Reference and Information Services: An Introduction (Library Science Text Series)

Updated to reflect the latest trends in reference services and the newest sources commonly used for reference work, this long-awaited book offers you a state-of-the-art view of the concepts, theories, and practicalities of reference work today. A host of specialists have contributed to the collection. This new edition includes more detailed discussion of a wider range of reference-related services including interlibrary loan, document delivery, and readers' advisory services. There is also increased attention to ethical issues and a stronger focus on user-centered services, both face-to-face and mediated by technology. In addition, the authors discuss Web sites of significant value to reference services and the impact of the Internet and World Wide Web on reference services. This carefully designed and readable text explains the essential theory and provides the practical knowledge necessary for an initial reference course. Its broad scope and organizational clarity will benefit students and practitioners.

RICHARD E. BOPP, retired, was Associate Professor of Library Administration, University of Illinois, UrbanaChampaign.

LINDA C. SMITH is Professor and Associate Dean, Graduate School of Library and Information Science, University of Illinois, UrbanaChampaign. She serves on the editorial board of Library Quarterly. She received the Isadore Gilbert Mudge R. R. Bowker Award for distinguished contribution to reference librarianship and was named a Distinguished Teacher/Scholar.