Consumer health information from both sides of the reference desk

THIS ARTICLE ADDRESSES ISSUES surrounding the provision of consumer health information in public libraries. Barriers to the use of public libraries by health care consumers are explored. Once a person has decided to try the public library as an avenue for searching for health information, interactions with library staff may still pose some challenges, both for the library user and for the librarian at the reference desk. Perceptions of the library as a place for health information often differ. Awareness of these issues can be helpful for both parties. The National Network of Libraries of Medicine can assist with training, Web resources, and funding for projects involving health information outreach to consumers.