critics 3 18

Reference Resources: The Role of Print in a Digital Age

Angela Critics

INFO522: Information Access & Resources

Linda Marion, Instructor

March 16, 2010

Reference Resources

Reference Resources: The Role of Print in a Digital Age

Introduction and Scope

This bibliography covers the role of print vs. electronic resources in library

reference services. Major themes include the need to understand users of reference

services, importance of staff training and the value of a formal collection development

policy that addresses the specific issues of print vs. electronic resources. The articles

chosen were published between 1996 and 2009, with an emphasis on current articles that

address issues raised by the recent shift to digital sources and digital reference services.

While most articles were published in the United States, one was published in Australia

and one in Great Britain.

Description of Topic

Reference services are a key function of libraries. Increasing reliance on

electronic reference sources and the Internet raise questions about the role of print

resources. Libraries today face shrinking budgets, limited space and pressure to provide

expensive electronic resources that may or may not be the most suitable choice.

Electronic reference sources require new methods of assessment and bring new

challenges. Changing user patterns require libraries to adapt, a task that necessitates

understanding the needs and wants of those users.

Literature Review

In spite of the importance of reference services, little research has been done on

the continuing role of print reference sources and the shifts in reference service

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necessitated by the increasing reliance on electronic resources. Libraries cannot establish

reference policies without a thorough understanding of their users’ needs, collection

development issues involved in evaluating electronic vs. print resources, and staff

training requirements. Yet a theme that recurs throughout the existing research is that

such a policy is essential. Colson goes so far as to call it “vital” (Colson, 2007, p. 174).

An interesting aspect of the research in this field is the similarities in results

across different library types. Heintzelman, Moore, and Ward (2008) concluded that only

a fraction of the print reference materials in a public library are used. Bradford (2005)

and Colson (2007) arrive at the same conclusion for academic libraries. Researchers

across the board raise the issue of staff training, to include Maxwell (2005) in his analysis

of reference sources in school libraries. In addition, the issues raised in the earliest

articles remain relevant to present day studies of reference resources. Smith and

Templeton’s study (1999) examines attitudes in Scottish libraries toward the Internet as a

reference source during a time when Internet access was not universal in those libraries

and authoritative organizational websites had yet to become commonplace. Yet the

concerns librarians voiced are equally valid in 2010, including appropriate training,

accuracy and reliability of the information, and speed and functionality of the user

interface (Smith and Templeton, 1999).

O’Gorman and Trott (2009) argue that for reference services to remain relevant in

the changing information environment, they must base their service models on the needs

and desires of their users. Libraries are at heart social organizations with a responsibility

to society that requires responsiveness to their patrons’ changing demands (Fritch and

Mandernack, 2001). Puacz (2005) echoes this theme, while Sendi (1996) concluded after

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the Carlson Library’s use study that ongoing studies of this type provide essential

information for any library’s reference services.

The Carlson Library study used surveys and questionnaires to assess patron

attitudes in addition to counting the number of times individual reference titles were used

(Sendi, 1996). While Sendi concluded that such research is vital to maintaining a

relevant reference collection, similar studies are few and far between. A seminal study in

the last decade is Bradford (2005). Later use studies invariably cite Bradford’s work.

Bradford reported on the Stetson University project to record every print reference

volume used over the course of two, two-month periods. The methodology provided a

model for later studies.

A clearer picture of print resource use at an academic library emerges thanks to

the longer duration of the study reported by Colson (2007). Individual reference books

were dotted after each use over the course of five years. Colson applies the results to an

analysis of specific issues including weeding and possible reclassification of reference

books. In a time when commentaries on the death of print reference abound, Colson

discovered an increase of more than 40 percent in overall use of print reference materials

(Colson, 2007).

Heintzelman, Moore, and Ward (2008) applied methodology from Bradford

(2005) and Colson (2007) to the reference collection at a public library. This study also

concluded that print reference is not dead. But the authors reiterate the need for ongoing

evaluation of use patterns and patron needs in order to make informed collection

development decisions.

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A variant of the use study focuses on resources used by staff to answer patron

questions. Bradford, Costello, and Lenholt (2005) performed a staff use study at Stetson

University as a complement to Bradford’s overall use study (Bradford, 2005). While

Bradford (2005) only analyzed use of print materials, Bradford, Costello, and Lenholt

(2005) compared librarians’ use of both print and online resources. This study does not

differentiate between in person, phone or virtual sources of the questions, an area that the

authors argue merits further study.

