Evolution of Reference: A New Service Model for Science and Engineering Libraries.
This article explores the different steps involved in adopting a new service model at the University of Arizona Science-Engineering Library. In a time of shrinking budgets and changing user behavior the library was forced to rethink it reference services to be cost effective and provide quality ser...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
University of Alberta Library
2008-05-01
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| Series: | Issues in Science and Technology Librarianship |
| Online Access: | https://journals.library.ualberta.ca/istl/index.php/istl/article/view/2441 |
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| Summary: | This article explores the different steps involved in adopting a new service model at the University of Arizona Science-Engineering Library. In a time of shrinking budgets and changing user behavior the library was forced to rethink it reference services to be cost effective and provide quality service at the same time. The new model required consolidating different service points, i.e., circulation desk, photocopy desk, and reference desk into one central location to be staffed by library associates. First we performed a financial analysis and determined the cost per hour of the existing staffing model. This was followed by logging questions at different service points to understand the type of questions asked at different locations. This data-drive approach also uses a robust referral system where complex reference questions are referred to individual subject librarians. We performed Action Gap Surveys to measure customer satisfaction levels before and after we employed the model. The article also emphasizes the training and continued education required for library associates to provide quality reference services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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| ISSN: | 1092-1206 |