In today's environment, most academic health sciences librarians are navigating complicated negotiations between their academic and clinical sites for library resources and services. Librarians must balance stakeholder interests, differing organizational cultures, and shifting funding models.
In July of 2019, an Association of Academic Health Sciences Libraries (AAHSL) Task Force for Library Services for Associated Clinical Organizations (ACO) comprised of health science library leaders from Duke University, Geisinger Health, Georgetown University, Michigan State University, the University of Colorado-Anshutz, the University of North Texas, and the University of South Alabama (USA) was convened.
Charged with identifying AAHSL libraries that have successfully developed models and policies (including funding policies) for providing library services and collections to their ACOs, the task force interviewed eight library directors with successful ACO models and compiled case studies of these models highlighting factors contributing to their success.
Clista Clanton, Assistant Director for Strategic Initiatives of the Charles M. Baugh Biomedical Library, represented USA in this research project, and the results from the task force’s newly released report were shared in a webinar with AAHSL directors on Friday, April 9th. The report will also be shared with relevant Association of American Medical Colleges groups and posted on the AAHSL website. - Clista Clanton
