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Publication Date
5-20-2018
Keywords
hospital libraries, library marketing, medical libraries
Disciplines
Library and Information Science | Medicine and Health Sciences
Abstract
Program Description: Despite our profession’s constant evolution to address the changing needs of our users, many health sciences libraries, particularly hospital libraries, are under scrutiny by their institutions. Many of these libraries are facing closure. In fact, a recent study of health sciences library closings [Schwartz, Elkin 2017] found that from 1989-2006 approximately 23-34% of US health sciences libraries closed. Furthermore, between 2011 and 2015, 613 libraries closed, for an average of 115 closings per year [Thibodeau, Funk 2009]. But why? What was the rationale for these closings? Was the decision based solely on economic reasons, or were there other underlying motives? How will providers who lack library services fill their information needs? How can we prevent the closing of additional libraries? This Special Content Session will focus on the ongoing challenges faced by health sciences libraries to remain relevant in an ever-changing world. A panel of speakers will share their experiences with library closures and strategies and best practices for remaining vigilant and promoting library staff, resources, and services effectively. The panel will be followed by an open forum discussion of health sciences library closings in general.
Specialty/Research Institute
Library Science
Specialty/Research Institute
Health Care Administration
Conference / Event Name
Medical Library Association
Location
Atlanta, GA, United States
Comments
This session is co-sponsored by the Outreach & Marketing SIG, Hospital Libraries Section, and the Leadership & Management Section.