, AIS3703 Assignment 3 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester
1 2025 (218470) - DUE 15 May 2025; 100% TRUSTED
Complete, trusted solutions and explanations.
Question 1
One of the characteristics of a fully-fledged librarian is to perform reference
works. Explain the concept reference librarians and further discuss the
cornerstones of the reference work. [50]
Introduction and Background
Reference services lie at the heart of modern librarianship, embodying the
profession’s commitment to connect patrons with the information they need,
precisely when they need it. As information environments have grown in
scale and complexity—from print catalogs to online databases and open web
resources—the role of the librarian as a guide, interpreter, and evaluator of
information has never been more vital. The reference librarian, in particular,
operates at the intersection of content expertise, information technology, and
interpersonal communication. This essay first clarifies the concept of the
reference librarian, then examines the ―cornerstones‖ or fundamental
principles guiding effective reference work, illustrated with concrete
examples.
Concept of the Reference Librarian
A reference librarian is a specialist whose primary responsibility is to assist
users in identifying, locating, evaluating, and using information resources to
meet their research, educational, or personal information needs. Unlike
librarians who focus on collection development or technical services,
reference librarians:
1 2025 (218470) - DUE 15 May 2025; 100% TRUSTED
Complete, trusted solutions and explanations.
Question 1
One of the characteristics of a fully-fledged librarian is to perform reference
works. Explain the concept reference librarians and further discuss the
cornerstones of the reference work. [50]
Introduction and Background
Reference services lie at the heart of modern librarianship, embodying the
profession’s commitment to connect patrons with the information they need,
precisely when they need it. As information environments have grown in
scale and complexity—from print catalogs to online databases and open web
resources—the role of the librarian as a guide, interpreter, and evaluator of
information has never been more vital. The reference librarian, in particular,
operates at the intersection of content expertise, information technology, and
interpersonal communication. This essay first clarifies the concept of the
reference librarian, then examines the ―cornerstones‖ or fundamental
principles guiding effective reference work, illustrated with concrete
examples.
Concept of the Reference Librarian
A reference librarian is a specialist whose primary responsibility is to assist
users in identifying, locating, evaluating, and using information resources to
meet their research, educational, or personal information needs. Unlike
librarians who focus on collection development or technical services,
reference librarians:
