Direct to you: innovative information services to support nurses’ continuing competence in Manitoba

Abstract

The libraries in Winnipeg, Manitoba, community hospitalsidentified an ideal opportunity to develop new programs andservices to reach practicing nurses in their own setting. In2004, the College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba (CRNM)began the implementation of a Continuing Competence Pro-gram that requires nurses to annually demonstrate, as part oftheir registration renewal, a commitment to life-long learning,and their participation in professional development activities[1]. The libraries recognized that many nurses, because ofthe time constraints of clinical responsibilities, shift work,and family life, have difficulties visiting the physical libraryin person to find resources to support learning and self-development. To bring relevant information directly to thenurses to support their continuing competence informationneeds, the librarians of the Winnipeg community hospitalsdeveloped four innovative onsite and virtual library programsand services.