Preferred Professional Development Methods for Health Science Librarians

Abstract

ABSTRACT Professional development, also known as continuing education, is when individuals seek to increase or develop knowledge or skills related to their profession. In a field, such as librarianship that incorporates technology, it is even more important. In health science librarianship, the need for professional development has long been regarded as important in providing quality service. This study’s main objective was to determine the preferred professional development method(s) used by health sciences librarians. A survey was developed using Qualtrics and sent out through various listservs used by health sciences librarians and completed by 159 health sciences librarians. Health science librarians answered questions about use and preference as well as rating the resources on how these methods met their professional development needs. The results of this study provide data and insight on which types of professional development health science librarians prefer and which they find most helpful as they become familiar with the nuances that come with serving as a health science librarian. Having a better understanding of the support needed and proven resources can help health sciences librarians on-board to their job sooner and to advocate for future professional development.