The Eskind Biomedical Library, located at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, is a state-of-the-art research library that serves the university's biomedical community. With a rich history dating back to 1949, the library has evolved to become a premier resource for biomedical information, providing access to a vast array of print and digital materials, including journals, books, and databases.
History and Development
The Eskind Biomedical Library was established in 1949 as the Vanderbilt Medical Library, with the goal of supporting the research and educational needs of the university’s medical school. Over the years, the library has undergone significant transformations, including a major renovation in 1996, which expanded its physical space and introduced new technologies to enhance its services. In 2006, the library was renamed the Eskind Biomedical Library in honor of Dr. William L. Eskind, a renowned Vanderbilt University Medical Center physician and educator.
Collections and Resources
The Eskind Biomedical Library boasts an extensive collection of biomedical resources, including over 150,000 print volumes, 3,000 journals, and a vast array of digital materials, such as e-books, online journals, and databases. The library’s collections cover a broad range of topics, including medicine, nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences. Some of the notable resources available at the library include the PubMed database, Scopus, and Web of Science, which provide access to millions of biomedical articles, citations, and abstracts.
| Resource Type | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Print Volumes | 150,000 |
| Journals | 3,000 |
| E-books | 10,000 |
| Databases | 50 |
Services and Support
The Eskind Biomedical Library offers a range of services and support to its users, including research assistance, instruction, and outreach. The library’s expert staff provide individualized support, helping users navigate the library’s resources, develop research strategies, and manage information. Additionally, the library offers various training sessions and workshops on topics such as database searching, citation management, and scholarly publishing.
Technology and Infrastructure
The Eskind Biomedical Library is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure, including computer workstations, printers, scanners, and wireless internet access. The library also features collaborative study spaces, quiet reading areas, and individual study carrels, providing users with a comfortable and productive environment to study and conduct research.
The library's technology infrastructure is designed to support the latest trends in biomedical research and education, including data science, genomics, and precision medicine. The library's high-performance computing cluster and data storage systems enable researchers to analyze large datasets, run complex simulations, and store sensitive research data securely.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Eskind Biomedical Library is deeply committed to community engagement and outreach, partnering with various organizations and groups to promote biomedical literacy, education, and research. The library participates in local health fairs, science festivals, and community events, providing resources and expertise to the broader community.
Collaborations and Partnerships
The Eskind Biomedical Library collaborates with various partners, including the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, and the Nashville Health Care Council, to advance biomedical research, education, and clinical practice. These partnerships enable the library to leverage its resources and expertise to support innovative research projects, educational initiatives, and community outreach programs.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Eskind Biomedical Library is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 am to 10:00 pm, Friday from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
How can I access the library’s resources and services?
+Users can access the library’s resources and services by visiting the library in person, using the library’s website, or contacting the library’s staff via phone or email.
What types of training and workshops are offered by the library?
+The library offers a range of training sessions and workshops on topics such as database searching, citation management, and scholarly publishing, as well as specialized training on emerging topics like data science and genomics.
