Consumer Health Information on Public Library Websites: Availability and Characteristics

Consumers increasingly search for health information online but can become frustrated in their efforts. Here, public libraries can play an important role as trusted sources. A random sample of 200 U.S. public libraries was used to identify the availability of online consumer health information (CHI) and related characteristics. We found that 110 libraries provided online CHI. The average site provided 28 sources and required two clicks to reach the information. About a third of libraries collaborated by sharing sources or linking to existing content. Collaboration may provide a way to expand the availability and quality of online CHI on public library websites.