Information sources and services - Assignment Example

? Information Sources and Services-Essay (Based On a Scenario) Introduction Information is considered as an essential requirement of every person. Today, remarkable progresses in knowledge and technological developments have resulted in high consciousness among people concerning the significance of information in every part of life. In this context, it can be affirmed that libraries are the centre of academic activities, as they serve educational organisations along with the students, teachers and administrators with miscellaneous information necessities (Bhatia & Vohra, 2007). It is in this context that the characteristics of information have transformed significantly in recent times. Most striking characteristics of today’s knowledge-oriented generation are the propagation of huge quantity of data, especially in the digital format. Thus, the major challenges for libraries in 21st century are to search, address and use information effectively in order to satisfy the varied groups of people. Based on this perspective, the discussion will intend to develop strategies and options for a large vocational education library which serves almost 30,000 students. With the changes in the requirement of information, the library services are facing significant pressure in terms of the number of services with the reduction in the traditional information counter tasks in library. Considering this aspect, the discussion intends to reform the information service of library which can reflect the requirements of large and varied user groups comprising young and mature students belonging to various cultural and economic backgrounds, professional interns and trainees along with immigrants, tutors and community workers. Reference and Information Services Reference and information services denote individual support delivered to the people in order to satisfy their information requirements. It is based on high level of communication between guiding members and individuals. Providing such custom-made support can be thus regarded as a major objective of library occupation in the modern day phenomenon. In the 21st century, the constant growth of accessibility for digital databases has altered the characteristics of reference services in library. Undeniably, the upsurge of internet and increasing number of contributions for accessing online information and free online materials has also made the improvement of library services more critical (Australian Library and Information Association, 2011). Today, librarians are generally confronted with broad ranges of information alternatives which must be assessed for genuineness and accurateness. It is in this regard that new technologies act as streams leading to vast torrent of knowledge for people. Thus, providing users with personalised facilities in sensible way can ensure excellence in library information and reference services (Bopp & Smith, 2011). Models of Reference Services In the current day scenario, the digital age has changed the tasks of reference librarians by a certain extent. Although the central task remains the same, i.e. to provide professional support in addressing beneficial information to the users, the new world of accessible electronic databases has developed new ways to manage information in modern day libraries (Lamolinara & Grunke, 1998). The delivery modes of services have also changed in recent days. Where traditionally, users were required to attain services through face to face interactions; in virtual model, the key modes has transformed to electronic modes such as e-mails and chats among other means of communication. Furthermore, traditionally, reference work included arranging and publishing academic information which were principally assimilated from commercial salespersons. However, in the current day phenomenon, the reference tasks have grown to select, store, manage and organize information in a standard format. Therefore, it can be affirmed that the roles of librarians have moved from custodial role to more communication role (Breitbach & DeMars, 2009). The changing role of reference services can be described with the example of ‘Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Institutional Repository’. As stated by Chan, Kwok & Yip (2005), “...All of the reference librarians played important roles in building the HKUST Institutional Repository. They have been engaged in all stages of its development: the de?nition of goals and scope, evaluation of system and content, forming strategies and procedures, interpreting publishers’ policies, contacting and servicing faculty members, acquisition of content, and promotional efforts...”. The other example of changing trends in reference services in the modern scenario can be observed with the example of ‘Central Library of Viswa-Bharti’. Through the extensive use of IT, the library has intended to enhance the reference services in a highly personalised mechanism. It has further been observed that IT has helped the library to enhance the standard of information collected from different sources (Das, Gurey & Saha, 2009). The improvement in technology is not the only aspect which has transformed the functions of libraries, but it is definitely a driving force for transforming traditional models of work to advanced models of work. Currently, the role of librarian has also shifted from executing the searching activities to instructing users so that they can liberally conduct their exploration tasks. The ‘model of reference service’ with the improvement of ‘Information Technology’ (IT) is also transforming from liberal model toward conservative model. Hence, it can be affirmed that the emergence of IT requires new