Reference desk

Using a structured reference interview, the librarian works with the library user to clarify their needs and determine what information sources will fill them.

The ultimate help provided may consist of reading material in the form of a book or journal article, instruction in the use of specific searchable information resources such as the library's online catalog or subscription bibliographic/full text databases, or simply factual information drawn from the library's print or online reference collection.

The services that are provided at a reference desk may vary depending on the type of library, its purpose, its resources, and its staff.

He wrote an article titled "Personal Relations Between Librarians and Readers" which had a large impact on the future of reference services.

It has been found that chat, email, and web conferencing formats have become adequate substitutions for in-person conversations.