Medical Librarian Career Path Guide

Medical librarians specialize in managing, organizing, and disseminating medical and health-related information to professionals, researchers, students, and patients. They support healthcare decision-making by providing access to evidence-based resources, facilitating research activities, and teaching information literacy skills in clinical and academic settings.

growth rate

$73,500

median salary

remote-friendly

📈 Market Demand

Low

High

The demand for medical librarians remains high due to the continued expansion of biomedical research, the critical role of evidence-based medicine, and growing complexity in managing digital medical information. Healthcare and academic institutions require skilled professionals to navigate evolving publishing landscapes and advanced data stewardship.

🇺🇸 Annual Salary (US, USD)

52,000—95,000

Median: $73,500

Entry-Level: $58,450
Mid-Level: $73,500
Senior-Level: $88,550

Top 10% of earners in this field can expect salaries starting from $95,000+ per year, especially with specialized skills in high-demand areas.

Core Functions of the Medical Librarian Role

Medical librarians are information specialists who play a crucial role at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and research. They curate, organize, and manage specialized collections of medical literature, journals, databases, and multimedia resources. Their expertise ensures that physicians, nurses, researchers, and students have timely access to the accurate and relevant data integral to patient care, clinical decision-making, and scientific advancement.

These professionals often collaborate with healthcare providers to conduct literature searches that inform diagnoses, treatment plans, and clinical guidelines. They also support systematic reviews, prepare bibliographies, and assist in managing institutional repositories. In academic medical centers, medical librarians contribute to curriculum development by teaching students how to evaluate and utilize medical evidence responsibly.

Working with evolving technology is a significant aspect of this role. Medical librarians operate advanced information systems, manage electronic resources, and stay abreast of emerging digital tools to enhance access to medical knowledge. Beyond traditional libraries, they participate in research data management and open-access initiatives, ensuring compliance with regulatory and ethical standards.

The role requires a blend of knowledge in library and information science, biomedical terminology, research methodologies, and a solid understanding of clinical workflows. Medical librarians must be adept at working with interdisciplinary teams and communicating complex information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

They may also be involved in supporting patient education by ensuring access to understandable and trustworthy healthcare materials. Their work directly influences medical research productivity, clinical efficacy, and ultimately better patient outcomes.

Key Responsibilities
Curate and maintain collections of medical literature, journals, electronic databases, and multimedia resources.
Conduct comprehensive literature searches to support clinical decisions, research projects, and academic assignments.
Teach information literacy skills, including evidence-based medicine principles, to healthcare students and professionals.
Manage electronic health information resources, including licensing agreements and access platforms.
Collaborate with healthcare providers and researchers to develop systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and bibliographies.
Assist in research data management, archiving, and compliance with ethical standards for biomedical information.
Develop and maintain institutional repositories and digital archives for medical research outputs.
Evaluate and recommend new information technologies and tools relevant to medical and health sciences.
Support patient education by curating accessible, reliable health information resources.
Provide reference services and in-depth research assistance to clinicians, faculty, students, and patients.
Participate in interdisciplinary teams to integrate information resources within clinical workflows and decision support systems.
Monitor emerging trends in medical publishing, open access, and information management.
Organize workshops, training sessions, and seminars on medical databases, citation management, and scholarly communications.
Maintain knowledge of biomedical terminology, clinical procedures, and healthcare regulations to ensure relevance of resources.
Ensure compliance with copyright laws, data privacy regulations, and institutional policies regarding information use.

Work Setting

Medical librarians typically work in academic medical centers, hospitals, healthcare research institutions, universities, and public health organizations. Their environment includes quiet, resource-rich libraries equipped with computers, digital resource access, and collaborative meeting spaces. Interaction with medical professionals, researchers, students, and patients is common, requiring excellent communication skills and adaptability to diverse audiences. Hybrid roles involving remote support and digital resource management are growing, yet many still spend a significant portion of their day on-site to provide in-person consultations, training, and resource management. The pace may vary from structured academic timelines to fast-moving clinical environments demanding rapid information retrieval. Collaboration with IT staff, faculty, and healthcare teams is frequent, often requiring attendance at interdisciplinary meetings and workshops.

Tech Stack

PubMed
CINAHL
Web of Science
Scopus
EndNote
Zotero
RefWorks
Ovid Medline
EBSCOhost
ClinicalKey
UpToDate
LibGuides
OpenAthens/SAML Authentication Systems
DynaMed
Alma (Library Management System)
Ex Libris Primo (Discovery Layer)
Microsoft Excel
Google Scholar
TRIP Database
Institutional Repository platforms (e.g., DSpace, Hydra)

Skills and Qualifications

Education Level

Becoming a medical librarian typically requires a Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited program. Many institutions now favor candidates who complement their library science degree with specialized training or coursework in health sciences, medical informatics, or biomedical terminology. Experience or coursework in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and evidence-based medicine is highly advantageous.

In addition to a master's degree, many medical librarians pursue certification through professional bodies such as the Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP), which can signify professionalism and commitment to continued learning. Some roles, especially in academic medical centers, may require knowledge of data management, open access publishing, and digital curation. Candidates often augment their education with training in database searching, instructional design, and health information technology.

Before entering graduate programs, candidates often hold bachelor's degrees in varied disciplines, including biology, health sciences, or information science. An understanding of healthcare environments and familiarity with research culture is essential for success, making internships or volunteer opportunities in health libraries valuable.

Continued professional development through conferences, webinars, and workshops keeps medical librarians abreast of emerging technologies and evolving healthcare information needs.

Tech Skills

Advanced literature searching in PubMed and MEDLINE
Proficiency with citation management software (EndNote, Zotero, RefWorks)
Database administration and management
Knowledge of medical subject headings (MeSH)
Experience with electronic resource licensing and access tools
Competence in bibliometrics and research impact analysis
Understanding of health informatics and electronic health records (EHRs)
Familiarity with metadata standards and cataloging (Dublin Core, MARC21)
Use of library management systems (Alma, Sierra)
Data curation and institutional repository management
Competency in Boolean search techniques and advanced query construction
Basic programming or scripting knowledge (Python or SQL) for data manipulation
Understanding of clinical decision support systems
Ability to conduct systematic reviews and meta-analyses support
Skills in developing LibGuides and online tutorials

Soft Abilities

Excellent verbal and written communication
Strong research and analytical thinking
Attention to detail and accuracy
Problem-solving mindset
Interpersonal skills for collaborating with diverse stakeholders
Patience and empathy when assisting users
Adaptability to evolving technologies and workflows
Time management and organizational skills
Teaching and instructional aptitude
Critical evaluation and information synthesis

Path to Medical Librarian

Entering the field of medical librarianship begins with obtaining a bachelor's degree, which can be in any field but ideally in health sciences, biology, or information science to build foundational knowledge of healthcare terminology and research. Gaining experience through internships or volunteering in medical libraries offers practical exposure and aids in developing relevant skills.

Following the undergraduate degree, earning a Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an accredited program is essential. Candidates should seek courses that specialize in health or medical librarianship. During this time, it's highly beneficial to network with professionals in the field, participate in health information internships, and attend relevant conferences.

After graduation, acquiring certifications such as the Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP) credential can provide a competitive edge. Early career roles often involve entry-level positions in medical libraries or related institutions where professionals acquire practical skills in literature searching, electronic resource management, and user services.

Continuing education is vital due to the fast-evolving nature of medical publishing and information technology. Engaging in workshops about systematic review support, emerging databases, and data management is advisable. Over time, medical librarians may choose to specialize further in areas like biomedical informatics, data curation, or academic instruction.

Developing soft skills such as effective communication, teaching, and collaboration is equally important. Engaging in interdisciplinary teams and supporting clinical decision-making processes requires adaptability and strong interpersonal skills. Building a portfolio of successful projects, reference work, and instructional materials can improve job prospects.

For those aiming to ascend into senior or managerial roles, pursuing additional education in healthcare administration, informatics, or instructional design may open doors. Remaining current with trends such as open access publishing, digital preservation, and artificial intelligence in healthcare information will promote career longevity and impact.

Required Education

The educational pathway for medical librarians begins with a bachelor's degree, preferably in an area related to health or sciences to provide familiarity with medical terminology and research concepts. Degrees in information science, biology, nursing, or health informatics are common and advantageous. During undergraduate studies, seeking part-time library work, volunteer opportunities, or shadowing health sciences librarians offers insight into the profession.

Earning a Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from a program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) is the minimum requirement for most medical librarian positions. Leading programs include those offered by universities such as University of Maryland, University of North Carolina, and University of Washington, which offer specialized courses in health sciences librarianship. Coursework often covers cataloging, information retrieval, digital libraries, and research methods, with electives focusing on biomedical databases, clinical informatics, and evidence-based practice.

Supplementary certifications such as the Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP) credential demonstrate professional credibility. AHIP certification requires evidence of continuing education, practical experience, and commitment to professional development.

Postgraduate training or fellowships in medical librarianship offered by institutions like the National Library of Medicine (NLM) can provide hands-on experience with cutting-edge biomedical informatics projects and advanced research support.

Workshops and short courses on topics like systematic reviews, research data management, and open science practices are invaluable to stay current. Many universities provide continuing education via webinars and seminars focused on new medical databases, citation tools, and digital content management techniques.

On-the-job training is also a critical component, often complemented by mentoring from experienced librarians. Keeping abreast of healthcare trends, regulatory requirements (such as HIPAA), and ethical considerations is necessary for ongoing competence.

Some medical librarians pursue additional degrees or certificates in health informatics, public health, or instructional design to expand their skillset and career opportunities, particularly in research institutions that demand expertise at the data management interface.

Career Path Tiers

Junior Medical Librarian

Experience: 0-2 years

At this entry level, medical librarians assist with basic reference inquiries, conduct routine literature searches under supervision, and support the management of digital and print collections. They learn to handle electronic resource licenses, contribute to instructional sessions, and develop familiarity with medical databases and terminology. Expect guidance in conducting systematic reviews and working with bibliographic software. Responsibilities include maintaining resource accessibility and providing user support for library systems. Junior librarians build foundational skills and get acclimated to healthcare environments and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Mid-level Medical Librarian

Experience: 3-6 years

Mid-level professionals take on more complex search requests including supporting clinicians in evidence-based medicine and research projects. They design and deliver educational workshops, develop online guides (LibGuides), and manage institutional repositories or archives. Increased involvement in resource acquisition, vendor negotiation, and technology evaluation occurs. Mid-level librarians serve as mentors to junior staff and participate actively in research data management and scholarly communications initiatives. They often collaborate with faculty and clinical teams on systematic reviews and grant proposals.

Senior Medical Librarian

Experience: 7-12 years

Senior medical librarians hold leadership roles in managing department operations, setting strategic goals for resource development, and establishing library policies. They oversee complex research support activities, contribute to curriculum development, and may lead interdisciplinary projects integrating informatics and clinical decision support systems. Responsible for advanced user education, advocacy for open access, and securing funding for library initiatives. They mentor staff, coordinate continuing education programs, and represent the library at institutional and professional levels.

Lead/Chief Medical Librarian

Experience: 12+ years

At the highest tier, lead librarians direct entire medical library services, provide visionary leadership, and align library missions with institutional research and clinical priorities. They manage budgets, negotiate high-value subscriptions, and spearhead collaborations across multiple departments. Their role includes policy advocacy, innovation in data management services, integration of AI tools, and leading open science transformations. Serve as institutional leaders influencing national or global health information initiatives. They cultivate partnerships, develop strategic training programs, and ensure the library adapts to future healthcare information trends.

Global Outlook

Medical librarianship is a globally relevant profession with opportunities spanning across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and parts of the Middle East and Africa. Countries with advanced healthcare and research infrastructures such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, and Japan tend to offer the most positions in academic medical centers, hospital systems, and governmental health agencies.

In regions like Scandinavia and the Netherlands, where open access and digital transformation are highly prioritized, medical librarians are often engaged in innovative data curation and informatics initiatives. Emerging economies in Asia and the Middle East are increasingly investing in medical libraries within expanding academic medical centers, generating growing demand for qualified professionals.

The global push towards evidence-based healthcare and digital health information management fuels international collaboration, enabling medical librarians to work on cross-border projects or research support roles. English remains the dominant language for biomedical literature, but medical librarians with bilingual skills or local language proficiency are highly sought to support diverse populations.

Remote work options are gradually increasing, especially for roles involving digital resource management, instruction, or research support. However, many positions still require physical presence in healthcare or academic institutions due to the nature of collaborative and reference activities.

Global conferences such as those hosted by the Medical Library Association (MLA) or the European Association for Health Information and Libraries (EAHIL) offer networking and development pathways enhancing international opportunities. Professionals willing to relocate or engage in continuous professional development will find expanding career prospects across continents as healthcare research and education grow in complexity and scale.

Job Market Today

Role Challenges

The medical librarian profession faces challenges related to rapid technological changes and evolving user expectations. Staying current with a growing volume of electronic medical literature and managing complex digital subscriptions demand continual adaptation. Budget constraints in many healthcare and academic institutions restrict resource acquisition and staffing, pressuring librarians to optimize access and justify expenditures. The rise of open access publishing disrupts traditional library acquisition models, requiring librarians to navigate new licensing frameworks and institutional mandates. Another hurdle is the increased demand for skills beyond traditional librarianship—competencies such as data management, research impact measurement, and informatics are essential but may require ongoing training. Addressing diverse user needs, from clinicians under time pressure to researchers requiring comprehensive datasets, can be challenging. Additionally, medical librarians must advocate for their evolving role in interdisciplinary teams, combating misconceptions that automated tools can replace human expertise in evidence synthesis and information curation.

Growth Paths

Growth areas include expanding roles in research data management, systematic review support, and integrating artificial intelligence tools to enhance evidence retrieval. As healthcare shifts towards precision medicine and data-driven decision-making, medical librarians are increasingly involved in managing clinical trial data, facilitating reproducibility, and curating genomic databases. Instructional design for health professionals is a growing domain where librarians enhance learning through tailored workshops and digital resources. The emergence of patient-centered care models increases opportunities for medical librarians to support patient education through trusted health information dissemination. Expanding open access mandates by funding agencies stimulate librarian leadership in managing institutional repositories and educating researchers about publishing options. Furthermore, health informatics collaborations and electronic health record (EHR) integrations create new avenues for librarianship. Technological advancements like machine learning and semantic search engines offer possibilities for librarians to redefine knowledge discovery workflows, positioning themselves as indispensable partners in healthcare innovation.

Industry Trends

The rise of open science and open access publishing has revolutionized the availability and dissemination of medical knowledge, placing new demands on librarians to manage institutional repositories and compliance with mandates. Digital transformation is driving libraries from physical spaces toward virtual platforms with mobile-friendly access to resources. Integration of artificial intelligence for literature screening, evidence mapping, and research synthesis is accelerating. Interprofessional collaboration is more prominent, blurring traditional boundaries as medical librarians become part of clinical decision-making teams and research consortia. Data stewardship has evolved beyond bibliographic resources to include management of raw research data sets, requiring librarians to gain expertise in data privacy, ethical standards, and metadata creation. User experience design is increasingly emphasized to improve accessibility and usability of medical databases and online tools. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of rapid, reliable access to emerging medical information and reinforced the librarian’s role as a trustworthy knowledge broker.

A Day in the Life

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Focus: Research Support & Literature Searches

Respond immediately to clinical staff's urgent literature requests using databases like PubMed and ClinicalKey.
Conduct systematic review searches or support research teams with exhaustive evidence-gathering.
Meet with faculty or clinicians to discuss project goals and search strategies.
Review newly acquired digital journal alerts and upload relevant articles to institutional repositories.

Afternoon (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM)

Focus: Instruction & Resource Management

Lead workshops teaching clinicians and students how to navigate electronic databases and use citation managers.
Update LibGuides and develop online tutorials for emerging tools or clinical specialties.
Negotiate vendor contracts for electronic resource licenses and troubleshoot access issues.
Assist patrons with in-depth reference questions and one-on-one consultations.

Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Focus: Administrative & Collaborative Projects

Participate in interdisciplinary meetings focused on integrating knowledge resources into clinical workflows.
Work on grant proposals or departmental strategy related to digital transformation and data curation.
Evaluate newly published databases or tools for potential acquisition.
Update metadata and maintain compliance with copyright and privacy regulations.

Work-Life Balance & Stress

Stress Level: Moderate

Balance Rating: Good

Medical librarians generally experience a moderate stress level stemming from the need to balance fast-paced information retrieval demands with comprehensive research support tasks. While deadlines, particularly in clinical environments, can create pressure, opportunities for flexible scheduling and remote work in some institutions help maintain a reasonable work-life balance. Workloads may fluctuate, especially when supporting grant cycles or clinical trials, but librarians typically benefit from an autonomous environment where they can manage their time effectively. Multidisciplinary collaboration can sometimes add intensity but also enrich job satisfaction.

Skill Map

This map outlines the core competencies and areas for growth in this profession, showing how foundational skills lead to specialized expertise.

Foundational Skills

Essential competencies required to perform core medical librarian duties effectively.

Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) navigation
Advanced literature searching (PubMed, CINAHL)
Bibliographic database management
Cataloging and metadata creation
Basic biomedical terminology

Specialization Paths

Areas where medical librarians can deepen expertise after mastering foundational skills.

Systematic review support and evidence synthesis
Research data management and stewardship
Health informatics and clinical decision support
Instructional design and user education
Open access publishing and scholarly communication

Professional & Software Skills

Technical tools and interpersonal skills critical for workplace success.

Expertise with EndNote, Zotero, RefWorks
Proficiency in library management systems (Alma, Sierra)
Experience with digital repository platforms (DSpace, Hydra)
Strong verbal and written communication
Collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork
Time management and organization
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Instructional and presentation skills
Negotiation and vendor management

Pros & Cons for Medical Librarian

✅ Pros

Opportunities to work closely with healthcare professionals and researchers, impacting patient care and scientific progress.
Diverse work environments including hospitals, academic institutions, and research settings.
Continuous learning with exposure to cutting-edge medical information and technology.
Ability to develop specialized expertise in evidence-based medicine, data management, or informatics.
Strong job stability stemming from the enduring need for accurate and accessible medical information.
Potential to influence publishing practices and advocate for open access and equitable knowledge sharing.

❌ Cons

High dependency on constantly changing technology requires ongoing training and adaptation.
Budget constraints often limit resource acquisition and staffing within medical libraries.
Pressure to quickly deliver accurate information can create stressful moments, especially in clinical settings.
Navigating complex licensing and copyright issues can be legally and administratively challenging.
Perceptions that the profession is being replaced by automated tools, requiring advocacy to demonstrate value.
Some roles offer limited remote work options due to the collaborative and onsite nature of the work.

Common Mistakes of Beginners

Underestimating the importance of mastering biomedical terminology and clinical concepts early on.
Overreliance on a single database, neglecting the comprehensive nature of evidence-based searches.
Failing to develop strong instructional skills for educating diverse user groups effectively.
Neglecting to stay current with emerging technologies and open access publishing trends.
Inadequate documentation of search strategies and research support activities.
Limited engagement with interdisciplinary teams, missing opportunities for collaborative impact.
Not advocating for their role within clinical or academic settings, leading to undervaluation.
Insufficient understanding of copyright, licensing, and data privacy regulations.

Contextual Advice

Build a strong foundation in both library science and biomedical knowledge through targeted coursework and internships.
Develop advanced searching skills across multiple databases and stay up-to-date with new tools.
Cultivate effective communication and teaching abilities to support users with varying expertise levels.
Stay engaged with professional organizations like the Medical Library Association for networking and development.
Seek certifications such as AHIP to enhance credibility and career advancement.
Gain familiarity with research data management and open science principles to broaden your service offerings.
Balance technical expertise with interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate across disciplines.
Advocate for the unique value medical librarians bring to healthcare and research environments.

Examples and Case Studies

Supporting COVID-19 Research at a Tertiary Hospital

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, medical librarians at a tertiary hospital rapidly adapted their workflow to support clinicians and researchers. They curated up-to-date information from evolving research, developed timely evidence summaries, and created resource guides accessible remotely. Their intervention facilitated quick clinical decision-making and helped regulatory bodies stay abreast of emerging data.

Key Takeaway: Agility, deep domain knowledge, and proactive resource management are critical in healthcare crises. Medical librarians can serve as vital conduits of accurate knowledge during rapidly evolving situations.

