Examining the Reach and Impact of a Systematic Review Service

Abstract

This case study describes the process librarians at a large research university used to evaluate a systematic review searching service. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Scopus were searched for studies with a local, health sciences author. Data on librarian involvement, search quality, and standards adherence were recorded. Results of the assessment indicate a gradual increase in librarian authorship or acknowledgement over time, a moderate improvement in adherence to reporting standards over time, and insight into which departments better adhere to standards. Ideas for improving the quality and reach of the service while ensuring sustainability are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Expert searcher
• health sciences librarians
• librarian’s role
• library services
• PRISMA
• reporting guidelines
• service evaluation
• systematic reviews

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge Chris Childs, Clinical Education Librarian at Hardin Library for the Health Sciences, for his work in helping to complete the assessment of the systematic review service. For their contributions to the development of the systematic review service, the authors also acknowledge current and former Hardin Library staff: Amy Blevins, Chris Childs, Xiaomei Gu, Janna Lawrence, and Elizabeth Kiscaden.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Heather S. Healy

Heather S. Healy ([email protected]) is a Clinical Education Librarian at the Hardin Library for the Health Sciences, University of Iowa, 600 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA 52246 USA.

Matt Regan

Matt Regan ([email protected]) is a Clinical Education Librarian at the Hardin Library for the Health Sciences, University of Iowa, 600 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA 52246 USA.

Jennifer Deberg

Jennifer Deberg ([email protected]) is a User Services Librarian at the Hardin Library for the Health Sciences, University of Iowa, 600 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA 52246 USA.