Evaluating the Impact of Mediated Literature Searches at a Comprehensive Cancer Center

Abstract

Research informationists at a comprehensive cancer center sought to evaluate the impact and value of mediated literature searches in support of their users' work activities. An assessment tool was identified in the literature and modified by the investigators to solicit feedback from library users and identify the major reason(s) why scientists and health care professionals request literature searches, how they use the resulting information, and the impact that the results may or may not have on their research or patient care/decision-making activities. Survey results were qualitatively analyzed, and future avenues of outreach and promotion of mediated literature search services were identified.