University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Reference services and the networks: Some reflections on integration

Baker, Betsy

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/1184

Description

Title
Reference services and the networks: Some reflections on integration
Author(s)
Baker, Betsy
Issue Date
1987
Keyword(s)
  • Reference services (Libraries) --Automation
  • Online bibliographic searching
  • Database searching
  • Libraries and electronic publishing
  • Networks
Abstract
In this discussion, a framework will be presented for the integration of the network databases into the reference setting. In addition, while particular events associated with the networks will be highlighted, the framework itself may easily be applied to assess how any form of new information technology is integrated into the reference setting. The general principles involved in assessing the integration process transcend the particulars of specific tools and include: identifying the value of a resource; assessing its unique and useful properties; establishing its level of availability; learning; diffusion of knowledge among reference staff; and policy decisions. The final step is a formal evaluation and a reassessment with a formalized policy decision informing the public. In order to place this framework within a historical context, the discussion will begin by briefly tracing the evolution of the networks' focus on reference concerns. As reference use of the networks has increased, the focus of support services offered by networks has broadened. Just as the network perspective on support services to libraries has expanded, so too should reference librarians rethink their views of how to integrate the networks into the public service environment. The almost obligatory summary of why the networks are useful in reference will not be offered for this is readily available in the literature.
Publisher
Graduate School of Library and Information Science. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Series/Report Name or Number
Clinic on Library Applications of Data Processing (24th : 1987)
ISSN
0069-4789
Type of Resource
text
Language
en
Permalink
http://hdl.handle.net/2142/1184
Copyright and License Information
Copyright owned by Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois. 1987.

Owning Collections

1987: Questions and Answers: Strategies for Using the Electronic Reference Collection PRIMARY
24th Clinic on Library Applications of Data Processing (1987). Edited by Linda C. Smith.