Sara Laughlin (MLS ’72) will serve as the next vice-president/president-elect of the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA). The announcement was featured on ASCLA’s blog last month. A division of the American Library Association (ALA), ASCLA’s membership includes librarians who work in state library agencies and consortia, consultants, and those who serve people with disabilities. Ms. Laughlin is a longtime member of ASCLA and has already made valuable contributions through committee service, presentations to ASCLA members, organizing several successful programs, and serving as editor of the ASCLA newsletter. The ASCLA blog described Vice President Laughlin’s goals:

“In her new leadership role, Laughlin hopes to provide strong and creative leadership that will tap into ASCLA members’ deep commitment to the library mission, as well as their strong expertise and broad professional networks—three unique attributes of ASCLA members that will help the division evolve in the face of rapid changes in publishing, technology and funding.”

Ms. Laughlin has also had much success outside of her work with ASCLA. SLIS alumni from 1979-1980 remember her service as Director of Admissions for the school. She is now the Director of the Monroe County Public Library in Bloomington; she has also been a frequent speaker at SLIS career forum sessions. In 2011, the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce bestowed on her their lifetime achievement award. Congratulations to Sara Laughlin on her many accomplishments and thanks to her for her contributions to the profession!

Posted June 20, 2012