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Health literacy and libraries: a literature review

Jill Barr-Walker (ZSFG Library, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA)

Reference Services Review

ISSN: 0090-7324

Article publication date: 13 June 2016

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the involvement of libraries in health literacy programs and initiatives based on a review of the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

Four databases were searched for papers that described health literacy programs and initiatives within libraries.

Findings

Several themes of health literacy programs in libraries emerged: health literacy for older adults, underserved populations, the general public, healthcare professionals, and medical students, and patients. Collaborations between libraries and community organizations were frequently used.

Practical implications

Librarians may use this review to understand the history of health literacy efforts and libraries to inform future programming. This review will contextualize current research on health literacy and libraries.

Originality/value

Despite the currency and relevance of this topic, there are no literature reviews on health literacy and librarianship.

Keywords

Citation

Barr-Walker, J. (2016), "Health literacy and libraries: a literature review", Reference Services Review, Vol. 44 No. 2, pp. 191-205. https://doi.org/10.1108/RSR-02-2016-0005

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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