A similar study at the Northern Territory Library in Australia concluded that the

already complex field of reference work is further complicated by the increasing

availability of electronic sources, especially the Internet (Ritchie and Genoni, 2007).

These authors argue that reference services must remain prepared to provide a bridge to

print resources as patrons become less familiar with them and consider the possibility that

the precipitous shift to electronic resources may actually be detrimental to the quality of

reference services.

Further evidence of the importance of formal study of customer needs appears in

Boyd (2005). This project began with a survey of staff at a suburban library followed by

tracking every reference transaction. Boyd discovered that actual log results did not

match the anecdotal observations reported in the survey.

In contrast, Shachaf and Shaw (2008) focused specifically on resources used to

answer questions in virtual reference service transactions. One unique aspect of this study

was its comparison of services in academic and public libraries. The authors argue that

there is a need for further studies analyzing the similarities and differences between

reference services at different types of libraries (Shachaf and Shaw, 2008).

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The call for additional staff training first voiced by Smith and Templeton (1999)

is a common theme in many of these articles. Fritch and Mandernack (2001) argue that

the information environment has shifted radically from one of controlled access to a

wide-open field where anyone can access large quantities of information. This means

changes in types of questions users ask and the skills needed by reference staff members,

hence a need for training suited to what they describe as a new reference paradigm

(Fritch and Mandernack, 2001). Boyd (2005) echoed the argument that reference

questions are changing and becoming more complex, necessitating additional staff

training.

Maxwell (2005) and Standerfer (2006) address two special situations where the

need for training in electronic resources is critical. According to Maxwell (2005), school

librarians lag behind their public and academic library counterparts in technical skills. He

argues that the reluctance of school librarians to acquire those skills is creating a digital

divide, preventing school libraries from acquiring and taking advantage of the benefits of

electronic reference sources (Maxwell, 2005). Rural libraries in Illinois, on the other

hand, have access to web-based and electronic resources through State programs, but

budget restrictions preclude the hiring of professional librarians (Standerfer, 2006). Thus,

in a time of increasing demand for reference services, staff members often lack any

training that would enable them to take advantage of existing sources. Lack of funding is

widening the digital divide between patrons of rural libraries and those of similar sized

suburban libraries in Illinois (Standerfer, 2006).

Calls for training staff in the use of new, digital resources should, perhaps, not be

surprising. But some researchers argue that given the emphasis on learning to use

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electronic reference sources, library staff may need refresher training in the use of print

resources to counter their marginalization (Heintzelman, Moore, and Ward, 2008).

Bradford (2005) makes a similar point. Both articles argue that promotion of electronic

resources to both staff and patrons have pushed print resources into the shadows. But

those reference books merit the same promotion, and while such measures will not

reverse the shift from print to electronic sources they may ensure that the benefits of print

resources are not forgotten to the detriment of reference service (Heintelman, Moore, and

Ward, 2008 and Bradford, 2005). This concern to avoid loss of print reference skills

parallels the conclusions of Ritchie and Genoni (2007).

The importance of retaining print resources is one aspect of the discussions of

collection development. Puacz (2005) analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of print and

electronic sources for various categories of reference resources, concluding that a

reference collection should include a mix of print and electronic sources. Heintzelman,

Moore, and Ward (2008) suggest that a decline in use of print resources may indicate that

the library is purchasing the wrong books and urge a targeted approach to print reference

collection development based on ongoing user studies.

One important consideration for libraries is whether to purchase both print and

electronic editions of the same resource. Robbins, McCain, and Scrivener (2005)

analyzed the collections of major research libraries to determine the extent to which they

were canceling subscriptions to print versions of electronic resources they purchased.

They identified several important issues for consideration, including the impact on the

archival role of a research library and external pressure to purchase high-visibility but

expensive general electronic resources at the expense of funding for specialized titles.

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There are specific differences between print and electronic reference sources that

libraries must consider as they develop selection criteria according to Stewart (2001).

This article provides some guidance through the selection dilemma by discussing

methods for evaluating both types of resources and also concerns that are specific to

electronic formats. Stewart (2001) suggests use of decision matrix to weigh the relative

importance of each factor to the individual library. Each institution must establish its

collection development priorities, but should also recognize that resources are constantly

changing requiring flexible policy statements (Stewart, 2001).

