The value of books, magazines, and videos in a library usually
goes unquestioned. Also of great value in libraries, however, is an
individual many have failed to get to know: the reference
librarian.
The value of books, magazines, and videos in a library usually goes unquestioned. Also of great value in libraries, however, is an individual many have failed to get to know: the reference librarian.
Typically sitting behind a desk, the reference librarian’s job is to help customers. Often he/she looks busy, and many people mistakenly believe they’re “disturbing” the librarian when they ask questions. To the contrary, reference librarians thrive on assisting patrons.
Reference librarians have their master’s degrees or equivalent experience and are trained experts in searching. Whether it’s locating a particular book in the library, tracking down a magazine article in a research database, or finding an obscure fact, such as “what type of trees cross-pollinate with bing cherry trees?” the reference librarian is the one for the task.
Typical questions a librarian may encounter during a day at the reference desk include:
• Can you help me find a New York Times article from three months ago?
• How can I get more information about diabetes?
• I need to do research on earthworms; where do I start?
• Do you know when Morgan Hill’s annual El Toro hike is?
While the Internet is useful, it is not the librarian’s only tool. Reference librarians are well versed in searching subscription databases, as well, which are not available free online. In addition, they are experts regarding the library’s collection. Answers are just fingertips away, and utilizing the librarian is often the most efficient means of getting there.
The Morgan Hill Public Library employs several reference librarians, and one can always be found at each of the children’s and adult reference desks during open hours. If you can’t get there, you may telephone the library at (408) 779-3196 and ask for a reference librarian. If your question requires extensive research, the librarian may take your name and phone number and call you back.
If it’s easier to e-mail a question, that’s also possible. From our home Web page (http://www.santaclaracountylib.org), click on “Services” and then “Ask a Librarian”. From there, you can fill out a form with your question. Typically, you will get a response by e-mail within 24 hours.
A great new 24-hour service called “Q and A Café” links patrons with Bay area librarians for online, live “chat sessions.” It resembles instant messaging, but you’re talking with a reference librarian. Not only can the librarian answer your questions, but he/she can also send you links to helpful Websites. You can access the Q and A Café through our “Ask a Librarian” page.
Visit the Morgan Hill Library soon and get to know your local reference librarians. They thrive on the “hunt for information” and are eager to assist you.
This column was written by Shawn A. Wistrom. Questions and suggested topics for At the Library, which appears in Tuesday editions, should be directed to Nancy Howe, community librarian, at nh***@**********************ca.us or by calling 779-3196. The Morgan Hill Library, located at the corner of Peak and West Main avenues next to City Hall, is open every day but Sunday.
