AIS3703
Assignment 3 Semester 1 2025
Unique #:218470
Due Date: 15 May 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
The Role of Reference Librarians and the Cornerstones of Reference Work
Introduction and Background
Libraries play an important role in helping people find the information they need. One
of the key professionals in a library is the reference librarian. A reference librarian
helps library users by guiding them to the right sources, answering research
questions, and teaching them how to find information. This type of librarian does
more than just lend books; they are information experts who support learning and
research. Their role is essential in both public and academic libraries.
Deliberation of the Concept Reference Librarian
A reference librarian is a trained library professional who provides assistance with
reference services. These services include answering specific information requests,
helping users use library tools (like databases or catalogues), and guiding users
through research. Reference librarians usually work at the reference desk or in an
online setting. Their goal is to connect users with accurate and useful information
quickly and efficiently.
They must have good communication skills, patience, and a deep knowledge of the
library's collection and digital resources. Reference librarians also support users who
have different levels of information skills—from beginners to advanced researchers.
In today’s digital age, many reference librarians also assist with online research,
database searching, and the use of electronic books and journals.
Cornerstones of Reference Work
There are several key principles—or cornerstones—that guide reference librarians in
their work. These principles help ensure quality service and user satisfaction.
1. User Needs (Understanding the Information Need)
One of the most important tasks of a reference librarian is identifying exactly
what the user needs. Sometimes users are not sure how to ask their question
clearly, so the librarian must ask the right questions to understand the
problem. This is called the reference interview. For example, a student may
ask for “books on animals,” but with more questions, the librarian may find
Varsity Cube 2025 +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 3 Semester 1 2025
Unique #:218470
Due Date: 15 May 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
The Role of Reference Librarians and the Cornerstones of Reference Work
Introduction and Background
Libraries play an important role in helping people find the information they need. One
of the key professionals in a library is the reference librarian. A reference librarian
helps library users by guiding them to the right sources, answering research
questions, and teaching them how to find information. This type of librarian does
more than just lend books; they are information experts who support learning and
research. Their role is essential in both public and academic libraries.
Deliberation of the Concept Reference Librarian
A reference librarian is a trained library professional who provides assistance with
reference services. These services include answering specific information requests,
helping users use library tools (like databases or catalogues), and guiding users
through research. Reference librarians usually work at the reference desk or in an
online setting. Their goal is to connect users with accurate and useful information
quickly and efficiently.
They must have good communication skills, patience, and a deep knowledge of the
library's collection and digital resources. Reference librarians also support users who
have different levels of information skills—from beginners to advanced researchers.
In today’s digital age, many reference librarians also assist with online research,
database searching, and the use of electronic books and journals.
Cornerstones of Reference Work
There are several key principles—or cornerstones—that guide reference librarians in
their work. These principles help ensure quality service and user satisfaction.
1. User Needs (Understanding the Information Need)
One of the most important tasks of a reference librarian is identifying exactly
what the user needs. Sometimes users are not sure how to ask their question
clearly, so the librarian must ask the right questions to understand the
problem. This is called the reference interview. For example, a student may
ask for “books on animals,” but with more questions, the librarian may find
Varsity Cube 2025 +27 81 278 3372