Special libraries may have extra considerations when evaluating electronic

resources. Maxwell (2005) argues that electronic reference materials are especially

appropriate for school libraries, which frequently have space limitations. Rural libraries,

however, must balance space restrictions against questions about adequacy of staff

training to take advantage of digital resources (Standerfer, 2006). Shachaf and Shaw

(2008) examine collection development issues specific to virtual reference services.

While other articles, including Stewart (2001) and Puacz (2005), compare

collection development issues of print and electronic resources and discuss some of the

concerns unique to electronic formats, Farmer (2009) focuses entirely on those technical

considerations. Each stage of consideration and purchase and implementation of a digital

reference source has its own set of concerns a library must consider from infrastructure

issues to security to licensing to last copy provisions (Farmer, 2009). While this article is

targeted at academic libraries, many of the issues are important for any library facing the

dilemma of purchasing print vs. electronic resources.

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Libraries around the world daily face the quandary of which reference resources

are the best value for their collections. Issues of collection development, appropriate

training for staff and the need to better understand user needs are basic to library

reference services. With the rise of virtual reference services, the situation is becoming

ever more complex. These articles provide the beginning of a guide through the maze of

the new reference paradigm. But more research is needed. Each of these studies is unique

or nearly so. Additional research is necessary to confirm the results.

Bibliography

Entry 1:Boyd, R. S. (2005). Assessing the true nature of information transactions at a suburban

library. Public Libraries, 44(4), 234-240.

Abstract: As intuitive search engines and ubiquitous Internet access have simplified customers’ ability to obtain information on their own, information librarians at the Gwinnett County Public Library system in Georgia have reported changes in the types of questions they answer. Although this study disproved our hypothesis that customers are answering more straightforward questions on their own and requesting staff assistance with more complex ones, it provided useful information on the nature of the questions being asked. The results prompted us to rethink our ideas about what needs to be done to serve our customers and what level of staff is needed to provide that service, prompting a dramatic shift in our service model. (Published abstract)

Annotation: In one of the few public library studies, Boyd compares anecdotal staff reports to logs of actual reference questions answered. This article concludes that the nature of reference questions has changed and argues the need for additional staff training, especially in technology. It focuses on adapting the reference service model and staffing concerns rather than collection development issues.

Search Strategy: This was a preliminary search to evaluate the topic. The search was a deliberately broad keyword search to retrieve records for browsing.

Database: Library Literature and Information Science Full Text

Method of Searching: Keyword searching

Search String: Smart search for public library AND reference.

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Entry 2: Bradford, J. T. (2005). What's coming off the shelves? A reference use study analyzing

print reference sources used in a university library. Journal of Academic Librarianship, 31(6), 546-558.

Abstract: This article reports on a use study of print reference materials at a small private university. The goal of the study was to evaluate the extent of patron and librarian use of the print reference collection as a whole and of individual print resources. Reference librarians recorded book titles and volume numbers of all resources they reshelved in a spreadsheet over two separate two-month periods. The results indicated less than ten percent of the print reference collection was used. The study concluded that the print reference collection was too large and was underused. The authors recommend studies of longer duration to confirm the findings prior to major changes in budgets for purchasing print reference materials.

Annotation: This frequently cited article describes one of the first use studies of print reference resources after widespread acceptance of electronic resources. While the study took place in an academic library, the concerns it raises also apply to other libraries. It emphasizes the importance of determining usage patterns prior to making major decisions regarding collection development or weeding of reference collections. It does not examine patron or staff use of electronic reference sources.

Search Strategy: I selected the Library Literature and Information Science database because of its focus on library-specific publications. Based on earlier searches, I chose to use a keyword search with proximity limitation.

Database: Library Lit. & Info. Science [Dialog File 438]


Search String: ? s print()reference

1986 PRINT 10055 REFERENCE S1 15 PRINT()REFERENCE

Entry 3: Bradford, J.T., Costello, B., & Lenholt, R. (2005). Reference service in the digital age:

An analysis of sources used to answer reference questions. Journal of Academic Librarianship, 31(3), 263-272.

