Libraries are the catalysts for building strong healthy communities. Components of community well-being, such as health and safety, economic conditions, educational opportunities and social connectedness, often overlap and reinforce one another. Learn how to do an analysis of community resources, how to find the best contacts and how to propose partnerships that strengthen relationships and better support everyone’s need for information, services and insights.

Consumer Health in Libraries

“A recent IMLS study showed that an estimated 37 percent of library computer users (28 million people) use library computers and seek assistance from librarians for health and wellness issues, including learning about medical conditions, finding health care providers, and assessing health insurance options.” (OCLC media release, Sept. 4, 2014) By partnering with other organizations, public libraries are better able to help people access needed services and resources and help people make informed decisions. With that in mind, this workshop will:

• offer guidelines for developing an action plan for creating a community-based health information program or project;

• give you tools for giving patrons the most current, reliable health information with databases and federally-funded websites as well as learn what information is appropriate for providing in a library setting and;

• hear about successful health and wellness programming from other librarians and get program ideas from community-based organizations and agencies.

Schedule

9:30 - 10:00 a.m.
Registration and Coffee

10:00 - 10:05 a.m.
Welcome and Introductions

10:05 a.m. - 12:05 p.m.
Libraries and Community Partners: Working Together to Provide Health Information
Libraries are by nature an integral part of their communities. Many agencies, including public libraries, provide health information. By partnering with other organizations, public libraries are better able to: help people access needed services and resources; enhance information sharing, referral, and collaboration among community agencies; provide information that helps people make informed decisions. Samanthi Hewakapuge will present a guide for developing a community-based health information program including assessing community health information needs, identifying partners, planning activities and creating an evaluation plan.
Samanthi Hewakapuge, National Network of Libraries of Medicine

12:05 - 1:00 p.m.
Lunch

1:00 - 2:15 p.m.
Health Information Resources: Where to Find Them and How to Use Them
What are the most current, reliable health information resources, and how should librarians assist the public in using them? Learn about MeL health databases and federally-funded online resources as well as how to apply for federal grants for community-based health information programs. Also, learn how to offer compassionate, professional assistance to patrons seeking health information.
Michael Simmons, Sparrow Hospital; Andrea Kepsel, Michigan State University

2:15 - 2:30 p.m.
Break

2:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Consumer Health Programming:  Creative Ideas for Every Librarian
Librarians all over Michigan and beyond are delivering educational and even FUN consumer health programming. Stand on the shoulders of greatness and get ideas for programs that can work in your own library!
Lissa Staley Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library; Joy Cichewicz and Molly Beedon, Ypsilanti District Library; Heidi Neil, Adrian Public Library

Registration Rates

Early Bird Rates expire April 8, 2016

*subject to space limitations

In order to qualify for member rates, attendees must hold current individual MLA membership. Organizational membership does not apply. For more information about MLA individual and organizational membership, please visit Membership Value and Benefits.