Multi-Type Librarian Workshops

Abstract

Locating quality medical information for consumers, electronically or in traditional print formats, can be challenging in spite of the explosion of medical information on the Internet. Which sites are better than others? Where can information geared for children, teens, or caregivers be found? When is it better to consult texts rather than online resources, and what resources exist online that aid in the development of consumer health print collections? How can credibility, bias, and accuracy of information be determined? This article summarizes how a workshop was designed for multi-type librarians to assist them with multiple issues. These include understanding usage patterns of consumer health seekers; print and electronic collection development; conducting quality medical reference interviews; locating and evaluating quality resources (both print and electronic); and establishing a network of resources (colleagues, local consumer health or medical libraries, Listservs, e-mail groups, etc.) that can assist with health-related information requests.