Chris Shaffer, MS, AHIP, FMLA, university librarian, assistant vice chancellor for academic information management, and adjunct professor in the UCSF School of Medicine, has been appointed a fellow for the Medical Library Association (MLA).
“Chris truly embodies the core vision of the MLA ‘that quality information is essential for improved health,'” remarked Shannon D. Jones, EdD, M.Ed, MLS, AHIP, FMLA, the director of libraries for the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston and award nominator. “The result of his mentorship has led to a more dynamic and forward-thinking community of practitioners, ensuring that open science is at the forefront of health sciences librarianship.”
Throughout his career, Shaffer has advocated for open science, the movement to make scientific research and its distribution accessible to all. Furthermore, he has made significant contributions to a wide array of organizations and initiatives, showcasing expertise and a passion for advancing information science. Shaffer shares, “This honor recognizes past contributions and reinvigorates my commitment to health sciences librarianship. As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of health sciences information, I am excited to collaborate with my colleagues at UCSF and MLA to foster open science and identify new roles for librarians and information professionals.”
The MLA Board of Directors elects fellows based on sustained and outstanding contributions to health sciences librarianship and the advancement of the purposes of the MLA. Since 1898, the MLA has fostered excellence in the professional practice and leadership of health sciences library and information professionals to enhance health care, education, and research globally. Moreover, the MLA educates health information professionals, supports health information research, promotes access to the world’s health sciences information, and aims to ensure that the best health information is available to all.
Shaffer’s expertise and impact on medical librarianship and research are well documented through numerous publications, invited presentations, and roles within the New England Journal of Medicine and the National Library of Medicine. He has been an active MLA member since 1996. He has held elected and appointed leadership positions with the MLA for over 21 years. Furthermore, Shaffer is a distinguished member of the Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP), serving as president of the Association of Academic Health Sciences Libraries (AAHSL) and a board member of the Medical Library Association (MLA). In 2020, he presented the Janet Doe Lecture on the history or philosophy of health sciences librarianship.
Feature image courtesy of jesse orrico via Unsplash.