A stimulating and informative appraisal of the international librarianship scene and the reference service function. Experts discuss how international reference services can be improved to facilitate true exchange of information around the world. They look squarely at problems and provide answers to a host of pertinent questions, such as information counseling and policies, reference services and global awareness, integrating a central reference international studies program, and more.

As classrooms and universities strive to adapt their instructional methods to an ever progressing technological age, it is imperative that academic libraries also revisit the ways in which reference and instruction services are organized and implemented. Library Reference Services and Information Literacy: Models for Academic Institutions not only advocates for a more intentional integration of reference and instructional services, but it also provides organizational background, staff objectives, and various successes and challenges that have already been experienced by real institutions. This publication is an important reference source for librarians, practitioners, and university leaders who wish to maximize the current utilization of their resources.

Search skills of today bear little resemblance to searches through print publications. Reference service has become much more complex than in the past, and is in a constant state of flux. Learning the skill sets of a worthy reference librarian can be challenging, unending, rewarding, and-- yes, fun.

In Introduction to Reference and Information Services in Today's School Library, one of America's premier school library educators covers the A-Z of both reference and information services for today's library. Lesley Farmer discusses everything from teaching students how to use sources to both in-person and virtual reference service.

An Introduction to Reference Services in Academic Libraries is a comprehensive textbook that presents compelling case studies and thought-provoking essays that teach the principles of reference services. Eighteen authorities from private and public academic libraries around the United States offer unique perspectives and solid information in an active learning format that requires students to think and learn. The book provides a stimulating starting point for those learning about planning, managing, and evaluating reference services. Each chapter is thoroughly referenced, and many have charts and activities to help spark student engagement in the learning process. Over 30 tables and figures make complex information easy to access and understand.

WebJunction has just completed an update of the Competency Index for the Library Field. The original 2009 edition has been a valuable resource for libraries, helping staff identify and obtain the knowledge, skills and support needed to power relevant and vibrant libraries. However, it was time for an update. With ever-increasing economic, social, and educational demands, libraries have experienced dramatic changes in community needs and the tools available to serve those needs. Three elements in particular have been emphasized throughout: 21st century skills, accountability, and community engagement. WebJunction intends for the Index to be widely shared and adapted by a variety of libraries to meet their individual needs. -- Publisher description.

With this handy new guidebook, reference luminary Jo Bell Whitlatch outlines practical methods for evaluating and delivering excellent reference service to the technology-savvy library user of today.

This practical guide teaches failsafe methods for identifying important materials by matching specific types of questions to the best available sources, regardless of format. Information on more than 300 sources has been updated to provide you high quality information.