The Medical Library Center of New York: a progress report

Area of Science:

• Library and Information Science
• Medical Librarianship
• Cooperative Library Services

Background:

• The Medical Library Center of New York (MLCNY) was established based on a 1963 proposal.
• This report provides a progress update and evaluation of MLCNY's operations.
• It covers the initial four years of the Center's experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the actual functions of the Medical Library Center of New York.
• To evaluate the success and challenges of MLCNY after four years of operation.
• To document the development of new, unforeseen services.

Main Methods:

• Adapting a non-traditional building for library use.
• Securing financing for a cooperative library enterprise.
• Applying standard library techniques to an atypical library setting.
• Developing strategies for complementary material acquisition among member libraries.

Main Results:

• Successful adaptation of facilities and financing models.
• Implementation of standard library practices in a unique environment.
• Acquisition of materials that enhance, rather than duplicate, member collections.
• Initiation of new services beyond the original program scope.

Conclusions:

• The Medical Library Center of New York has successfully transitioned from proposal to operational reality.
• The cooperative model demonstrates effectiveness in resource sharing and service development.
• MLCNY's experience provides valuable insights for future library consortia and planning.