Reference Assistance
The library staff is available to assist with in-depth topical searches of medical literature for general reference, curriculum development, lectures, presentations, and patient care. Search requests may be made in person at the library, by phone, fax, email, or by filling out a Literature Search Request Form.
How to Request a Literature Search
The most important thing to remember when requesting a literature search is that the more specific your request is, the more likely the returned results will be relevant to your needs. Before submitting a search request consider the following:
- Type of information - professional or patient education
- Extent of Search - a comprehensive search or a few relevant citations
- Number of years to search - need information published between specific years, last 5 years, etc.
- Type of articles - review articles only, case reports, controlled trials, etc.
- Scope of search - Is more general information on the topic acceptable or is specific information required? Can the search be broadened if no information is located?
- Population studied - adults, children, women, aged, etc.
- Language of publication - English only, all languages
- Terminology - Specific types of vocabulary or synonyms
