In less than a year (2011/12), this service contributed to improved health of 90 service users, convinced the national Department of Culture to contribute new computers, health journals and books, and established a sustainable partnership with Vanadzor State Medical College, whose doctors will continue to volunteer to staff the library’s online consultation service. The library is improving the quality of life in Vanadzor and Lori Region by connecting people to health information and medical expertise. The library responded to 2,600 requests for health information in 2012, and the popular Health Bridge website recorded over 130 online consultations between doctors and patients.

The service was initiated with support from the EIFL Public Library Innovation Programme (EIFL-PLIP) in 2011. This two-page case study is based on impact assessment conducted by the library in 2012.