Accreditation in the Health Sciences: A Handbook for Librarians

by Darell Schmick (Editor)

Overview

Accreditation in the Health Sciences: A Definitive Guide for Libraries explores the role of the library in any health sciences organization’s accreditation efforts. This book has been specifically written to address the unique needs of health sciences libraries in supporting an institution's accreditation efforts. The enterprising library professional can treat this title as a manual on how to proactively address the challenges that come with any health sciences related accreditation site visits. The lessons in these chapters will create and build upon valuable opportunities for partnered success between the library and the institution it supports.

Library professionals will want to have this guide handy if they need to convey any data to an accrediting agency on behalf of their institution. This book will cover all elements of health sciences libraries and has been written in a way to highlight theories and best practices, rather than specific steps to follow that will easily be outdated with any accrediting body update. In a time when librarians are asked to do more with less, this is especially targeted towards the solo, small team, and/or start up library team to simplify and optimize the accreditation experience. Special chapters discuss strategy to advance the library's story will serve as a way to illustrate value and advocate for a well-resourced library.

Finally, this book also can serve as an informational tool to accrediting teams themselves to better understand the myriad ways that library services are meaningfully integrated into the institutions they support. Whether working directly in the library or adjacent to it, Accreditation in the Health Sciences will be an asset for a team invested in accreditation success.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781538165584
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	01/24/2023
Series:	Medical Library Association Books Series
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	220
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Darell Schmick, MLS, MBA, AHIP has over 10 years of experience in academic medical libraries. Currently the Inaugural Library Director at Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, this will be the second medical school in which he has played an involved role as director in establishing institutional accreditation. Mr. Schmick is an active member of the Medical Library Association, and the Midcontinental Chapter of the Medical Library Association. As Immediate Past Chair of the Osteopathic Caucus of the Medical Library Association, he has shepherded projects within the caucus to elevate the visibility of Osteopathic Librarians in schools of Osteopathic Medicine.

Table of Contents

Contents

Part One: Accreditation Fundamentals

Introduction Darell Schmick

1. Accrediting Bodies: History and Context Mitzi Norris
2. How the Library can Prepare: Best Practices for Success Roy Brown
3. Maintaining Continuity through Institutional Growth and Personnel Changes Ana Corral and Rachel Helbing

Part Two: The Accreditation Process

1. First Time Accreditation Process: Laying the Groundwork Connie Manning, Sonya Lemke, and Darell Schmick
2. Ongoing Accreditation Efforts: Magnet Recognition and the Role of the Librarian Roy Brown and Alison Monpetit
3. Making a Continuous Impact: Library Participation in the Continuous Quality Improvement Process Charlotte M. Beyer
4. From the Source: Collected Insights from Accrediting Officers Darell Schmick, John J. Dougherty, and Jennifer Brown
5. Partners in Accreditation: Library Case Study and Suggestions for Best Practices Elizabeth Hinton, Susan Clark, and Mitzi Norris

Part Three: Debrief: Action Items for Follow Up

1. Debrief with the Institution and Library Team Rhonda L. Altonen
2. The Postmortem: Handling Accreditation Success and Failure Joanne Muellenbach
3. Staying in the Conversation: Strategies for Continued Partnership Michele L. Whitehead
4. Librarian Involvement in a School of Medicine Accreditation Initiative: Assessing Information Seeking Skills During Curricular Self-Directed Learning Activities Douglas L. Varner, Grant Connors, Yvonne M. Hernandez, Jeff Weinfeld, G. Ian Gallicano, and Jett McCann
5. Epilogue: Empowering the Library as a Partner in Accreditation Darell Schmick

