Health sciences libraries in the United States: new directions.

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences Librarianship
• Information Science
• Medical Library Association

Background:

• This article is the third in a series on global health science library developments.
• It aims to map key changes and driving factors in the field.
• The focus is on developments within the United States.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline two significant national developments affecting health sciences libraries and librarians in the U.S.
• To explore the enhanced roles of U.S. health sciences librarians in research support.

Main Methods:

• The article is presented by the current president of the Medical Library Association.
• It synthesizes information on national initiatives and librarian roles.
• No specific empirical methods are detailed, focusing on a review and synthesis.

Main Results:

• Two key national developments impacting U.S. health sciences libraries are identified.
• Enhanced roles for librarians in supporting research are highlighted.

Conclusions:

• National initiatives are shaping the landscape of health sciences libraries in the U.S.
• Health sciences librarians are increasingly integral to research support.