A Proposed Cooperative System for Medical Libraries in Sudan

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Date

1996-06

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Addis Ababa University

Abstract

This study has investigated and reviewed the medical information services and facilities in Sudan, including a survey of medical information users. This is done in order to propose a cooperative programme for medical libraries in Sudan so that the existing services and facilities could be strengthened The user survey has revealed that there is a lack of access to sufficient and to up to date information sources, especially textbooks and scientific journals. It also showed that there is a need for user education programmes. The survey on medical libraries revealed that there is a shortage of qualified library personnel,as well as a lack of information technology equipment. The investigation of existing cooperation between medical libraries revealed that it is restricted to the exchange of books, gifts, and photocopy services. All surveyed libraries expressed their interest and willingness to participate in an organized library network. Based on the findings of the study, a cooperative programme has been proposed. This programme includes cooperative acquisition, cataloguing\processing, storage, interlibrary lending and reference services, and cooperative education\research programmes. In order to formalize and maintain the cooperative programme, a network for medical libraries is suggested. It is also suggested that the plan for this network be a phased plan; Phase 1 includes selection of network activities, identification of participating libraries , and preparation of resource sharing tools.

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Keywords

Information Science

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