Who is Shannon Gordon, and what role does she currently hold within the NLHLA?

Shannon Gordon is the current President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries Association (NLHLA). Her leadership is vital as the NLHLA navigates through various transitions and updates within its member base. As President, she guides the association, ensuring that it continues to advance healthcare through access to quality information, especially during periods of change within the healthcare landscape and library services.

What contributions did George Beckett make during his tenure at Memorial University's Health Sciences Library?

George Beckett, during his time at Memorial University's Health Sciences Library, served as a cornerstone of the library, profoundly impacting the university community. He served as Associate University Librarian (Health Sciences) since 1991. His contributions included shaping library collections, implementing innovative technologies, and fostering a collaborative environment. George's dedication to Memorial University spanned several decades, beginning in 1981, and his accomplishments reflected his commitment to advancing library services and supporting the academic community.

How does the NLHLA support healthcare professionals, and how does this relate to the roles of its members?

The Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries Association (NLHLA) supports healthcare professionals by providing access to quality information. This support is crucial for advancing healthcare. The roles and responsibilities of NLHLA members are evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing information environment. NLHLA members are essential in providing access to information, supporting research, and aiding the public, thereby directly impacting healthcare.

In what ways did George Beckett's career exemplify dedication to the field of health librarianship?

George Beckett's career exemplified dedication to health librarianship through his long-term commitment to Memorial University, beginning in 1981, and his impactful service until his retirement on December 31, 2011. His role as Associate University Librarian (Health Sciences) since 1991, demonstrates his expertise and leadership. He was pivotal in shaping the library's collections, implementing innovative technologies, and fostering a collaborative environment. His dedication is further shown through his support for students, faculty, and researchers. His legacy continues to inspire librarians.

What is the significance of the transitions of George Beckett and Sue Fahey within the context of the NLHLA?

The transitions of George Beckett and Sue Fahey are significant because they exemplify the dedication and expertise that define the NLHLA. These transitions highlight the evolving nature of the NLHLA and the ongoing commitment of its members. George Beckett's retirement marks the end of an era, and Sue Fahey's advancement shows how individuals contribute to the association's growth. Their stories are an inspiration and underscore the commitment to advancing access to quality information and supporting the healthcare community.

Interconnected library shelves symbolizing the knowledge transition and adaptation within Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries.

Navigating Change: Updates and Transitions in Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries

Nico Varela in Mind & Education August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Explore the latest shifts and milestones within Newfoundland and Labrador's health libraries as members adapt to new roles and challenges."

The Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries Association (NLHLA) is a dynamic network of professionals dedicated to advancing healthcare through access to quality information. As the healthcare landscape evolves, so do the roles and responsibilities of its members. This article shines a spotlight on recent personnel moves and career milestones within the NLHLA, reflecting the ongoing commitment to excellence and adaptation within the library community.

Change is a constant in the world of library science, particularly within specialized fields like health. Libraries serve as cornerstones of knowledge, supporting healthcare professionals, researchers, and the public. To effectively meet the demands of a rapidly changing information environment, librarians must be adaptable, innovative, and ready to embrace new challenges.

This article highlights the recent transitions of George Beckett and Sue Fahey, two prominent members of the Newfoundland and Labrador health library community. Their career paths reflect a dedication to the field and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. Additionally, we acknowledge the contributions of Shannon Gordon, current NLHLA President, whose leadership guides the association through these transitions.

Celebrating Retirement: George Beckett's Legacy at Memorial University

Interconnected library shelves symbolizing the knowledge transition and adaptation within Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries.

On December 31, 2011, George Beckett retired from Memorial University's Health Sciences Library, marking the end of an era. His career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to library services and his profound impact on the university community. Throughout his tenure, George served as a cornerstone of the library, supporting countless students, faculty, and researchers in their pursuit of knowledge.

George's contributions extend far beyond the day-to-day operations of the library. He played a pivotal role in shaping its collections, implementing innovative technologies, and fostering a collaborative environment. His leadership and expertise have left an indelible mark on the library and the broader university community.

Associate University Librarian: George served as Associate University Librarian (Health Sciences) since 1991, demonstrating his expertise and leadership in the field.
Service to Memorial: His dedication to Memorial University spanned several decades, beginning in 1981, showcasing his long-term commitment to the institution.
Accomplishments: George's career is filled with numerous accomplishments, reflecting his dedication to advancing library services and supporting the academic community.

George's retirement marks the end of a chapter, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of librarians. His commitment to excellence, his passion for knowledge, and his unwavering support for the academic community have set a high standard for those who follow in his footsteps.

Embracing New Roles: Sue Fahey's Advancement and the Future of NLHLA

As the NLHLA continues to evolve, it is crucial to recognize the contributions of its members and to celebrate their achievements. The transitions of George Beckett and Sue Fahey exemplify the dedication and expertise that define the association. Their stories serve as an inspiration to all who work in the field of health librarianship. The future of NLHLA rests on the shoulders of dedicated professionals who are committed to advancing access to quality information and supporting the healthcare community.