and improved reference & information services for librarians to be utilised effectively (Tyckoson, 2001). Traditional and New Models of Reference Services Traditional Models of References Services Reference Model Reference model is a kind of liberal model used in traditional periods. In the reference model, the librarians perform tasks at desks or counters in order to manage every kind of requests including guiding inquiries to comprehensive research. In this case, even though the users receive tailored attention, it requires significant amount of time. The main focus of reference model is to provide personalised services, instructions and better access to information. However, the major disadvantage of reference model is that in-depth queries are quite challenging to be explained and at times are managed superficially. In addition, the ‘reference desk model’ makes it challenging for users to develop a suitable discussion due to unsystematic organisation of the information sources. Furthermore, traditional ‘reference desk model’ is categorised owing to its high level of expenses, low controls, inflexibility issues, hindered responsibilities, impractical user prospects, and repetition of tasks which can prove ineffective in today’s knowledge based environment (Reih, 1999). Teaching Model Teaching model has often been regarded as a key example of conservative model. In this model, librarians often perform tasks with the users in laboratory atmosphere rather than on reference desk. This model is highly advantageous for educational aspects of librarians, as it comprises accurate information and critical thinking. However, the personalised services are not considered as highly important in this model, rather the knowledge of discipline and assortment is regarded as the core librarian task (Tyckoson, 2001). New Models of Reference Services Tiered Reference Model ‘Tiered reference model’ is characterised by librarians with varying abilities for solving differing inquiries made by the users. One of the fundamental aspects of this model is that librarians are reserved for responding detailed research queries. The major objective of this model is to permit librarians to make better utilisation of query and research abilities. Hence, this model concentrates more on librarian’s knowledge and also permits them to spend more time with the users. However, one of the major disadvantages of the tiered model of reference can be identified in terms of its reachability to librarians. Therefore, users who require quick solution to the queries cannot take the benefit of this reference service model (Cassell & Hiremath, 2009). Virtual Model Virtual model can be identified as a modern model for reference service. This model is designed for assisting users who are not physically present in the library. In this model, librarians use tools such as chat, e-mails, and call centre services in order to provide immediate support to the users. This model is developed to reach users at any moment irrespective of the physical distance present within the library and the user. Unlike other models, virtual model concentrates more on the issue of accessibility, accurateness and suitability. One major negative aspect of virtual model is that at times, the services can turn out with unsatisfactory outcomes and can confuse the users by delivering irreverent services owing to the lack of verbal and face to face communication (DeHart, 2002). Roving Model Roving model is another advanced model for reference and information services where librarians perform referencing activities outside of library counter. The philosophical concern of this model is to reduce the communication obstacles between librarians and users offering greater support. In this regard, ‘roving’ is termed as the act of a librarian for circulating in the reference field and approaching to the users rather than waiting for users to arrive to the reference desk through customised services. This model also serves with assistance to users who are quite tentative in nature and removing physical barriers of communication which are present in the reference desk model. However, one of the major disadvantages of roving model is that the librarians at times have to face a degree of uncertainty deciding whether to approach a user or not, i.e. it becomes difficult for librarians to understand the requirement of any particular user (Courtois & Liriano, 2000). Remote User Model Remote User Model is the other advanced model of reference services. In traditional times, it was quite difficult to approach a librarian with a need for face to face interface with the librarians in order to get any assistance. However, in present days, development in IT has apparently made it simpler for users to use the library services from any physical location. Utilising innovative technologies such as telecommunication tools, direct messaging and social networking among others also allow users to communicate with librarians from a distance facilitating their reachability to the required reference services (Cassell & Hiremath, 2009). Options and Strategies for Current User Group In the current day phenomenon, IT developments have apparently facilitated the traditional reference services and made it more effectual for users as well as librarians to deliver suitable assistance in terms of information management. In other words, while redesigning the reference options, the library cannot ignore the crucial role of IT. Hence, it can be affirmed that IT has seriously influenced the tasks of librarians and enhanced distant accessibility of services. Ross & Nilsen (2000) depicted that “reference librarians seem to regard the internet as external resource that users can search