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Difference between policy and procedure

A policy deals with the "why" and a procedure deals with the "how". Policies come first

Why is the reference interview important?

Correctly interpret the reference queries Ensure the correct answer is provided

Chat service advantages

(text based interactive conversation that takes place in real time between library staff and a patron) Can feel like live interaction Initial response can be immediate Services the patron at a remote location Eliminates problem of mishearing

What is a guideline

A description of best practice that provides suggestions for staff on most efficient ways to implement policy statements, regulations, and procedures More philosophical than policy statements Always approved by the library director but are rarely reviewed by the library's governing authority. Examples include reference guidelines and guidelines for serving people with special needs

The steps in policy writing

1. Assess the need - for a new policy, revision or an existing policy or elimination of policy. 2. Decide on who is responsible for writing - the policy or eliminating the policy. 3. Literature review. 4. Draft the policy 5. Stakeholder input - to the draft policy 6. Revisions 7. Approval 8. Communication and distribution. 9. Implementation

Key policy components should include:

1. Clientele 2. Services 3. Evaluation

Government Document Acquisition areas

1. Depository Services Program (DSP) 2. Weekly Checklist (pink doc) 3. Standing Orders 4. Municipal Documents 5. Other documents

How to plan a research process

1. Determine the nature of the query 2. Decide on the types of information that could best answer the query and that is available to you 3. Create a search strategy -determine the focus/aspect/perspective of the topic -identify key concepts -consider alternative terms (broader or narrower terms, synonyms, related terms) 4. Select your resources 5. Evaluate the information 6. Modify or revise your search as necessary

Types of standards

1. Dimensional standards - accepted uniform procedures, dimensions, materials, or parts that affect the design of a product or facility. Ensure interchangeability so same products are identical in size whereever they are made (screws) 2. Performance or quality standards - product is adequate for its purposes 3. Standard test methods - materials and components meet performance or quality standards. Comparison to be made on scientific basis 4. Standard terminology - abides by standard glossaries of terms in a particular field. Precise and accurate communication. 5. Codes of practice - standards are met for correct installation, operation, maintenance of products 6. Physical and scientific standards -physical qualities.

Search strategy for finding scientific information

1. Must know and understand what you are looking for. Basic encyclopedia, textbook or dictionary to determine definitions of terms used in the query and to gain background information. 2. Develop list of key words that can be used to research the topic. 3. Search the catalogue using those key words to gain an idea of what has been published in book format. 4. Use various topic-related databases to search key words. Revise key words as needed to broaden or narrow your search. 5. As you begin to access these materials use the literature cited in these sources to identify relevant articles, papers or monographs.

Types of Formal Instruction

1. Orientation 2. Classroom Instruction 3. Workshops 4. Exercises/Assignment 5. Tutorials

Branches of Science

1. Physical Science 2. Biological Science 3. Applied Science

The types of training

1. Staff Orientation 2. Fundamental Interview skills and reference skills 3. Continuing Education

Reasons to offer virtual reference service:

1. To close the growing gap between users and the library 2. To provide the best and easiest service possible - enables instant connections with new generation of users. 3. To address the challenges of working with the new generation of users. Newest generation millenials (1980-2001)

About X-ers generation

1961-1980 Characteristics: Highly independent. Entrepreneur. Comfortable with change. Raised with instant access. Want frequent, immediate feedback. Self-directed. Sample and learn by doing. Not attracted to classroom. Information seeking: Prefer fewer words. Don't read as much. Visual stimulation: headlines, subheads, etc. Ex. Spin, Fast, Company.

What is a policy statement

A brief, written statement that describes why the library does something. Written from the customer's point of view and approved by the library's governing authority.

What is a policy manual

A collection of library policy statements. May include regulations, procedures, and guidelines. Normally available in print format and electronically.

What is information literacy?

A set of abilities requiring individuals to recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information. Enables learners to master content and extend their investigations, become more self-directed, and assume greater control over their own learning.

What is a regulation.

A specific, written rule that further defines a policy, describing what must be done to support the policy. Normally approved by library's governing authority.

What is a Standard?

A specification, test method, definition, classification, or practice that has been approved by a sponsoring committee. May be classified as: 1. Government or statutory agency standards and specifications enforced by law 2. Proprietary standards developed by a firm or organization and placed in public domain to encourage their use 3. Voluntary standards established by consultation and consensus and available for use by any person, organization or industry Standards help ensure better, safe, more efficient methods and products and are an essential element of technology, innovation, and trade.

