Academic Law Librarianship (8/16) -- Introduction to Law Librarianship

Academic Law Librarianship 8 Annalee Hickman; Janet Kearney; and Kelly M. Leong In doing reference work, reference librarians direct, instruct, teach, assist, advise, and answer questions for patrons. In a catch-all definition, reference work encompasses reference librarians connecting patrons with resources, referrals, and answers to any library-related or research request. In academic law libraries, most reference questions are uniquely focused on legal resources, and reference work tends to be performed by librarians with law degrees and library science degrees. In this chapter, we will discuss the following areas of reference work in academic law libraries: the basics of reference services, including the reference interview; typical reference questions and difficult reference situations; unique reference services for specific patrons (law students, law faculty, other academic community members, and the public); and reference tracking and data. - The reference interview is used to determine a patron’s reference question. - There are typical reference questions and answers, such that you can prepare for your first reference desk session. - Each patron type will have unique reference service needs. The Basics of Reference Work Reference Services Reference services are offered in a variety of formats, including in-person (both drop-in and by appointment), email, online chat, phone, and video calling. Many academic law libraries limit some or all of these reference formats to law students and law faculty only. Remote reference services, through email, online chat, phone, and video calling, are becoming increasingly popular, and reference librarians may be tasked with staffing the physical reference desk for drop-in reference, while also responding to remote reference services at the same time. Reference Spaces Reference spaces in academic law libraries resemble many similar spaces in other libraries. Common reference spaces include a reference desk, which can be either standalone or combined with other service points, such as circulation and/or IT; and a reference office, which could either be a standalone reference office or in the offices of individual reference librarians. Less common reference spaces include tabling outside the library and ad hoc training given in doctrinal classes. Regardless of how the reference space appears, it tends to be equipped with useful reference materials. A computer is generally a must-have so that the librarian can demonstrate research to the patron. Many reference desks provide a second monitor or the capability to rotate the monitor in order to demonstrate online research efforts to patrons. Additionally, print reference materials are still commonly used and tend to be located at or near the reference space. The Reference Interview The reference interview in academic law libraries is a complicated exercise, requiring reference librarians to parse out the type of question being asked and the type of patron askin