Introduction to Reference Work in the Digital Age

by Joseph Janes

For many librarians, the meaning of the word -reference- is changing so rapidly that it is unsettling. Joe Janes, founder of the Internet Public Library, provides this perfect mix of provocative arguments and useful, hands-on advice. He addresses important questions including: what is the optimal mix of desk/phone/email/chat? What kind of resource for what kind of user? What software for what purpose ? What values to hold on to and what habits to break? Loaded with salient considerations, pointers, and encouragement, this book will have at the library world talking on a subject we urgently need to address.

Genres: Nonfiction, Library Science, Reference

211 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2003

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was really easy to follow and digest because it read like a conversation, or rather like a lecture from the cool and smart professor whose class everyone wants to join. I love that the ideas are completely practical and logical, yet they are still quite bold. It seems like the type of book that I would want to read for fun once I'm fully in the library field.

[Kimikimi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually really liked this. The author's voice was clear and not very dry and he occasionally made a joke or got exasperated. I always find it easier to learn from a real human. Of course it's a little dated by now, but I was surprised that so many resources we use today had existed a decade ago. I still think of the internet as a new thing I guess.