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Through a review of current literature and by providing statistics regarding mental health and its impact on people, this article emphasizes the critical role of reference librarians in supporting mental health and wellness within the different types of communities they serve. Furthermore, the article highlights the global and national context of mental health, stressing the importance of understanding this background for librarians to better meet the health and wellness needs of the communities they serve. The author summarizes recent wellness initiatives by various types of libraries to serve as an inspiration for librarians considering implementing new wellness efforts. The historical role of libraries in supporting mental health, including through the practice of bibliotherapy and how that role has expanded over time, is also shared. The author advocates for librarians and library workers to pursue professional development that is specific to trauma-informed librarianship and related areas. Special emphasis is placed on reference librarians and library workers becoming certified in Mental Health First Aid. The author also recommends resources from library science literature that emphasize the need for whole-person librarianship, the importance of librarians and library workers’ mutual support for each other, and other relevant topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the late twentieth century librarians prototyped expert systems in reference services in order to respond to the reference 'crisis' of the time and to harness the power of emerging artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Creating intelligent systems required librarian designers to codify the expertise of reference librarians and the resources of reference services into knowledge representation mechanisms suitable for inferences by the system. In this process, librarians explored the theoretical and pragmatic bases of reference and experimented with how to implement them in AI. The successes and failures of these prototypes reveal how librarians felt about these new technologies and how they might transform libraries. While expert systems in libraries failed and were abandoned by the end of the century, lessons and insights from this seminal work can inform current activities in the application of machine learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective – To investigate students’ use of ChatGPT and its potential advantages and disadvantages compared to reference librarians at a university library. Design – Survey research. Setting – A university library in Nigeria. Subjects – Students familiar with ChatGPT (n=54) who were enrolled in a library users’ education course. Methods – A survey was conducted in a sample of undergraduate students enrolled in a library users’ education course, who had previously used ChatGPT. Participants were asked questions based on six categories that reflected frequency of use, types of inquiries, frequency of reference consultations, desire to consult reference librarians despite the availability of ChatGPT, and potential advantages and disadvantages of ChatGPT compared to reference librarians. A 4-point Likert scale was used to measure the responses from often to never, strongly agree to strongly disagree, and rarely to frequently. Main Results – The sample of students who participated (n=54) were a diverse group whose age varied from below 20 (35.2%) to above 30 years (31.5%) and represented a variety of fields of study, such as engineering, business and social sciences, arts, law, sciences, basic and medical sciences. Regarding frequency of use, the author reported that 40.7% of participants occasionally used ChatGPT, and 26.1% and 16.7% used it frequently or very frequently, respectively. Of the five options that represented types of inquiries (religious, political, academic, entertainment, and work), academic and work-related inquiries were topics most often searched in ChatGPT. Participants indicated that they consulted reference librarians occasionally (40.8%), frequently (37%), or rarely (22.2%). Most students (87%) would continue to consult reference librarians despite the availability of ChatGPT. For questions that compared ChatGPT to reference librarians, four options were provided to describe potential advantages and four options were provided to describe potential disadvantages. Most students agreed or strongly agreed that ChatGPT is more user friendly (83.4%), that it includes a broad knowledge base (90.7%), is easily accessible (83.3%), and saves time by responding to questions quickly (98%) compared to reference librarians. Fewer than half of the students agreed or strongly agreed that ChatGPT’s knowledge base is not up to date (47.2%). Most agreed or strongly agreed that it cannot comprehend some questions (72.3%), that it cannot read emotions as a librarian would (74.1%), and that responses to questions may be incorrect (66.6%). The potential advantage with the strongest response score was that ChatGPT saves time by responding to questions quickly (mean 3.52). The potential disadvantage with the strongest response score was ChatGPT could not read emotions as a librarian would (mean 2.91). Conclusion – Students from an academic institution acknowledged the potential advantages and disadvantages of ChatGPT over reference librarians, yet the majority of students would continue to utilize reference librarian services. The author suggests that ChatGPT is a versatile and useful tool as a supplement rather than a replacement for knowledgeable and personable reference librarians. Based on the results of the study, the author emphasizes the importance of interpersonal skills and enhanced accessibility of reference librarians outside of typical work hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated whether students would prefer mobile instant messaging versus in-person enquiries for reference queries post-COVID-19. A descriptive survey research design was utilized in the study. The population consisted of 245 Adeleke University undergraduates that partook in library orientation programme. A descriptive statistic was employed to analyze the data. Findings indicated that the most preferred mobile instant messaging for reference queries by students are WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, default text messenger and Facebook Messenger. However, the most significant problem of using mobile instant messaging for reference queries were discovered to be internet access issues. The study concluded that Adeleke University undergraduate students prefer to utilize mobile instant messaging to make reference queries rather than in-person reference queries post-COVID-19, hence reference librarians should enhance their use of mobile instant messaging to receive reference queries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective - The primary purpose of this study was to better understand the nature of “reference” and reference transactions. Methods - This study looked at four years’ of reference transaction (RT) data recorded at a small, state-owned university. Results - The data clearly indicates that the overall number of RT continues to decline. It also reveals that, despite the use of student mentors, librarians are still involved with a majority of RT, regardless of whether or not they require the expertise of a librarian to resolve. Conclusion - Continuing to be involved with RT which do not require the knowledge or training of a librarian (e.g., directional) can have a diminutive effect on the perceived role, work, and value of librarians. As such, it is suggested that these sorts of questions be addressed by student mentors or staff members. In turn, this will allow librarians to focus on those questions and activities which do require their unique knowledge and skills. Along similar lines, it is also suggested that librarians explore and identify new, non-traditional ways of applying their expertise to student success initiatives and the overall academic life of the institution. With the merger of three libraries, data from this study has been and continues to be used to make informed decisions about the provision of reference services in a new, integrated library environment.

