Exploring health knowledge: An extensive review of information seeking behaviors, health literacy, and the relevance of libraries and community resources

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Review Article

Author Details : Sambhu Nath Halder*, V. R. Tiwari, Sazzad Ali

Volume : 9, Issue : 1, Year : 2024

Article Page : 4-11

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.ijlsit.2024.002

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Abstract

The complicated interactions between health literacy, health information-seeking behaviors, and the vital roles that libraries and community resources play are all explored in detail in this comprehensive examination. Underscoring the importance of well-informed decision-making and enhanced health outcomes, the research delves into many models, such as the "Health Belief Model" and the "Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills Model". Factors impacting health information seeking, such as psychological variables and socioeconomic status, highlight the challenges in meeting the requirements of a varied community.The multifaceted character of health literacy is investigated, including aspects such as the quality of educational resources and the influence on patient outcomes. Libraries, which have evolved into vital health information centers, serve critical roles in disseminating trustworthy information. Collaboration between libraries and community services has been shown to dramatically advance health literacy levels.The analysis finds links between health information-seeking behavior, health literacy, and the functions of libraries and community resources. Budget limits coexist with the potential opportunities for leveraging technology and collaborative approaches for enhanced health information services. Practical implications emphasize recommendations for policymakers, librarians, and community organizations to improve health literacy programs.The findings emphasize the constant adaptation required to satisfy the changing needs of the healthcare sector. Future studies should focus on evaluating the influence of innovative library programs, community initiatives, and emerging technology on health literacy outcomes. This study serves as a basic resource for policy and strategy development to promote health literacy on a larger scale.

Keywords: Health information-seeking behavior, Health literacy, Libraries, Community resources, Public health, Information services, Online health information seeking (OHIS), Psychosocial determinants

How to cite : Halder S N, Tiwari V R, Ali S, Exploring health knowledge: An extensive review of information seeking behaviors, health literacy, and the relevance of libraries and community resources. IP Indian J Libr Sci Inf Technol 2024;9(1):4-11

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