Editorial Reviews

Reviewer: Kristy Lynn White, MSLS, MS (Duquesne University)
Description: This book delves into the pivotal role played by health sciences libraries in institutional accreditation. It addresses the distinct requirements of health sciences libraries and provides strategies for effectively participating in the accreditation process. It serves as a manual for library professionals, equipping them to navigate the challenges of accreditation site visits and to foster a cooperative relationship with the institutions they support. The structure of the book is flexible and enduring, focusing on principles and effective practices rather than rigid, step-by-step instructions that may become outdated with changes in accreditation standards. This adaptability makes the guide an asset for library professionals establishing new library services by simplifying the complex accreditation process. Additionally, the guide serves a dual purpose by acting as an informative resource for accreditation teams, enhancing their understanding of how library services are woven into the fabric of the educational institutions they evaluate.
Purpose: Based on its outline and thematic focus, the book is a necessary addition to the professional resources for health sciences librarians. It aims to provide health sciences library professionals with a framework of adaptable strategies and best practices that can be applied regardless of changes in accreditation standards. The book seeks to empower librarians, particularly those working solo or in small teams, with the knowledge and tools to effectively contribute to their institution's accreditation success. These objectives are worthy because accreditation is a critical process for health sciences institutions, often requiring rigorous documentation and demonstration of the institution's resources, including library services. It offers a valuable framework that library professionals can tailor to their specific circumstances, ensuring that they are prepared to articulate the value of their library's services in supporting their institution's goals for accreditation.
Audience: The audience of the book is practitioners in the field of librarianship. It caters to the nuanced needs of librarians, offering them practical and strategic support for the accreditation process within health sciences institutions. The book aligns with the professional demands of librarians by providing a relevant and adaptable framework for accreditation, evidencing that it meets the needs of its intended practitioner audience. Furthermore, the authors of the book are established figures in the health sciences realm, lending significant credibility to the resource.
Features: This book is a pivotal resource that offers nuanced and substantial guidance to librarians in the complex realm of health sciences accreditation. Its comprehensive approach provides librarians with the theoretical underpinnings and practical advice necessary to navigate accreditation requirements effectively. The book's strength lies in its adaptability; it goes beyond mere procedural advice, offering a conceptual framework that remains applicable amidst the ever-evolving standards of accrediting bodies. Especially beneficial is the book's focus on the collaborative aspect of accreditation. It understands that the process is not just a hurdle for librarians to clear but an opportunity for them to forge and strengthen partnerships with their institutions. By doing so, it aligns the library's mission with the broader goals of the institution, showcasing how a well-resourced library is integral to educational excellence. Furthermore, the book's style is clear and engaging, making complex accreditation policies accessible to all levels of library staff. Whether for seasoned professionals or those new to the field, the book presents its rich content in an organized manner that facilitates both learning and application. The value of this book is amplified for small teams or solo librarians who may not have extensive support or resources. While a great guide, the book has room for expansion in an area for newer librarians: the art of securing increased funding from administrators who may not be familiar with the accreditation's intricacies. For novices in the field, the challenge of elucidating the link between adequate library resources and successful accreditation is often compounded by a lack of experience in budget negotiation and financial advocacy.
Assessment: This title is an outstanding resource that stands as a testament to its quality and utility in the field of health sciences librarianship. Its meticulous attention to the accreditation process and its impact on libraries showcases its immense value to library professionals. The book's practical guidance, combined with a strong theoretical foundation, offers a unique blend that is not only informative but also empowering for its intended audience. This guide surpasses other texts in the field by its sheer focus on adaptability and strategic planning. Compared to other highly regarded titles like The Medical Library Association Guide to Managing Health Care Libraries, 2nd Edition, Bandy and Dudden (Neal-Schuman Publishers, 2011), this book delves deeper into the accreditation aspect, providing a niche focus that is unparalleled. The clarity of the writing and the organization of the content make complex accreditation processes understandable and approachable, which is a significant achievement. It is a seminal work that should grace the shelves of all health sciences librarians, new and experienced alike. Its quality and depth set a high standard for future publications in the field, and it is a book that I believe will become an indispensable reference for those involved in the accreditation of health science libraries.

Doody's Review Service

This book is an excellent reference to have on hand when one’s institution is approaching accreditation. The focus on empowering the librarian to take a proactive approach allows the library to establish itself as a relevant and vital component of the organization. It is an opportunity to create connections and maintain those during and after an accreditation process. This is an excellent addition to the literature and a timely piece.

Catherine Soehner

Schmick and his authors connect librarian and administrator perspectives across all phases of the accreditation process. Case studies from a diverse range of libraries in the United States provide insights and actionable suggestions. Whether you are new to accreditation or have prior experience, reflecting on the knowledge shared will help prepare your library and your organization for success

Kristine Alpi

Schmick and his authors connect librarian and administrator perspectives across all phases of the accreditation process. Case studies from a diverse range of libraries in the United States provide insights and actionable suggestions. Whether you are new to accreditation or have prior experience, reflecting on the knowledge shared will help prepare your library and your organization for success

This book is an excellent reference to have on hand when one's institution is approaching accreditation. The focus on empowering the librarian to take a proactive approach allows the library to establish itself as a relevant and vital component of the organization. It is an opportunity to create connections and maintain those during and after an accreditation process. This is an excellent addition to the literature and a timely piece.

From the Publisher