S501--Reference
School
of Library and Information Science,
Indiana University - Bloomington
Spring,
2008
Tuesday,
5:45-8:30, LI 031
(This
syllabus is subject to changes with appropriate notice)
|
Instructor: |
Ron
Day |
|
E-mail: |
roday@indiana.edu |
|
Office
Hours: |
Tuesday,
4:00-5:00; Thursdays, 4:00-5:00, and by appointment |
|
Tel: |
email
me. |
This
course focuses on understanding the context and resources for reference
services. The course introduces the philosophy, principles, and practice of
reference services (broadly defined) and provides practical experience in
evaluating and using a variety of information sources. The course also provides
practical experience in assessing, designing, and developing a reference
document (i.e, the final pathfinder assignment). Students who wish to become
reference librarians in research libraries are highly encouraged to take L570
(Online Information Retrieval) afterwards.
By
the end of the course, students should have:
á
An understanding of the various roles of reference information professionals in
different environments.
á
An appreciation of the interpersonal and communication skills needed to carry
out effective reference transactions and work.
á
The ability to proficiently analyze reference inquiries in order to assess
clients' information needs.
á
An understanding of the nature, characteristics, and functions of major types
of reference sources.
á
Experience with the most important and most widely used reference materials and
the ability to use them to specific reference inquiries.
á
The ability to formulate search strategies that will effectively and
efficiently identify and locate relevant information.
á
The ability to evaluate and select reference and other information sources and
tools that best fit the needs of clients.
á
An understanding of the basic principles and practices involved in
bibliographic instruction.
á
The ability to prepare research guides.
á
An awareness of current and emerging trends in reference sources and services.
á
The objectives of the course will be achieved through lectures, readings,
in-class discussions and activities, examination and use of key reference tools
and sources, take-home assignments involving electronic database searching, and
a term project (electronic pathfinder due on last day of the class).
__________________________________________________
ASSIGNMENTS
AND GRADING
Written
assignments will be made throughout the semester to familiarize you with
sources, search methodologies, and the theory and philosophy of reference
services. All assignments will be graded and discussed before and after they
are completed. LATE assignments will lose one letter grade from the grade they
would have gotten had they been turned in on time. In case an absence is
inevitable on a day an assignment is due, please e-mail it to the instructor to
avoid the penalty. An "Incomplete" will be given to students who fail
to submit their final projects before the end of the semester. Unless otherwise
stated below and on individual assignment sheets, all students are to work
individually and follow IU's honor code. The
assignments for the course include:
1.
Eight take-home print/electronic reference sources exercises (5% each)
You
should go over the relevant class handouts and readings before tackling these
exercises.
2.
One reference observation/interview assignment (10%)
As
part of this assignment, you will visit a library of your choice (academic,
public, special, or school) to observe the reference librarian(s) there and ask
for materials about your pathfinder topic (see below). After your observation
of, and interaction with, the librarian(s) is over, you will answer a set of
questions in an essay form and come to class ready to talk about your
experience. Further instructions are provided on the assignment sheet.
3. One virtual
reference assignment (10%).
You
will attempt to find materials for a research project by means of a chat
session with the IU librarians or librarians at another institution. You
will write a two page paper on your experiences and discuss them in the next
class.
4.
One term project: pathfinder (30%)
A
pathfinder is a bibliographic guide that introduces clients to the literature
of a specific subject area or topic. Its arrangement and content reflect the
most common questions in a literature search and the beginning stages of a
research project. A pathfinder is not an exhaustive annotated bibliography.
Instead, it provides a carefully selected list of various types of important
resources, both reference and non-reference. Pathfinders are typically short in
length, depending on the intended audience and the resources available. The
pathfinder you prepare for this course should not exceed eight pages in length
and must be mounted on the web. Your pathfinder should only include resources
available in one library or library system. Further instructions are provided
on the assignment sheet.
5.
Class participation: (10%)
_________________________________________________________
Readings,
class participation, attendance, availability of lecture materials, laptops.
Reading
assignments are due on the dates listed in the schedule below. You may
wish, as well, to read chapters corresponding to the topics in Richard Bopp and
Linda C. Smith, Reference
and Information Services: An Introduction (in the bookstore as an optional
purchase for the class). Much of the Bopp and Smith chapters will be
covered in lecture in the class, though, and are available through the
Powerpoints.
I
will post the Powerpoint lecture slides online at: http://ella.slis.indiana.edu/~roday/524.html
These will be in downloadable format. I modify content during the
semester so some of the content on the slides may not be completely identical
to what is presented in class. Some classes may not have lecture slides
associated with them (in that case their links will be null). Powerpoints
of class sessions will be posted as available.
All
required readings are on electronic reserve or are available through the
Internet.
Attendance
will not be taken. When you are in class, you are expected to
participate.
No
laptop computers are required in this class and they are not allowed unless
there are disability issues which require them.
____________________________________________________
Grades
will be assigned on an A, B, C scale. The following definitions of letter
grades have been defined by student and faculty members of the Committee on
Improvement of Instruction and have been approved by the faculty (November 11,
1996) as an aid in evaluation of academic performance and to assist students by
giving them an understanding of the grading standards of the School of Library
and Information Science:
|
Grade |
GPA |
MEANING |
|
A |
4.0 |
Outstanding achievement. Student performance
demonstrates full command of the course materials and evinces a high level of
originality and/or creativity that far surpasses course expectations |
|
A- |
3.7 |
Excellent achievement. Student performance
demonstrates thorough knowledge of the course materials and exceeds course
expectations by completing all requirements in a superior manner |
|
B+ |
3.3 |
Very good work. Student performance demonstrates
above-average comprehension of the course materials and exceeds course
expectations on all tasks as defined in the course syllabus |
|
B |
3.0 |
Good work. Student performance meets
designated course expectations, demonstrates understanding of the course materials
and is at an acceptable level |
|
B- |
2.7 |
Marginal work. Student performance
demonstrates incomplete understanding of course materials. |
|
C+
C |
2.3
2.0 |
Unsatisfactory work. Student performance
demonstrates incomplete and inadequate understanding of course materials |
|
C-
D+
D
D- |
1.7
1.3
1.0
.07 |
Unacceptable work. Coursework performed at
this level will not count toward the MLS or MIS degree. For the course to
count towards the degree, the student must repeat the course with a passing
grade. |
|
F |
0.0 |
Failing. Student may continue in program only
with permission of the Dean. |
Please
note that all assignments and readings can be accessed online. Also note that
this reference course demands a HEAVY commitment of your time. It is expected
that you will spend an average of eight hours each week on readings and
assignments. Much of this time will be spent in campus libraries. Please do not
ask reference librarians to do your work for you. While such assistance may
shorten assignment time, it will not help you increase your learning of sources
nor of the search process as more diligent effort will. If, however, you cannot
find something on the shelf where it is supposed to be, do not hesitate to ask
someone where it is.
Academic
Dishonesty
There
is extensive documentation and discussion of the issue of academic dishonesty
in the Indiana University "Code
of Student Rights, Responsibilities and Conduct." Of particular
relevance is the section on plagiarism:
A
student must not submit work that reproduces ideas, words, or statements of
another person without appropriate acknowledgment. A student must give credit
to the originality of others and acknowledge indebtedness whenever he or she
does any of the following:
1.
Quotes another person's actual words, either oral or written;
2.
Paraphrases another person's words, either oral or written;
3.
Uses another person's idea, opinion, or theory; or
4.
Borrows facts, statistics, or other illustrative material, unless the
information is common knowledge.
Indiana
University and SLIS policies on academic dishonesty will be followed. Students
found to be engaged in plagiarism, cheating, and other types of dishonesty will
be reported to the Dean's Office for appropriate action. As a rule of thumb,
when in doubt, cite the source!
Schedule
Class
1: Jan. 8: INTRODUCTION
Course
overview and introductions
Assignment: Readings; start
thinking about your pathfinder topic.
Class
2: Jan. 15: REFERENCE & INFORMATION ACCESS PROFESSIONALS
Discussion
Points/Questions:
á
What kinds of services reference professionals or departments offer?
á
Definition of a "reference" source
á
Types of information sources: direct and indirect, formal and informal
á
Which five journals one needs to regularly browse/read to stay up-to-date with
developments in reference services?
á
Which five databases are particularly useful for retrieving LIS literature?
á
What do employers like to see in every library school graduate?
á
What is expected from a reference librarian to know, do, or be able to do?
á
Do reference librarians need another Master's degree to provide quality
service? What are the advantages, disadvantages, and obstacles of acquiring a
second Master's degree?
Readings:
á
Bajjali, S.T. (2004). "Contemporary Recruitment in Traditional
Libraries." Journal
of Education for Library and Information Science Education, 46(1), 53-58.
á
Hill, K.C. (2001). "Acquiring Subject Knowledge to Provide Quality
Reference Service." Reference
Librarian,
(72), 219-228.
á
RUSA (Reference and User Services Association). (2003). "Professional
Competencies for Reference and User Services Librarians." Reference
& User Services Quarterly 42(4), 290-295.
á
Singleton, B. (2003). "Entering Academic Librarianship: Tips for Library
School Students." College
& Research Libraries News, 64(2), 84-86.
á
Whisler, Laurel A. (2004). "Resumes, Curricula Vitae, and Cover Letters
for Music Librarians: Suggestions for Librarians in Job Searches or Compiling
Annual Review Documents." Music Reference Services Quarterly, 8(4), 1-46.
Assignment: Readings
Class
3: Jan. 22: ACCESS
SERVICES; CURRENT ISSUES & TRENDS IN REFERENCE; USER BEHAVIOR
Discussion
Points/Questions:
á
What are some of the new trends in reference services?
á
What is information access and why is it very important? What are some of the
problems associated with information access and how do institutions deal with
these problems?
á
Who should staff the reference desk and why?
á
Would you allow onsite access to unaffiliated users? If so, under what
circumstances and conditions? What are the implications (on public relations
with the outside community, on other local libraries, etc.) of denying or
allowing unaffiliated members to use or have access to your libraries?
á
Why do college students use public libraries? What characterizes these
students?
á
Reference librarians continue to buy expensive print sources, yet, they rarely
recommend them for use by patrons. Why is that?
á
Which library concepts students are most familiar with and which ones they are
not familiar with? How to alleviate problems resulting from use of library
jargon in information literacy courses and programs?
á
What are some kinds of problems that certain patrons pose in academic and public
libraries? If you encountered or witnessed any situation that involved a
problem patron, please share the experience in class.
Readings:
á
Antell, K. (2004). "Why Do College Students Use Public Libraries?" Reference
& User Services Quarterly 43(3), 227-236.
á
Blessinger, K.D. (2002). "Problem Patrons: All Shapes and Sizes." Reference
Librarian,
(75/76), 3-10.
á
Courtney, N. (2003). "Unaffiliated Users' Access to Academic Libraries: A
Survey." Journal
of Academic Librarianship 29(1), 3-7.
á
Dilevko, J; & Gottlieb, L. (2002). "Print Sources in an Electronic
Age: A Vital Part of the Research Process for Undergraduate Students." Journal
of Academic Librarianship, 28(6), 381-392.
á
Hutcherson, N.B. (2004). "Library Jargon: Student Recognition of Terms and
Concepts Commonly Used by Librarians in the Classroom." College
& Research Libraries 65(4), 349-354.
á
Reeb, B.; & Gibbons, S. "Students, Librarians, and Subject Guides:
Improving a Poor Rate of Return." Portal: Libraries and the
Academy
4, no. 1 (2004): 123-130.
á
Tyckoson, D. (2004). "Facts Go Online: Are Print Reference Collections
Still Relevant?" Against
the Grain
16(4), 34, 36, 38.
Due: Pathfinder Topic
Assignment: Readings; Pathfinder
report
Class
4: Jan. 29: BIBLIOGRAPHIC CONTROL, ORGANIZATION OF INFORMATION, AND SEARCH
STRATEGIES
Discussion
Points/Questions:
á
What is bibliographic control process and what are its basic principles?
á
Why are authority control and controlled vocabulary critical in information
organization and access?
á
What are catalogs, MARC records, indexes, and metadata?
á
How many bibliographic organization schemes are available for libraries to
adopt?
á
What is meant by collocation and depth and comprehensiveness of indexing?
á
The library catalog, periodical databases, and metadata are three types of
tools that help in storing, organizing, and retrieving information. Describe
them and how they work.
á
Boolean logic, truncation, browsing the index and thesaurus, searching by
field, term weighting, relevance ranking, citation pearl growing, and precision
and recall are all features/strategies that can be used in database searching.
Explain each in detail.
á
What is meant by relevance feedback and how does it work?
á
Which search strategy: specific-to-general or general-to-specific? Provide
examples and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each OR the factors
that influence which method to use first.
á
Where to start a search? Provide some contexts and examples.
á
What makes an excellent searcher? How can you improve your searching skills?
Readings:
á
Wilson, Patrick. "Searching: Strategies and Evaluation." For
Information Specialists: Interpretations of Reference and Bibliographic Work.
á
Dalrymple, O.W. (2001). "Bibliographic Control, Organization of
Information, and Search Strategies." In R.E. Bopp & L.C. Smith. Reference
and Information Services: An Introduction. 3rd ed. Westport, CT: Libraries
Unlimited. pp. 69-96.
á
Dublin Core Metadata Initiative. DCMI
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
á
Furrie, Betty, in conjunction with the Data Base Development Department of The
Follett Software Company. What
is a MARC Record,and Why It It Important?
Seventh edition reviewed and edited by the Network Development and MARC
Standards Office, Library of Congress. 2003.
á
Hall, D. (2004). "Mansell Revisited." American Libraries 35(4), 78-80.
á
Mann, T. (2003). "Why LC Subject Headings Are More Important Than
Ever." American
Libraries
34(9), 52-54.
á
Ojala, M. (1998). "Beginning All Over Again: Where to Start a
Search." Online 22(3), 44-46.
Class
Topic:
Online Catalog
Due: Pathfinder Report
Assignment: Readings; online
catalog assignment
Class
5: Feb. 5: QUESTION ANALYSIS & NEGOTIATION (REFERENCE INTERVIEW)
Discussion
Points/Questions:
á
What is a reference interview and what are the different types of reference
interviews?
á
Why do most librarians seldom do reference interviews? When should a reference
interview be conducted?
á
Why are good reference interviews frequently difficult to accomplish?
á
Why are clients reluctant to talk with librarians?
á
Why don't library clients ask very good questions?
á
What skills librarians need to be good interviewers?
á
What is meant by "negative closure"?
á
Name and discuss some factors that may influence the reference interview (e.g.,
gender, age, prior negative experience, time of the day service was requested,
day of the week service was requested, social/personal issues, etc.)
á
How did the Internet change reference interviewing?
á
How can reference interviews best be evaluated?
á
How accurate the reference staff answer questions posed by their clients?
á
The search process: in-class exercise
Readings:
á
Wilson, Patrick (1986). The Face Value Rule in Reference Work.
á
Bopp, R.E. (2001). "The Reference Interview." In R.E. Bopp & L.C.
Smith. Reference
and Information Services: An Introduction. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited. pp.
47-68.
á
Dewdney, P.; & Michell, G.B. (1996). "Oranges and Peaches:
Understanding Communication Accidents in the Reference Interview." RQ 35(4), 520-536.Kluegel,
K.; Ross, C.S.; Ronan, J.; Kern, K.; & Tyckoson, D. (2003). "The Reference
Interview: Connecting in Person and in Cyberspace." Reference
& User Services Quarterly 43(1), 37-51.RUSA (Reference and User Services
Association). (2004b). "Guidelines for Behavioral Performance of Reference
and Information Service Providers." Reference & User Services
Quarterly
44(1), 14-17.
