Introducing a collection of key papers focussing mainly on the role of the health/medical/clinical librarian.
Please click on the links below and enter your OpenAthens username and password to download the full text or contact the library at esth.hirsonlibrary@nhs.net to request the full text.Comparing the performance of librarians and medical specialists in retrieving clinical evidence: an observational study
Abstract: Access to precise and reliable scientific evidence is one of the fundamental principles of Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) in clinical decision-making processes. Medical librarians, by employing advanced search and information retrieval techniques, play a pivotal role in accessing such evidence. This observational study compared the search and evidence retrieval behaviors of two groups: Medical librarians and medical specialists familiar with EBM and systematic reviews. The study population consisted of 40 participants (20 medical librarians and 20 medical specialists), whose performance in retrieving the best available evidence from credible sources was evaluated using two distinct clinical scenarios. A researcher-developed checklist was created in accordance with the Guidelines for Evaluating Evidence-Based Search Strategies and was utilized to assess the search performance of participants. The findings revealed that medical librarians employed structured search strategies and were more successful in retrieving accurate evidence. They consistently utilized structured search strategies, field-specific search tools, and narrowing techniques in all cases. In contrast, medical specialists spent less time on searches and exhibited a greater tendency to use natural language terms in their search queries. medical specialists did not systematically employ controlled vocabulary or place keywords in specific fields, such as titles, keywords, or abstracts. In conclusion, librarians’ expertise in accessing the best available evidence underscores their crucial role in supporting medical specialists in obtaining and implementing evidence, thereby improving the quality and reliability of evidence-based practices in healthcare settings.
Source: Medical Reference Services, May 2025; 44(2): 169-186
Contact the library for a copy of this article
Don’t Close Medical Libraries: That’s Where You Find Librarian Partners to Advance Medicine and Science
Abstract: In the fields of medicine and science, the battle between books and digital communication is over. Just as their predecessors for many centuries used Latin as their lingua franca, physicians and scientists have chosen digital communication and “reading without books” for sending and receiving stored information. Yet the battered and tattered book lives on, as Jeff Bezos demonstrated, making books the core product of his Amazon empire. I believe the 2 to 3 million surviving institutional libraries1 should not close their doors because libraries are where the librarians are, and librarians are the facilitators and guardians of medical and scientific knowledge. They are an integral part of the health care team.
Source: Ophthalmology; October 2025, 132(10): 1073-75
Not just a book lady: Shifting perceptions of librarians’ role in the 21st Century
Abstract: The role of librarians has undergone a profound transformation in the 21st century. Once perceived primarily as custodians of books and quiet spaces, librarians are now essential players in digital literacy, research support, community engagement, and technological innovation. However, outdated stereotypes continue to shape public perception, often failing to reflect the evolving realities of the profession. This disconnect challenges the recognition and full utilisation of librarians’ expertise in modern information environments. This research explores how perceptions of librarianship have shifted over time and emphasises the dynamic, multifaceted responsibilities librarians now undertake. As a secondary research study, the paper draws from a wide range of existing literature, including academic journals, case studies, and professional reports, to examine the transformation of the librarian's role in various contexts, particularly in academic and public libraries. Findings indicate contemporary librarians are information managers, digital navigators, instructional partners, and community advocates. They contribute significantly to online learning, data management, information ethics, and user empowerment. However, despite these expanded roles, many librarians still face limitations in public understanding due to persistent traditional stereotypes. This research concludes that to bridge the gap between perception and reality, there must be increased advocacy, visibility, and professional development. Recognising and promoting the modern librarian's role will enhance the profession’s image and ensure its continued relevance and impact in today’s knowledge-driven society.
Source: Journal of Library Services and Technologies, June 2025; 7(2): 232-43
Medical Librarians in The Role of Research Facilitators: A Case Report (Immune Deficiency Clinic of Mashhad Akbar Children's Hospital)
Abstract: Introduction: Clinical librarians or information specialists working in hospitals and medical schools are typically graduates of medical or general librarianship programs. Through the knowledge and expertise they acquire during their academic training and internships, they serve as valuable resources in meeting the information and research needs of physicians and clinical staff across healthcare systems. In this report, we examined the impact of the clinical librarian's presence in the hospital's immunodeficiency clinic registry project and addressed the challenges involved in registering immunocompromised patients and establishing the registry system.
Objective: The impact of the clinical librarian’s presence as a research facilitator in the
immunodeficiency patient registry project.
