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Research in health sciences library and information science: a quantitative analysis.
1School of Library and Information Science, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 53201.
Bulletin of the Medical Library Association
|October 1, 1992
Summary
Health sciences librarians primarily research applied or theoretical topics, often using surveys. Most research originates from academic health sciences libraries and receives funding.
Area of Science:
- Library and Information Science
- Health Sciences Librarianship
Background:
- Research in health sciences librarianship provides insights into the field's evolution and focus.
- Understanding research trends is crucial for professional development and strategic planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze research published in the Bulletin of the Medical Library Association from 1966-1990.
- To identify research subjects, researchers, methodologies, and funding patterns in health sciences librarianship.
- To compare these characteristics with broader trends in library and information science research.
Main Methods:
- Content analysis of research articles.
- Bibliometric analysis of publication data.
- Comparison of findings with general library and information science literature.
Main Results:
- Most research (51.8%) is conducted by librarians in academic health sciences libraries.
- Topics are predominantly applied (45.7%) or theoretical (29.2%).
- Survey (41.0%) and observational (20.7%) methodologies are common, utilizing descriptive quantitative analysis (83.5%). Over 25% of research is funded.
Conclusions:
- Health sciences librarianship research largely mirrors general library and information science trends.
- Specific differences in methodology and analysis exist within health sciences librarianship.
- The study highlights key characteristics of research conducted by health sciences librarians during the analyzed period.