What is a procedure

A written step-by-step description of how the staff will carry out a policy and its regulations. More flexible than regulations. Developed and approved by library managers

Information literacy Standards/Competencies.

ACRL has identified 5 standards that can serve as guidelines for library staff developing information literacy and library instruction programs 1. The information literate student determines the nature and extent of information needed 2. The information literate student accesses needed information effectively and efficiently 3. The information literate student evaluates information and its sources critically and incorporates selected information 4. The information literate student, individually or as a member of a group, uses information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose 5. The information literate student understands many of the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information and accesses and uses information ethically and legally.

American Standards' Issuing Bodies

ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials ANSI: American National Standards Institute ASME: American Society of Mechanical Engineers SAE: Society of Automotive Engineers ASCE: American Society of Civil Engineers NFPA: National Fire Protection Agency API: American Petroleum Institute

Key elements for information literacy:

Ability to locate information effectively and competently Ability to critically think about the value, validity, authority of information Having the skills to analyze the quality of information relating to bias, viewpoint, accuracy Capacity to evaluate what to use and what to discard Capacity to make good judgements about the use of information Skill to organize and cite selected information

Specialized Accounting resources

Accounting is the practice and body of knowledge concerned with: 1. Methods for recording transactions 2. Keeping financial records 3. Performing internal audits 4. Reporting and analyzing financial information to the management 5. Advising on taxation matters Accounting standards are agreed upon way to identify, measure, value and state assets and liabilities of a company and reveal profit or loss for a given time period Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants website

Specialized Investment resources

Active commitment of money or resources to property to (hopefully) create benefits in the future. Can also be defined as the use of assets to earn income or profit. TSX - Canadian Stock Exchange Investopedia

Specialized advertising sources

Advertising is the action of calling something to the attention of the public especially by paid announcements Marketing and Sales (Industry Canada( provides links to reliable information on all aspects of marketing

Statistical reference sources - government - Alberta

Alberta Office of Statistics and Information (OSI) Alberta Government Publications

Government documents in Canada

All levels of government produce government publications. Federal, provincial, territorial, municipal. May be Statues, Regulations or By-Laws. Include official published report of debates in the parliament of Canada. This record of government business is called Hansard.

Social Sciences references - SAIT E-Books

American Library Association. Guide to Reference.

Formal Instruction 1. Orientation

An orientation is an activity planned to welcome and introduce users to services, resources, building facilities, hours of opening, policies, and organization of materials. Can be used to motivate users to return and communicate positive atmosphere.

How statistical information is used

Analyze economic performance Develop fiscal, monetary and foreign exchange policies Shape international tariffs Develop policies and programs to assist small businesses Support policy development and evaluate government programs Improve allocation of government funding by determining social and economic benefits Draw electoral boundaries Determine equalization payments and other federal-provincial transfers Support immigration policies and programs Support tourism strategies and programs Assess cost-effectiveness of health care and education programs Monitor justice system's effectiveness and efficiency Select sites for schools and transportation Develop programs such as day care and subsidized housing

Social Science references - websites

Anthropological index online Online Dictionary of the Social Sciences

What is anthropology?

Anthropology is the study of the past and present physical, social and cultural aspects of human life. Governed by the idea that all human groups are of one species, have a common history, and have culture and language. Four basic sub-fields: 1. Sociocultural Anthropology 2. Archaeology 3. Physical Anthropology 4. Linguistic Anthropology Requires a cross disciplinary approach as it shares information with a wide variety of other fields and disciplines.

Government Document Acquisition - Other Documents

Are obtained by serendipity. As libraries become aware of documents that may be important for customers, they can track down the respective publisher to obtain. These documents can be identified by: customers' requests, scanning local newspapers, radio or TV channels, and government bulletins.

Other collaborative reference services:

AskAway askOn Chat Reference

The scientific method: Stage I: Observation

Asking questions, identifying problems, wondering how or why something works. A question (problem) identified by the scientist who will begin gathering information.

What role should libraries assume with information literacy?

Assume the role of educator and instructor in teaching and developing the lifelong learning skills of information retrieval and evaluation, how to construct framework for learning how to learn.

Two types of virtual reference service

Asynchronous virtual reference - uses email and web-form questions in which the patron submits a question and the library staff member responds at a later. Synchronous virtual reference - uses chat and instant messaging and communicates in real time.

