The Rules of Engagement
What does it mean to be engaged? There are many definitions for the word, all referring to involvement or occupation with an entity or effort. But to be engaged in the larger social context requires a great deal more thought and consideration. After all, to engage one's self in the activities and events that define our world's many cultures and governments means total involvement—something most people ignore or fail to do.
David Auston, President of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, wrote recently that "what it means today to be informed and engaged in the issues facing our society is very different from what it was in [Thomas] Jefferson's or [John] Dewey's day, and will most probably be very different again a decade from now." Truly, our involvement in the affairs of our families, our organizations, our communities, our nations, our global society can be exhausting and overwhelming. Even to commit ourselves to just one of these components in our lives can be very time consuming. Consider that Jefferson not only involved himself in the affairs of his family and community, but he also was engaged in the discourse over the future of a new nation and that of the Commonwealth of Virginia. And he still had time to found a university! To be so engaged today requires true vision and a desire to make things better for others. Western culture, in particular, diverts our attention so much that even some of the brightest among us are unwilling to commit to such endeavors for very long.
To be engaged, though, can be a very rewarding experience. Back in June, those of you who were in Philadelphia witnessed the recognition of certain individuals who have made lifetime commitments to being engaged in their profession and in SLA. Anne Galler, Dorothy McGarry and Didi Pancake were inducted into the SLA Hall of Fame—not because of the official titles bestowed upon them, but because of their unwavering desire to make those who are a part of their profession the best they can be. Jane Dysart received the John Cotton Dana Award for her longtime commitment to special librarianship. Jane was our president in 1995-1996, and could have faded into the woodwork after that. But she has continued to teach and share her knowledge with developing information professionals, and it has made an incredible difference in the lives of many of her colleagues. So many of our award winners in 2000 have made substantial contributions to our profession and to the Special Libraries Association. They have been engaged for most of their careers, and they were recognized for it. What about you?
Your career is an important part of your life. Without it, you lose so many things, including self-worth, credibility, respect, quality of life, and peace of mind. SLA exists to help you think about your career and aid you in making it better. Your engagement in the activities and processes within the Association make your "SLA Experience," and that of your fellow members, incredibly valuable. We all truly reap what we sow.
Take time to find out how you can become engaged through your SLA chapter or division, or through the many Association-level experiences available to you. I promise you will find your investment of time and resources both rewarding and enjoyable.
David R. Bender, Ph.D.
Executive Director
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