Reference Interview - Usefulness of The Reference Interview

Usefulness of The Reference Interview

For a long time, the value of the reference interview has stood unquestioned. More recently, with technological developments streamlining some of the tasks which once comprised the interview, some researchers are beginning to question the validity of the reference interview, and the investment that a reference librarian represents. Others argue that reference services should broaden their target audience. As people increasingly use the internet to make major, life-affecting decisions, so they also require the services of professionals who are able to provide help in this environment. If this proves to be the case, it will become more vital that the reference interview is conducted professionally and successfully. In the age of information overload, a successful reference interview may empower users to confidently make such decisions in their lives.

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