Implementing a Personal Librarian Program to Rebuild Connections With Medical Students

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences Information Management
• Medical Education Technology
• Academic Librarianship

Background:

• The increasing reliance on digital resources and remote learning has led to a perceived disconnection between health sciences librarians and medical students.
• Traditional face-to-face interactions within physical libraries are diminishing, prompting a need for innovative engagement strategies.
• Existing literature explores various virtual methods for librarians to connect with patrons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of a Personal Librarian Program at the Savitt Medical Library.
• To evaluate the program's effectiveness in fostering communication between librarians and medical students.
• To offer a model for other health sciences libraries facing similar challenges.

Main Methods:

• A case study approach was employed to document the Personal Librarian Program's development and implementation.
• The program aimed to establish dedicated librarian-learner relationships.
• Communication channels were established to facilitate ongoing interaction.

Main Results:

• The Personal Librarian Program successfully promoted direct communication between librarians and medical students.
• The initiative provided a structured framework for building rapport and offering tailored support.
• Qualitative feedback indicated positive reception from both librarians and learners.

Conclusions:

• Personal Librarian Programs can be an effective strategy for health sciences libraries to maintain and strengthen connections with medical students.
• This model offers a proactive solution to the challenges posed by evolving learning environments and digital resource utilization.
• Implementing such programs can enhance the perceived value and accessibility of library services for medical learners.