Award Report – Cancer Resource Library, Helen F. Graham Cancer Center, Newark, DE
At the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center, library manager used a Small Projects Award to purchase QuarkXPress software. The software is used to produce the Cancer Resource Library’s monthly newsletter and patient pathfinders with a professional look.
Previously the library produced a two-page newsletter using Word and clip art. With QuarkXPress we have more flexibility with formatting and the use of graphics.
After our first issue was produced, the Medical Director of the Cancer Center approached us, and asked if we would include a monthly clinical trial in each issue. The monthly newsletter has now been expanded to four pages. We also are using the software to produce the monthly newsletter for the Wilmington Hospital Library.
The Cancer Resource Library also produces over three dozen pathfinders – guides for patients to assist in locating information on specific cancer topics such as breast cancer, thyroid cancer, sexuality, caregiving, talking to children about cancer, and nutrition. These double-sided single sheets, formerly produced in Word, are available in spinner racks in the lobbies on both floors of the building. We are in the process of converting all of these publications into QuarkXPress and changing the look of the pathfinder to a more professional appearance.
Our third project, still in the development stages, will be the production of a series of low-literacy brochures defining cancer terms.
In the four months since the use of the software began, circulation has increased 12.7% (vs. same period in 2007), the number of visitors to the library has increased 9%, and we have had a 6.8% increase in the number of first time users registering for library cards.
Barbara Henry- Helen F. Graham Cancer Center, Medical Library
