Reference and Information Services: An Introduction, 2nd Edition (Library Science Text Series) - Hardcover

Smith, Linda C.; Bopp, Richard E.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 156308130X ISBN 13: 9781563081309

Publisher: Libraries Unlimited Inc, 1995

Synopsis

Thoroughly revised and expanded to reflect current developments in the field, this text is designed to provide the beginning student of library and information science with an overview of the most important tools for general reference work and the concepts and theory behind today's reference services. The 21 chapters are divided into two parts. The first 11 chapters deal with concepts and theory and are topical. They cover such areas as ethical aspects of reference services, reference interview, the principles and goals of library instruction, bibliographic control and search strategies, training and continuing education for reference staff, the evaluation of reference services, and the management of these services. In many cases, specific applications in different types of libraries are pointed out. Expanded coverage of electronic reference service is provided by two full chapters devoted to basic principles and current trends in this area. A separate chapter covers unique approaches to reference service for special groups. Part 2 describes the general principles and sources for selecting and evaluating reference tools and the principles for building a reference collection. The remaining chapters discuss the characteristics and uses of particular types of reference tools. This new edition describes a greater number of titles of each type as well as the formulation of strategies for the effective use of specific sources or groups of sources. Scenarios in particular library settings conclude each chapter, offering realistic reference questions and appropriate search strategies. Throughout the text, boxes are used to highlight specific issues, concepts and search strategies that underlie contemporary reference services. Selected important sources for further reading are listed at the end of each chapter. This text presents the essential theory and practical knowledge necessary for an initial reference course. Its broad scope and organisational clarity should benefit students and practitioners alike.

About this title

About the Author

RICHARD E. BOPP, retired, was Associate Professor of Library Administration, University of Illinois, UrbanaChampaign.LINDA C. SMITH is Professor and Associate Dean, Graduate School of Library and Information Science, University of Illinois, UrbanaChampaign. She serves on the editorial board of Library Quarterly. She received the Isadore Gilbert MudgeR. R. Bowker Award for distinguished contribution to reference librarianship and was named a Distinguished Teacher/Scholar.

Edition details

• Publisher: Libraries Unlimited Inc
• Publication date: 1995
• ISBN 10: 156308130X
• ISBN 13: 9781563081309
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 626