Embedded librarians are attempting assimilation into a new pedagogical collective outside the library, often with a mission to improve the quality of service to that collective. But like the Borg, embedded librarians may not be achieving the results they envision. This article documents the varied experiences of five reference librarians at Murray…

Six decision-making steps of the reference process were isolated through development of a model reference query. Instructional modules for each of the steps are described. The program is suitable for library school students or library paraprofessionals. (JAB)

A study of S. R. Ranganathan's theory of reference service is undertaken by using an historical methodology. It was evident from the literature review that Ranganathan had established that reference service was the most important work and served as the hub of all library practices. There were six factors that were repeatedly considered by…

Library Schools can devise improved techniques in reference librarianship and can encourage a research orientation by better understanding the structure of the literature and the way librarians operate within that structure. (8 references) (MM)

The chapters in this volume, originally presented at the Third Annual Virtual Reference Desk (VRD) conference, "Setting Standards and Making It Real," (Orlando, Florida, November 2001), were organized, revised, and updated to reflect current technology and practice. The VRD conference and the ideas in this book represent the cutting edge…

In a study conducted to compare the results of two methods of instruction for the use of periodical, book, and newspaper indexes, the traditional lecture approach and self-study guide were investigated. Two library science classes were divided into two groups, and then divided further according to sex and class status. A self-study guide was…