Embedded librarian and/or embedded librarianship are considered an effective approach for reference librarians to apply their professional knowledge and re-define their roles in libraries. It is revealed from experiences of offering embedded library services in universities overseas that, this service mode has positive impacts on libraries, librarians, teachers and students. In this study the questionnaire approach was adopted to investigate the awareness and perception of reference librarians in university libraries on implementing embedded library services. Questionnaires were delivered to librarians in 19 university libraries in Taiwan. The conclusions of this study include (1) Although the librarians are not familiar with embedded librarianship, there still exists a high level of willingness to implement the service; (2) The application of library instruction/information literacy in courses is the most suitable form of embedded librarianship; (3) Librarians have highly positive perception of the value of embedded librarianship; (4) Although these librarians were confident that their library supervisors would support the services, they did not consider the library was ready for implementing the services; (5) Insufficient manpower is the biggest challenge for implementing embedded librarianship in university libraries; and (6) The competence of reference service and the subject knowledge offered in the department are the two cornerstones for successfully implementing of embedded librarianship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: the reference service in university libraries specialized in health has certain singularities due to the characteristics of the scientific field of the field of Health Sciences, the interface between teaching practices and scientific research, as well as the general profile and demands for information /reliable evidence by academics, professors/researchers and practitioners. Objective: to present and discuss the singularities of the reference service in university libraries specialized in health, as well as the challenges/potentialities of librarianship in this context. Method: The study, of theoretical character, carried out exploratory research with bibliographic research in national and international literature in the area of Librarianship/Information Science. Results: The results obtained indicate that the singularities of the work process in university libraries are determined not only by the idiosyncrasies of health personnel, but, above all, by the fact that human health (physical and mental) is the object of study and practice of area. Conclusion: It is concluded that despite the challenges related to library training in Brazil and the development of desirable and/or required skills/skills for health care, these elements do not constitute an insurmountable obstacle to professional practice with excellence. However, the librarian needs to recognize that such variables are intervening in their professional practice and that the search for improvement/specialization is a pressing demand [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cataloging and the Reference and Research Services departments at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette's Edith Garland Dupré Library collaborated to create name authority headings for the Library of Congress Name Authority File. The project's primary goal was to increase the number of the library's contributions as a Name Authority Cooperative Program participant. The Head of Cataloging determined which Louisiana persons needed name authority headings and compiled a list of names for Reference & Research Services staff to investigate. After using various online resources to collect biographical information, staff submitted their findings via a Google Form. The Head of Cataloging compiled and edited the data using MarcEdit. The non-traditional methods discussed in this article can be incorporated by catalogers at other libraries and institutions to simplify the authority heading creation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public library patrons rarely reveal their personal crises, but experienced reference librarians quickly recognize the difference between casual and intense questions. Assuming professional responsibility for meeting such information needs, many librarians live with the ambiguity of the librarian/social worker dichotomy. Seeking that delicate balance between the librarian's customized information service and the social worker's case management triage, librarians must understand the situated information needs of their in-crisis patrons. For these individuals selfidentity becomes a primary factor in any service interaction, including the opportunities and threats that new information generates. This article posits a four-part model of reference service that is centered on self-identity relationships between patrons and their crisis situations. The model incorporates information service guidelines. Intimate partner violence is used as the crisis context with which to explicate the model's components. Librarians are not social workers, but they are asked to and certainly can provide practical, effective problem-solving information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the change of information environment, the emergence of new technology, services, and new media, reference librarians and users have more choices in information acquisition methods, tools, and means. The reference consulting service is the most valuable part of developing collections, increasing comprehensive service ability, and revealing a library's social roles in the information age. The change in user demands has accelerated the transfer process which shifts the focus of library reference work from the literature retrieval to the individualized, information-oriented deep content mining, or metrology analysis. Improving the new service capacity to accomplish library service transformation is also an important goal of functional improvements to the National Library of China. In the coming years, the National Library of China will promote new services through improving the reading guidance, developing literature resources, innovating service methods, supporting national development strategy, strengthening the library's essentials, and promoting business cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents discussion regarding reference services in special libraries, highlighting their particular needs and issues in the 21st century. Topics addressed include different operational models seen within contemporary special libraries, such as learning centers and embedded librarians; core skills needed by reference librarians in special libraries, such as research interviewing; and issues surrounding service visibility within larger host organizations.

