A library service for a children's hospital

Abstract

Published studies strongly indicate that children perceive going to a hospital for any medical reason as a traumatic experience. This study addressed the concept that a library service for these children in hospital not only serves to alienate and distract but would also contribute to improving their literacy, and overall quality of life. Structured questionnaires were distributed to the hospitalised children, their accompanying parents as well as the hospital staff caring for the children. This was complimented with viva voce interviews with all respondents, most of whom had literacy problems. Analysis of the data collected led to the conclusion that although a service does exist at the new state hospital, it needs significant improvement and investment in human resources. Various significant suggestions from the end users and their parents could also be implemented. The study also identified a number of viable suggestions and recommendations to this regard, as well as areas for future research into this subject.