Importance of Chapter Membership: a 20-year Data Analysis

Abstract

Objective This project analyzes twenty years of recorded membership data from one of the fourteen chapters affiliated with the Medical Library Association (MLA). A search of the literature revealed national level program evaluations, new initiatives, and lessons learned but no Chapter-level articles specifically on membership. Outcomes will illustrate trends in membership and the possible need for stronger guidelines in retaining members. Methods Southern Chapter of the Medical Library Association has used FileMaker for recording membership information. Information includes years of service to the organization plus year joined, contact information, committee volunteer request, AHIP level, library type, and membership to MLA. The data collected is also used for the annual printed membership directory. Several data sets will be gathered to study the dynamics of the Chapter, longevity of members, and retention based on the introduction of a 2-year free student membership. Results From 1992 to 2012, the average membership for the Southern Chapter was 359 members. The highest membership occurred in 1996 with 402 members and the lowest membership occurred in 2006 with 285. Data trends demonstrate a drop in state membership levels in the corresponding state that hosted the annual meeting the following year. Membership rates also dropped when the annual meeting was hosted outside of the Chapter region. Development of new medical schools around the region resulted in a 62% increase in academic librarians’ membership while hospital librarians have seen a 45% drop in membership rates. Other data collected included types of MLA membership and librarians’ membership to the Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP). In 2008 the Chapter adopted a 2-year free student membership, with an average of 20 members per year since then. In its five year history, we have had 47 student members with 10 students joining the Chapter as a full member after the free membership expired. Conclusions According to the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), the average retention rate is between 82%-90%. Southern Chapter’s overall retention rate is 89%, affirming the value librarians receive through membership. Data also revealed that student retention is 63%, which is below acceptable ASAE guidelines so additional support may be needed. A search of the literature suggested guidelines to increase retention rates of student members.