Reference Services Flashcards
6 cards from real Library Science practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Reference Services flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of a pathfinder (or subject guide) in a library?
Answer: To provide a curated list of recommended resources on a specific topic
A pathfinder or subject guide is a curated list of recommended databases, books, websites, and other resources to help patrons start research on a specific topic.
Which of the following is an example of a tertiary source?
Answer: An encyclopedia entry summarizing knowledge on a topic
Tertiary sources, such as encyclopedias, almanacs, and handbooks, compile and summarize information from primary and secondary sources.
What does 'virtual reference' or 'chat reference' refer to?
Answer: Providing real-time reference assistance through online chat or messaging tools
Virtual reference (including chat, text, and email reference) allows librarians to provide research assistance remotely without the patron being physically present.
The 55% rule in reference evaluation refers to what?
Answer: Studies showing librarians answer reference questions correctly about 55% of the time
The '55% rule' (from Hernon and McClure's unobtrusive studies) found that librarians provide correct answers to reference questions only about 55% of the time, highlighting service quality concerns.
Which of the following is the best example of a secondary source?
Answer: A biography of Abraham Lincoln written by a historian
A secondary source interprets, analyzes, or summarizes primary sources — a biography written by a historian is a classic example of a secondary source.
What is the purpose of a 'community analysis' in public library reference services?
Answer: To study the demographics and information needs of the library's service community
A community analysis examines the demographics, interests, and information needs of the library's service population to help align collections and services accordingly.