A note on the Philadelphia Regional Medical Library Committee

Area of Science:

• Medical Librarianship
• Information Science
• Regional Cooperation

Background:

• Standardized library plans do not meet diverse regional needs.
• The Philadelphia Regional Medical Library Committee was established to address this gap.
• The committee comprises representatives from five medical schools, the College of Physicians, and other medical organizations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine cooperative library activities tailored to the specific needs of the Philadelphia region.
• To develop strategies for efficient resource management and information dissemination.

Main Methods:

• Reviewing new library plans across medical schools to prevent resource duplication.
• Developing a framework for cooperative initiatives.

Main Results:

• Identified opportunities for cooperative storage of infrequently used materials.
• Proposed a messenger service for efficient document delivery.
• Outlined an acquisition program to broaden regional resources.
• Envisioned improved communication through mechanical devices.
• Planned for a regional center to distribute bibliographies from MEDLARS tapes.

Conclusions:

• A flexible, needs-based approach to regional medical library planning is essential.
• Cooperative efforts can significantly enhance resource availability and access to medical information.