TITLE: Crash Course in Reference
AUTHOR: Charlotte Ford
STARTED: May 26, 2011
FINISHED: June 6, 2011
PAGES: 143
GENRE: Library Science
FIRST SENTENCE: This crash course is written for the "practicing librarian" working in a small public library - for that dedicated individual whose life path may not have presented the opportunity to acquire an academic degree in Library & Information Science, but who is eager to understand more about librarianship and wishes to master the skills it takes to provide excellent library service.
SUMMARY: [From Amazon.com
] This introductory book is a basic review of reference services in public libraries. It includes tips on locating resources in both print and online formats, makes suggestions for purchases and maintenance of the reference collection, reviews the ethical aspects of providing information to all patrons, and provides information on how to join a network of reference librarians who can assist you when you cannot find an answer.A basic explanation of reference services for those with little formal LIS training working in small rural libraries or others who have been working in other areas and wish to brush up on their skills, this author provides an introduction to reference services including search strategies.
THOUGHTS: This book was better than my reference class. If you need an introduction or refresher on reference, this book is excellent. Sure it lacks depth, but this book contains enough lessons to help you "fake it til you make it."
Ford covers everything from basic definitions, to the reference interview, to reference sources. Each chapter covers a section and includes well-chosen examples. The various sections also end with questions to get you in the reference frame of mind. Her writing style does rely heavily on library jargon, but assuming you know what that means, this book is very easy to read.
This books covers everything you need to know to survive when you weren't ever expecting to be a reference librarian.
RATING: 7/10 [Very Good]
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