Class
topic:
Reference Interview
Due: Online Catalog
Assignment
ASSIGNMENT: Readings; Reference
Interview Assignment
Class
6: Feb. 12: SELECTION AND EVALUATION OF REFERENCE SOURCES
Discussion
Points/Questions:
á
How would you know that a reference book is of a good quality?
á
Why evaluating electronic sources is more challenging than evaluating print
sources?
á
What are the primary reviewing tools and selection aids for reference materials?
á
What are some of the problems associated with review sources?
á
How and why selection tools such as American Reference Book Annual, Choice, and
Library Journal, are helpful/useful for librarians?
á
How does the information professional become competent to review reference
sources? What sources, skills, attitudes, and values are needed or necessary
for becoming a good reviewer?
á
In selecting reference sources, how should controversial subjects be handled?
á
Is a reference collection development policy necessary and why? What type of
information does a reference collection development policy include?
á
Why in some libraries certain types of materials (e.g., Indexes, government
documents, ready reference materials, and atlases) are shelved separately?
á
Why would you weed a title from a collection? What are the advantages and
disadvantages of doing so?
á
What is virtual collection development?
á
What are the primary evaluation points for web sites? One of the most important
elements of today's topic is the criteria used for evaluating and selecting
reference sources. These criteria are helpful both in choosing new titles to
purchase for a library and in familiarizing yourself with new material in
general. Use the following points as a checklist to be sure you have not
overlooked some important features of a reference item:
¯
Accuracy
¯
Appropriateness
¯
Arrangement
¯
Audience
¯
Authority
¯
Cost
¯
Coverage
¯
Currency
¯
Documentation
¯
Format
¯
Genealogy
¯
Illustrations
¯
Indexing
¯
Objectivity
¯
Physical Make-up
¯
Purpose and Scope
¯
Reputation
¯
Special Features
¯
Treatment
¯
Uniqueness
¯
Reference collection development entails decisions to:
¯
Buy new titles;
¯
Buy new editions of titles already in collection;
¯
Cancel a title (many became freely accessible online)
¯
Continue/discontinue a serial/periodical
¯
Contract with vendors for online access licenses
¯
Coordinate collection development with other libraries
Readings:
á
Altschiller, D.; & Wenzel, S.G. (2003). "Finding Book Reviews in Print
and Online." Reference
& User Services Quarterly 42(3), 193-205.
á
H-Net: Humanities and Social Sciences Online
á
Natowitz, A.; & Carlo, P.W. (1997). "Evaluating Review Content for
Book Selection: An Analysis of American History Reviews in Choice, American
Historical Review,
and Journal
of American History."
College
& Research Libraries 58(4), 323-336.
á
PŽter's Digital Reference Shelf
á
Reference Sources handout (see ERes).
á
Rettig, J.; & LaGuardia, C. (1999). "Beyond "Beyond Cool":
Reviewing Web Resources." Online 23(4), 51-55.
á
Smith, L.C. (2001). "Selection and Evaluation of Reference Sources."
In R.E. Bopp & L.C. Smith. Reference and Information Services: An
Introduction.
3rd ed. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited. pp. 309-330.
Class
Topic:
Book reviews, Books in Print, and Web resources for evaluation of resources.
Due: Reference Interview
Assignment: Readings; Book Reviews,
Books in Print, & Web Resources exercise
Class
7: Feb. 19: VIRTUAL REFERENCE SERVICES AND EVAUATION
Virtual
Reference Discussion Points/Questions:
á
What is virtual reference service? Provide some examples.
á
Why are some virtual reference services better than others?
á
What are the strengths and weaknesses of virtual reference services?
á
Do academic libraries offer virtual reference services to unaffiliated users?
á
What guidelines are set by RUSA for implementing and maintaining virtual
reference services?
á
Who are the main players in virtual reference research and services?
á
Virtual Reference Services Discussion Points/Questions:
á
What is VRD, QuestionPoint, 24/7 Reference, and AskA? For an index of virtual
reference softwares that are currently used by libraries, see: Index of Virtual Reference
Software. For weblogs, see: Google's
Directory of weblog sites.
á
What is the Collaborative Digital Reference Service (CDRS) and how does it
work?
á
Why is CDRS better than Ask Jeeves, Webhelp.com, and other similar
Internet-based reference services?
á
Digital Reference listservs: most well-known is DIG_REF.
Instant
Messaging (or Chat) Reference Discussion Points/Questions:
á
What is it, how does it work, and what are its advantages and disadvantages?
á
How many people use it and for what types of questions?
á
How is it different from the traditional face-to-face, telephone, or e-mail
reference service in terms of the initial question asked, the location of the
patrons, and expectations or assumptions of the technical skills and general
knowledge of the patrons?
á
In traditional reference services, body-language, librarians' attitude, patron
hesitation to interrupt busy librarians, good/bad experience, and so on
determine a patron's willingness to return." What are the IM
characteristics that might affect patrons's willingness to return?
Readings:
á
http://www.libsuccess.org/index.php?title=Online_Reference
á
Coffman, S.; & Arret, L. (2004a). "To Chat Or Not to Chat - Taking
Another Look at Virtual Reference, Part I." The Searcher: The
Magazine for Database Professionals 12(7), 38-46.
á
Coffman, S.; & Arret, L. (2004b). "To Chat Not to Chat: Taking Yet Another
Look at Virtual Reference." The Searcher: The Magazine for
Database Professionals 12(8), 49-56.
á
Desai, C.M. (2003). "Instant Messaging Reference: How Does It
Compare?" The
Electronic Library, 21(1), 21-30.
á
Duff, W.M.; & Johnson, C.A. (2001). "A Virtual Expression of Need: An
Analysis of E-mail Reference Questions." The American Archivist, 64(1), 43-60.
á
RUSA (Reference and User Services Association). (2004a). "Guidelines for
Implementing and Maintaining Virtual Reference Services." Reference
& User Services Quarterly, 44(1), 9-13.
á
Stacy-Bates, K. (2003). "E-mail Reference Responses from Academic ARL
Libraries: An Unobtrusive Study." Reference & User Services
Quarterly
43(1), 59-70.
á
Zanin-Yost, A. (2004). "Digital Reference: What the Past Has Taught Us and
What the Future Will Hold." Library Philosophy and Practice 7(1), 16 pages.
Due: Book Reviews, Books in
Print, & Web Resources exercise
Class
Topic:
Virtual Reference
Assignments:
1)
Readings,
2)
Engage in a chat reference interview at the IU libraries or at some other
institution. Make your questions sophisticated enough that you learn
something about the online interview process. Write a two page paper
telling of what you found. Be prepared to talk about it in the next
class.
Class
8: Feb. 26: BIBLIOGRAPHIC SOURCES
Discussion
Points/Questions:
á
What are a national bibliography, a trade bibliography, a library catalog, a
bibliographic utility, and a union catalog? Provide a couple of examples of
each.
á
What is the National Union Catalog and what happened to it?
á
Is the Library of Congress a national library?
á
Can you name a few distinguished national libraries?
á
What makes a national library national?
á
What are the differences between RLIN and WorldCat? Why reference librarians
use them?
á
The number of libraries that purchase or use Books in Print is dwindling. Why
is that?
á
Today, there are hundreds of online book sellers, bookstores, and meta-search
engines that provide comparisons of prices. There are also online bookstores
that specialize in particular areas, such as out of print books, rare books,
and used books. Which dealers, bookstores, and meta-search engines are the best
and most reliable?
Readings:
á
RUSA (Reference and User Services Association). (2001). "Guidelines for
the Preparation of a Bibliography." Reference & User Services
Quarterly
41(2), 115-117.
Class
Topic:
WorldCat, Ulrich's, and Dissertation Abstracts
Due: Chat reference
assignment
Assignment: Readings; WorldCat,
Ulrich's, and Dissertation Abstracts exercise
Class
9: March 4: INDEXES AND ABSTRACTS (DATABASES)
Terms
and concepts frequently used in relation to databases:
á
Abstract: A type of index which gives the location of an article in periodical
or a book and a brief summary of that article.
á
Controlled-vocabulary: An indexing system in which the indexer, in assigning
descriptors to works, is limited to a specified list of terms called the index
vocabulary.
á
Descriptor: A term or a string of symbols used to designate the subject of a
work.
á
Index: Consists of a series of bibliographic identifiers (author, title,
subject, etc.) or surrogates, each of which characterizes a document or other
pieces of information.
á
Indexing Vocabulary: The set of descriptors to be used in indexing the contents
of documents in an information storage and retrieval system.
á
Information Retrieval System: Any system (typically electronic) which provides
information to users in response to their requests (e.g., online catalog).
á
Keyword: A substantive word in a document which can be used to provide access
to that document when used as a search term.
á
Natural-Language: An indexing system in which no index vocabulary controls are
imposed. Any significant term (keyword) in the text of the item being indexed
may represent the subject content of that item and thus provide access to it.
á
Online searching: Is the use of computer terminals or workstations to search
databases (from almost anywhere in the world), retrieve results, and either
print the results, save, or forward them to users electronically.
á
Subject Authority List: An official list of subject headings used in a given
catalog or bibliographic service (e.g. Library of Congress List of Subject
Headings, Sears List of Subject Headings).
á
Subject Heading: An indication of the subject of a bibliographic item using
entries from a standardized vocabulary such as Library of Congress Subject
Headings.
á
Thesaurus: A structured collection of terms which is used to index documents. A
thesaurus provides control of synonyms and indicates how a particular index
term is related hierarchically to others in the index vocabulary.
Discussion
Points/Questions:
á
How does an abstract differ from an index as far as access and retrieval
performance are concerned?
á
What makes for a good abstracting and indexing service (i.e., a database)?
á
How do you decide which database is the best for your needs?
á
What is "natural language" or keyword indexing? What are the
advantages and disadvantages of this type of indexing? Provide examples.
á
What is "controlled vocabulary" or subject indexing? What are the
advantages and disadvantages of this type of indexing? Provide examples.
á
What are the major characteristics and uses of a thesaurus and a subject
heading authority file for information retrieval? List advantages and
disadvantages.
á
What is the purpose of a citation index? In what ways is a citation index
valuable in reference work?
á
Explain the differences between popular and scholarly literature.
