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The MEDLINE experience at Yale: 1986-1996
S E Grajek1, M Helenius, R K Marone
1Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520-8014, USA.
Medical Reference Services Quarterly
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Providing wider access to MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online) through improved technology, policy, and funding significantly increased its use. This expansion had manageable effects on other library services at Yale.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Library Science
- Health Sciences Information Management
Background:
- The Cushing/Whitney Medical Library introduced end-user access to MEDLINE in 1986.
- Transitioned to the OVID system in 1993, impacting the Yale-New Haven Medical Center.
- MEDLINE is identified as a core library service with significant implications for information access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe user response to MEDLINE access.
- To discuss the impact of MEDLINE on other library services.
- To explore the influence of technology, policy, and funding on MEDLINE utilization.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of user response patterns to MEDLINE.
- Evaluation of the effects of MEDLINE on the utilization of other library services.
- Review of technological, policy, and funding factors influencing MEDLINE use.
Main Results:
- User response to MEDLINE was significant, indicating high demand and engagement.
- Increased MEDLINE usage demonstrated manageable effects on other library services.
- Technological advancements, supportive policies, and adequate funding were key drivers of expanded access and use.
Conclusions:
- Removing barriers in technology, policy, and funding dramatically expands access points, user numbers, and usage volume for MEDLINE.
- Yale's experience demonstrates that strategic interventions can enhance the reach and impact of core library services like MEDLINE.
- Optimizing access to biomedical databases is crucial for supporting medical research and practice.