Librarians in Evidence-Based Medicine Curricula: A Qualitative Study of Librarian Roles, Training, and Desires for Future Development

Med Ref Serv Q. 2015;34(4):428-40. doi: 10.1080/02763869.2015.1082375.

Abstract

This study aims to describe librarians' roles in evidence-based medicine (EBM) from the librarian perspective, identify how librarians are trained to teach, and highlight preferences for professional development. A multiinstitution qualitative study was conducted. Nine medical librarians identified by their faculty as integrated into EBM training were interviewed. Participants' descriptions indicated that they were active in curriculum development, deployment (including teaching activities), and assessment to support EBM. Participants identified direct experience and workshop participation as primary methods of learning to teach. Participants desired continuing development as teachers and requested opportunities for in-person workshops, shadowing physicians, and online training.

Keywords: Academic health sciences librarians; evidence-based medicine; medical education; medical libraries; role of librarians.

MeSH terms

  • Canada
  • Curriculum*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / education*
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Librarians*
  • Libraries, Medical*
  • Professional Role*
  • Qualitative Research
  • United States