Symbolic illustration of health library transitions

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Health Libraries: Stories of Transition and Leadership

Soraya Malik in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Explore the recent transitions within the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries Association, highlighting key appointments and retirements shaping the future of health information services."

The Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries Association (NLHLA) has recently seen significant movement within its membership, reflecting the dynamic nature of the health information sector. These transitions mark both the end of long, dedicated careers and the beginning of new leadership roles, each contributing to the ongoing evolution of health library services in the region.

This article highlights some of the key updates within the NLHLA, celebrating the achievements of its members and providing insights into the individuals who are shaping the future of health libraries in Newfoundland and Labrador. From retirements to new appointments, these changes reflect the continuous growth and adaptation within the association.

Understanding these transitions provides valuable context for anyone involved in health sciences, information management, or library services. It showcases the dedication and expertise that drive these institutions forward, ensuring that healthcare professionals and researchers have access to the resources they need.

Celebrating George Beckett's Retirement: A Legacy of Service to Memorial University's Health Sciences Library

Symbolic illustration of health library transitions

On December 31, 2011, George Beckett retired from his position at Memorial University's Health Sciences Library, marking the end of a distinguished career dedicated to advancing health information access. His tenure at Memorial University spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on the library and the broader academic community.

Throughout his career, George Beckett served as an Associate University Librarian (Health Sciences) since 1991, a role in which he demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment. Prior to this, he had been with Memorial since 1981, accumulating a wealth of experience and knowledge that he generously shared with colleagues and students alike.

Advancing information literacy among health sciences students.
Spearheading initiatives to improve access to research materials.
Mentoring emerging professionals in the field of health librarianship.
Fostering collaborations between the library and other academic departments.

George Beckett's retirement marks the end of an era, but his contributions to Memorial University's Health Sciences Library will continue to be felt for years to come. His dedication, expertise, and leadership have set a high standard for health librarianship, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.

Sue Fahey's New Role: Leading Acquisitions and Electronic Resources at Memorial University's Queen Elizabeth II Library

Sue Fahey has taken on the position of Head, Acquisitions/Electronic Resources & Serials at Memorial University's Queen Elizabeth II Library. Starting in January, this new role marks a significant step in her career, building on her extensive experience in health sciences librarianship. Her move signifies a strategic shift, enhancing the library's capacity to manage and provide access to critical resources.

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Everything You Need To Know

What is the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries Association (NLHLA) and why is it important?

The Newfoundland and Labrador Health Libraries Association (NLHLA) is an organization dedicated to advancing health information and library services. It plays a crucial role in connecting health professionals and researchers with the resources they need. The transitions within the NHLHA, such as retirements and new appointments, reflect its ongoing commitment to adapting and evolving to meet the changing needs of the health information sector. Without the NHLHA, health professionals and researchers might struggle to find the information needed to provide the best possible care and advance medical knowledge. The NHLHA ensures access to vital resources.

What were George Beckett's main contributions to Memorial University's Health Sciences Library?

George Beckett made significant contributions to Memorial University's Health Sciences Library. He served as an Associate University Librarian (Health Sciences) since 1991 and was with Memorial since 1981. George Beckett enhanced information literacy among students, improved access to research materials, mentored professionals, and fostered collaborations between the library and other academic departments. His work ensured that health sciences students and faculty had the information resources needed for education, research, and patient care. Without his contributions, the library would not have been as effective in supporting the academic community.

What does Sue Fahey's new position entail at Memorial University's Queen Elizabeth II Library?

Sue Fahey's new role as Head, Acquisitions/Electronic Resources & Serials at Memorial University's Queen Elizabeth II Library, involves leading the library's efforts to acquire and manage its collection of electronic resources and serials. Her taking on this position is a strategic enhancement to the library's ability to manage and provide access to critical resources. By focusing on these areas, she ensures that the library's collection remains current, comprehensive, and accessible to users. This role is crucial because electronic resources are essential for modern research and education, providing access to a vast amount of information that would otherwise be difficult to obtain.

Why are transitions like retirements and new appointments important in health libraries?

Transitions within health libraries, like retirements and new appointments are very significant. These changes bring new perspectives and expertise into the field while also requiring the transfer of knowledge and responsibilities. These transitions are important because they ensure that health libraries continue to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of healthcare professionals and researchers. By embracing change and fostering new leadership, health libraries can remain at the forefront of information management and continue to provide valuable services to their communities. Without these transitions, health libraries risk becoming stagnant and unable to meet the demands of a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

How are Health Libraries adapting to meet the evolving needs of healthcare professionals and researchers?

Health Libraries are adapting to meet the evolving needs of healthcare professionals and researchers by focusing on electronic resources, information literacy, and collaboration. This adaptation ensures that health libraries remain relevant and valuable in the digital age. Health libraries also play a critical role in supporting evidence-based practice and research, by providing access to the latest scientific literature and clinical guidelines. The focus is on providing the most up-to-date and relevant information possible.