Guidelines for Reference and Information Services in Public Libraries

This guide constitutes The Library Association's policy statement and recommendations on the nature and quality of library provision in reference and information services in public libraries. Based on current good practice, it identifies the key areas and main factors which provide a benchmark for acceptable standards of practice. Since the previous edition in 1980, there have been many changes in the way information is packaged, published and accessed. Technological advances have altered the format of much traditional information and made possible new products and services. This volume is structured as a toolkit for managers responsible for providing reference and information services in public libraries. The kit is presented in nine sections which can be used individually, for specific purposes, or together as a structured whole. The sections cover: users; the information service; information resources; ICT; accommodation; management; quality and performance measurement; publicity and promotion; and relationships. It seeks to help managers plan all aspects of their service.
The guidelines are primarily designed to enable each local authority to set service standards appropriately tailored to the needs of their own communities within a national framework. However, they may also be used as a longer term service development. The book contains a bibliography to aid the accessing of reports and reviews on library and information provision.