Musings

When I started this blog I talked about not knowing what a NHS or Health Care library was. Now, after months of working in one, I think I have a better grasp on that subject. However, it is still difficult to come up with a library vision. I wonder why that is. We've had two meetings to discuss the subject now, and are still unable to come to a consensus.

It is vitally important for us to understand what value we are bringing to Britain, however, and to be able to describe and show that value to others. Libraries everywhere are in a tenuous situation, never knowing whether their funding will run out or if they will be able to continue to provide resources to their readers. Health Care libraries protect patients. We are part of health care education, and as such, are vital to making certain that all of Britain receives the best care available. We keep doctors and nurses compliant, and therefore employed. It's sad that most British citizens don't even know that we exist. The evidence that their healthcare team has and uses the wealth of knowledge and resources available to them in order to the very best care, should be something that is shown off proudly.

Perhaps what we do is so big and so selfless that it's like trying to come up with a vision for being a parent. No one's going to give you the credit you deserve and a part of you doesn't even care. But to save ourselves, we can't afford to think that way. Not anymore.