Objectives
This poster will examine how the National electronic Library for Health (NeLH) is establishing a network of health librarians across England, called the Digital Libraries Network (DLnet). The aim of the network is to empower librarians to promote the value of themselves and the services they offer.
Methods
The NeLH provides information resources for all health professionals across England. Uptake and usage of these resources depends largely on librarians. Marketing and training are activities undertaken by librarians, but they tend to occur on an ad hoc basis. Several librarians contacted NeLH to enquire about marketing and training activities. After a series of focus groups, NeLH decided to set up a network of librarians to share ideas and knowledge about what works in marketing and training, the intention being to help librarians engage their organisations and demonstrate the value of what they offer.
DLnet launched with 7 masterclass events in summer 2003, during which librarians were invited to join the network as DLnet Representatives. This poster will describe the events and the online resource that has been set up to support the representatives, and outline plans for expanding the scope of the network and future support.
Outcomes:
- co-ordinated approach to marketing and training across the country
- increased usage of the NeLH
- increased support for librarians and trainers
- sharing of best practice
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