Much has been written about the competencies that reference providers must exhibit to be successful at their positions given today's technology-rich, information environment. Many have proclaimed new mandatory technological and attitudinal qualities for librarians, while others have interviewed future, practicing, and hiring librarians for their perspectives on this topic. This study adds to the existing literature by examining a dataset of 9,683 recorded reference transactions collected during the fall 2012 semester in an urban, academic/public library. This dataset provides a very current look at the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities that reference providers need to be successful at this library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study examines the use of online help guides and their potential impact in helping graduate distance students prepare for a scheduled meeting with a reference librarian. Students taking a dissertation planning course were surveyed to determine if a custom LibGuide and accompanying class assignments prepared them for in-depth research during their meeting with a reference librarian. Findings revealed that the majority of students believed that this flipped-classroom style approach had a positive impact on their research abilities and skills. Recommendations are provided for online help resources that can be adapted for use in online and hybrid courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the rapidly changing information environment, it is advantageous for librarians and researchers to collaborate. This manuscript describes a collaborative writing project between Communication faculty and a reference librarian at the University of Louisville. The primary project on collaboration among teaching faculty and librarians is discussed. The article delves into the literature, the data gathering process, the unexpected findings, the benefits of librarian and teaching faculty partnerships, and implications for future collaborations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whether or not a librarian appears approachable in public service environments is critical to providing excellent service, conveying a welcoming space, and encouraging library users to engage with one of the key intellectual venues on our campuses. This study used an image-rating method to assess the influence of affect and attire on patron impressions of librarian approachability. Findings suggest that librarian behaviors do matter, with specific treatments resulting in increased or decreased perceptions of approachability. These findings not only support common sense assessments that an attentive and welcoming environment is essential to encouraging patrons to engage with librarians; they also provide information on specific behaviors that affect approachability, allowing librarians to distinguish between a range of presentation styles that can be readily employed in public service. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This case study focuses on the trends of reference management as part of the reference services at “Dunarea de Jos” University of Galati in the last 20 years. The institution aims to adopt reference managers such as Zotero, Mendeley or EndNote online in the most common research-related scenarios, whether for the accreditation of an university specialization, the development of a research topic or bibliometric research. Publish or Perish is also explored for the cases of managing citations and research impact analysis.

Given that the information needs of users have become increasingly specialized and complex, it is necessary that the Reference Service of the Central University Library "Carol I" in Bucharest to align with new international standards, acquire its own identity and serve the needs of its users. This article advocates the development of a prompt and efficient service, dedicated to its users, whose main purpose is to answer questions, which can be considered a strategic development plan, as well as some practical proposals for its improvement and development by providing of high-performance services and products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Library patrons are adopting mobile devices for personal and other uses. The ubiquity of mobile devices will lead to changes in how and where learning and education happens. Libraries have wanted to become ubiquitous by making resources and services available anywhere, anytime. Reference librarians can use mobile devices and applications to include services in mobile learning environments. Challenges to libraries include uncertainty about which technologies to adopt in a rapidly changing technology landscape, the cost of technology adoption, staffing for 24–7, diversity of needs and preferences among library patrons, and the need to offer stable, consistent services. The combination of mobile librarians, mobile patrons, and mobile content provides an opportunity to move closer to the ideal of the ubiquitous library. This article originally published in Journal of Library Administration, Vol. 51, Issue 3, pages 279–290, 2011. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01930826.2011.556942. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

With a growing population of part-time and distance education students, changing technologies, and evolving user expectations, it is becoming increasingly challenging to reach users through traditional marketing approaches. This article will review previous trends in library marketing and promotion and explore new initiatives, including partnering with marketing courses, roving reference, and highlighting staff expertise to raise awareness among users. This article originally published in Journal of Library Administration, Vol. 51, Issue 3, pages 291–300, 2011. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01930826.2011.556945. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Academic libraries have seen a dramatic decline in face-to-face traditional reference desk interactions over the past decade. Due to new initiatives at the University of New Mexico, reference services are flourishing even though traditional desk reference interactions are declining. Incorporating more engaged librarians within the academic and surrounding communities has expanded reference services and created new opportunities for librarians to consult with users in multiple settings. The establishment of a virtual service desk has increased the accessibility and visibility of the library to 'meet users where they are' in an electronic environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is an update to a previous article on embedded office hours at the University of Calgary. It examines the nature of embedded librarianship at the University of Calgary and how it has changed from embedded reference to embedded librarianship over the past 6 years. There have been 3 main approaches to achieving embedded librarianship: office hours, long service, and purpose-built branch or special libraries. This article reviews the current literature on embedded librarianship and in that context describes, compares, and discusses the 3 approaches at the University of Calgary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Now that reference research is almost exclusively an online endeavor, the traditional model of reference service-a static walk-up service point-no longer applies. Today librarians engage users at point of need, embedding research help in the context of the online research environment, while at the same time respecting the users' preference for a transparent and unmediated experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study focuses on reference services in the main library at Oberlin College. It traces the development of the current service model, which has evolved as the Reference & Instruction Department has anticipated, managed, and responded to changes related to increased teaching and instruction activities, shifting reference usage patterns, and changes in student research behaviors. Emphasis is placed on a popular and highly personalized research appointment service; a robust program of course-related library instruction; reliance on students to help staff the reference desk and make effective referrals; developing and maintaining strong relationships with teaching faculty; and creating welcoming spaces conducive to research, studying, socializing, and interacting with library staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Readily available reference services have been a key component of the University of Michigan Library's (MLibrary) success in supporting and advancing campus research, teaching, and learning. An examination of the evolution of our reference services over the past 10 years suggests strategies and innovative approaches that may well inform future service directions. The purpose of this article is to capture the University of Michigan experience as a way to better understand this evolution and, in doing so, to offer critical concepts to consider when thinking about the development of current and future reference services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Library patrons are adopting mobile devices