Digital access to the world's literature: A blueprint to integrate evidence with practice

Introduction, Objective & Purpose: On-site libraries rarely exist in Public Health Departments (PHDs) hindering work quality and capacity development. The Public Health Information Access Project (PHIA), funded by the National Library of Medicine's New England Region, identifies core, useful and evidence-based library resources to advance evidence-based practice (EBP) and instill self-directed learning. Ensuring easy access via digital library portal remains a priority. Objectives specify requirements for PHD participation, investment required to sustain access, on-site trainings promoting significance of literature review related to EBP; and an evaluation plan documenting usefulness and cultural change. Methods: An Interactive communication plan coupled with installation of intranet-based library portals provide easy access for public health workers to access trusted e-resources and provide feedback; trainings reinforce skills and understanding of content, and promote efficient use of technology – including mobile apps and digital library interoperable features. Local academic/hospital library partnerships enhance service delivery. Digital resources, selected with PHD/Librarian input, utilize benchmarking processes and reflect local and global health priorities. Enterprise licensing and IP authentication save time and reduce costs. Citation management software allows critical content to be saved and re-used for other applications. Results: Digital libraries reside on 15 state PHD intranets accessible without ID or password. Literature critique is a reliable process to support EBP. Enterprise licensing coupled with IP management creates efficiencies with vendors and publishers, who modified licenses to accommodate project requirements. Metrics have been collected; and more than 615 people have been trained. Discussion & Conclusion: Approximately 2-5% of public health workers enjoy academic joint appointments allowing access to academic libraries. The value of the project is its ability to provide ubiquitous access to science-based resources integral to EBP for all state and local public health workers. Plans include expanding partnerships and additional technologies, e.g.TRAIN to support training, accreditation, and core competencies.