Earlier this year our Library Manager, Helen Curtis, retired after an incredible 32 years in the post. As the library enters a new chapter, the team want to introduce themselves and share how colleagues can access their services. So meet new Library Manager, Madeline Hannah, pictured right with Senior Library Technician, Hannah Desmond, as they introduce themselves and the service.
"My name is Madeline, and I’m the Library Manager at CHFT. I joined the library team in 2022 as a Library Assistant and later became a Trainee Librarian while studying for my Master’s degree in Library and Information Management. I’m passionate about helping colleagues feel confident in finding and using the best available evidence to inform their practice and decision making.
"Outside of work, I’m a big film and video game nerd! I love all things science fiction and fantasy and regularly host movie and board game nights for my friends. I also enjoy getting outdoors and try to fit in a weekend walk with my partner whenever I can."
Hannah added: "I recently joined the library team as the Senior Library Technician. I’m a recent graduate, with a background in linguistics and speech science, and previously worked in a school library. I’m excited to get to know colleagues from across the Trust and support them to make the most of library resources.
"In my spare time, I’m a big foodie and love cooking new recipes and trying different cuisines. I also love a good craft project and will try my hand at anything from paint-by-numbers to embroidery to crochet."
Tell us more about what the library service does
Evidence searching - we’re skilled at finding information, and no request is too big or small. Whether you need evidence to support patient care, a business case, a presentation, an audit, a research project, or your own professional development, just tell us what you need to know and we’ll find the latest and highest quality evidence to help you make informed decisions.
Academic support - we’re here to help colleagues who are undertaking further study. Whether you need support with referencing, finding literature, academic writing, proofreading, or simply someone to discuss ideas with, the library team is here to help. We know balancing study and work can be challenging so if you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or want to discuss your academic work with someone, please get in touch.
Research support - we’re passionate about helping colleagues with research. If you’re working on a systematic review, we can offer training and support throughout, including creating search strategies and managing the screening process. For colleagues new to research, we also have a subscription to BMJ Case Reports, allowing you to submit interesting and educational patient cases for publication.
Books and articles - colleagues can access our regional book catalogue, so you can borrow books from any NHS library in Yorkshire. For colleagues based at HRI or in the community, books can be delivered straight to your workplace, saving you a trip to the library. We can also help you access journal articles. If there is an article you need, just email us and we’ll find a copy for you.
Keeping up to date – whatever your role keeping up with new development in your area is important, but often time-consuming. You can sign up for KnowledgeShare, which sends you personalised email updates every two weeks, highlighting the latest evidence and news relevant to your interests. The library also offers access to UpToDate, a point-of-care clinical tool that supports evidence-based patient care.
How can I access library services?
The library is located in The Learning Centre at CRH and is open Monday to Friday 08:30 – 17:00 (16:30 on Friday). You don't need to visit the library to access our services. Simply call us on 01422 224191 or email library@cht.nhs.uk to get in touch.