Case Presentation: The immunodeficiency clinic at Akbar Children's Hospital, serving 250 patients,
is among the most active of its kind in the country. While some patients attend regularly and receive
their medications, others—previously hospitalized and diagnosed with immunodeficiency—
discontinue follow-up due to factors such as long travel distances, high costs of medication and
treatment, and other barriers. This report outlines, step by step, the process of activating the patient
registry within Rabbit (the health research information management infrastructure), highlighting the
clinical librarian’s facilitating role in implementing this system.
Conclusion: The presence of clinical librarians or general librarians (on the condition of passing
familiarization units with medical terms, etc.) in research projects as research facilitators, research
assistants, or research experts, due to familiarity with the specializations and skills required for
research, can have a significant contribution to the progress of the project.
Source: Journal of Pediatric Perspective, 2025; 13(8): 19641-45
Contact the library for a copy of this article
Medical librarians and little free libraries: Connecting rural communities to health information
Abstract: Background: Consumer health libraries connect communities to reliable and accurate health information while Little Free Libraries (LFL) provide communities globally with access to free books with a 'take one leave one' type policy.
Objectives: To discuss how medical librarians used already established LFLs as outreach opportunities to provide consumer health books to rural locations in East Tennessee's Appalachia region in the United States.
Methods: Researchers reviewed the population's literacy levels, the Index of Medical Underservice scores, and the availability of established LFLs. Twenty-two established LFL locations were selected and one new LFL was built for an eye clinic. Eleven health books were purchased for each established LFL, and 33 books were purchased for the new LFL.
Results: Researchers went back to each location 5 months after delivery. 90% of the books were taken from the already established LFLs. Ten books were taken from the new LFL.
Discussion: Using already established LFLs is a great opportunity to provide relevant health information to rural communities. The new LFL allowed for a partnership between the library and a rural eye clinic.
Conclusion: By distributing health books to already established LFLs, researchers brought relevant health information books to rural and medically underserved communities.
Source: Health Information and Libraries Journal, Dec 2024; 41(4): 394-403
Physical therapy students' perceptions of embedded medical librarians within evidence-based practice courses: a mixed-methods pilot study
Abstract: Objective: Previous work within academic medical centers has indicated the potential value of embedded medical librarian programs within health sciences professional degree programs. This study sought to determine the perceived benefit that an embedded medical librarian (EML) provided to an evidence-based practice (EBP) course within an entry-level physical therapy degree program.
Methods: Learners completed an anonymous survey at the end of an EBP course about the impact of the EML on the course and their own EML utilization. Frequency and percentages were calculated for quantitative data; qualitative data were analyzed using an iterative process for code development.
Results: Forty (98%) learners completed the survey. Seventy-five point six percent of learners utilized the EML 1-2 times per class session and 31.7% outside of class sessions. Learners overwhelmingly "agreed" (53.7%) or "strongly agreed" (39.0%) that they would consult the EML for literature searches required in future courses. Seventy point seven percent "strongly agreed" that the EML improved their ability to conduct a literature search. All learners either "agreed" (43.9%) or "strongly agreed" (56.1%) that the EML added value to the course. Ninety point two percent considered the EML as an integral part of the course. Themes from the qualitative analysis agreed that the EML added value to the course and facilitated skills that would be useful throughout the curriculum.
Conclusion: Learners believe that having an EML improves their ability to conduct a literature search. Providing learners with EML access during their education experience facilitates development of this skill. Early and continued instruction throughout the entry-level DPT curriculum in informatics ensures program compliance with accreditation standards.
Source: Journal of the Medical Library Association; Apr 2025; 113(2): 143-7
UK survey demonstrates a wide range of impacts attributable to clinical librarian services
Abstract: Objective To understand the impact of the UK Clinical Librarian (CL) workforce and benchmark the results against a study undertaken in the North West region of the English National Health Service (NHS). Methods An online survey was distributed by CLs to their service users regarding literature searches that had been carried out on their behalf in the 6 months from April to October 2017. Interviews were later carried out in person with selected respondents to the questionnaires. Results CLs across the UK contribute to a wide range of outcomes, with 41% of search requests contributing to the choice of intervention, and 41% also to the advice offered by the clinician requester to a patient or their carer. These results are in line with the previous work undertaken in the North West. Discussion CLs provide diverse services to clinical teams. They support the continuing professional development and personal research needs of team members, service development needs of organisations, and the information provided contributes to improved quality and safety of patient care. Conclusion The survey confirms the findings of the earlier NW study. It demonstrates the impact of services based around literature searching on patient care.
Source: Health information and libraries journal, 2021; 39(2): 116–131
Supporting staff information: the role of the renal clinical librarian
Abstract: The study investigates the role of the renal clinical librarian in an acute renal setting in supporting information needs of clinical staff by providing a literature searching service for the benefit of the multidisciplinary team.
Source: Journal of Renal Nursing, July 2025; 7(4): 198–200
A scoping review of librarian involvement in competency-based medical education
Abstract: Objective: A scoping review was undertaken to understand the extent of literature on librarian involvement in competency-based medical education (CBME).
Methods: We followed Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines. A search of peer-reviewed literature was conducted on December 31, 2022, in Medline, Embase, ERIC, CINAHL Complete, SCOPUS, LISS, LLIS, and LISTA. Studies were included if they described librarian involvement in the planning, delivery, or assessment of CBME in an LCME-accredited medical school and were published in English. Outcomes included characteristics of the inventions (duration, librarian role, content covered) and of the outcomes and measures (level on Kirkpatrick Model of Training Evaluation, direction of findings, measure used).
Results: Fifty studies were included of 11,051 screened: 46 empirical studies or program evaluations and four literature reviews. Studies were published in eight journals with two-thirds published after 2010. Duration of the intervention ranged from 30 minutes to a semester long. Librarians served as collaborators, leaders, curriculum designers, and evaluators. Studies primarily covered asking clinical questions and finding information and most often assessed reaction or learning outcomes.
Conclusions: A solid base of literature on librarian involvement in CBME exists; however, few studies measure user behavior or use validated outcomes measures. When librarians are communicating their value to stakeholders, having evidence for the contributions of librarians is essential. Existing publications may not capture the extent of work done in this area. Additional research is needed to quantify the impact of librarian involvement in competency-based medical education.
Source: Journal of the Medical Library Association: JMLA, Jan 2025; 113(1): 9-23
Contact the library for a copy of this article
Consulting with an embedded librarian: student perceptions on the value of required research meetings
Abstract: Objective: This qualitative research project was undertaken to discover how students perceive the embedded librarian in their nursing class. The researchers determined how a required group research meeting was valued by students and whether that value warranted the necessary time and energy by an embedded librarian.
Methods: Researchers conducted focus groups with twenty-three students from two different sections of the same nursing research methods undergraduate course. Students' responses to a series of five questions were recorded within Zoom and supplemented by handwritten notes. Data was coded by hand and patterns that emerged from the five focus groups were analyzed.
Results: Participants reported overall satisfaction with the embedded librarian and students felt they benefitted from the required research meeting with the librarian, which was part of the searching assignment rubric and closely tied to the assignment itself.
Conclusion: Based on the data, a required research meeting with an embedded librarian, who is familiar with the course assignments, reinforces classroom instruction, point-of-need assistance with search strategies, and the opportunity to strengthen the relationship with the librarian for future research needs.
Source: Journal of the Medical Library Association: JMLA, Oct 2024; 112(4): 324-331
Applying user experience strategies to enhance an NHS library space
Abstract: This study explores the application of user experience (UX) strategies to enhance the learning environment within the Leeds General Infirmary Library, part of the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. Despite the growing importance of UX in digital services and academic libraries, its adoption in health libraries has been limited. This paper details the implementation of three UX techniques—Graffiti walls, observations and behavioural mapping, and love and breakup letters—adapted from Andy Priestner's toolkit. The findings highlight user preferences and behaviours, leading to practical, low-cost improvements in the library space. The study underscores the value of UX methodologies in optimising library services to better meet user needs, even in resource-limited settings.
Source: Health Information & Libraries Journal, Jun 2025; Early View
Training and facilitating the use of reminiscence resources in a health promotion library context
Abstract: Health promotion libraries provide borrowable resources to support a wide range of health topics; resources are designed to be accessible and improve the impact of key health messages. Reminiscence resources aim to facilitate engagement and socialisation for people who find accessing long-term memory challenging. This article provides an overview of the reminiscence service provided by the Library Service at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust. It will consider the rationale for providing this service, how resources are selected in collaboration with customers and how they are promoted through various approaches to library training. The library offers training to healthcare professionals and other customers caring for people with dementia; training demonstrates different ways in which reminiscence resources can be used. An impact case study completed by a customer following the use of a bespoke reminiscence memory box indicates that caregivers find the resources helpful in supporting people with dementia. This is particularly beneficial when carers have received training from librarians in using the resources. Tailored resources can be especially effective, as compared to generic or off-the-shelf items. Customer collaboration with librarians to inform and support collection development should be encouraged to ensure that resources reflect the needs of users.
