Examining the Reach and Impact of a Systematic Review Service

Med Ref Serv Q. 2020 Apr-Jun;39(2):125-138. doi: 10.1080/02763869.2020.1726150.

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; PRISMA; health sciences librarians; librarian’s role; library services; reporting guidelines; service evaluation; systematic reviews.

MeSH terms

  • Information Services* / standards
  • Information Storage and Retrieval
  • Librarians
  • Professional Role
  • Systematic Reviews as Topic*
  • Task Performance and Analysis