tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8729104437465523415.post6722417705819339457..comments2023-09-30T11:47:21.954-04:00Comments on Massachusetts Library Association Conference Reports: Is Reference Dead?Beth Gallawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16744207390688295249noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8729104437465523415.post-55156136930198356542007-08-16T16:49:00.000-04:002007-08-16T16:49:00.000-04:00Our roles are not terminating but rather evolving,...Our roles are not terminating but rather evolving, along with the advances in technology, patron needs, and the fast pace of society at large. The questions we are asked are also evolving. However, the Reference Librarian fills a need that shall always be a need... there will always be patrons who are economically disadvantaged; mentally challenged; elderly; shy; rushed; confused; stressed; visually challenged; arthritic; linguistically challenged; etc. We are their lifeline. <BR/><BR/> We service-oriented Librarians provide much more than information. We also provide the human element: a welcoming glance; a kind word; a friendly smile; compassion, understanding, assistance, validation and a sympathetic ear. <BR/><BR/>Information alone is not the only task of the Reference Librarian, but rather providing a human contact as well.<BR/><BR/> Additionally, even for the computer savy researcher, sometimes a second person can help them "think outside the box" and find information which is not obvious. (two minds are better than one!)<BR/><BR/> YES, our roles are changing...everyone's roles are changing! But we are up for the challenge. I am not ready to roll over and play dead---there is a long way to go before everyone will have equal access to the technology, and I will learn what I can so I am prepared assist with the ever changing needs of our patrons.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14513918739740046943noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8729104437465523415.post-46067647209170939742007-05-04T16:10:00.000-04:002007-05-04T16:10:00.000-04:00I really like the idea of getting out from behind ...I really like the idea of getting out from behind the Ref desk and going to the customer, I have read a few articles on this topic before. Does anyone know of any studies that have been performed about how this effects the number of ref. questions asked? And reference services in general?Mat Bosehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17670090898512564207noreply@blogger.com