The part of hospital libraries in medical care : a case study of the libraries in Uddevalla hospital and Norra Älvsborgs läns hospital in Trollhättan

This study is an attempt to examine how hospital libraries should develop its activities towards their target groups in time of reductions. The method was a case study of the hospital libraries in Uddevalla and Trollhättan. An opinion poll was carried out among a selection of hospital staff, patients, medical researchers and students. In addition a patient group at some wards was observed. The libraries in the study produce an annual report, which presents a proposal for developments. Some of the library staff also answered open inquiries. Systems theory and a model of interested party formed the starting point of the study. The relationships between the organisation and its target groups were examined. The influence of the environment and a comprehensive view of the organisation's activities were also noticed. The result of the study points to the fact that the different target groups need both medical information and culture events from the hospital library. The patient, however, preferred recreation to information during the hospital stay. The conclusion is that the libraries in my study work customer and quality orientatedly. However they could satisfied their users even more through longer opening hours. An increased collaboration with the collage of nursing and school would also benefit the target groups. Moreover, the library director should encourage database training of library staff. The hospital libraries in Uddevalla and Trollhättan ought to market their work a little bit more, which would involve a further study.Uppsatsnivå: