Research: the third dimension of librarianship

Area of Science:

• Information Science
• Medical Librarianship

Background:

• The rapid increase in data due to advanced technology creates an "ignorance explosion," challenging traditional librarianship.
• Current data collection often prioritizes quantity and speed over quality and relevance, posing a significant issue.
• Existing needs assessments for medical librarianship predominantly focus on technology, overlooking the human element.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the challenges posed by the information explosion to medical librarianship.
• To emphasize the critical role of human values and research in the evolution of the profession.
• To propose a comprehensive professional model for medical librarianship that integrates research, education, and practice.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of the relationship between technology and the information age.
• Discussion of the importance of value judgments in data collection methodologies.
• Advocacy for a research-focused approach to professional development in medical librarianship.

Main Results:

• The study highlights the need for librarians to critically evaluate data collection methodologies and inherent value judgments.
• It identifies a gap in current professional development, which neglects research into the human aspects of information science.
• The findings underscore the necessity of integrating research as a core dimension of medical librarianship.

Conclusions:

• Medical librarianship must evolve beyond traditional information storage and service by embracing human values and rigorous research.
• Developing Ph.D.-level researchers is essential for advancing the field.
• Federal assistance and scholarships are vital to foster library research and redefine the profession's relevance.