ABSTRACT
This paper discusses user support in the context of a library-managed online database search service. Experience is drawn from the British Medical Association (BMA) Library's Free MEDLINE Service. More than 9,600 BMA members, who are largely unfamiliar with computer communications and database searching, have registered as users of the service. User support has played a significant role in the development of the service and has comprised four main aspects: an information pack, a help desk, online help, and MEDLINE courses. The paper includes an analysis of help desk usage statistics collected from January 1996 through June 1996, and highlights other relevant research. Plans for further service enhancements and their implications in terms of future user support are discussed.
Subject(s)
Computer User Training , Library Services , MEDLINE , Online Systems , Computer User Training/methods , Computer User Training/statistics & numerical data , Humans , United KingdomSubject(s)
Library Services , MEDLINE , Societies, Medical , Adult , Consumer Behavior , Female , Humans , Male , Pilot Projects , Program Evaluation , United KingdomABSTRACT
Codes of ethics are a classic mark of a profession, and their preparation is an important part of the work expected of a professional organization. EAHIL has recently embarked on drafting a code for European health librarians. This paper explains the background to EAHIL's decision, and reviews existing codes of ethical practice in the fields of both medicine and library and information work.