Source: Health Information & Libraries Journal, Sep 2025; Early View
Understanding clinical library services as knowledge mobilisation activities: Mixed method evaluation of an Evidence Access service in a mental health trust
Abstract: Background
Access to tailored evidence syntheses can support frontline clinical staff to make evidence-informed care decisions, but evaluation of such services requires understanding of user needs within context.
Objectives
We evaluated an Evidence Access service by clinical librarians in a mental health trust in northern England to assess impacts on staff decision making and identify areas for improvement.
Methods
The evaluation was guided by the integrated Promoting Action on Research in Health Services framework. We evaluated the service through a survey, semi-structured interviews, and service mapping with the library team.
Results
Staff who used the service valued it highly and particularly appreciated the rapid response and trusting relationships with library staff. Mental health nurses required proactive support to encourage them to access the service.
Discussion
The service could be used to generate clinically relevant research questions in collaboration with researchers, but would require support for the negotiation of the value of different questions and understanding of each other's needs and priorities.
Conclusions
An Evidence Access service provided by a clinical librarian is highly valued by mental health staff. Collaboration between researchers and clinicians to identify and respond to evidence gaps would require commitment to building relationships and capacity.
Source: Health Information & Libraries Journal, Nov 2024; Early View
Impact of librarian-led case learning sessions on third-year medical students' clinical skills
Abstract: This article examines how direct engagement with credible resources significantly enhances students' practical skills in clinical scenarios. The program prepares students to utilize authoritative resources, fostering confidence in real-world clinical settings, especially in resource-limited environments. Data from student evaluations indicate a marked improvement in perceived difficulty of EBM cases and overall performance scores following the implementation of librarian-led learning sessions. This approach not only meets accreditation standards but also equips future healthcare professionals with essential skills for effective patient care. This underscores the crucial role of librarians in enhancing students' abilities to appraise and apply evidence-based knowledge.
Source: Health Information & Libraries Journal, Jun 2025; Early View
immunodeficiency patient registry project.
Case Presentation: The immunodeficiency clinic at Akbar Children's Hospital, serving 250 patients,
is among the most active of its kind in the country. While some patients attend regularly and receive
their medications, others—previously hospitalized and diagnosed with immunodeficiency—
discontinue follow-up due to factors such as long travel distances, high costs of medication and
treatment, and other barriers. This report outlines, step by step, the process of activating the patient
registry within Rabbit (the health research information management infrastructure), highlighting the
clinical librarian’s facilitating role in implementing this system.
Conclusion: The presence of clinical librarians or general librarians (on the condition of passing
familiarization units with medical terms, etc.) in research projects as research facilitators, research
assistants, or research experts, due to familiarity with the specializations and skills required for
research, can have a significant contribution to the progress of the project.
Source: Journal of Pediatric Perspective, 2025; 13(8): 19641-45
Contact the library for a copy of this article
Medical librarians and little free libraries: Connecting rural communities to health information
Abstract: Background: Consumer health libraries connect communities to reliable and accurate health information while Little Free Libraries (LFL) provide communities globally with access to free books with a 'take one leave one' type policy.
Objectives: To discuss how medical librarians used already established LFLs as outreach opportunities to provide consumer health books to rural locations in East Tennessee's Appalachia region in the United States.
Methods: Researchers reviewed the population's literacy levels, the Index of Medical Underservice scores, and the availability of established LFLs. Twenty-two established LFL locations were selected and one new LFL was built for an eye clinic. Eleven health books were purchased for each established LFL, and 33 books were purchased for the new LFL.
Results: Researchers went back to each location 5 months after delivery. 90% of the books were taken from the already established LFLs. Ten books were taken from the new LFL.
Discussion: Using already established LFLs is a great opportunity to provide relevant health information to rural communities. The new LFL allowed for a partnership between the library and a rural eye clinic.
Conclusion: By distributing health books to already established LFLs, researchers brought relevant health information books to rural and medically underserved communities.
Source: Health Information and Libraries Journal, Dec 2024; 41(4): 394-403
Physical therapy students' perceptions of embedded medical librarians within evidence-based practice courses: a mixed-methods pilot study
Abstract: Objective: Previous work within academic medical centers has indicated the potential value of embedded medical librarian programs within health sciences professional degree programs. This study sought to determine the perceived benefit that an embedded medical librarian (EML) provided to an evidence-based practice (EBP) course within an entry-level physical therapy degree program.
