University Times

The Health Sciences Library System (HSLS) has eliminated some services the system previously offered to UPMC personnel.

Effective Feb. 6, UPMC affiliates now have access only to those HSLS e-resources (certain databases, journal packages and e-books) that are supported by UPMC budgets.

Access to Falk Library remains open to UPMC employees, who can continue to use on-site print books and study areas. However, a Pitt ID card now is required to borrow books, laptops or iPads; to request items from storage; to log on to library computers, or to reserve group rooms. In addition, Pitt guest wireless accounts in the library no longer are available to UPMC employees.

HSLS information services, such as reference consultation, literature searches, interlibrary loaning and document delivery, now are available only to Pitt ID holders. The Ask-a-Librarian service on the HSLS web site is available only to those on the Pitt network.

In addition, HSLS no longer is conducting classes or workshops in UPMC facilities. Admission to classes offered in Falk Library is limited to those with Pitt IDs.

According to Barbara Epstein, HSLS senior administrator, the changes were initiated by UPMC. “As they re-assessed their need for University-based library services, UPMC decided to move in a different direction” and to move more toward using the services at UPMC hospital libraries, Epstein said. “It’s not that they weren’t satisfied with our services. The three groups most affected are UPMC staff and residents and those community-based physicians who do not have a Pitt appointment.”

However, Epstein noted, there are no changes in HSLS services or access for Pitt ID holders. UPMC clinicians and others who have Pitt email/computer accounts and ID cards still have access to all HSLS services through those accounts, she said.

The changes are detailed at http://info.hsls.pitt.edu/updatereport/?cat=39.

—Peter Hart