á
What is Open URL and how does it work?
á
What is Google Print and
what are its advantages and disadvantages?
á
What is Google Scholar and
what are its advantages and disadvantages?
á
Online searching is a process that involves several strategies, stages, or
tasks. What are they?
Readings:
á
Guide to Library Research. Duke University Libraries.
á
Quint, B. (1991a). "Inside a Searcher's Mind: The Seven Stages of an
Online Search (Part 1)." Online 15(3), 13-18.
á
Quint, B. (1991b). "Inside a Searcher's Mind: The Seven Stages of an
Online Search (Part 2)." Online 15(4), 28-35.
á
Reference Sources handout (see ERes).
Class
Topic:
Indexes and Abstracts
Due: WorldCat, Ulrich's, and
Dissertation Abstracts exercise
Assignment: Readings; General
databases assignment
Spring Break, March 8-16
Class
10: March 18: ENCYCLOPEDIAS; BIOGRAPHICAL SOURCES; WEB SOURCES
Encyclopedias
Outline of Significant Points:
á
Selection of writers, editor(s), publishers (authority)
á
Selection of topics (scope)
á
Arrangement of topics (alphabetical, chronological)
á
Access (table of contents, levels of indexing, cross-references)
á
Format (print, CD-ROM, or online)
á
Intellectual level (quality of articles, length of articles, audience)
á
Special features (illustrations, bibliographies, sound, video, etc.)
á
Physical format (size, paper quality, binding quality, illustration quality,
print quality)
á
Biases (Political, Economic, Racial, Historical, National, Sexual)
á
Cost (affordable, good value)
á
Currency and Updates (Periodic revision, Continuous revision, Yearbooks)
á
Accuracy (correct facts, recent facts, objective)
Encyclopedias
Discussion Points/Questions:
á
Why are encyclopedias useful in reference work?
á
Are encyclopedias gathering dust? Are they still being used (think Google)?
á
What type(s) of information do people seek in encyclopedias?
á
What are the functions of the encyclopedia yearbook?
á
Why does an alphabetically arranged print encyclopedia need an index?
á
Do you think that students depend too heavily on encyclopedias for their papers
and reports?
á
Note that there are specialized subject encyclopedias in every discipline.
Select a special subject encyclopedia that interests you and be ready to
comment on it in class.
á
What are the advantages of electronic encyclopedias over printed ones?
Disadvantages?
á
Should librarians describe the biased nature of encyclopedias to clients?
Note
on Biographical Sources: Bopp and Smith point out that "interest in the lives
of others is a universal phenomenon" and that "one of the most
consistent features of reference work over the years has been the high demand
for information about people." Biographical sources of information fall
into several categories:
¯
Living persons vs. deceased
¯
Individuals of a particular country vs. international coverage
¯
Lengthy, evaluative entries vs. brief, factual information
¯
Sources which provide pictures of people vs. those which do not
¯
Indirect sources vs. direct sources
¯
Popular vs. scholarly titles
Biographical Sources
Discussion Points/Questions:
á
Describe the different types of biographical sources (directories,
dictionaries, current & retrospective, national & international, direct
& indirect, and obituaries).
á
If you were going to design an electronic source for biographical information,
what features would you want to include? How would you limit its contents?
á
What are the most important factors on which to evaluate a biographical source?
Web
Information Sources Discussion Points/Questions:
á
What are web portals and how are they useful? Name and describe a few popular
web portals.
á
What is invisible web and how one can access its information?
Readings:
á
Devine, J.; & Egger-Cider, F. (2004). "Beyond Google: The Invisible
Web in the Academic Library." Journal of Academic
Librarianship
30(4), 265-269.
á
Franco, A. (2003). "Gateways to the Internet: Finding Quality Information
on the Internet." Library
Trends
52(2), 228-246.
á
Reference Sources handout (see ERes).
Class
Topic:
Encyclopedia, biographical, and web resources.
Due: General Databases
Assignment: Readings; Encyclopedia
and biographical resources assignment
CLASS
11 March 25: READY REFERENCE AND DICTIONARIES; BUSINESS AND HEALTH SOURCES
Definitions
of Types of Ready Reference Sources:
á
Almanac. An annual compilation of miscellaneous statistics and facts, both
current and retrospective. May be broad in geographical and subject coverage,
or limited to a particular country/state or to a special subject. Much of the
information is presented in tabular format.
á
Compendium. A concise summary, either of a larger work or of a field of
knowledge, sometimes written in outline form.
á
Directory. A list of persons, organizations, or institutions, systematically
arranged, usually in alphabetic or classed order, giving such information as
addresses, affiliations, officers, functions, telephone and fax numbers,
publications, etc.
á
Handbook. A concise reference book, capable of being easily carried, usually
covering a particular subject or field of knowledge. Tends to be a book of
instruction or guidance, arranged for the quick location of facts, whereas a
compendium usually deals with the broad substance of a topic.
á
Manual. A small book, especially one giving information or instructions. Often
used synonymously with handbook.
á
Statistical Sources. A collection of statistics gathered from various sources
or generated by a source, arranged for ease of location and retrieval.
á
Yearbook. An annual report or summary of facts and statistics of the preceding
year, frequently limited to a special subject. Unlike an almanac, a yearbook is
sometimes an update of a larger work such as an encyclopedia, is not
retrospective in coverage, and tends to be mainly in textual rather than
tabular form.
Ready
Reference Sources Discussion Points/Questions:
á
What are the most important features of a directory?
á
Why are directories frequently expensive?
á
Why a part of the ready reference collection is kept behind the reference desk?
á
How or when can the Internet be used as a ready reference tool?
á
How can Directories in Print and International Directories in Print be used to
select new directories for purchase?
á
The basic source for current statistics for the U.S. is the Statistical
Abstract. What type of statistics does it contain and where do these statistics
come from?
á
Many librarians claim that Encyclopedia of Associations is their most valuable
reference book. Why do you think they rely so heavily on this title?
Note
on Dictionaries:
The purpose of a dictionary is to explain words. Most typically, these words
are listed in an alphabetical order and a description of their meaning is
given. Dictionaries may include added features such as syllabication,
pronunciation, etymology, usage, synonyms, grammar, illustrations, maps,
spellings and usage. There are different kinds of dictionaries: those that
address national languages (e.g., English, French, Spanish, German, and so on)
and those that address languages of specific scientific disciplines (e.g.,
chemistry, medicine, political science, sociology, and so on).
á
Dictionaries Discussion Points/Questions:
á
What are the key factors upon which to evaluate a dictionary?
á
Describe differences between prescriptive and descriptive philosophies in
dictionary construction.
á
In what ways could you use the Oxford English Dictionary in reference work?
What advantages does the electronic version have over the print version?
á
Describe some strategies you might use to locate a quotation if it does not
appear in standard sources.
á
Describe a good mix of dictionaries for a small public library (including
children's services), a liberal arts college, and a large law firm.
á
Does every library need a foreign language dictionary? How do you decide which
foreign language dictionary to buy?
Readings:
á
Boorkman, J.A.; Huber, J.T.; & Roper, F.W. (2004). Introduction
to Reference Sources in the Health Sciences. 4th ed. New York:
Neal-Schuman Publishers. Main Library Reference / Z6658 .I54 2004. Read the
Preface and chapter one.
á
Karp, R.S.; & Schlessinger, B.S. (2002). The
Basic Business Library: Core Resources. 4th ed. Westport,
CT: Greenwood Press. Read chapters 2, 4, and 5.
á
McQuade, Molly. (May 2003). "Defining a Dictionary." Booklist, 1688.
á
Reference Sources handout (see ERes).
Class
Topic:
Ready Reference, health and business resources
Due: Encyclopedias and
Biography resources
Assignment: Readings; Ready
reference, business, and health resources assignment
November—Thanksgiving
Break
CLASS
12: April 1:
GEOGRAPHICAL,
GOVERNMENT, AND STATISTICAL SOURCES
Note
on Geographical Sources: Geographical sources are invaluable in reference.
Information needs ranging from the simple "Where is [a river, town,
mountain range . . .]?" to the complex "environmental analyses,
historical studies of past explorations, wars, plagues; lunar surface features;
geological structure of a mountain range" can be met through the use of
maps. Atlases (a collection of maps with a detailed index) are found in most
libraries, as are gazetteers, which are geographical dictionaries of place
names. Map librarians are very enthusiastic about their profession; are
interested in such issues as access to maps, Geographic Information Systems,
and map preservation; and they produce many useful guides, union lists,
carto-bibliographies, indexes, and directories. When evaluating a geographical
source, one has to examine: authority, currency, changing names, revision
policies, encyclopedia information, nationalism, topical approaches,
balance/content, quality of maps, scale and projection, topographical
representation, format, place name control, vernacular vs. language of the
country of publication (roma vs. rome), transliteration of names, location of
small towns, statistical data, subject access approaches, among others.
Notable
Publishers in Cartography:
á
Hammond
á
National Geographic Society
á
Oxford
á
Rand McNally
á
Times
á
U.S. Government
Definitions:
á
Atlas. A volume containing collections of maps. (Named for the god
"Atlas" who held the world on his shoulders.)
á
Cartography. The art of map-making. A cartographer is someone who makes maps.
á
Gazetteer. A geographical dictionary or finding list of cities, mountains,
rivers, population, and other features of atlases. Often indexes to atlases
serve as gazetteers.
á
Index map. A map that shows the total geographic coverage, encompassed by a set
or series of maps, or by a segmented single map.
á
Map. A graphic representation on a flat surface of certain boundaries of the
earth, as well as the moon, the planets, and the solar system.
á
Physical (physiographic) map. A map which shows the features and nature of the
earth's surface, atmosphere and climate, distribution of plant and animal life,
etc.
á
Political map. A map that is normally limited to showing political boundaries
(e.g., towns, cities, counties, and states) but may also include topographic
features.
á
Thematic map. A map which serves a special purpose or theme, such as the
relative concentration of indigenous groups in Mexico.
á
Topographic map. A map which represents the exact physical configuration of an
area including natural and man-made features such as mountains, streams, roads,
towns, windmills, and radio towers. Elevation is usually represented by contour
lines.
á
Travel guide. A guidebook intended to aid the traveler by pointing out the
sights to see, where to dine, and the best way to get there.
á
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS): Geography.
Geographical Sources
Discussion Points/Questions:
á
List and discuss briefly five evaluative criteria to be considered when
purchasing an atlas.
