From Comics to Community: How a Graphic Medicine Collection can Impact Library Services & User Experience

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this project was to develop a comprehensive graphic medicine collection in our library, aimed at providing diverse educational resources and enhancing student and faculty engagement. Methods: We initiated the collection with a modest selection of 20 books in 2020, leveraging end-of-year funds for procurement. Our selection process included sourcing titles from GraphicMedicine.org, online reviews, and social media posts by experts like Matthew Noe and Alice Jaggers. A dedicated librarian created a Graphic Medicine Collection LibGuide as an online hub, featuring a subject directory, catalog links, reviews from faculty, staff, and students. Additionally, the Libguide contains the latest peer-reviewed literature on graphic medicine and shares ideas on the use of graphic medicine in the health sciences classroom. A team of two librarians and the user services coordinator are currently finalizing plans to teach a virtual graphic medicine class for the health sciences campus during the Fall 2024 semester. Finally, our student engagement coordinator promoted the collection via the library's social media channels and actively sought title suggestions from students. Results: Through these efforts, the collection expanded to over 60 titles in four years, becoming one of the most circulated collections in our library. The LibGuide and social media promotion significantly increased visibility and accessibility, attracting a wide audience and fostering a community of engaged users. Conclusions: The success of the graphic medicine collection highlights the importance of strategic collection development and active community engagement. By utilizing various platforms and engaging with students and experts, we have created a valuable resource that supports academic and personal growth. This project demonstrates the potential for similar initiatives to enhance library offerings and user engagement in other educational institutions.

References: Bradley, S., Mclean, R., & Brewster, L. (2021). What can medical education learn from comics?. The clinical teacher, 18(6), 675–678. https://doi.org/10.1111/tct.13427