Are you returning to study? The Health Library is here to help

 Whether you're starting a new qualification, undertaking a professional development course, completing an apprenticeship or working towards revalidation, returning to study alongside a busy NHS role can feel both exciting and challenging.
Your Health Library is here to support you every step of the way, helping you find reliable information, develop study skills and make the most of your learning journey.

Why returning to study can feel different

Many NHS staff return to formal study after years away from education. You may be wondering:

• How do I find high-quality evidence?
• Where can I access journal articles?
• How do I search healthcare databases effectively?
• What is critical appraisal?
• How do I reference correctly?
• How can I fit studying around a demanding job?

These concerns are completely normal. The Health Library supports learners at all levels, from first-time students to experienced clinicians undertaking advanced qualifications.

Access the best evidence for your assignments

Finding the right information is often one of the most time-consuming aspects of studying. Health Library staff can help you:

• Access journals, e-books and databases
• Identify the best sources for your topic
• Develop effective literature search strategies
• Locate research evidence and clinical guidelines
• Use NHS knowledge and evidence resources confidently

Rather than spending hours searching online, our team can help you focus on reliable, evidence-based information that supports your learning and practice. Our website includes links to your essential resources:

• Medical databases (Keele)
• Nursing and midwifery databases (Keele)
• NHS resources

Improve your literature searching skills

Strong literature searching skills are essential for academic success and evidence-based healthcare. The Health Library offers support with:

• Developing search strategies
• Choosing appropriate databases
• Using keywords and subject headings
• Refining search results
• Saving and managing searches

These skills can help you not only with coursework but also with clinical decision-making and quality improvement projects.

• Get started by completing our Information Skills etutorials

Learn to critically appraise evidence

Finding research is only the first step. Understanding whether that evidence is trustworthy and relevant is just as important. Library staff can guide you towards resources and training that help you:

• Evaluate research papers
• Understand different study designs
• Assess the quality of evidence
• Interpret findings confidently

These are valuable skills that support both academic achievement and professional practice.

• Start with our tutorial Critical Appraisal Tools

Get help with referencing

Referencing can often be one of the most frustrating parts of studying. The library can provide guidance on:

• Avoiding plagiarism
• Citing sources correctly
• Organising references for assignments

A little support early on can save a great deal of stress later.

• Learn more about referencing from our tutorial Introduction to referencing and plagiarism.

Attend training and workshops or complete an online tutorial

The Health Library provides a range of training opportunities designed specifically for NHS staff and Keele students. Topics include:

• Literature searching
• Evidence-based practice
• Critical appraisal
• Research skills
• Referencing

These sessions can boost your confidence and help you develop skills that will benefit you throughout your career.

• Explore our training opportunities
• Complete an online tutorial

Study space and learning support

Sometimes having a quiet place to concentrate can make all the difference. The Health Library offers:

• Quiet study areas
• IT facilities
• Access to printing and scanning
• Group study spaces
• Supportive learning environments

Whether you're writing an assignment, preparing a presentation, or revising for an exam, the library provides a space dedicated to learning.

• Discover all the facilities at the Health Library by completing our tutorial Using the Health Library.

Your learning journey starts here

Returning to study is an investment in yourself, your professional development and the care you provide to patients. The Health Library is more than a place to access books and journals. It is a partner in your learning, helping you build confidence, develop new skills, and succeed in your studies. If you're returning to study this year, get in touch with your Health Library team and discover how we can help you achieve your goals.

Need support? 

Contact the Health Library to find out more about the resources, training and services available to you.

Written in collaboration with MS Co-pilot.