Repositioning Reference

Reviews / Votes

There have been many books published in the last few years aimed at those who are rethinking, reimagining, rebooting, and now repositioning reference service. These books all take the approach that reference service needs to be redesigned if it is to survive as a service in modern libraries. This version is somewhat different than the rest of the pack. Rather than consisting of a collection of articles from a range of contributors, this work is the product of three educators at Simmons College. These authors take a research-based approach and include extensive references from the literature to support their ideas. Topics covered include the evolution of reference service, competitive pressures facing the field, implications for change, entrepreneurship, and leading and managing change. This slim volume will be very helpful for any librarians seeking ideas and methods for evolving their existing reference services. * Booklist * This well-researched and wise book is essential reading for library and information studies faculty and students, current reference librarians, and administrators of academic, public, and special libraries. * Library Journal * This well-referenced, clearly written, concise book by two library faculty from Simmons College and an independent library consult does an excellent job explaining the changes impacting reference services and reference librarians.... This book is recommended reading for reference librarians, and library administrators in all types of libraries. It is also a helpful reference for LIS faculty and their students. * Medical Reference Services Quarterly * In Repositioning Reference: New Methods and New Services for a New Age, co-authors Laura Saunders, Lillian Rozaklis, and Eileen G. Abels respond to concerns about the future of reference services, given changes in technology and user behavior. In three well-documented chapters they explore the evolution of reference services, new services introduced in response to competitive pressures, and needed competencies and philosophies of service to accomplish a paradigm shift in reference services. This is followed by chapters highlighting specific examples of innovative services, the use of environmental scanning to identify opportunities for innovation, and models for change management and change leadership. The book will be a valuable resource for practitioners, educators, and students seeking to shape the future of reference services. -- Linda C. Smith, Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Programs, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign