The development of the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System (MEDLARS)

Objective: The research provides a chronology of the US National Library of Medicineʹs (NLMʹs) contribution to access to the worldʹs biomedical literature through its computerization of biomedical indexes, particularly the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System (MEDLARS). Method: Using material gathered from NLMʹs archives and from personal interviews with people associated with developing MEDLARS and its associated systems, the author discusses key events in the history of MEDLARS. Discussion: From the development of the early Conclusion: As NLMʹs technological experience and expertise grew, innovative bibliographic storage and retrieval systems emerged. NLMʹs accomplishments regarding MEDLARS were cutting edge, placing the library at the forefront of incorporating mechanization and technologies into medical information systems.