Integrating Systematic Review Training in Medical Curriculum

An academic medical center integrated medical librarians into the curriculum to teach students evidence-based practice and systematic review techniques. Librarians designed interactive workshops, developed online tutorials, and provided one-on-one support. This collaboration resulted in improved research quality and greater student confidence in navigating medical literature.

Key Takeaway: Active involvement in education empowers students and clinicians alike, enhancing the research capabilities and elevating the librarian’s role beyond resource management.

Launching an Institutional Repository to Preserve Research Output

A mid-size university medical library led the design and implementation of an institutional repository for biomedical research data and publications. Medical librarians collaborated with IT, faculty, and compliance officers to ensure secure, scalable, and user-friendly access to scholarly works, increasing research visibility and supporting open access mandates.

Key Takeaway: Medical librarians can drive innovations in digital curation and open science, positioning libraries as leaders in knowledge preservation and dissemination.

Portfolio Tips

A medical librarian’s portfolio should showcase a breadth of work demonstrating expertise in literature searching, user support, and educational initiatives. Include detailed examples of complex search strategies, systematic review contributions, and any custom research guides or instructional materials developed. Highlight collaboration on interdisciplinary research projects and roles in data management or digital repository curation. Document your impact with measurable outcomes such as improved access stats, training session feedback, or successful funding proposals.

Present evidence of technological skills through certifications, software proficiency lists, or demonstrations of resource management capabilities. Reflect soft skills by including testimonials or examples of user feedback showcasing your communication and teaching effectiveness. Keep your portfolio updated with continuous professional development activities, conference presentations, and publications related to health information science.

Visual components, such as screenshots of LibGuides, instructional videos, or dashboards, can enhance engagement. Tailor your portfolio to the target role by emphasizing relevant competencies—clinical librarianship, academic support, or data curation. A clear, organized, and accessible digital format ensures your portfolio itself serves as a testament to your information management skills.

Job Outlook & Related Roles

Growth Rate: 9%
Status: Growing faster than average
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Related Roles

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a background in healthcare to become a medical librarian?

While a background in healthcare or the sciences can be helpful, it is not strictly required. Many medical librarians acquire necessary biomedical knowledge through their MLIS coursework, on-the-job training, and continuing education. Familiarity with medical terminology and research methods is important, so taking electives or obtaining certifications in health sciences is advisable for career advancement.

What certifications enhance a medical librarian’s career prospects?

The Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP) certification is highly respected and indicates a commitment to ongoing professional development. Additional certification or coursework in systematic reviews, data management, or health informatics can also boost employability. Vendor-specific training on databases or library systems adds technical expertise.

Can medical librarians work remotely?

Many medical librarian tasks such as literature searching, instructional design, and resource management can be performed remotely, especially with digital resources. However, clinical librarian roles often require some on-site presence to work closely with healthcare teams. Remote work options have expanded since the COVID-19 pandemic but depend on the employer and specific job functions.

How do medical librarians support clinical decision-making?

They provide timely, evidence-based information by conducting rapid and comprehensive literature searches that inform diagnoses and treatment plans. They also assist in creating clinical guidelines, support systematic reviews, and train healthcare professionals in evaluating medical evidence effectively.

What software tools should a medical librarian master?

Proficiency in databases like PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus is essential. Citation management tools such as EndNote, Zotero, or RefWorks are important for supporting research. Knowledge of library management systems (e.g., Alma), institutional repository platforms, and data management software also enhances efficiency and service.

What are common career advancement pathways in medical librarianship?

Career paths typically progress from junior to senior librarian roles, with increasing responsibility in research support, instructional leadership, and department management. Some move into specialized areas like health informatics or data curation. Leadership roles include directing libraries or influencing institutional policy and digital transformation efforts.

How important are teaching skills for medical librarians?

Extremely important. Medical librarians often run workshops, orientation sessions, and one-on-one training. They help users develop skills in navigating databases, evaluating evidence, and managing citations. Effective pedagogy enhances user empowerment and demonstrates the librarian’s value in educational settings.

What challenges do medical librarians face with open access publishing?

Open access changes traditional acquisition models as more content becomes freely available. Librarians must educate researchers on publishing options, manage institutional repositories, and navigate licensing and copyright considerations. Ensuring compliance with funder mandates while maintaining quality control presents ongoing challenges.