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Update: HSLS and the Public Health Information Alliancepublic health organizations across the United States lag behind hospitals and academic medical institutions in access to and use of information resources. HSLS is addressing this challenge in Allegheny County through the Public Health Information Allianceprogram. PHIA provides access to information resources, library services, and training for Allegheny County Health Department employees. This pilot project is funded through an 18-month contract from the National Library of Medicine National Library of Medicine. For details see "Improving Access to Information for Public Health Workers" in the April 2003 HSLS Update Raising Awareness of Information Resources
The design of the PHIA program is based on previous HSLS experience with the provision of library services to geographically dispersed patrons. But there are special challenges in promoting such a program to those unaccustomed to having library services. To meet this challenge, promotion efforts are ongoing, and include an introductory program, brochures, site visits, and stickers for computer monitors. A key component in the success of PHIA has been the use of e-mail and the Internet for communicating with ACHD employees at worksites throughout the county. Training and Tips
Onsite training at the ACHD computer lab in Lawrenceville has been well attended. Classes offered to date include Searching PubMed and Internet Public Health Resources. Sessions that focus on information resources for specific topics, such as smoking, are provided upon request. The Tuesday Info Tip is sent each week by e-mail to ACHD employees, covering a topic related to searching for information. The reaction has been favorable, and this weekly message also helps to increase program visibility. Delivering InformationThe PHIA Web site <www.hsls.pitt.edu/phia> includes information on all program services, and a guide to public health resources on the Internet. Internet access plays a key role in information delivery by diminishing barriers to access, which often include limited time for research and distance from the library. In the first year of the program, ACHD employees requested copies of 123 journal articles to be delivered via the Internet. In addition, most requests for reference assistance are initiated and answered via e-mail. What’s Next?During the remainder of the grant, the PHIA steering committee will investigate the continuation and expansion of the program, and dissemination of the lessons learned to other libraries and health departments. --Barb Folb |