Methods: Learners completed an anonymous survey at the end of an EBP course about the impact of the EML on the course and their own EML utilization. Frequency and percentages were calculated for quantitative data; qualitative data were analyzed using an iterative process for code development.
Results: Forty (98%) learners completed the survey. Seventy-five point six percent of learners utilized the EML 1-2 times per class session and 31.7% outside of class sessions. Learners overwhelmingly "agreed" (53.7%) or "strongly agreed" (39.0%) that they would consult the EML for literature searches required in future courses. Seventy point seven percent "strongly agreed" that the EML improved their ability to conduct a literature search. All learners either "agreed" (43.9%) or "strongly agreed" (56.1%) that the EML added value to the course. Ninety point two percent considered the EML as an integral part of the course. Themes from the qualitative analysis agreed that the EML added value to the course and facilitated skills that would be useful throughout the curriculum.
Conclusion: Learners believe that having an EML improves their ability to conduct a literature search. Providing learners with EML access during their education experience facilitates development of this skill. Early and continued instruction throughout the entry-level DPT curriculum in informatics ensures program compliance with accreditation standards.
Source: Journal of the Medical Library Association; Apr 2025; 113(2): 143-7
UK survey demonstrates a wide range of impacts attributable to clinical librarian services
Abstract: Objective To understand the impact of the UK Clinical Librarian (CL) workforce and benchmark the results against a study undertaken in the North West region of the English National Health Service (NHS). Methods An online survey was distributed by CLs to their service users regarding literature searches that had been carried out on their behalf in the 6 months from April to October 2017. Interviews were later carried out in person with selected respondents to the questionnaires. Results CLs across the UK contribute to a wide range of outcomes, with 41% of search requests contributing to the choice of intervention, and 41% also to the advice offered by the clinician requester to a patient or their carer. These results are in line with the previous work undertaken in the North West. Discussion CLs provide diverse services to clinical teams. They support the continuing professional development and personal research needs of team members, service development needs of organisations, and the information provided contributes to improved quality and safety of patient care. Conclusion The survey confirms the findings of the earlier NW study. It demonstrates the impact of services based around literature searching on patient care.
Source: Health information and libraries journal, 2021; 39(2): 116–131
Supporting staff information: the role of the renal clinical librarian
Abstract: The study investigates the role of the renal clinical librarian in an acute renal setting in supporting information needs of clinical staff by providing a literature searching service for the benefit of the multidisciplinary team.
Source: Journal of Renal Nursing, July 2025; 7(4): 198–200
A scoping review of librarian involvement in competency-based medical education
Abstract: Objective: A scoping review was undertaken to understand the extent of literature on librarian involvement in competency-based medical education (CBME).
Methods: We followed Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines. A search of peer-reviewed literature was conducted on December 31, 2022, in Medline, Embase, ERIC, CINAHL Complete, SCOPUS, LISS, LLIS, and LISTA. Studies were included if they described librarian involvement in the planning, delivery, or assessment of CBME in an LCME-accredited medical school and were published in English. Outcomes included characteristics of the inventions (duration, librarian role, content covered) and of the outcomes and measures (level on Kirkpatrick Model of Training Evaluation, direction of findings, measure used).
Results: Fifty studies were included of 11,051 screened: 46 empirical studies or program evaluations and four literature reviews. Studies were published in eight journals with two-thirds published after 2010. Duration of the intervention ranged from 30 minutes to a semester long. Librarians served as collaborators, leaders, curriculum designers, and evaluators. Studies primarily covered asking clinical questions and finding information and most often assessed reaction or learning outcomes.
Conclusions: A solid base of literature on librarian involvement in CBME exists; however, few studies measure user behavior or use validated outcomes measures. When librarians are communicating their value to stakeholders, having evidence for the contributions of librarians is essential. Existing publications may not capture the extent of work done in this area. Additional research is needed to quantify the impact of librarian involvement in competency-based medical education.
Source: Journal of the Medical Library Association: JMLA, Jan 2025; 113(1): 9-23
Contact the library for a copy of this article
Consulting with an embedded librarian: student perceptions on the value of required research meetings
Abstract: Objective: This qualitative research project was undertaken to discover how students perceive the embedded librarian in their nursing class. The researchers determined how a required group research meeting was valued by students and whether that value warranted the necessary time and energy by an embedded librarian.
