Early Career Librarianship Initiative (ECLI)
The Early Career Librarianship Initiative (ECLI) is a dynamic, volunteer-driven community within the Southern Chapter of the Medical Library Association (SC/MLA). Our mission is to create welcoming spaces and meaningful opportunities for new and early-career librarians to connect, grow, and thrive in the fields of health sciences and medical librarianship.
Whether you're just beginning your career, transitioning into the profession, or looking to get more involved in SC/MLA, ECLI is here to support your journey. We offer a flexible, inclusive environment that exists outside of SC/MLA’s formal committee structure, giving us the space to explore fresh ideas, host engaging events, and build a vibrant peer network without barriers.
ECLI brings together a diverse mix of voices, including early-career professionals and experienced librarians who are passionate about mentorship, collaboration, and shared learning. Everyone is welcome, regardless of title, background, or experience level.
For more information, please feel free to reach out to our co-chairs:
Jessica Diaz at jed305@musc.edu
Nick Vera at verani@musc.eduECLI Webinar Series
Are you exploring a career in health sciences librarianship or navigating your first few years in the field? The ECLI Webinar Series is designed just for you!
Hosted by the Early Career Librarianship Initiative (ECLI) of SC/MLA, this series features conversations and presentations centered on the experiences, challenges, and opportunities that matter most to early career and aspiring health sciences librarians. From practical skill-building to career development and professional networking, these webinars offer something for everyone, whether you’re a student, new professional, or simply curious about the field.
Stay tuned for upcoming sessions, and join us as we learn, grow, and build community together!
Meetings
Curious about what ECLI is all about? Join us for our regularly scheduled Zoom meetups on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month! These informal gatherings are a great way to connect with fellow early career and aspiring health sciences librarians, share ideas, and stay in the loop on upcoming events and initiatives.
Whether you're just dropping in to listen or ready to dive into the conversation, all are welcome!
To receive the meeting link or to sign up for our email list, please reach out to Jessica Diaz (jed305@musc.edu) and Nick Vera (verani@musc.edu)ECLI Membership Roster
| Name | State | Current Job Title | Institution |
| Jessica Diaz (co-chair) | SC | Research & Education Informationist | Medical University of South Carolina |
| Nick Vera (co-chair) | SC | Education and User Experience Strategist | Network of the National Library of Medicine, Region 2 |
| Michelle Miller | AL | Health Sciences Librarian | Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine |
| Courtney Pyche | FL | Public Health Liaison | University of Florida |
| Catherine Delaney | GA | Public Services Librarian | PCOM Georgia |
| Tara Brigham | FL | Information Specialist | Mayo Clinic |
| Amanda Jenkins | AL | Reference Librarian | University of Alabama Birmingham |
| Sally Smith | SC | Health Sciences Librarian | Clemson University |
| Christine Stevenson | FL | Student | University of South Florida |
| Charles Barthel | TN | Librarian | University of Tennessee Knoxville |
| Nicole Hartwell | MS | Librarian | North Mississippi Health Services |
