Preston Medical Library: A Vital Resource for the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine

Library Offers Canine Stress Relief, Announces Public Resources & Support Options

Memphis, TN – A local library is pioneering innovative wellness programs alongside bolstering community access and support initiatives, officials announced today. In a move to address student and public wellbeing, the library is now hosting regular canine-assisted stress reduction sessions.

The program, a collaboration with the Human-Animal Bond in Tennessee (H.A.B.I.T.), brings certified therapy dogs to the library twice weekly – every Monday and Wednesday from noon to 1:00 p.m. – offering a unique opportunity for individuals to de-stress and connect with animals.

“We recognize the increasing pressures faced by our community, and we’re committed to providing resources that support mental and emotional health,” a library spokesperson stated. “The presence of these gentle canine companions offers a calming and therapeutic experience.”

Beyond the new wellness initiative, the library is also highlighting its extensive resources for the public, including subject-specific research guides designed to assist patrons with a wide range of information needs. These guides, available through the library’s website, offer curated collections of materials and expert assistance.

The library also emphasized its commitment to ongoing community engagement through a variety of events and programs. Details on upcoming events can be found on the library’s events page.

library officials reminded the public of opportunities to support the library’s mission and ensure continued access to vital resources.Details on donation and volunteer opportunities are available through the library’s support services.

Evergreen Insights: The Growing Role of Libraries in Community Wellness

This proclamation reflects a broader trend of libraries evolving beyond traditional book lending to become vital community hubs offering diverse services. The integration of animal-assisted therapy is particularly noteworthy, aligning with growing research demonstrating the positive impact of human-animal interaction on mental health.

Libraries are increasingly recognized as safe, accessible spaces that can address critical community needs, from digital literacy to social support. By embracing innovative programs like canine stress relief, libraries are solidifying their role as essential pillars of wellbeing in the 21st century. The emphasis on subject guides also underscores the library’s continued commitment to information literacy and research support, crucial skills in an era of information overload.

What databases does teh Preston Medical Library provide access to for biomedical literature searches?

core Collections & Resources

The Preston Medical Library serves as the primary details hub for students, faculty, and researchers at the University of tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Medicine. its extensive collection supports the curriculum, clinical practice, and research endeavors across various medical specialties. Key resources include:

Biomedical Literature Databases: Access to comprehensive databases like PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library is central to evidence-based medicine and research.These databases provide access to millions of peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and clinical trials.

E-Journals: A vast collection of electronic journals covering all medical disciplines, ensuring access to the latest research findings. Subscriptions are continually updated to reflect evolving medical knowledge.

E-Books: A growing digital library of medical textbooks, reference materials, and specialized monographs. This provides convenient access to essential learning resources.

print Collection: While increasingly digital, the library maintains a curated print collection of core medical texts and journals, particularly valuable for historical context or when digital access is unavailable.

Anatomical Models & Resources: Supporting the study of human anatomy, the library provides access to physical models, digital anatomy software (e.g., Visible Body), and anatomical atlases.

Special Collections: Including historical medical texts and rare books, offering unique insights into the evolution of medical practice.

Specialized Services for UTHSC Students & Faculty

Beyond its extensive collection, Preston medical Library offers a range of specialized services designed to enhance the learning and research experience:

Research Support: Librarians provide expert assistance with literature searches, research methodology, data management, and citation analysis. This includes one-on-one consultations and group workshops.

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Support: Dedicated support for implementing EBP principles, including formulating clinical questions, searching for relevant evidence, critically appraising studies, and applying findings to patient care.

Systematic Review Support: Librarians assist with all stages of systematic review growth,from protocol creation to search strategy development and data synthesis.

Information literacy Instruction: Integrated into the curriculum,these sessions teach students how to effectively locate,evaluate,and use information resources. Topics include database searching, critical appraisal, and avoiding plagiarism.

interlibrary Loan (ILL): Access to materials not held by the Preston Medical Library through a network of lending libraries.This expands research capabilities considerably.

Document Delivery: Rapid delivery of articles and book chapters directly to users, streamlining the research process.

EndNote & Citation Management Support: Training and assistance with using EndNote and other citation management software to organize references and generate bibliographies.

Technology & Learning Spaces

The Preston Medical Library provides a technologically advanced and conducive learning surroundings:

Computer Workstations: Numerous computers with high-speed internet access and specialized software for medical research and data analysis.

Wireless Access: Comprehensive Wi-Fi coverage throughout the library, enabling users to connect with their own devices.

Study Rooms: Individual and group study rooms available for reservation, providing quiet spaces for focused work.

Multimedia Viewing Rooms: Equipped with audio-visual equipment for presentations, video conferencing, and viewing educational materials.

Digital Scholarship Lab: A dedicated space for advanced research projects involving data visualization, digital mapping, and other innovative technologies.

Printing & scanning Services: Convenient access to printing and scanning facilities.

Navigating Library Resources: Practical Tips

UTHSC Library Website: The primary starting point for accessing all library resources and services: https://www.uthsc.edu/library/ (replace with actual URL if different).

LibGuides: Subject-specific research guides created by librarians, providing curated resources and search strategies for specific medical disciplines.

Ask a Librarian: Utilize the library’s “Ask a Librarian” service (chat, email, or phone) for immediate assistance with research questions.

Library Workshops: Regularly scheduled workshops on various topics, such as database searching, citation management, and EBP. Check the library’s events calendar for upcoming sessions.

Mobile Access: Many library resources are accessible via mobile devices, allowing users to conduct research on the go.

Preston Library & the Future of Medical Information

The Preston Medical Library is continually evolving to meet the changing needs of the UTHSC College of medicine. Current initiatives focus on:

Open Access Initiatives: Supporting open access publishing and providing access to open access resources.

Data Science & Informatics: Expanding resources and services related to data science, bioinformatics, and medical informatics.

Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented reality (AR): Exploring the use of VR and AR technologies for medical education and training.

Digital Preservation: Ensuring the long-term preservation of digital resources.

* Collaboration with Clinical Partners: Strengthening partnerships with hospitals and clinics to provide seamless access to information resources for healthcare professionals.