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11:21
Methodology for Establishing a Community-Wide Life Laboratory for Capturing Unobtrusive and Continuous Remote Activity and Health Data
Published on: July 27, 2018
Conducting a user-centered information needs assessment: the Via Christi Libraries' experience
Cathy M Perley1, Camillia A Gentry, A Sue Fleming
1Emporia State University School of Library and Information Management, Emporia, Kansas 66801, USA. cperley@cableone.net
Journal of the Medical Library Association : JMLA
|April 20, 2007
Summary
A medical library needs assessment revealed that clinicians need point-of-care information, while nonusers want services marketed. Customization of library resources is key for improving patient care and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Librarianship
- Information Science
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Via Christi Regional Medical Center Libraries aimed to develop a long-term strategy.
- A comprehensive information needs assessment was conducted to guide this strategy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To gather evidence for a long-term strategic plan for the medical center libraries.
- To understand how libraries can best serve patrons and improve patient care outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys, telephone interviews, and focus groups.
- Data were collected from approximately 5,900 physicians, clinicians, and nonclinical staff across 4 sites.
- Quantitative and qualitative data analysis addressed patron needs and institutional goals.
Main Results:
- Clinicians require "just in time" information at the point of care.
- Nonusers highlighted the need for increased marketing of library services and resources.
- Both user groups emphasized the need for customized information services tailored to professional needs and usage patterns.
Conclusions:
- A user-centered needs assessment informed an evidence-based strategic plan for the libraries.
- Findings underscored the importance of promoting library services and suggested expanded roles for hospital librarians.
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