independently”. In order to deal with the pressure of diverse demands from different users, the vocational education library can use the new model of reference, i.e. virtual model. Explanation of Using the Virtual Model Nowadays, majority of users have access to computers, internet and mobile technologies. Due to this reason, the virtual model would be beneficial for library to enhance the reference and information services rendering facilities to a larger number of recipients. Virtual reference model is observed as an innovative system in 21st century. Its simplicity and its universal access are the major reasons for selecting virtual reference model for the library scenario presenting the inclusion of IT by a large extent. This model can provide facilities such as instant messaging, e-mails and access to online databases which are useful for users who might study part-time and require internet assistances to attain their information requirements. Apart from these services, through virtual model, the library can also deliver much more deliberate services to the users support. By considering the increased quantity and diversity of digital documents available through internet, this virtual model can easily create an environment where users can attain suitable internet based support (DeHart, 2002). Virtual reference model can provide users a suitable, high tech method to cooperate with the engaged personnel with library’s information authorities. Furthermore, there are certain users who favour the obscurity of electronic communication as more relaxed method of seeking support compared to face to face communication and direct support. Concerning the requirements of those users, the virtual model can be termed as suitable for library. This model is also capable of providing international level services to the users with affordable costs where they can obtain assistance at any time. While the traditional standards have aided the occupation and library users in different ways, the growing requirements and prospects in the 21st century necessitates restructuring of core standards, especially to those who are highly concerned with digital information (DeHart, 2002). In the current day context, the continuously changing requirements of users have evidently generated the importance of maintaining digital library which can only be possible through virtual model. It can be thus expected that the digital model would successfully enhance the effectuality of communication, information sharing, association and functionalities (Sastry & Reddy, 2010). Stating precisely, the digital model can provide the following advantages over other models of reference: Better user interaction: As the users of library come from various cultural backgrounds, it becomes quite difficult for librarians to deal with them and provide them assistance with efficiency. With virtual model, the library can thus easily implement collaborative internet applications, providing support to users with several psychological, scholastic, cultural and academic backgrounds. This model can significantly enhance the user interface and usability of reference services. Besides, since the library includes vocational apprentices and trainees, virtual model would be beneficial for this segment (Sastry & Reddy, 2010). Sharing of thoughts and knowledge: Virtual model provides applications such as blogs and feeds, through which, users can easily share their thoughts and knowledge. The model can also help to create knowledge and dispense any important updates in a time-efficient manner. Therefore, through this model, students specially the newly arrived immigrants of rather the refugees can effectively simplify the educational materials. It can also provide an active learning atmosphere for students with limited knowledge on English language and other technical skills (Sastry & Reddy, 2010). Multimedia data: The virtual model not only provides text based information but also renders assistance in searching for multimedia information with several formats including audio-visual modes. Therefore, this model can be expected to help the vocational educational library to enhance sharing of audio and video information to the users in comparatively better way than traditional models. Thus, with digital information, it would be quite easier for librarians to manage and deal with multimedia files distributing them to the users with low risk of damage and also in a systematic way (Sastry & Reddy, 2010). Social networking: One of the most significant benefits of using virtual model in library is the attainment of the support rendered by social networking. Social networking has often been observed to help developing stronger linkage between groups with similar interests. Thus, through this model, users with similar interest groups can communicate about their collective educational interests and also add educational materials to the digital library such as journals, periodicals and notes (Sastry & Reddy, 2010). Storage and retrieval of information: Virtual model also assists in storing vital information for the users by using bookmark facility. On the other hand, with the assistance of the tagging feature (the other aspects of virtual model), users can also label certain electronic items in order to search them easily over the internet (Sastry & Reddy, 2010). From an overall perspective, it can be stated that virtual model not only provides online resources to the students mitigating the limitations of inaccessibility to a wide range of information, but also delivers teaching and learning support to them irrespective of geographical or socio-economic divergences. Furthermore, virtual model also provides traditional information and reference services along