As always, I appreciated receiving the results of this year's recipients.
For the first time ever, however, I actually had a personal connection to
one of the "winners."  The official journal of the Virginia Library
Association changed its name this past year, and was given the following
recognition:

        The "Missing Librarian Award" does not miss _Virginia libraries
        (Alexander, Va.)_, which used to be: _Virginia librarian_ (1954-1976?),
        _Virginia librarian newsletter_ (1977-1986), _Virginia librarian
        (Alexander, Va. : 1986)_.  Can libraries survive without the Librarian?

I was serving on VLA Council when this decision was made and there really
was a compelling reason for this title change.  The change was widely
discussed in library circles in Virginia, and actually received several
mentions in the national professional literature.  It was not a change that
was made lightly or frivolously, and I think that that needs to be said
publicly.  I have always thought that the Title Change Awards are made when
there is no logical reason for the change to have been made.

In VLA, paraprofessionals have assumed leadership roles in the
organization.  Their annual spring conference attracts hundreds of
participants from across the nation and is an important contribution to the
financial health of VLA.  I have served on VLA committees with
paraprofessional members who contributed more than some of the librarians.
Our current Treasurer is not a librarian.

It is unfortunate that this publication has now changed title four times,
with three different titles.  The change, in 1986, from _Virginia Librarian
Newsletter_ back to the previous _Virginia Librarian_ did, however, reflect
the creation of a separate companion publication, the _VLA Newsletter_.
This separation paved the way for a more substantial, and more professional
primary journal.  That journal has now changed its name to reflect a more
inclusive organization that does not rely solely on the contribution of
degreed librarians.  In short, it is not a title change that deserved this
award.

To answer the question posed by the committee, "can libraries survive
without librarians?" the answer is certainly no.  I believe that the
Virginia Library Association was actually stating that libraries cannot
survive without paraprofessionals.

Finally, a correction.  Each of the titles was published in Alexandria, not
Alexander.

Steve Murden

stevemurden@mindspring.com