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Rank: Advanced Member
Groups: Member
Joined: 2/8/2008
Posts: 75
Points: 128
Location: Texas
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For a public library, what reference resources should a new librarian study? Thanks.
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Rank: Member
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Joined: 3/15/2008
Posts: 23
Points: 72
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I ALWAYS recommend Balay's "Guide to Reference Books". Even in the age of Google, it will always help you find the right source to answer your question. http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/33668314&referer=brief_resultsI think that you need to know what any subscription databases at that library are capable of, and then know the print sources that would supplement those databases. You still can't find everything online. No. Really. That said, there are also a ton of reference sources online... You should become familiar with those that are tried and true. ALA - MARS releases this list, which is a great start because they've been reviewed by Librarians. http://www.ala.org/ala/rusa/rusaourassoc/rusasections/mars/marspubs/MARSBESTIndex.cfmHope that helps!
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Rank: Advanced Member
Groups: Jumpstart - Moderator
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Joined: 11/18/2007
Posts: 73
Points: -69
Location: Wisconsin
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This might sound silly, but when I find a good reference resource I put it on an index card and file it accordingly. There's so much stuff out there, and it's the easiest way for me to refer to valuable and "time-saving" reference resources.
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Rank: Advanced Member
Groups: Member
Joined: 2/8/2008
Posts: 75
Points: 128
Location: Texas
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Thanks!!! I have an interview coming up and little reference experience (though I just started volunteering at a reference desk to make up for that). Any specific items I should mentioned if I'm asked what my fave reference sources are?
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Rank: Advanced Member
Groups: Jumpstart - Moderator
, Member
Joined: 11/18/2007
Posts: 73
Points: -69
Location: Wisconsin
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missc:
Be authentic in your interview. I can tell you what my "favorite" reference resources are, but they might not be in-demand patron resources. If you are volunteering at a reference desk (even a few hours), you've already tasted what patrons are asking for, and even what your favorite resources might be. Be honest with potential employers....if resources like Amazon's "Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought" is a valuable resource, by all means mention it!
Personally, my favorite reference resource was always the Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature.
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