Southeastern News Online May, 2004 Vol. 2  No. 1

Hospital Libraries Shine in New Quarters

Expansion of outpatient physical therapy services at Helen Hayes Hospital caused the library’s move to a new location where clinicians, researchers, administrators, patients, and visitors find an attractive redesigned space. Library users can choose a computer at one of the study carrels along the windows, or a cozy spot by the fireplace graced by The Library Lion, which was discovered during the move. The large bulletin board in the hallway draws attention to the library, publicizing its services and resources. Library Director Kathy Fiola has continued her impressive promotional campaign and undertaken an extensive education and training program for hospital staff. As a result, library web site usage has increased dramatically, growing 400% in the course of a year.

Study carrels at HHH	The Library Lion at HHH	The Bulletin Board at HHH

Nyack Hospital has seen many changes under the leadership of Jesse Caudill, Director of Library and CME Services. Since arriving in June of 2002 when the library was in cartons in storage, Jesse has reestablished the Medical Library in a beautifully renovated space and, with the help of a donor, installed state of the art equipment and an impressive, current reference collection on new shelving, as well as introduced electronic resources to the hospital.

Complementing the new (color printer, flat screen LCDs, and a wonderful conference/ study table area) are the impressive oil paintings of early physicians in elaborate frames which grace the walls. Also discovered in the reconstruction process, the paintings reclaim the earlier history of the hospital and give the new library a sense of continuity in its second century of service to the community. The Medical Library also offers a new Consumer Health Information Service to all residents of Rockland County. The new space has enabled the library to offer staff training in basic computer skills and programs such as Excel and Power Point as well Introduction to the Library’s Electronic Resources.
	Jesse Caudill, Nyack Hospital	Computer Training at Nyack Hospital

Vassar Brother Medical Center Library, while remaining in the same physical space, has an inviting new arrangement, shelving, furniture and equipment thanks to a local foundation grant. The welcoming and comfortable space for reading, research or study is just off the main hallway and seems busier than ever. Mary Jo Russell, Manager of Library Services, has also been able to add electronic document delivery equipment in her adjoining office through a NN/LM grant through the Mid-Atlantic Region. Promotion and training at VBMC have also resulted in major increases in use of electronic resources and research services.

Mary Jo Russell, Vassar Brothers Medical Center	Study Area, Vassar Brothers Medical Center Library

Look for more medical library spotlights in the next issue.....

Contents | People in the News | Calendar of Events | Job Opportunities | SENYLRC Home