Abstract: A small, private university library studied the sources librarians used to answer reference questions, comparing usage of print sources to databases and off-site Web resources. Over a four-month period, staff logged and categorized sources used to answer patron question in a effort to verify the hypothesis that reference librarians used electronic sources more often than print and to determine what electronic sources they

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used. Librarians used online sources of all types to answer nearly 60% of the questions, using reference books for less than 10%. Further, they used less than 2% of the total print reference titles. The article discusses implications for collection development, staffing and possible need for staff training in use of print resources.

Annotation: This article complements Bradford, J. T. (2005), providing a fuller picture of reference services in one library. It compares print and electronic resource usage by reference staff in the same academic library. It does not differentiate between question formats (in person, email, phone). Issues raised apply to public as well as academic libraries.

Search Strategy: I found the reference in Ritchie, A., & Genoni, P. (2007) and recognized the author’s name, Bradford, from entry 2. Since the first Bradford article was useful, I decided to look at this one as well. Journal of Academic Librarianship is available as an e-journal through Drexel University Libraries and is available in the Library Literature and Information Science Full Text database.

Database: N/A

Method of Searching: Footnote chasing.

Search String: N/A

Entry 4: Colson, J. (2007). Determining use of an academic library reference collection: Report of

a study. Reference & User Services Quarterly, 47(2), 168-175.

Abstract: Studies indicate that a lean reference collection is the idea, but how does a librarian determine what to pare? A small academic library did a five-year reshelving study to guide in collection management. Dots were applied to books as they were reshelved, with different colors for each year. Data indicate that, while many items were heavily used, many others were not used at all in five years. As a result of the study, reference staff are reconsidering the nature of the reference collection, beginning to develop a collection management policy and determining the disposition of the good, but unused, items. (Published abstract)

Annotation: The longer duration of this study provides a fuller picture of print reference source usage. It addresses specific issues related to weeding and reclassification decisions as well as the impact of electronic resources on the use of print reference sources. While researchers concluded that a large number of individual reference books were not used during the study, they noted an overall increase of over 40% in use of the print reference collection, a finding that indicates print reference is not dead.

Search Strategy: Having identified the Bradford article in entry 2 as useful, I decided to search for articles that cited it as a reference in the Social SciSearch citation index.

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Database: Social SciSearch [Dialog File 7]

Method of Searching: Citation search

Search String: ? expand cr=bradford jt

Ref Items Index-termE1 2 CR=BRADFORD JSP, 1957, ANCIENT LANDSCAPESE2 1 CR=BRADFORD JSP, 1957, ANCIENT LANDSCAPES SE3 0 *CR=BRADFORD JTE4 2 CR=BRADFORD JT, 1996, V14, P234, RES STRATEGIESE5 6 CR=BRADFORD JT, 2005, V31, P263, J ACAD LIBRE6 1 CR=BRADFORD JT, 2005, V31, P268, J ACAD LIBRE7 1 CR=BRADFORD JT, 2005, V31, P270, J ACAD LIBRE8 3 CR=BRADFORD JT, 2005, V31, P546, J ACAD LIBRE9 1 CR=BRADFORD JW, 1980, V27, P44, ARITHMETIC TEACHEE10 1 CR=BRADFORD JW, 1987, V62, P22, CANADIAN J PSYCHI

s e5, e6, e7, e8S1 9 E5, E6, E7, E8

Entry 5: Farmer, L. S. J. (2009). The life cycle of digital reference sources. The Reference

Librarian 50(2), 117-136.

Abstract: Academic libraries increasingly complement print-based reference collections with digitally-based reference for financial and educational reasons. However, library collection policies have sometimes lagged behind the technology curve. Too often, reference collection management practices have reflected a responsive attitude rather than a responsible, strategic stance. Many costs are associated with this service, and intellectual and psychological considerations make these resources a complex set of issues. This article examines the life cycle of digital reference sources by focusing on subscription databases: assessment, selection, acquisition, Web presentation and maintenance, archiving and preservation, and de-selection. It offers factors to consider because academic librarians must make decisions about these increasingly dynamic collections. (Published abstract)

Annotation: Farmer emphasizes the need for libraries to establish standard policies and procedures for digital resources. This article concentrates on technical considerations unique to electronic reference sources. While the focus is academic libraries, the issues raised apply equally well to any library considering the purchase of electronic reference resources.

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Search Strategy: I used the controlled vocabulary subject headings from an article I found by citations searching. The article was on topic, but was not scholarly. So I used its subject terms as the basis for a controlled vocabulary search.