for personal and other uses. The ubiquity of mobile devices will lead to changes in how and where learning and education happens. Libraries have wanted to become ubiquitous by making resources and services available anywhere, anytime. Reference librarians can use mobile devices and applications to include services in mobile learning environments. Challenges to libraries include uncertainty about which technologies to adopt in a rapidly changing technology landscape, the cost of technology adoption, staffing for 24-7, diversity of needs and preferences among library patrons, and the need to offer stable, consistent services. The combination of mobile librarians, mobile patrons, and mobile content provides an opportunity to move closer to the ideal of the ubiquitous library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reference librarians are tasked with teaching patrons how to access a variety of library materials. With the advent of electronic access to various resources, another worthwhile task has emerged: preventing library user anxiety. In an attempt to provide background on library anxiety a review of the current literature on the issue is offered. Emphasis is placed on the various services that are continuously developed as well as the many trends reference departments pursue, implement, and improve to ensure that fewer users experience overwhelming and anxious feelings when using the library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the author reviews the history of reference service from a management perspective. Topics covered include: definitions of reference service; staffing; service models; modes of communication, including remote reference services; collections; education and training; and assessment. The author discusses changes over time and current challenges for reference managers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a growing population of part-time and distance education students, changing technologies, and evolving user expectations, it is becoming increasingly challenging to reach users through traditional marketing approaches. This article will review previous trends in library marketing and promotion and explore new initiatives, including partnering with marketing courses, roving reference, and highlighting staff expertise to raise awareness among users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes job advertisements to identify the contemporary development of academic reference librarianship in the United States. Results show that more job openings, higher educational backgrounds, more duties & responsibilities, and variety of titles were assigned to academic reference librarian positions from 1966 through 2009. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study documents the number and types of referrals to librarians by a paraprofessional staff member at an academic reference desk. Results indicate that over two semesters, only 7.4% of the reference desk transactions required referral to a librarian. From the results of this and other studies, the authors explore the expanded use of trained paraprofessionals at the reference desk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As technologies have evolved and the concept of a true virtual library becomes a reality, the line between campus and distance learners continues to blur. Past and current technological change has driven Rochester Institute of Technology Libraries to continually explore new methods of accessibility and delivery to all users. With the use of software applications such as Drupal, Desire2Learn, the MetaLib X-Server, EZProxy, and ILLiad, the ability to virtually deploy resources in a multitude of ways has enabled library collections to be more accessible to everyone, particularly those learning from a distance, and have allowed user interfaces to function seamlessly and robustly to the user. The development of customized “Meet Your Librarian” Web pages for each reference librarian provides built in contact information via instant messaging widgets and has brought human expertise as well as collections to the users' desktops. These pages also include subject specific content, such as custom tutorials, subject guides, and program relevant information. Technological advances in instruction methods now allow library instruction to be delivered to remote users via online tutorials, Adobe Connect, and the Access Grid. The success of employing multiple approaches to delivering library services and collections to distance learners that are as robust as those delivered to learners on campus is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the University of Massachusetts Amherst's W.E.B. Du Bois library's Learning Commons, only reference librarians staff the Reference and Research Assistance Desk. Surveys, a focus group, reference question transcriptions, and question-type tallies indicate that this service model is strongly preferred by users and librarians over the previous tiered model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the methodologies of library reference service evaluation, and reports that the complaint against the library survey research is that the projects are carried out in isolation, without caring for reliability of the results. It is viewed that electronic reference services are useful in conducting observational studies, while in-depth interview method is not popular as surveys because of the requirement of time and expenses. It is suggested that reference librarians need to be encouraged to conduct service evaluations. The author says that virtual reference libraries may soon become the norm, and libraries should examine ways of evaluating digital reference services.

