REPOSITIONING NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES' REFERENCE DESK FOR EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT REFERENCE AND INFORMATION SERVICE PROVISION

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Date
2007
Authors
Ibrahim, Umar
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Abstract
Purpose: The paper examined the conditions of reference and information service provision in Nigerian University Libraries and proposed a reference model suitable for the new information society. Design/IMethodology/Approach: Descriptive survey was applied to find out the present conditions of reference and information service provision. A reference model was also conceptualized to transform the present reference desk through redesigned, refocused, reshaped, redrawn and redefined reference staff work process in order to satisfy the current information needs of library users. Findings: Personnel, time, clientele and reference desk were found to be the factors influencing the types and levels of reference services in Nigerian University libraries. It was also found that the condition of reference service is very deplorable, especially the location and management of the reference desk. To ameliorate this problem, a reference desk model was proposed in order to ensure effective and efficient reference service. The reference desk model was built based on the four traditional groups of questions usually asked in reference service desk which are Directional, Ready reference, General questions/inquires on specific topics and Research. The model comprises Reference desk DI -DIV. Reference desk I (DI) should be strategically located for easy identification by the users. Its staff should have knowledge of general library operations and can be paraprofessional and students on practical. The staff should be familiar with various reference materials such as general and subject Encyclopedia, Dictionaries, Directories, and public catalogue etc. The reference questions asked are mostly directional and ready reference and information queries. Reference desk 2 (DII) requires some technical expertise, well-trained paraprofessionals with at least 5 years working experience in the reference department, able to provide answers to information on specific topics, conduct interview with the users in order to help answer their questions and be able to make use of indexes, Abstracts, Bibliographies and how to use them with the primary sources. Reference desk 3 (DIII) requires a professional librarian who can answer inquiries on information on Research and Research Consultation. He also supervises the services done in DII. Reference desk 4 (DIV) is otherwise called the master desk or the engine of the reference division. It has professionals and paraprofessionals as staff. Technical works are performed by paraprofessionals, while professional staff carry out supervision and consultancy services. The reference librarian is found in this desk. Practical Implication: The provision of virile and efficient reference services that can move along with the current information dissemination trend of the Information society. Originality: The proposed reference desk model will no doubt be of immense importance to all that work and will work in the reference division - Reference librarian, Professional Librarians, paraprofessionals and others. It can serve as a guide to their job description. Keywords: University Libraries, Reference services, Information service provision, reference desks, reference desk model, information society.
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Post-print Journal Article
Keywords
NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES,, REFERENCE DESK,, EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT REFERENCE,, INFORMATION SERVICE PROVISION,
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