with modern facilities, considering the suitability of users’ requirements. Issues of Using Virtual Model Although virtual model is effective for dealing with the growing pressures of library due to changing requirements of users, there are certain issues which must be addressed while implementing the new model in library working environment. The application of virtual model requires substantial amount of time and care for several managerial and technical concerns. Technical problems can significantly hamper the entire reference services of library owing to which staffs must be selected in a cautious manner possessing satisfactory knowledge of using the electronic system. Training and motivation of employees are also required for this model, as the tasks of virtual model are quite different than that assigned with the traditional desk model. Furthermore, staffs need to learn about the policies, procedures, functions and other aspects to provide flawless services to various users (Kimmel & Heise, 2003). The virtual model can also develop better association between librarians and users. In relation to the vocational education library, there is need for rendering greater emphasis on information appeal made by users with due consideration to the fact that the manner of service delivery must not modify the central standard of the library. On the other hand, it might be quite challenging for the library to forecast how virtual reference model would create an impact on user activities and approaches. Notably, it is possible that users might become more rushed and intolerant to the new model as it does not focus on direct surveillance unlike other reference models which also needs to be taken into account in order to develop the services. Presently, there are various kinds of virtual reference applications which can be used for improvements in library services. In this regard, the purchasing procedure also includes significant decision-making about the expenses to be incurred and the degree of complexity of features to be offered along with obtainability of technical assistance to the users (DeHart, 2002). Conclusion Every model of reference services are characterised by certain worthiness and limitations. Based on this concern, it can be affirmed that virtual mode to be successful in the current scenario of library, there is need for recognising the requirements of the users with the highest possible accuracy. It is in this context that using such model which can best fulfil their growing requirements is vital for accomplishing success in delivering highly efficient library services. However, based on the above discussion it can be argued that no single model can be apt for reference services. It is the fact that digital information has gained much popularity in recent days which calls for using virtual model in place of other reference model for library services. Researchers have suggested several new models for redesigning of library, and many new models would probably be recommended in upcoming times, but the main issue which must be considered in this context is that users’ interest should be the foremost concern for every library. They must not feel pressurised and unattended due to alterations in model of reference services in library only because of redesigning purposes. References Australian Library and Information Association. (2011). Beyond a quality service: strengthening the social fabric. Retrieved from http://www.alia.org.au/publiclibraries/PLSG_web_110407.pdf Bhatia, N., & Vohra, R. (2007). Trends in reference and information services in the electronic era: a case study of A C Joshi library. Retrieved from http://ir.inflibnet.ac.in/dxml/bitstream/handle/1944/1437/617-630.pdf?sequence=1 Bopp, R. E., & Smith, L. C. (2011). Reference and information services: An introduction. Library of Congress. Breitbach, W. & DeMars, J.M. (2009). Enhancing virtual reference: techniques and technologies to engage users and enhance interaction, Internet Reference Services Quarterly, 14 (3/4), pp.82-91. Cassell, K. N., & Hiremath, U. (2009). Reference and information services in the 21st century: an introduction. Facet. Chan, D. L. H., Kwok, C. S. Y., & Yip, S. K. F. (2005). Changing roles of reference librarians: the case of the HKUST Institutional Repository. Reference Services Review, 33(3), pp. 268-282. Courtois, M., & Liriano, M. (2000). Discussion group on reference work report. Retrieved from http://archive.ifla.org/VII/dg/dgrw/dp99-05.htm DeHart, D. L. (2002). Virtual reference services and the changing role of reference librarianship in the 21st century. Retrieved from http://www.appstate.edu/~dehartdl/courseworkfiles/lis656paper.pdf Das, T. K., Gurey, P., & Saha, N. C. (2009). Evaluation of current trends in reference services in lieu of a model: a case study of Central Library, Visva-Bharati. Retrieved from http://crl.du.ac.in/ical09/papers/index_files/ical-86_171_368_1_RV.pdf Kimmel, S. E., & Heise, J. (2003). Virtual reference services: issues and trends. Routledge. Lamolinara, G., & Grunke, R. (1998). Reference service in a digital age. The Library of Congress, 57(8). Reih, S. Y. (1999). Changing reference service environment: A review of perspective from managers, librarians and users. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 25(3), pp. 178-186. Ross, C. S., & Nelson, K. (2000). Has the internet changed anything in reference? Reference and User Services Quarterly, pp. 147-155. Sastry, H. G., & Reddy, L. C. (2010). Significance of web 2.0 in digital libraries. International Journal on Computer Science and Engineering, 2(6), pp. 2208-2211. Tyckoson, D. A. (2001). What is the best model of reference service? Library Trends, 50(2), pp. 183-196. Read More