Don Lindberg and the creation of the National Center for Biotechnology Information

Abstract

The highest priority new initiative resulting from the 1985-86 National Library of Medicine Long Range Planning exercise initiated by NLM Director Dr. Donald A.B. Lindberg was the creation of new information resources and services related to molecular biology and genetics, termed 'biotechnology information'. Beginning with existing NLM resources and research projects associated with molecular data, and with Lindberg's enthusiastic support, the institution launched a Congressionally-mandated Center that has become an essential part of 21st century biomedical science.