Research Survey: Virtual Reference in Health Sciences Libraries in the Time of COVID-19
Dear colleagues,We invite all medical and health sciences librarians to participate in a research study including a survey about virtual reference. We are investigating how virtual reference services have changed during the time of COVID-19. How health sciences librarians are utilizing virtual reference services including chat/instant messaging, email, text messaging, and video consultations, to perform reference duties in their institutions, and how a pandemic has changed the use of these technologies. As many libraries begin reopening and once again providing in-person services, what does the future hold for virtual reference in health sciences libraries?This research study is being conducted by Kay Strahan, Research & Learning Services Librarian, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center (UTHSC) Health Sciences Library, Jenessa McElfresh, Systematic Review Service Coordinator/Senior Research & Learning Services Librarian, UTHSC Health Sciences Library, and Lindsay Blake, Clinical Services Coordinator, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Library.This research has been reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board at UTHSC. The findings may be shared at conferences or published in a peer-reviewed journal.Participation is open to all librarians in Academic health sciences or hospital settings. Participation in this study is completely voluntary. You may refuse to take part in the research or exit the survey at any time without penalty. You are free to decline to answer any question for any reason. By choosing the link below you will be first taken to the informed consent document and can continue on to the survey if you choose.Virtual Reference in Health Sciences Libraries in the Time of COVID-19 https://uthsc.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0pnH5ucfuswschE
If you have any questions about this study, please contact Kay Strahan, kstraha1@uthsc.edu, 901-448-5154If you have concerns about the ethical conduct of this study, please contact the UTHSC IRB Office: 901.448.4824, irb@uthsc.eduThank you for your time and consideration,Kay Strahan, Research & Learning Services LibrarianJenessa McElfresh, Systematic Review Service Coordinator/Senior Research & Learning Services LibrarianLindsay Blake, Clinical Services Coordinator