á
What factors should you consider when buying an atlas?
á
What is a gazetteer and how can you judge the quality of one?
á
What are the pros and cons of web-based atlases and maps?
á
What types of information are important in travel guides?
Government
Sources Discussion Points/Questions:
á
What are FDLP, FirstGov, GPO, GPO Access, SuDocs, and THOMAS? Where else can
one find U.S. government information (name five different sources/tools)?
á
Where one can find government information about foreign countries (name a few
sources)?
Readings:
á
Library of Congress. THOMAS:
Legislative Information on the Internet.
á
Mitchell, S. (2003). "Where in the World? An Online Guide to Gazetteers,
Atlases and Other Map Resources." Internet Reference Services
Quarterly
8(1-2), 183-194.
á
Project Vote Smart. GOVERNMENT
101: How a Bill Becomes Law.
á
Reference Sources handout (see ERes).
á
U.S. General Services Administration and U.S. Department of Justice. Your Right
To Federal Records: Questions and Answers on the Freedom of Information Act and
Privacy Act.
á
U.S. Government Printing Office. About GPO Access.
á
U.S. Government Printing Office. An Explanation of the
Superintendent of Documents Classification System.
á
U.S. Government Printing Office. The
Federal Depository Library Program: About the FDLP.
á
U.S. Government Printing Office. FDLP Fact Sheet.
á
U.S. Government Printing Office. GPO
Frequently Asked Questions.
Class
topic: Geographical, government, and statistical resources
Due: Ready reference,
business, and health resources Assignment: Readings; Geographical, government, and
statistical resources assignment.
CLASS
13: April 8: INFORMATION ETHICS; REFERENCE SERVICES FOR SPECIFIC POPULATIONS;
ARCHIVES, MUSEUMS, AND SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
Readings:
á
(optional) Jacobson, F.F.; & Sutton, E.D. (2001). "Reference Services
for Specific Populations." In R.E. Bopp & L.C. Smith. Reference
and Information Services: An Introduction. 3rd ed. Westport, CT: Libraries
Unlimited. pp. 279-306.
á
Miller-Gatenby, K.J.; & Chittenden, M. (2000). "Reference Services for
All: How to Support Reference Service to Clients With Disabilities." The
Reference Librarian, no. 69/70, 313-326.
á
Jimerson, R.C. (2003). "Archives and Manuscripts: Reference, Access, and
Use." OCLC
Systems & Services, 19(1), 13-16.
á
(optional) Rubin, R.E. (2001). "Ethical Aspects of Reference
Service." In R.E. Bopp & L.C. Smith. Reference and
Information Services: An Introduction. 3rd ed. Westport, CT: Libraries
Unlimited. pp. 28-46.
á
Southwell, K.L. (2002). "How Researchers Learn of Manuscript Resources at
the Western History Collections." Archival Issues, 26(2), 91-109.
á
Tinerella, V.P.; & Dick, M.A. (2005). "Academic Reference Service for
the Visually Impaired: A Guide for the Non-Specialist." College
& Research Libraries News 66(1), 29-32.
Due: Readings; Geographical,
Government, and Statistics Sources assignment.
Class
14: April 15: WEB 2.0 and LIBRARIES 2.0 and newer technologies.
ÒWeb
2.0Ó and ÒLibrary 2.0Órefer to user-centered indexing, knowledge organization,
and retrieval, often making use of social networks. The following links
will familiarize you with these terms and some of their associated
technologies:
http://www.oreillynet.com/pub/a/oreilly/tim/news/2005/09/30/what-is-web-20.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_2
http://www.digital-web.com/articles/web_2_for_designers/
http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6365200.html
http://www.ariadne.ac.uk/issue45/miller/
http://www.squidoo.com/library20/
http://www.technologyreview.com/printer_friendly_article.aspx?id=18395
http://www.technologyreview.com/printer_friendly_article.aspx?id=18396
Ò A Hipper Crowd of ShushersÓ
NY Times, July 8, 2007
Assignment:
Read the articles above and
any others that you care to on the topic of web 2.0, web 3.0, and library 2.0 .
Write a two page paper
explaining what you think these terms mean, whether you think there can be such
a thing as Òlibrary 2.0,Ó if social networking tools or semantic web tools
would be useful in a library environment, and any other like issues you may
want to discuss. You can incorporate your comments on the NY Times
article, ÒA Hipper Crowd of Shushers,Ó featuring two recent SLIS alumni, if you
wish.
CLASS
15: April 22:
Class
presentation of pathfinders. FINAL PROJECT (PATHFINDERS) DUE. Please
email to me (roday@indiana.edu)
the URL to your pathfinder with the subject line, ÒpathfinderÓ.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Journals
and Reference Sources to Browse
In
addition to the required readings for each class, I encourage you to make a
habit of browsing recent issues of the following journals (all are available
online through the University's online catalog) and Internet sources:
Library
Journal
College
and Research Libraries
Information
Today
Peter's Digital Reference Shelf
Reference
and User Services Quarterly
Reference
Services Review
Searcher:
The Magazine for Database Professionals
Library
Success Wiki (good source): http://www.libsuccess.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
Job
Resources
Library Job Postings on the
Internet
Lisjobs.com - Jobs for Librarians
and Information Professionals
LIS-UIUC: Sources of Job
Information