Library Bulletin Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Library -- New Orleans

In Memory of Ann Macomber, 1926 -2010

Ann Hodge Macomber, retired Associate/Acting Director of the LSUHSC Libraries, died at her home on August 1, 2010. A native of Birmingham, AL, Ann graduated from Newcomb College and began her career at LSU in 1949 as a library associate. She received her Master of Library Science degree from Emory University in 1951 and became a reference librarian. After a brief stint at the Emory University School of Medicine, Ann resumed her career at LSUHSC as acquisitions librarian. In addition to her collection development role, Ann also served as the Library's Associate Director from 1976 to 1987 and as Acting Director from June 1985 to July 1986. She retired from service in 1987 and was conferred the distinction of Emeritus Professor of Medical Bibliography.

Ann's extensive knowledge and keen decision making skills were instrumental in the development of the Library's monograh and serial collections. While maintaining a firm commitment to the traditional roles of librarianship, Ann helped guide the Library through much of its early progression into the world of automation. She once said, "It's wonderful to have mechanical devices to transmit information, but in my day chips meant wood, and hardware meant hammers and nails." In her final years with LSU, Ann was a key force in planning the Library's design and relocation to the Resource Center. Much of what the Library is today was founded on the cornerstone laid by Ann Macomber.

Ann's dedication to the library profession is evidenced by her active participation in several associations, including the Academy of Health Information Professionals and the Medical Library Association, Southern Regional Group and South Central Regional Group. Ann served on a number of committees for these associations and, in 1989, was named a fellow of the MLA. Though she highly valued her professional memberships, Ann firmly believed that the key to personal and professional growth was found in the "one-on-one" sharing of ideas between colleagues. She maintained and promoted this philosophy throughout her career.

Ann devoted much of her private life to civic involvement. She served on the board of directors for various organizations and was president of the Poydras Home Auxillary from 1997 through 2000. She also held memberships in the Orleans Club, Phi Mu, Plimsoll Club and the Fine Arts Club. In her spare time, Ann was an avid reader and crossword puzzle enthusiast.

Ann Macomber is survived by her sister, Kate Hodge Lane of Greensboro, NC, two stepchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of family and friends. Her presence will be missed not only by her family, but by those who knew and were inspired by her during her tenure at LSU.

-- JoAnn McKendall (link removed)