The Future of the Reference Librarian

After two four years in library school, I’ve come to understand that people truly revere the reference desk. Where else can someone wise sit and answer questions with a knowing smile? While those poor, non-master’s-degree-carrying schmucks do all the “work” of checking books in and out, repairing books and cds and issuing library cards, the librarian can warm his or her tootsies via a space heater under the desk and enjoy the peace and quiet of the library. Reference is truly the apex of the field of information science — just ask a library student.

I enjoy hearing people talk about “sinking their teeth” into a good reference question. I myself have approached the reference desk many times with some really complicated reference question that the librarians, um, couldn’t actually answer. Any of the times. Nevertheless, I am sure that this is merely because I, with my 12 courses on libraries, have now surpassed them in my knowledge of reference services, and must now “refer” myself. With this in mind, I have found a wonderful website to help those on their quest for information. Please click here for a fascinating media presentation on the future of reference in libraries. You won’t be sorry!