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Free MEDLINE and implications for library operations
1Information & Education Services, Savitt Medical Library, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, NV 89557-0046, USA. thenner@admin.unr.edu
Medical Reference Services Quarterly
|April 13, 2001
Summary
Free access to MEDLINE via PubMed challenges the need for costly commercial vendors. This study examines librarian perceptions of PubMed and its suitability for medical library educational goals.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Library Science
Background:
- The proliferation of free internet-based MEDLINE databases presents a significant challenge to traditional library funding models.
- Commercial, fee-based MEDLINE services face increasing scrutiny regarding their continued necessity in the digital age.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the evolution and user acceptance of free MEDLINE resources, with a specific focus on the National Library of Medicine's (NLM) PubMed system.
- To evaluate the perceptions of librarians regarding the PubMed system and its impact on library resource allocation.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted to gather data on librarian perceptions of PubMed.
- The latest generation of PubMed software was assessed based on end-user requirements and the educational objectives of medical libraries.
Main Results:
- Librarian perceptions of PubMed were analyzed, highlighting key areas of acceptance and concern.
- The evaluation of the new PubMed software indicated its alignment with, or divergence from, end-user needs and library educational mandates.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest a shift in resource utilization, questioning the sustained financial commitment to commercial MEDLINE vendors.
- The study provides insights into the integration of free resources like PubMed into medical library services and educational strategies.