Strengthening the links between health sciences information users and providers

In 1994, the Hospital Library Service Program of the Central New York Library Resources Council conducted a study to evaluate the usefulness, impacts, and potential services of eleven hospital libraries in a four-county area in New York State; determine the degree to which the libraries comply with Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) standard IM.9.2; and provide recommendations for improved services in the member libraries. Two research instruments were used: a survey for hospital-based health sciences professionals and a survey for hospital-based information providers. Results from the two surveys were compared to determine if users' needs were being filled, and to develop plans for improved information services and products. Fourteen recommendations are made that, if implemented, will support the creation of user-defined information products, enhance the library's profile within the hospital, and exploit resource sharing to reduce costs and enhance coordination.