individuals and institutions in identifying characteristic features of the change process.     

Medical journals in Louisiana before the Civil War

This study, an historical survey of medical journals in Louisiana before the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, revealed that nine journals made an appearance during the period covered-all of them published in New Orleans. Of these, two were French language journals published by a French medical society. The others were all published by individuals rather than by professional societies. Medical practices, interests, and problems of the times were clearly reflected on the pages of the journals. It is evident that medical journalism reached a high plane in the era before the Civil War. Of the nine periodicals, only one emerged as a permanent publication after the War.     

Trends in nursing education and the school of nursing librarian

The history of nursing education in America is briefly told, with the growth of education in institutions of higher learning emphasized. Two trends in nursing education are paralleled by similar developments in nursing literature. The growth of scholarship in nursing is also noted. It is pointed out that nursing is a discipline in its own right, and that training for leadership is required. Continuing education programs are mentioned, together with the increase in nursing literature. Integrated libraries for the health sciences are recommended.