NFAIS Announces New Goals, New Directions,
     and A New Executive Director

Philadelphia, PA, November 29, 2002 - NFAIS, the premier membership association for organizations that aggregate, organize and facilitate access to information, announced today the appointment of Bonnie Lawlor as its new Executive Director. In addition, NFAIS gave a preview of the objectives being set to aggressively enhance its portfolio of member-driven programs and services.

"The Information Marketplace has changed drastically in recent years" said NFAIS President, Michael Dennis, "and we have witnessed the emergence of new information providers from diverse market sectors, including libraries, universities, and an ever-growing number of for-profit, non-profit, and government institutions. NFAIS has repositioned itself in order to expand its reach - and services - to this diverse and broad universe of information producers."

Dennis reported that NFAIS plans to increase networking opportunities across market segments so that member organizations can focus on common interests and needs. The goal is to facilitate and encourage members to build upon one another's expertise in order to strengthen capabilities, increase the potential for success, and foster awareness and discussion of key developments and trends across all segments of the information community. Such opportunities will be provided through member-driven programs and the establishment of committees and working groups that will focus on critical issues such as linking, standards, best practices, technology monitoring, and more. Existing groups that focus on information policy and publishing will also be enhanced. As Dennis stated, "NFAIS will strengthen its position as a cohesive voice on those issues that have an impact across the businesses of its diverse member organizations."

To lead NFAIS in its efforts, Bonnie Lawlor has been appointed as the new Executive Director. Lawlor has been an active participant in the information community for many years. Initially, she served in many capacities at ISI - including as Executive Vice-President of Database Publishing. Lawlor also worked at Proquest Information Learning (formerly UMI) as Senior Vice President and General Manager of their Library Division. In addition, she has had a close relationship with NFAIS as President, Board member, and Chair of the Information Policy Committee.

Dennis announced the appointment, stating that the organization is "extremely pleased Bonnie has joined us at this critical juncture in NFAIS' growth. She has considerable experience in electronic publishing, information policy, strategic development, and general management. She understands the information marketplace and knows NFAIS. It is an ideal combination."

Lawlor is equally enthusiastic. "NFAIS has been a major force in the information community for many years. I look forward to working with the NFAIS Board and staff to extend the organization's expertise and support beyond the traditional information providers to all those who can benefit from its extensive knowledge and expertise. We will be aggressive in developing new products, services, and programs that offer a significant value proposition for our membership, and we will extend outreach to all members of the global information community - librarians, researchers, publishers, and users - so that we can work together more closely and successfully."

NFAIS membership currently represents major information providers across all research and business disciplines. For more information on NFAIS membership, programs and services contact Jill O'Neill, Director, Planning and Communications, NFAIS, 1518 Walnut Street, Suite 307, Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Phone: (215)-893-1561; Email: jilloneill@nfais.org).

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