(PO-153) Librarian Support of Predoctoral Dental Education in North America

Author: Elizabeth Stellrecht, Other(Please Describe) – Interim Head, Health Sciences Library Services, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Author: Richard McGowan, M.L.S. – Research Librarian, NYU College of Dentistry
Author: Nicole Theis-Mahon, M.L.I.S. – Dentistry Librarian and Collections Coordinator, University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Author: Nena Schvaneveldt, M.S.L.I.S. – Assistant Librarian, University of Utah School of Dentistry
Author: Alissa Fial, M.A. M.L.I.S. – Associate Librarian, Marquette University School of Dentistry
Submitter: Elizabeth Stellrecht, Other(Please Describe) – Interim Head, Health Sciences Library Services, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medic

Objective: Most dental institutions have librarian liaisons and library services available to their constituents. However, they are often unaware of these services and how they can be leveraged for student and faculty benefit. This study aims to provide ADEA members with a summary of library services and resources that support dental education, faculty research, and student research. This summary demonstrates trends in dental librarianship, services, and resources that can be adopted to serve the needs of dental-related education programs, and the growth of the dental librarianship over the last five years.




Methods: This is an update of the Stellrecht et al. study conducted in 2016. An environmental scan inventoried services that dental librarians provide. The survey instrument was updated to include questions regarding new technologies and services that have emerged over the last five years, including 3D printing, research data management, data visualization, and more. The study population consisted of librarians who work in dental libraries or college/university libraries that serve CODA accredited DMD/DDS pre-doctoral programs. Currently, there are 79 such libraries within the United States and Canada. An IRB-approved survey instrument was distributed via email to the identified librarians.




Results: Data collection and descriptive statistical analysis are currently in progress. Primary data demonstrates that most dental programs have a dedicated librarian liaison providing curricular and research support through various approaches. Examples include evidence-based dentistry instruction and curricular support, research and grant support, providing access to emerging technologies, collaboration on systematic reviews, service on curriculum committees, and involvement in the accreditation process.



Conclusion: Librarians provide skills that enhance dental education and research. Additionally, librarians strive to offer new and trending services to benefit faculty, staff, and students. Increasing awareness and utilization of available librarian skills, services, and resources within the dental education community can facilitate research and improve education globally.