The Reality of Reference: Responsibilities and Competencies for Current Reference Librarians

Laura Saunders

15 citations0/0 files storedPublic & Access Services Quarterly

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Library Science and Information Literacy Library Science and Information Web and Library Services

Abstract

Academic reference services face great challenges as they cope with the pace of technological change, competition from other information service providers, and tight budgets. In fact, some critics suggest that reference services are no longer relevant or necessary as more information moves online. This study examines a nationwide survey that reveals that reference librarians are indeed engaged in a wide variety of activities requiring a range of competencies and skills. Results of this study suggest that reference services are not dying but are evolving, with most academic reference librarians engaged in multifunction positions involving both traditional and nontraditional reference activities.

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References

2007Guidelines for Behavioral Performance of Reference and Information Service Providers 2010Proficiencies for Instruction Librarians: Is There Still a Disconnect Between Professional Education and Professional Responsibilities?2008What the Teachers Are Teaching : How MLIS Programs Are Preparing Academic Librarians for Instructional Roles 2008Reference Librarians at the Reference Desk in a Learning Commons: A Mixed Methods Evaluation 2004The changing roles of academic reference librarians over a ten-year period 2007Chat reference competencies: identification from a literature review and librarian interviews 2010The Role of the Academic Reference Librarian in the Learning Commons 2008Reference Desk Staffing Trends

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2014Can I Have Your Attention? Implications of the Research on Distractions and Multitasking for Reference Librarians 2014Analyzing Recorded Transactions to Extrapolate the Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities of Reference Desk Providers at an Urban, Academic/Public Library 2013Reference Service at an Inflection Point: Transformations in Academic Libraries 2021Confronting the “I Don’t Know”: A Philosophical Consideration of Applying Abductive Reasoning to Library Practice

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