Level: Beginning
Prerequisite: None
Cost: $210 (nonmember, $315)
Attendance Maximum: None

Instructor(s): Arpita Bose, Outreach and Communications Coordinator, National Network of Libraries of Medicine, Middle Atlantic Region, New York University Medical Center–New York and Mandy Bayer Meloy, Community Outreach Coordinator, National Network of Libraries of Medicine, Southeastern Atlantic Region, Baltimore, MD

Offered: Saturday, May 17, 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

Consumers need access to information and resources about genetic information in a manner that they can understand. Librarians working with the public need to be aware of the issues surrounding genetics and resources to assist patrons in locating and evaluating sometimes complex and confusing information. This class explores basic concepts such as genes and chromosomes and offers an overview of genetic disorders, genetic testing, genetic counseling, and the Human Genome Project. Ethical and legal issues associated with genetic disorders will be covered with regard to privacy, discrimination, and potential legislative impact on medicine and society. A variety of reliable health information resources will be demonstrated, including, but not limited to, Genetics Home Reference, ClinicalTrials.gov, Combined Health Information Database (CHID), National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), and MedlinePlus.