Lithium Information Center: The Lithium Library revisited.

The Lithium Information Center's experience over the past 7 years is discussed. The center is a computer-based reference service which specializes in dissemination of information about the medical uses of lithium. At the heart of the center is the Lithium Library, a bibliographic retrieval system containing references to the lithium literature. More than 5,000 requests for literature searches and patient information have been answered by Lithium Library staff members since 1977. The center has recently expanded its services, creating the Lithium Index and Lithium Consultation, computerized programs that provide immediate answers to specific questions about lithium. The center's services are directed to patient care, lithium research, and medical and patient education. Because of topical specialization and use of computers, the Lithium Information Center has been able to provide more immediate, comprehensive, relevant, integrated, and up-to-date information than other bibliographic services.