Database: LISTA

Method of Searching: Controlled vocabulary search

Search String: su=reference sources AND su=electronic information resources AND su=public libraries. Results further refined by su=reference services (libraries)

Entry 6: Fritch, J. W., & Mandernack, S. B. (2001). The emerging reference paradigm: A vision of

reference services in a complex information environment. Library Trends, 50(2), 286-305.

Abstract: The emerging reference paradigm in a complex, technologically rich information environment tends toward a more deliberate blending of the conservative and liberal philosophies of reference. As key agents in the advancement of society and culture, librarians must recognize the value of community and the social context of information in providing services that support and enhance the full range of contemporary user needs. The complexity of the information environment, and more uncontrolled distribution and access, lead to new issues for users. Reference services, with a stronger instructional role, must become more proactive in providing a fully developed repertoire of services responsive to the multifaceted queries facing librarians today. (Published abstract)

Annotation: How does the library as a social organization adapt to the wide-open information world of the digital age? This article analyzes the evolution of reference services, emphasizing the need to remain faithful to the philosophy and principles of reference service. While electronic and digital resources are a fact of reference today, this article argues that technology itself is not the answer and examines practical responses to changing patron needs.

Search Strategy: While browsing The Reference Librarian, I found this article:Bugg, K. L. & Odom, R. Y. (2009) Extreme makeover reference edition: Restructuring

reference services at the Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center. The Reference Librarian 50(2), 193-204.

While this article was a professional “how we did it” piece and therefore not suitable for this bibliography, I reviewed its references and found this article. I was able to retrieve it as an electronic resource through Drexel University Library. It is also available in the Library Literature and Information Science Full Text database.

Database: N/A

Method of Searching: Footnote chasing

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Search String: N/A

Entry 7: Heintzelman, N., Moore, C., & Ward, J. (2008). Are reference books becoming an

endangered species? Results of a yearlong study of reference book usage at the Winter Park public library. Public Libraries, 47(5), 60-64.

Abstract: In a response to budget constraints, the staff of a public library conducted a study to determine if anyone was using the reference books. Staff used the circulation module of their integrated library system to track in-house use by scanning all reference books before reshelving. The study identified the most-used titles and volumes as well as the most popular subjects. While only a small fraction of the reference books were used, the study concluded that lack of use may reflect a need to examine the choice of resources and to promote the print collection on an equal basis with electronic resources.

Annotation: This is one of the few use studies of a public library reference collection. While it does not examine use of electronic resources, the authors argue that promotion of those resources has increased awareness of digital sources at the expense of reference books. They suggest that print resources deserve the same promotion as electronic ones and consider the possibility that strategic development and staff training may increase use of print reference sources.

Search Strategy: This was a preliminary search to evaluate the topic. The search was a deliberately broad keyword search to retrieve records for browsing.

Database: Library Literature and Information Science Full Text


Search String: Smart search for public library AND reference.

Entry 8: Maxwell, D. J. (2005). Digital versus print: The current state of reference affairs in

school libraries. Reference Librarian, 44(91), 53-68.

Abstract: This article examines the current state of digital versus print reference collections in school libraries. Issues addressed include an overview of adoption practices, acceptance and use of digital materials and implications for the future. The article compares findings from multiple sources to provide an in-depth examination and understanding of the qualities and characteristics that school libraries share. The sources include current literature, research findings, and the observations and experiences of an information specialist in the role of participate observer. Survey and analysis of this data will provide a triangulation of information that will for the basis of the study. (Published abstract)

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Annotation: This article argues that school libraries lag behind other libraries in adoption of electronic resources. Lack of exposure to digital reference sources in school may negatively impact students’ ability to adapt to an academic library, so this trend is worrying. However, the author’s apparent assumption that digital resources are superior seems to discount the value of print resources entirely. Maxwell argues persuasively for additional training in technology, but fails to acknowledge the value of print reference sources.

Search Strategy: I noticed that a number of interesting search returns on the topic included the term “print reference.” So I decided to do a keyword search for that phrase.

Database: LISTA

Method of Searching: Keyword search

Search String: “print reference”

Entry 9: O’Gorman, J., & Trott, B. (2009). What will become of reference in academic and public

libraries? Journal of Library Administration 49(4), 327-229.

