As guests trickled in, we offered each a raffle ticket so they could participate in the event's prize drawing. We invited everyone to mix and mingle and to enjoy some delicious appetizers, salads, and pizzas.
When most have finished up their meals, we started the White Elephant gift exchange – which was the most exciting part of the evening. It was fun to see participants strategize which present to choose, shaking the wrapped boxes and gift bags, getting a feel for the weight of the mystery gift, and of course, the swapping of other people’s gifts!
Afterwards we performed the raffle drawing and the prizes were donated by our wonderful library vendors. Ebsco donated two $50 Amazon gift cards, Ovid/Wolters Kluwer donated a Starbucks holiday gift basket, and McGraw-Hill donated $100 CPK gift card to pitch in for the food. Also, MLGSCA donated a free 2024 membership certificate and a surprise gift (which was a Harry Potter-themed card game).
To finish off the lovely evening, as our guests prepared to depart, some were gracious enough to share with us that they were glad MLGSCA had organized the event. Which signaled to us that our colleagues have longed to socialize in-person. We had librarians come from all over Orange County, Riverside, LA, and San Diego to attend the get-together. One member even said that he is going to renew his membership with MLGSCA even though he’s retired from library service. It was wonderful time had by all and a perfect way to ring in the holiday season!
Happy Holidays from the MLGSCA Membership Committee!
Sunny McGowan (Co-chair)
Karen O’Grady (Co-chair)
Elisa Cortez
Jennifer Silverman
A Chapter of the Medical Library Association