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Library and Information Science · 300 Level
This is the complete lecture note for LIS 313 Reference and Information service, prepared for Library and Information Science students at 300 Level. You can read it online below, open it in the full viewer, or download the PDF for offline study. It pairs with the course's video lectures, so you can read and watch together.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS COURSE CODE LIS 313 COURSE TITLE: Reference and Information Services COURSE UNIT LOAD 2 Units C: LH 15; PH 45 • Series 1: Evolution, Theory, and Objectives of Reference and Information Services • Series 2: Reference Questions, Tools, and Personnel • Series 3: Techniques of Literature Searching and Types of Reference Services • Series 4: Specialised Reference Services and Applications in Different Libraries • Series 5: Organisation, Evaluation, and Digital Dimensions of Reference and Information Services Series 1: Evolution, Theory, and Objectives of Reference and Information Services Part 1.1 Evolution of Reference Services • 1.1.1 Early beginnings of reference work in libraries • 1.1.2 Growth and development in the 20th century • 1.1.3 Contemporary trends in reference services Part 1.2 Theoretical Foundations of Reference Services • 1.2.1 Definition and scope of reference services • 1.2.2 Major theories underpinning reference work • 1.2.3 Relationship between theory and practice Part 1.3 Objectives of Reference Services • 1.3.1 General objectives of reference services • 1.3.2 Objectives in different library contexts (academic, public, special) • 1.3.3 Objectives in the digital environment Series Outline • Part 1.1 Evolution of Reference Services • Part 1.2 Theoretical Foundations of Reference Services • Part 1.3 Objectives of Reference Services
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS Introduction Libraries have always been more than repositories of books. From their earliest beginnings, they have served as centres where people seek guidance in locating and using information. Over time, the practice of reference services has evolved, shaped by changes in user needs, technological developments, and professional philosophies. This Series introduces you to the historical roots, theoretical foundations, and objectives of reference services, setting the stage for deeper exploration in later Series. The aim of this Series is to provide you with a clear understanding of how reference services developed, the theories that underpin them, and the objectives they seek to achieve in different contexts. We shall commence this Series by examining the evolution of reference services, tracing their beginnings and growth into contemporary practice. Next, we will move on to the theoretical foundations, defining the scope of reference services and exploring key theories that guide practice. Finally, we will conclude by considering the objectives of reference services, both in general and within specific library contexts, including the digital environment. Series Learning Outcomes Upon completing this Series, you should be able to: • Describe the historical evolution of reference services, • Explain the theoretical foundations and scope of reference services, and • Analyse the objectives of reference services in different library contexts, including digital environments. 1.1 Evolution Of Reference Services Reference services have a long and rich history. They began as informal assistance offered by librarians to readers, gradually developed into structured professional practice, and today form a central part of information services in libraries worldwide. Understanding this evolution helps you appreciate how reference services have adapted to changing user needs and technological contexts. 1.1.1 Early beginnings of reference work in libraries In the earliest libraries, assistance was often informal. Librarians or custodians guided readers to materials, explained catalogues, or helped interpret texts. Over time, this informal help became more systematic. Reference work refers to the professional activity of assisting users in finding and using information resources. By the late nineteenth century, with the growth of public libraries, reference desks were established to provide dedicated support. This marked the beginning of reference services as a recognised function. Fill in the blank:
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS • The establishment of __________ desks in public libraries marked the beginning of reference services as a recognised function. 1.1.2 Growth and development in the 20th century The twentieth century saw rapid expansion of reference services. Libraries introduced reference collections, which are specialised sets of materials such as encyclopaedias, dictionaries, and bibliographies kept for quick consultation. Reference librarians also began to specialise, developing expertise in answering complex queries. Technological innovations such as the telephone and later computers expanded the reach of reference services. Libraries could now respond to queries remotely, and databases provided new tools for literature searching.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS Fill in the blank: • Reference collections include specialised materials such as __________, dictionaries, and bibliographies. 1.1.3 Contemporary trends in reference services In the twenty-first century, reference services have become increasingly digital. Digital reference services are those delivered through electronic means such as email, chat, or web portals. These services extend access beyond physical library spaces and allow users to receive assistance anytime and anywhere. Libraries also embrace collaborative models, where reference services are shared across institutions. This ensures wider coverage and efficient use of resources.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS Fill in the blank: • Digital reference services are delivered through electronic means such as __________, chat, or web portals. Pilot questions 1.1 1. The establishment of which feature in public libraries marked the beginning of formal reference services? 2. What types of materials are typically found in reference collections? 3. Which technological innovation first allowed libraries to respond to queries remotely? 4. Define digital reference services.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS 5. Give one example of a collaborative model in contemporary reference services. 1.2 Theoretical Foundations Of Reference Services Reference services are not only practical activities but also guided by theories and principles that shape how they are delivered. Understanding these foundations helps you see why certain practices are adopted and how they contribute to effective information provision. 1.2.1 Definition and scope of reference services Reference services are professional activities in libraries aimed at assisting users to locate, evaluate, and use information resources effectively. The scope of reference services includes answering questions, guiding literature searches, and providing access to specialised tools. These services extend beyond simply pointing to books. They involve interpreting user needs, clarifying queries, and ensuring that information provided is accurate and relevant. Fill in the blank: • Reference services are professional activities aimed at assisting users to __________, evaluate, and use information resources.
LA-NET | ONLINE LEARNING VIDEO PLATFORM FOR POST-SECONDARY & HIGHER INSTITUTION STUDENTS 1.2.2 Major theories underpinning reference work Several theories guide reference practice. One is the user-centred theory, which emphasises tailoring services to the needs and behaviours of users. Another is the information-seeking behaviour theory, which studies how people search for and use information. These theories help librarians design services that are practical and responsive. Theories also highlight the importance of communication. Effective reference work depends on clear interaction between librarian and user, ensuring that queries are properly understood and addressed. Fill in the blank:
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