Abstract: Public and academic libraries continue to have a vital role in providing reference services. As more and more information is only available in electronic form, reference librarians need to reaffirm their core values. Some of the changes happening in reference include smaller reference collections, the disposition of printed reference books, and the increased use of electronic tools. Other topics include different service models for the reference desk, the changing nature of reference questions, and changes in staffing at the reference desk. Finally, the authors speculate about the future of reference services. (Published abstract)

Annotation: This article examines trends in reference service in response to the rise of digital resources. The authors contrast the increasing availability of excellent print reference sources with a public reluctance to use those books. They argue for a user-centered focus for library service models while remaining true to the professional values of reference librarianship.

Search Strategy: I planned to focus my search on reference books, so I looked up the descriptor in the LISTA thesaurus and also browsed the thesaurus for terms related to reference services. When the search returned too many results, I chose other descriptors to narrow the returns.

Database: LISTA

Method of Searching: Controlled vocabulary

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Search String: reference books AND public libraries—reference services. Narrowed search by adding descriptor public services – libraries and public libraries

Entry 10: Puacz, J. H. (2005). Electronic vs. print reference sources in public library collections.

Reference Librarian, 44(91), 39-51.

Abstract: The evolution of electronic sources has had a significant impact on reference collections in libraries and public library reference collections are no exception.

Evaluating, selecting, and organizing sources to meet the needs of public library users has always been a fundamental role of public librarians. However, now they have the added responsibility of evaluating electronic resources and deciding whether the electronic sources will supplement or replace traditional paper reference sources. Issues of authority, accessibility, cost, comfort, and user education must be carefully weighed during this evaluative process. (Published abstract)

Annotation: This article analyzes issues facing libraries regarding choices between print and electronic resources. In addition to examining the role of both types of resources in public libraries, it also examines the strengths and weaknesses of each format for various categories of resources. Argues the need for public libraries to improve remote access for their patrons. However, Puacz concludes that, given the pros and cons of each format, libraries need both print and electronic reference sources.

Search Strategy: I selected the Library Literature and Information Science database because of its focus on library-specific publications. Based on earlier searches, I chose to use a keyword search with proximity limitation.



Search String: : ? s print()reference

1986 PRINT 10055 REFERENCE S1 15 PRINT()REFERENCE

Entry 11: Ritchie, A., & Genoni, P. (2007). Print v. electronic reference sources: Implications of an

Australian study. The Electronic Library, 25(4), 440-452.

Abstract: : This article analyzes the balance between print and electronic reference sources. The authors include a detailed literature analysis. They then describe a case study of over 620 reference questions and the sources used to answer them undertaken at the Northern Territory Library. While the findings show that both print and electronic resources have a role, authors state the correct balance of those resources is hard to

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assess. Implications for the future of reference services and librarianship are also discussed.

Annotation: In addition to providing a detailed analysis of print vs. electronic resources used to answer actual reference questions, this article examines the difficulties in applying research in this field to other libraries and contexts. It also discusses reasons for the shift toward greater use of electronic sources while raising the question of whether that shift may be detrimental to the quality of reference services.






s e5, e6, e7, e8S1 9 E5, E6, E7, E8

Entry 12: Robbins, S., McCain, C., & Scrivener, L. (2005) The changing format of reference

collections: Are research libraries favoring electronic access over print? The Acquisitions Librarian 18 (35), 75-95.

Abstract: This study examines the holdings of ARL libraries for core reference titles to see if there is a trend towards canceling the print in favor of electronic, and discusses the implications of duplication of titles in both formats. It also looks at the issue within the context of several areas of study including general reference, arts and humanities, social sciences, and sciences. (Published abstract)

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Annotation: This highly technical article focuses on reference collections of major research institutions in an effort to determine whether these libraries are continuing to purchase print formats of resources that are available in both print and electronic form. It examines trends in canceling print purchases and the pressure to acquire high-visibility but expensive general electronic resources that may limit the library’s ability to fund specialized titles, a problem faced by many libraries. It also discusses the effect of a shift to electronic resources on the archival role of research libraries.

Search Strategy: Having determined that Ritchie, A., & Genoni, P. (2007) was a good choice for this project, I reviewed the references in that article and decided this one looked promising. This journal is available as an electronic resource through Drexel University Libraries.

Database: N/A


Search String: N/A

Entry 13: Sendi, K. A., (1996) Assessing the functionality of the reference collection. Collection

Building 15(3), 17-21.

Abstract: Explains how reference staff undertook an assessment of the 30,000+ volume collection in an attempt to determine whether materials in the Carlson Library reference collection are useful to faculty, staff and students. Culled from periodical use studies, several qualitative and quantitative assessment methods were identified: a count of every item physically handled; short in-house surveys administered randomly to willing library patrons; and a questionnaire distributed to a group of instructional staff. The assessment, which began in 1994, continues, and techniques are repeated as necessary. Additional techniques, such as in-house interviews, will be implemented, giving the reference staff valuable information on the users and the uses of the reference collection. Maintains that the intermediate results have already impacted the materials selected, and predicts that the final results will aid in the development of a current reference collection management policy. (Published abstract)

Annotation: This early study used both quantitative and qualitative tools to assess the usefulness of print reference resources in an academic library. The conclusion that libraries must understand user needs is echoed in more recent studies. The call for specific collection development policies also occurs consistently through the literature on this subject.

Search Strategy: I wanted to search with controlled vocabulary for reference, in particular reference books.


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Method of Searching: Controlled vocabulary

Search String: ? expand reference

I chose these entries:E14 1450 REFERENCE BOOKSE28 4579 REFERENCE SERVICES

? s reference books/de and reference services/de

1450 REFERENCE BOOKS/DE 4579 REFERENCE SERVICES/DE S2 66 REFERENCE BOOKS/DE AND REFERENCE SERVICES/DE

I expanded DT and added the following:

? s s2 and e11

66 S2 139870 DT=FEATURE ARTICLE S3 30 S2 AND DT='FEATURE ARTICLE'

Entry 14: Shachaf, P., & Shaw, D. (2008). Bibliometric analysis to identify core reference sources

of virtual reference transactions. Library & Information Science Research, 30(4), 291-297.

Abstract: As the use of electronic reference sources becomes commonplace, virtual reference services are expanding in scope, modes, and popularity. Simultaneously, reference practices are evolving as well. Once concept that may be challenged by these trends is the notion of the core reference collection. What are the sources that form this core collection, and what art its characteristics? Are similar sources used to answer users’ questions in virtual and traditional reference? How do core collections of public and academic libraries differ? An analysis of 1851 e-mail and chat reference transactions from public and academic libraries reveals that the notion of a core reference collection persists in the world of virtual reference services. In both types of libraries, responses to patrons showed a skewed bibliographic distribution; librarians used a small group of sources to answer most of the questions. Almost all sources used were electronic. Academic libraries tended to make greater use of fee-based sources, but public libraries more often used sources freely-available on the Web.

Annotation: This article focuses on the sources used in virtual reference transactions, rather than questions at a physical reference desk. With the rise of popularity of such virtual services, the results have implications for the nature of resources a core-reference

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collection should contain. Another unique aspect of this study is its comparison of academic library responses to those of public libraries.






s e5, e6, e7, e8S1 9 E5, E6, E7, E8

Entry 15: Smith, J. M., & Templeton, E. (1999) A comparison of the range and value of use of the

Internet with traditional reference sources in Scottish public libraries. Journal of Information Science 25(1), 27-33.

Abstract: This study examined the use of the Internet by reference services in Scottish public libraries and staff opinions on its value in their work. It compared the use of traditional print resources to use of the Internet through a survey of all public library authorities and an in-depth interview with three authorities. This qualitative assessment of staff attitudes provides an early view of the impact of web-based information sources on public library reference services. The study highlighted technical issues and lack of training as key obstacles to increased reliance on the Internet.

Annotation: While this study predates the dramatic increase in electronic reference resources, the problems it identifies continue to be concerns today. These issues include staff training, authority of sources and the number of irrelevant results returned by a search.

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Search Strategy: Because Bradford, J. T. (2005) was a useful article, I reviewed its list of references and decided this article was worth review. This journal is available as an electronic resource through Drexel University Libraries.

Database: N/A


Search String: N/A

Entry 16: Standerfer, A. E. (2006). Reference services in rural libraries. Reference Librarian,

45(93), 137-149.

