Contents of a core library in continuing medical education: a Delphi study.
BACKGROUND
In developing their professional competence, those who are interested in the practice of continuing medical education (CME) should recognize the knowledge base that defines their field. This study systematically identifies and organizes a list of books and journals comprising a core library (100 books/15 journals) for CME professionals.


METHODS
The Delphi method was applied to elicit and combine the judgments of a fifty member panel considered knowledgeable about the CME field. The panelists participated in three iterations of the survey to first identify and then rank order nominated works. Separate ranked lists were created for books and journals.


RESULTS
Forty-four participants completed the study (88% response rate). 268 books and 34 journals were identified. Mean ratings ranged from 4.78 (high) to 1.50 (low).


CONCLUSIONS
The results of the study reflect the panel's judgment. The list is not definitive; instead, it describes what a select group of individuals knowledgeable about the CME field considered important. The list should therefore be seen as a general guide and a resource to facilitate decision-making, not as a prescription for creating a library.
Olson
Curtis A
CA
University of Wisconsin Medical School Office of Continuing Medical Education, USA. caolson2@wisc.edu
Tooman
Tricia R
TR
Leist
James C
JC
D003697:Delphi Technique; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D007993:Libraries, Medical; D010506:Periodicals as Topic; D012013:Reference Books