Consumer Health Information on Public Library Websites: Availability and Characteristics

Abstract

Consumers increasingly search for health information online but can become frustrated in their efforts. Here, public libraries can play an important role as trusted sources. A random sample of 200 U.S. public libraries was used to identify the availability of online consumer health information (CHI) and related characteristics. We found that 110 libraries provided online CHI. The average site provided 28 sources and required two clicks to reach the information. About a third of libraries collaborated by sharing sources or linking to existing content. Collaboration may provide a way to expand the availability and quality of online CHI on public library websites.

Keywords:

• CHI
• consumer health information
• online
• public libraries
• website

Acknowledgments

The author is grateful for the wise and generous guidance of her mentor, Dr. Katherine Akers; the advice and advocacy of her advisor, Dr. Ana Cleveland; and the support of the staff of MLA's Research Training Institute for Health Science Librarians.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are openly available in the UNT Data Repository at https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc2017124/.

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.

Notes on contributors

Laurie Najjar

Laurie Najjar ([email protected]) earned her master’s degree in Information Science from the University of North Texas. Previously, she received a B.A. in Psychology and M.S. in Management. Her varied background includes experience in instructional design, marketing management, editorial publishing, and research. Currently, Laurie works at the Austin Public Library as a Reference Librarian.