Countering Misinformation About Abortion: The Role of Health Sciences Librarians

Author(s): Barr-Walker, Jill; DePineres, Teresa; Ossom-Williamson, Peace; Mengesha, Biftu; Berglas, Nancy F | Abstract: Misinformation about abortion abounds in the United States. This may be due, in part, to laws in 22 states that require health care providers to present medically inaccurate or misleading information to people seeking abortion. Such information can negatively impact both providers and patients, particularly vulnerable populations who already face considerable challenges accessing abortion services. Health sciences librarians are a professional group whose core values prioritize access to evidence-based health information for all people, with the goal of facilitating informed health care decisions. This professional imperative suggests a role for librarians in the provision of evidence-based information around abortion. Drawing on our collective expertise in library science, medicine and public health, we propose that health sciences librarians build partnerships with public health departments and abortion providers to develop authoritative resources, advocate for change through legislative action, and raise public awareness about abortion misinformation.