Crash Course in Reference

Subjects:

• Library & Information Science » Reference -- General
• Library & Information Science » Reference -- Services

Reviews:

• "[A] complete guidebook for librarians in keeping and maintaining a reference collection. Focusing on using resources to find the best and most efficient books on every subject, and information on finding the answer when it continues to elude ones search, Crash Course in Reference is a top pick for any librarian trying to make their collection the best possible."
  —Midwest Book Review/Library Book Watch June 2008
• "Charlotte Ford's book entails a comprehensive overview of reference resources for library paraprofessionals, librarians returning to the library field and looking for a refresher, or individuals interested in career possibilities...I think this is a good book to keep as a reference tool. When time permits, go back and review the chapters searching the websites, checking out what your library owns, and even doing the review questions at the end of each chapter."
  —Colorado Association of Libraries 00/00/00
• "This book is written for practicing librarians and library staff who do not possess a professional education in librarianship. Information is presented in straightforward style with professional terminology defined and filled with practical advice... Database searching is very clearly explained."
  —Library Media Connection 1/1/2009
• "Bottom line: Recommended."
  —Teacher Librarian 2/1/2009
• "Written for the new librarian or one who has no training in reference services, or for the librarian needing a refresher of reference service or an introduction to the new reference methodology and resources available today, Crash Course in Reference truly presents the reader with a comprehensive overview of working as a reference librarian, from the interview, to the collection, to finding materials, and more. . . . Useful for the future reference librarian as well as a resource of materials to be included in a reference library, the work is a great review as well as introduction to the life of a librarian, illustrating both the positive and the challenging situations."
  —ARBA 3/1/2009
• "One in a series of Crash Course titles from Libraries Unlimited, Crash Course in Reference fulfills the promise implied in its title. Ford has crafted a succinct, well-designed manual for all things reference in public library settings… Crash Course in Reference is an affordable, must-have resource for public libraries of all sizes and is of particular interest for training new staff."
  —Reference & User Services Quarterly 3/1/2009

Table of Contents:

• Preface
  Acknowledgments
  Chapter 1: What is reference service?
  Chapter 2: Communicating with your patrons
  Chapter 3: Building and maintaining a reference collection
  Chapter 4: Searching print and electronic sources
  Chapter 5: Finding books: Library catalogs and bibliographies
  Chapter 6: Finding articles: Indexes and databases
  Chapter 7: Finding background information and definitions: Encyclopedias and dictionaries
  Chapter 8: Finding facts fast: Ready reference
  Chapter 9: Using the Web to reach your patrons and help them find information
  Chapter 10. Reference ethics and reference policies
  Chapter 11. Networking with other libraries and librarians
  Chapter 12. For more information...

PDF Catalogs:

LU Public Library Spring 2008.pdf