Breaking the Limits of Time and Space: How Twitter is Helping #medlibs Collaborate and Communicate. A Descriptive Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The object of this study was to explore how medical librarians use Twitter to collaborate with colleagues. A weekly #medlibs Twitter chat was analyzed and coded by researchers. Based on this analysis, a 19 question survey was developed and disseminated online. From the 151 responses, 125 met inclusion criteria; n = 125). Themes regarding the use and value of Twitter emerged, including: using Twitter to keep current; Twitter as a knowledge base for professional development; as a place to facilitate collaboration and networking with colleagues, to promote services or self. Of those surveyed, 74.2% found Twitter professionally valuable. Medical librarians use Twitter to varying degrees and with varying success. Those who use Twitter as a part of their professional lives appear to draw a great deal of value for communication and collaborating with professional peers.