Our article provides new reference librarians with practical recommendations and learning plans so that they can succeed as liaisons. Drawing from our experiences as new librarians, we explain how to practice continual learning, stay on top of the constantly changing environment of a liaison, pilot different techniques, and assess liaison work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reviews a sampling of free and proprietary college and career resources, available via the Internet. Sites reviewed provide comprehensive information on a variety of colleges and careers and address a number of related college/career guidance issues and special topics. Selected test preparation sites are also reviewed. Sites and resources included are suitable for any college and careers collection and useful to subject selectors and reference librarians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reference work in anthropology has evolved in a variety of directions with the growth of the Internet and World Wide Web. This discussion of that evolution stresses the ways in which existing Internet resources can be used to answer eight of the most common categories of reference questions in this extraordinarily broad and diverse discipline. These categories were identified through an informal survey of anthropology reference librarians and subject specialists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What resources does the reference librarian use to assist people conducting research in the vast field of psychology? This article surveys resources, both free and proprietary, which can help the reference librarian assist students and faculty. Included in this article are descriptions of proprietary and freely available Web sites (databases, encyclopedias, dictionaries, Web megasites, test information, and yearbooks); Sage: the UCSD Library's gateway to the Web; and psychology research guides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights various publications related to academic libraries. It includes important articles, books, Web sites, and reviews. Some of the publications are "What Readers Want: A Study of E-Fiction Usability," by Chrysanthi Malama, Monica Landoni, and Ruth Wilson; "Sakai Educational Partners Program," by Sayeed Choudhury; "Whatever Happened to Postmodernism in Higher Education? No Requiem in the New Millennium," by Harlan B. Bloland; "Reading and the Reference Librarian: The Importance to Library Service of Staff Reading Habits," by Juris Dilevko and Lisa Gottlieb; ""Enhancing Academic Library Performance Through Positive Psychology," by Brian Quinn; "Innovative Redesign and Reorganization of Library Technical Services: Paths for the Future and Case Studies," edited by Bradford Lee Eden; "More Than 100 Colleges Work With Google to Speed Campus Users to Library Resources," by Jeffrey R. Young; "One-on-One Instruction: From the Reference Desk to Online Chat," by Beth S. Woodard.

The article analyzes the checklist and narrative reports from twenty reference interactions initiated in eleven Greater Vancouver colleges/ universities by a proxy with heavily accented English. The number of international students attending institutions of higher education in North America has increased in the last twenty-five years and the number will continue to rise in the future, bringing new challenges to academic reference librarians. Language barriers, the major obstacle for international students, usually result from the reference librarian's inability to understand students because of variations in pronunciation, intonation, speech patterns, and enunciation. The barrier may also result from international students' inability to express their information need correctly. The librarians were found to excel in their listening skills and in most cases the librarians gave her their full and undivided attention, and that this concentration facilitated their understanding of her heavily accented English. The primary goal of the librarians should be to provide the best help possible to students who are frightened, hesitant, and uncertain of their ability to express their question in English.

Libraries have experimented with and/or implemented redesign of services and functions that range from an information commons design to integrated service points to mobile service points. The J. Murrey Atkins Library of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte completed a building renovation project and a reorganization of staff and services in the spring of 2000 to reflect the changes required of the Combined Services Desk (CSD) staff. From the perspective of the reference librarians the improved skills of the CSD staff from a training result in fewer basic questions being referred back to the Reference Desk staff. And while Atkins Library implemented plans for an information commons structure on the main floor of the building, the second floor area reorganized to combine service desks from Periodicals, Documents, Course Reserves, Audio-Visuals, and the Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center. The anticipated responsibilities at the new CSD were to assist patrons with these collections.

This article explores ways to expand the public library's mission, and that of the reference librarian, to include offering word processing on public access computers. The author defines access to and the ability to use word processing software as a form of literacy and links this to the library's established role in promoting literacy. This article also provides anecdotal information about introducing this software at a public library system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the job description of catalogers and reference librarians. Tasks of the cataloging unit; Service provided by reference librarians for patrons retrieving bibliographic records; Advantages of cross-training the catalogers and reference librarians; Background on the organizational structure and the primary services offered by the University of Alabama University.

Focuses on the division and tension between catalogers and reference librarians. Division between reference and technical services; Traditional methods of operation; Emerging blending of duties and the positive and negative effects on the profession; Changing demands of library users; Readiness of the profession to provide optimal library services to users.

Explores the requisite skills needed for success in reference and cataloging, and how cross-training might enhance those skills. Negative aspects of the combining the tasks of the departments; Suggested approach to developing job descriptions for librarians; Lessening of distinctions between the public services and technical services of libraries.

Reviews the literature on outcome-based education (OBE) and discusses its application in library instruction and reference service. Definition of OBE; Advantages of OBE; Application of OBE in the evaluation and selection of a system or electronic resource; Benefits of focusing on outcomes in planning and designing library instruction for new technology.