Transforming the Public Health Department information access culture: The digital library intersection

Background, Objective & Purpose: The need to enhance information access to public health departments (PHDs) has been documented. After years of providing articles through traditional delivery, the move towards instant access to evidence-based resources was eminent. A pilot study was conducted with 7 PHDs, located mainly in New England. Objectives were to: (1) introduce trusted electronic resources related to work topics; (2) provide ubiquitous access to licensed resources; (3) deliver hands-on training emphasizing content and functionality of resources; (4) create local librarian partnerships to improve article delivery; (5) employ data driven evaluation; and (6) document process change within participating organizations. Methods: Senior staff were recruited to lead activities and facilitate objectives. Resources, selected on content and interoperability, were made accessible through a "digital library" platform. An initial assessment was distributed to capture and analyze current subscriptions, payment practices, and to identify desired journals. Two half-day training sessions were held on-site to teach evidence-based practice and train on the electronic resources. EndNote X/4 software was supplied to manage citations and provide "cite as you write" functionality. Web-based tests were distributed in relationship to training. Survey results will be reported. Results: Digital Library Web Pages reside on all PHD intranets with e-resources linked by IP authentication. Signed vendor licenses allow access for anyone requiring information in support of work objectives. Four databases and 30 e-journals are being tested. On-site and distance-learning trainings were employed to reinforce use; some have stimulated “Communities of Practice.” Discussion & Conclusion: This project illustrates value in having timely, trusted, resources to improve the quality of public health work. Use of reliable resources can be tied to a more affordable digital library for public health. Seamless access to resources saves time, effort, and reduces duplicative expenditure. A streamlined “article” delivery system has resulted in new partnerships.