The creation of a grey literature database for the British Columbia Environmental and Occupational Health Research Network (BCEOHRN): lessons learned and next steps

Abstract

This paper outlines the steps that led to the creation of a grey literature database for the British Columbia Environmental and Occupational Health Research Network (BCEOHRN), particularly an MLIS student’s involvement in the project during the summer of 2006. The paper makes suggestions for the continued involvement of a professional health librarian as the project grows in size and importance for BCEOHRN researchers. BCEOHRN is one of eight networks funded by the Michael Smith Foundation in early 2005, as part of its Networking Infrastructure Program. Its aim is to “build capacity, facilitate and enhance B.C.’s ability to address health issues, and align health research in the province with national and international research and funding priorities to improve competitiveness for external funding” [1]. As part of this initiative, BCEOHRN works specifically to support research in occupational and environmental health in British Columbia. The scientific director of BCEOHRN, Dr. Susan Kennedy, a professor in the School of Environmental and Occupation Hygiene at the University of British Columbia, ambitiously supports new and innovative initiatives to put BCEOHRN at the forefront of the eight networks. One of the network’s goals for 2006 was to create an environmental and occupational health-related grey literature database, which led to the author’s involvement in the project.