Abstract: The information age has changed libraries of all types and sizes in ways that no one could have predicted. For a rural library, though, changes have been fast and furious and have made a dramatic impact on the very nature of the library and the services the library offers. Rural libraries went form a gathering place for community activities to fully wired information centers in a matter of a few years. The article addresses what these changes mean for reference services—one of the most basic functions of a public library. While people are consuming more information than ever, will the rural library be able to keep up with this demand even with the Internet? This article explores reference services in rural public libraries, using examples from libraries in central and northern Illinois, giving consideration to the nature of reference services, how they have changed over time, and how this compares to small libraries in a metropolitan setting. (Published abstract)

Annotation: Limited budgets, limited staff and limited space constrain rural reference services at a time of increasing demand for those services. State initiatives to provide electronic resources to all public libraries remain ineffective due to lack of training for staff. This article highlights significant differences between rural libraries and more affluent suburban libraries of similar size, illustrating that in spite of government programs, the digital divide is a real factor in quality of reference services at public libraries.

Search Strategy: The terms were suggested by a title I encountered in the references for Maxwell, D.J. (2005). The article itself was not scholarly, but I decided to try searching for the phrase.

Database: LISTA

Method of Searching: Keyword

Search String: Keyword: “future of reference”

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Reference Resources

Entry 17: Stewart, L. (2001). Choosing Between Print and Electronic Resources -- The Selection

Dilemma. The Reference Librarian, 34(71), 79-97.

Abstract: The availability of resources in both print and electronic formats poses a selection dilemma for librarians dealing with rising costs of materials and stagnating or declining budgets. Should a choice between formats be made? There are readily identifiable differences between print and electronic resources and each has strengths and weaknesses. Traditional selection criteria are still valid for evaluating electronic resources but additional issues such as technology, access method, overlap between indexed publications and the library’s collection, service implications, archival concerns and availability of new product information must be considered. Decision models can allow for easier comparison of information formats. A collection development policy that incorporates electronic resources is a necessity that both justifies decisions made and ensures that resource collection supports the library’s goals. Experiences shared by today’s librarians illustrate the complexity of this selection dilemma and highlight the fact that there is no simple answer. (Published abstract)

Annotation: This article examines the advantages and disadvantages of print and electronic reference resources and the categories of reference sources that may be more suited to one format. Stewart proposes additional selection criteria for electronic materials and adds another voice to the chorus calling for libraries to develop clear policy statements for reference collection development.

Search Strategy: Since a number of my articles were published in The Reference Librarian, I decided to browse the journal. I searched within the journal for the term collection development.

Database: N/A

Method of Searching: Browsing

Search String: “collection development” within the journal

Conclusion and Personal Statement

One of the most important things that I learned from this project was a thorough

search requires the use of multiple strategies. The indexer’s interpretation of what is

important in an article may not reflect its value from the searcher’s standpoint.

Unsuccessful searches are inevitable, but provide information from which to begin a new

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Reference Resources

approach. Trial and error is an essential part of the process. I am now more comfortable

with using controlled vocabulary and using tools such as a thesaurus or the EXPAND

command to find useful terms. My keyword searches are also more focused now and I am

more aware of synonyms as potential search terms.

I was familiar with the techniques of footnote chasing and author searching from

previous research I’ve done. But I was excited to learn about the possibility to search

citations forward. Citation databases like Web of Science provide a powerful tool to

researchers. I was also pleased to learn about RefWorks, yet another useful item in the

researcher’s tool kit.

I was surprised at how few scholarly articles there were on this topic. It seems to

be a vital issue for every library to address. I learned that our instinct to move many of

our reference books into circulation is, in fact, becoming standard practice. I was

intrigued by how some of the issues identified in early articles remained important in

spite of the scale of change over the last decade.

At first I was nervous about writing the annotations. I’m not an expert in library

reference. How would I be able to give a judgment on the value of an article? But I found

that as I took notes, I recorded what was important about each article. It quickly became

clear that the Bradford (2005) was fundamental to the topic. I realized that since I’d

determined the topic of the bibliography, I could also identify what it was that each

article contributed to that topic. The literature review was also intimidating, so I put it off

until last. That turned out to be a good choice, because the process of writing the

annotations helped to clarify the primary themes, thus providing the organization for the

literature review.

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Reference Resources

This assignment was a definite challenge for me, but the process has given me

confidence that I can create a scholarly annotated bibliography. Along the way, my

proficiency at searching has improved dramatically, as has my confidence in working

with various databases and interfaces. I also think that the ability to organize a body of

information like this and identify key patterns and concepts is an important skill in

today’s world of information overload. The things I’ve learned will definitely carry over

to other, less formal, projects that I anticipate encountering as a Child and Youth Services

Librarian, to include writing Pathfinders for students.

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