History and Varieties of Reference Service

The Reference and User Services Association (RUSA),

Reference Transactions are information consultations in which library staff recommend, interpret, evaluate, and/or use information resources to help others to meet particular information needs. Reference transactions do not include formal instruction or exchanges that provide assistance with locations, schedules, equipment, supplies, or policy statements.

Reference librarian

Link between the user and the source

Requires Knowledge of sources Communication skills

Reference Work is: Based on size and characteristics of users

(e.g. special library vs. elementary school Frequently utilizes reference interview - a

structured conversation to define the information need.

Sometimes requires that you instruct the user on use of the sources

Is in a state of radical change

The Past

As early as 1876 Samuel Green described the reference process as including information, instruction and guidance.

1887 Columbia College started first library school

1900s many public libraries had reference room and were promoting the information function rather than instruction and guidance

The Present

networks allow library systems to share materials/resourcesMeL

Technology poses problems and opportunities

Technology challenges Can users use technology without

help/knowledge? Can library find a way to provide

database access at no charge? Access to onlline classes

Opportunities

Web 2.0Social networking

Sources of Information

SLM periodical have occasional articles or regular columns on reference services.

Some well-known devoted solely to Reference services are: RQ (Reference Quarterly) The Reference Librarian

Listservs LIBREF-L may be subscribed to at

listserv@listserv.kent.edu

References Services

Information - provides answer Ready reference questions Bibliographic verification Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery Information and Referral Services Research Questions Fee-based Services and Information

Brokering

Instruction

Is a major part of reference service in School Libraries

Types of instruction One-to-one instruction Group instruction

Guidance

Assistance provided for a continuing interest or project.

Usually Reader’s Advisory (assure user’s freedom of choice and privacy)

Change

Cooperative reference service Instruction on the use of equipment and software

Instruction on information seeking techniques (Information Literacy)

Stress and burnout are a factor in the fast paced need for information

Effectiveness performance appraisal What will future reference service look

like?

New Definition of Reference Services

combines searching, mediated instruction and assistance (both formal and informal)

Characteristics of the Reference Librarian

Nonjudgmental desire to help others

Ability to shift focus

General knowledge/Current awareness

Good memory Excellent

communication skills

Patience Joy of the hunt Creativity