The Accidental Health Sciences Librarian

by Lisa A. Ennis, Nicole Mitchell

Sparked by an aging baby boomer population, the dizzying pace of breakthroughs in medical research, and an unprecedented proliferation of health information, you may soon discover a career opportunity in health sciences librarianship -- if you aren't already a part of this exciting field. In The Accidental Health Sciences Librarian, Lisa A. Ennis and Nicole Mitchell offer a thorough and up-to-date overview along with guidance on a range of critical resources, tools, and functions. Their coverage of such essential topics as HIPAA and MeSH, along with a wealth of expert tips and advice, is a must for all new, prospective, and working health sciences librarians.

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction, Library Science

232 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2010

Reviews

[Adrienne · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of the information in this book is the same as what I found when I did my own research on health sciences librarians.

Also, it's uh, outdated. I imagine it was already outdated when it came out in 2010, just judging from hilarious technology quotes like "While Palm OS and Pocket PC are currently the most common operating systems for PDAs, many resources are also becoming available for BlackBerry devices and iPhones." LOL PDAs.

[Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was very helpful. Many of the listed websites are outdated but the blog seems to be up to date.

I just got a job in a VA hospital library and this is my new bible for work related inquiries.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still useful overall, if pretty outdated at this point. The topic/book deserves an update someday! Took lots of notes as I was reading and was able to locate updated versions of websites/resources along the way

[Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re read after being in the field for four years and I gained so much from this book. I hope the author's decide to update.

[Kayla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Outdated but insightful when it comes to the nuances of health sciences. Gives perspective on a niche field, really. Could do with an updated, more generalized edition, leaving out specific tech and focusing more on the broader concept of information technology within the health sciences field; however, it shows how far health sciences librarianship has advanced from the publication of the book until now.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall a pretty helpful book for both those who are starting new (like I was a 1.5 years ago) and those who need a refresher on current resources, trends, options (like me currently).

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has many helpful resources for a Health Sciences librarian. If I end up in the field I would definitely buy this to keep as a reference. Currently I borrowed it.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who fell into medical reference through working with nursing students in a med-sized academic library, this is a fantastic intro resource.

[Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

About 80% of this book is outdated, but it's worth skimming. I'd definitely read a second edition.