MLA Passes Dues Increase
Attendance strong despite registration fee rise to over $400
By Susan DiMattia -- Library Journal, 7/15/2004
The theme of the 2004 annual conference of the Medical Library Association (MLA) was "Seize the Power." Held in Washington, DC, from May 21–26, the conference drew 2,662 participants, nearly equal to the last time MLA visited the nation's capital, in 1995. The strong attendance came despite fees that topped $400 for the first time.
The major piece of business was a dues increase proposal, which passed 383–52. Under the new plan, dues will increase from $135, in place since 2000, to $150 in 2005 and $165 in 2006. The increase is expected to generate $61,000 in 2005 and $122,000 in 2006, based on 2003 membership. There currently are 4590 MLA members, about the same level as in 2000.
MLA treasurer Neil Rambo explained that dues, which now cover only 22 percent of the cost of running the association, will ultimately cover 25 percent. Earlier in the year, the MLA board approved a $25,000 deficit for FY04, on revenues of approximately $3 million, with the funds coming out of reserves—not a sustainable long-term practice.
Members approved Bylaws and Rules of Order changes that pave the way for electronic voting and expanded membership benefits for students, who gain voting rights for the first time. There are about 300 student members of MLA. Also, MLA will offer a CD-ROM containing digital reproductions of the content of all conference programs, including PowerPoint presentations (see www.mlanet.org).
