Accessing library resources
Unlock a wealth of library resources by registering for your very own NHS Scotland OpenAthens account today!
Help and training
Whether you need quick and easy guidance to get you started or more advanced training to improve your information skills, our team are here to support you.
Get started
Discover what you need to get started and how to access the wide range of knowledge and resources available to you.
Information skills
Help with searching for the right information to meet your needs.
Training opportunities
Bookable face-to-face training on using The Knowledge Network and self-directed eLearning courses, including literature searching and health literacy.
Local library services
NHS Scotland library services provide print resources, study spaces, document delivery, and expertise from professional librarians. Find your local library for literature searches, current awareness bulletins, and advice.
Finding and using knowledge
Additional support and guidance to improve your information skills and continue your professional development in the workplace.
Anyone who helps to deliver publicly funded health or social care in Scotland is eligible to use our online subscriptions, including the categories listed below:
Eligible users include:
- Scottish Government employees, including the executive agencies
- Local Authority staff in addition to social services working in partnership with health services (e.g., through community health partnerships)
- Healthcare staff in the prison service, nursing and care homes, hospices, armed forces, and emergency services
- Full collegiate members and fellows of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons Glasgow, Royal College of Physicians Edinburgh, Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh
- Voluntary organisations working in partnership with health and social services
- Undergraduate and postgraduate students who undergo placements or training with the NHS and social services
- Those providing education and training to NHS and social services staff and students
- Researchers working in partnership with the NHS
- Retired NHS staff
- Library staff in Higher and Further Education
- Public librarians and other community information centres.
If you are in any doubt about eligibility or require further advice, contact the Knowledge Services Help Desk.
Most NHS Scotland staff members no longer need a separate OpenAthens username and password, as they sign in using their NHS email address and password. External users of NHS Scotland subscription resources can reset their OpenAthens password at OpenAthens password reset.
To discover what journals are available from our collection, use Browzine, provided as part of our LibKey suite of resources.
Search for journals by title, subject or ISSN or browse by subject.
Once you have found the journal you want you can look through the issues we have and access the articles of interest to you.