Methods: Researchers conducted focus groups with twenty-three students from two different sections of the same nursing research methods undergraduate course. Students' responses to a series of five questions were recorded within Zoom and supplemented by handwritten notes. Data was coded by hand and patterns that emerged from the five focus groups were analyzed.
Results: Participants reported overall satisfaction with the embedded librarian and students felt they benefitted from the required research meeting with the librarian, which was part of the searching assignment rubric and closely tied to the assignment itself.
Conclusion: Based on the data, a required research meeting with an embedded librarian, who is familiar with the course assignments, reinforces classroom instruction, point-of-need assistance with search strategies, and the opportunity to strengthen the relationship with the librarian for future research needs.
Source: Journal of the Medical Library Association: JMLA, Oct 2024; 112(4): 324-331
Applying user experience strategies to enhance an NHS library space
Abstract: This study explores the application of user experience (UX) strategies to enhance the learning environment within the Leeds General Infirmary Library, part of the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. Despite the growing importance of UX in digital services and academic libraries, its adoption in health libraries has been limited. This paper details the implementation of three UX techniques—Graffiti walls, observations and behavioural mapping, and love and breakup letters—adapted from Andy Priestner's toolkit. The findings highlight user preferences and behaviours, leading to practical, low-cost improvements in the library space. The study underscores the value of UX methodologies in optimising library services to better meet user needs, even in resource-limited settings.
Source: Health Information & Libraries Journal, Jun 2025; Early View
Training and facilitating the use of reminiscence resources in a health promotion library context
Abstract: Health promotion libraries provide borrowable resources to support a wide range of health topics; resources are designed to be accessible and improve the impact of key health messages. Reminiscence resources aim to facilitate engagement and socialisation for people who find accessing long-term memory challenging. This article provides an overview of the reminiscence service provided by the Library Service at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust. It will consider the rationale for providing this service, how resources are selected in collaboration with customers and how they are promoted through various approaches to library training. The library offers training to healthcare professionals and other customers caring for people with dementia; training demonstrates different ways in which reminiscence resources can be used. An impact case study completed by a customer following the use of a bespoke reminiscence memory box indicates that caregivers find the resources helpful in supporting people with dementia. This is particularly beneficial when carers have received training from librarians in using the resources. Tailored resources can be especially effective, as compared to generic or off-the-shelf items. Customer collaboration with librarians to inform and support collection development should be encouraged to ensure that resources reflect the needs of users.
Source: Health Information & Libraries Journal, Sep 2025; Early View
Understanding clinical library services as knowledge mobilisation activities: Mixed method evaluation of an Evidence Access service in a mental health trust
Abstract: Background
Access to tailored evidence syntheses can support frontline clinical staff to make evidence-informed care decisions, but evaluation of such services requires understanding of user needs within context.
Objectives
We evaluated an Evidence Access service by clinical librarians in a mental health trust in northern England to assess impacts on staff decision making and identify areas for improvement.
Methods
The evaluation was guided by the integrated Promoting Action on Research in Health Services framework. We evaluated the service through a survey, semi-structured interviews, and service mapping with the library team.
Results
Staff who used the service valued it highly and particularly appreciated the rapid response and trusting relationships with library staff. Mental health nurses required proactive support to encourage them to access the service.
Discussion
The service could be used to generate clinically relevant research questions in collaboration with researchers, but would require support for the negotiation of the value of different questions and understanding of each other's needs and priorities.
Conclusions
An Evidence Access service provided by a clinical librarian is highly valued by mental health staff. Collaboration between researchers and clinicians to identify and respond to evidence gaps would require commitment to building relationships and capacity.
Source: Health Information & Libraries Journal, Nov 2024; Early View
Impact of librarian-led case learning sessions on third-year medical students' clinical skills
Abstract: This article examines how direct engagement with credible resources significantly enhances students' practical skills in clinical scenarios. The program prepares students to utilize authoritative resources, fostering confidence in real-world clinical settings, especially in resource-limited environments. Data from student evaluations indicate a marked improvement in perceived difficulty of EBM cases and overall performance scores following the implementation of librarian-led learning sessions. This approach not only meets accreditation standards but also equips future healthcare professionals with essential skills for effective patient care. This underscores the crucial role of librarians in enhancing students' abilities to appraise and apply evidence-based knowledge.
Source: Health Information & Libraries Journal, Jun 2025; Early View
