The Reference Interview as a Creative Art, 2nd Edition

Customer service has become an important part of library service, particularly within the reference department. Recent technological changes in the library have added myriad resources and searching techniques to an already complex encounter. This book shows librarians how to combine creativity with professional expertise to serve patrons. In this updated edition, the sociological and technological changes and trends of the last decade are reflected. Current research methods in the areas of neutral questioning and interview evaluation have been incorporated, as have ALA’s new guidelines and standards. After reviewing the historical background of and research on the reference interview, the authors discuss the effects of technology and how to serve special populations. Emphasizing training and development, the book covers evaluation techniques, various types of interviews (eg teaching interview, information interview, mediated search), problem patrons, and other issues. It also includes interview skill tests, rating sheets checklists, and a bibliography of training materials and resources for further study.