 Ruti
Volk: U-M Cancer Cetner Research Librarian
Patient Education Resurce Center -- "The PERC"
How did you come to work at the Cancer Center’s library–the
PERC?
I first visited the PERC as a parent, when my six-year-old
daughter Shelly was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 1998.
At the time, I was studying for my masters degree in library
sciences.The PERC librarian was a friend of mine from graduate
school. I used to stop by, and occasionally she’d ask my opinion
on things.
My daughter passed away ten months after being diagnosed.
Several months later, my friend at the PERC announced that
she was relocating and suggested I apply to replace her. I
didn’t hesitate. I knew it was the right thing to do.
How has your background as the parent of a child
with cancer impacted your work?
From the start, I tried to use my experience to make the
PERC work harder for those whose lives were changed by cancer.
For example, when we received my daughter’s diagnosis, I had
to learn quickly what the diagnosis meant. I spent hours on
the computer just to locate good sources of information, and
more importantly, to find guidance on how to explain the disease
to my child.That was precious time I could have spent with
my family, and I resented having to spend it in a medical
library. No parent should have to do that.
So the first thing I did at the PERC was develop bibliographies
for each cancer type – which have become our Information Guides,
cataloging the most current, accurate, authoritative sources
of information.These guides enable our patrons to cut down
on time spent looking for information, leading them directly
to quality information sources.
You’re pretty passionate about information.
As a parent who’s been there, I know just how critical it
is. As a librarian, I know that not every resource out there
is reliable. Our job is to point patients to the very best
information.
What’s the best part of your job?
Every day, my work makes a difference. It’s great to be able
to help patients begin learning and starting to use the terms
their doctors use with confidence.
You have
questions? They have answers.
The Patient Education Resource Center is located on
Level B1, Room B1-361 of the Cancer Center. Staffed
by Ruti Volk and a corps of dedicated, trained volunteers,
the PERC is open during business hours Monday through
Friday. Stop in and visit.They’re expecting you.
You can also visit them on-line! |
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