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In 2001, the Canadian Health Libraries Association/Association des bibliothèques de la santé du Canada (CHLA/ABSC) celebrated its 25th anniversary. To mark the occasion, the association decided to carry out a true measure of itself by leading focus groups with its affiliated chapters across Canada, and by conducting a survey of health information professionals in the country. While acknowledging its past, the association planned for its future through in-depth consultation with its members. The resulting information gleaned from the focus groups and survey provided a wealth of material that the association board could use in preparing its strategic plan and setting goals. The process by which the focus groups and survey were accomplished can be adapted and implemented by other library associations, consortia and collectives. This paper will outline the process, methodology and results of CHLA/ABSC’s effort to plan its future through consultation. |