The following case study was published in the new issue of the Journal of the Medical Library Association.

Title

Evolution of an Academic–Public Library Partnership

Authors

Robert J. Engeszer, MLS, AHIP

Washington University School of Medicine

William Olmstadt, MSLS, MPH, AHIP

Washington University School of Medicine

Jan Daley, MLS, CHIS

Saint Louis Public Library

Monique Norfolk, MPH

Washington University School of Medicine

Kara Krekeler, MLS

Saint Louis Public Library

Monica Rogers, MLIS, CHIS

Washington University School of Medicine

Graham Colditz, MD, DrPH, FAFPHM

Washington University School of Medicine

Victoria V. Anwuri, MPH

Washington University School of Medicine

Scott Morris, MLS

Saint Louis Public Library

Mychal Voorhees, MA

Washington University School of Medicine

Brenda McDonald, MA, MLS

Saint Louis Public Library

Jackie Bernstein, MPH

Washington University School of Medicine

Paul Schoening, MS, MB

Washington University School of Medicine

Lee Williams, BA

Saint Louis Public Library

Source

Journal of the Medical Library Association

2016 Jan; 104(1): 62–66

Abstract

A partnership to improve access to health information via an urban public library system was established in St. Louis, Missouri, in 2011. A multiyear project was outlined that included an information needs assessment, a training class for public library staff, information kiosks at library branches for delivering printed consumer health materials, and a series of health-related programming. The partnership evolved to include social service and community organizations to carry out project goals and establish a sustainable program that met the health and wellness interests of the community.