Reference and Information Services

Reference Service (ODLIS, 2014)

All the functions performed by a trained librarian employed in the reference section of a library to meet the information needs of patrons in person, by telephone, or electronically.

Reference Transactions (RUSA, 2008)

Information consultations in which library staff recommend, interpret, evaluate, and/or use information resources to help others to meet particular information needs.

Reference Work (RUSA, 2008)

Activities including reference transactions and other functions involving the creation, management, and assessment of information or research resources, tools, and services.

Reference (RUSA, 2021)

Providing assistance by using expertise in response to an information need.

Directional Transaction

An information contact that involves providing logistical information, such as the location of library resources, assistance with computers and equipment, and interpretation of library policies and hours.

Information Services

An umbrella term encompassing all services that facilitate access to, retrieval, dissemination, and use of information, including reference transactions and directional transactions.

Samuel Swett Green

A pioneer who outlined the concept of the librarian interacting with and assisting the reader in 1876.

Melvil Dewey

The library pioneer who was first to establish a team of 'reference librarians' to provide personal assistance to users, calling it the 'reference department'.

W. W. Bishop

Delivered a paper in 1915 on 'The Theory of Reference Work' defining reference work as 'the service rendered by a librarian in aid of some sort of study'.

Charles Williamson

Author of the 1923 report 'Training for Library Service' prepared for the Carnegie Corporation of New York, arguing the need for formal training of librarians.

Supervision Function (Shores, 1954)

A management function in reference service that involves maintaining efficient reference service through the organization of facilities, selection of materials, direction of personnel, and study of clientele.

Information Function (Shores, 1954)

A core reference function involving answering questions and responding to inquiries