Assessment of academic libraries in Mazandran, Goleston and Babol Medical Universities

Background and purpose: Libraries have a specific place in universities and have also an important role in students' education and research. The aim of this study was to evaluate the situation of academic libraries in Mazandaran, Babol and Golestan Universities of Medical Sciences. Materials and methods: This study is a descriptive survey in 25 academic libraries in Mazandaran, Golestan and Babol medical Universities. The tool of the survey was a standard questionnaire (ACRL), and the libraries were assessed using of checklist and interview. Results: Thirteen librarians (53%) hold a BSc degree, one (4%) with an MSc degree and two (8%) had an AA degree. Regarding to prediction and design of the libraries structure, only 40% (10 libraries) had prior programs. Related to budget, 40% relied on resources from the deputy for research, 12% on faculty current budget and 8% on hospital current budget, (40%) of others libraries did not have a planned budget). 12 libraries (45%) were open 6 days a week, 10 libraries (40%) 5 days a week and 3 libraries (12%) provided services every day. 39665 references were held at central library of Babol Medical Sciences University and less than 1016 at 5 Azar Hospital in Golestan Medical Sciences University. Fifteen libraries (60%) had access to Medline and Elsevier databases and 10 Libraries (40%) did not have any access. Conclusion: University libraries must be standardized to meet the need of the students and staff