Looking Back on 50 Years

Guest post by George Franklin, an information technology specialist in NLM’s Office of Computer and Communications Systems

I started my government career at the National Library of Medicine in July 1967. It was a time of paper, pens and pencils, typewriters—both manual and electric—and plenty of carbon paper. The card catalog that I used many times no longer exists.

A time came when you had to give up your typewriter and carbon paper for this invention called a computer, and that frightened many employees. Then came the world wide web, email, networking, and all this new technology that was supposed to make our life and work better and more efficient. (It keeps getting better or worse, depending on who you talk to.)

My career has been very enriching and exciting. My first job at NLM was in the mail room, where I started as a mail clerk. Currently I am an information technology specialist assigned to the Desktop Services Section of the Office of Computer and Communications Systems. In between, I held five other positions at NLM. Through all seven jobs, plus four years military, I have been fortunate to work with a lot of talented and special colleagues.

I have always had a passion for working with young people of all ages, but I think my greatest achievement has been going out into the community to do outreach, whether at health fairs, school functions (like career days or other special programs), Native American powwows, or professional conferences. I really enjoy talking with people about the important work we do at NLM and at NIH.

It’s that kind of engagement that keeps me going. As a result, fifty years later, I’m still here, enjoying the work I do at NLM and just maybe helping to make a difference.

George Franklin is an information technology specialist in NLM’s Office of Computer and Communications Systems. He will be among the honorees at the HHS Departmental Awards Ceremony Wednesday, May 9, for his years of service.