Hello everyone. My name is Michael Boyes and I am just settling nicely into my new role as Librarian in Liverpool University Hospitals NHS FT [LUHFT] where I’m based principally at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital site. This is my first job following my time at the University of Liverpool where I studied for an undergraduate degree in Anatomy and Physiology, a master’s in Biomedical Sciences and finally a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Physiology.
Michael doing a presentation

During this academic tenure I have gained a keen interest in scientific and medical research. I feel my new role has ample scope for satisfying this interest in research and I have already ‘hit the ground running’ so to speak, having been invited to present at various research cafés, journal club facilitation, participation in LUHFT’s clinical audit group and Nursing Research Group. I’m hoping this will contribute to empowering clinicians to maximise their research output.

I am keen to bolster our library’s uptake through marketing of our extensive range of clinical decision support software including UpToDate, BMJ Best Practice and Anatomy.TV. I have noticed the main barrier to increased library integration into the trust’s research output is simply a lack of awareness about the range and functionality of services that we offer. Working together with my colleagues we have embarked on a rigorous marketing campaign. Any tips on how others improve access and awareness of library services would be greatly appreciated!

As a library we are passionate about reaching staff members that may not have a background in research, such as AHPs, Nurses and Executives. To this end I am focussing on expanding our bespoke bulletin service. Currently, my colleague Jenny Doran tirelessly produces specialty-specific monthly evidence bulletins that are sent directly to the emails of consultants and junior doctors. I wish to launch a Nursing specific evidence bulletin due to the significant distinctions between Nurses’ and Doctors’ clinical remits. This will also offer a resource that can bolster patient care and experiences through access to the latest evidence for those staff that have the most direct interaction with patients.

Away from work I am keen cyclist and cycle regularly for the local cycling club. This time of year is not the best for it though! I often complete long distance challenge rides which recently included a very hilly 135 mile cycle from Morcambe, Lancashire, to Great Dun Fell, the highest paved road in England. I completed it in 9hr 50mins, suffice to say I was shattered afterwards and enjoyed feasting on fish, chips and curry to refuel. I am also a regular church goer and enjoy the calming services at the Liverpool Metropolitan cathedral, regularly participating in sacristy, reading and archdiocesan events. Michael on his speedy bicycle in an orange top

Michael Boyes
Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Librarian