Virtual reference hsitory

Began in 19th century with librarian providing assistance and instruction. 1970's - creation of first commercial online database, DIALOG 1983 - Development of the Internet Protocol Suite (TCP.IP) 1991 - the Web as a publicly available service on the internet. 1990's - Search engines designed as attempt to organize information on the internet. Online search becomes a standard part of reference service and in libraries. First type of digital reference, email, meant users could access libraries from home Instant messaging software created for reference applications

Types of business information sources

Bibliographies Books Journals and newspapers - includes magazines, trade regional and industry publications Directories - good source of info on companies, organizations, people. Sometimes only sources for local information Dictionaries and Encyclopedias - general or specialized, handy for overview of a topic. Specialized reports Statistics/data - financial/investment, demographics, marketing information

British Standards' Issuing Bodies

British Standards Institute

What are business resources?

Business is a multi-disciplinary field. Can include elements like labor relations, human resources management, manufacturing, tourism, etc. New areas of multi-disciplinary studies are emerging - social and corporate responsibility, sustainable management and ethics. Business study is mutli-faceted can also include research into statistics, economics, politics and sociology. To provide information on business you need knowledge of subject databases, news sources, free websites, addition to print books and journals.

Canadian Standards' Issuing bodies

CSA: Canadian Standards Association BNQ: Bureau de Normalisation du Quebec CGSB: Canadian General Standards Board NRC: National Research Council of Canada SCC: Safety Codes Council (Alberta) ULC: Underwriters' Laboratory of Canada LEED: Leadership in Energy and Environment Design Also a coordinating body in Canada called the Standards Council of Canada (SCC)

Religion

Can be defined as the commitment or devotion to religious faith or a study of the belief in a supernatural power; the practices of worship and religious beliefs.

Formal library instruction:

Characteristics: systematic organization and planning, activities that are methodically designed, established goals and objectives Instructional techniques range from teaching children how to check out book to advanced graduate-level research seminar.

Government document reference resources - municipal government information (Calgary and Edmonton)

City of Calgary official website city of Edmonton official website

Classics

Classics are the cultures, languages, disciplines, histories, literature and ways of life of the classical Greek, Hellenistic and Roman and Carthaginan civilizations.

International Business Etiquette Internet Sourcebook

Collection of websites that provide information on foreign cultures and customs and guidelines for appropriate etiquette in both general and business solutions. Two additional websites provide good information FPInformart Toronto/Montreal Stock Exchange

What should there be library policies for?

Collections development for guidance in deciding what should be selected and acquired according to needs of community served. Reference policies that will identify the types of service the library is going to provide. Other policies can include issues like food and drink regulations, internet use, circulation and loan periods, behaviour policies, meeting room and display policies, complaints.

Types of Training - 2. Fundamental interview skills and reference sources

Components of skills program usually include: Good public service attitude Ability to multi-task when multiple customers are demanding service Reference interview skills Dealing with problem customers with complaints Instructional skills/teaching ability Referral skills Use of current and new resources

Computer Sciences and Mathematics - SAIT Database

Computers and Applied Sciences Complete

Make certain the policy satisfies these conditions:

Concise Coherent Comprehensive Consistent Format Grammar Language Policy authority Spelling

Advantages of email service

Convenience for users who can ask for information whenever they need it Requires visible contact point on a library's website - good advertising In most cases patrons must state their information need and involve clear, detailed requests. More complete answers than what could be given at a busy reference desk.

Challenges reference staff encounter challenges working with business inquiries and business resources:

Customers - likely to be more demanding with sensitive questions. Overlapping business publications constantly changing information Wide ranging resources from corporate to community to government and free vs. fee based Unique bodies of information and specialized terminology require a solid understanding of a broad array of concepts, topics and sources

Scientific literature: tertiary literature

Do not provide scientific knowledge at all - merely a summary or compilation of primary and secondary materials the scientist or researcher will use to access primary or secondary sources. Can include: Guides to the literature Bibliographies Directories Almanacs and yearbooks Encyclopedias Grey literature

About Traditionals generation

DOB: 1922-1943 (pre WWI) Characteristics: accustomed to top-down flow of information. formal. Learning environment is stable. Information seeking: Like materials that are organized and summarized. Ex: Reader's digest

About Boomers generation

DOB: 1943-1960 Characteristics: Formal feedback Interactive and non-authoritarian Information seeking: Easy to scan format. Example, USA Today.

About millenial generation

DOB: 1981-1999 Characteristics: Globally concerned. Diverse. Media savy. Collaborative. Multitaskers. Teamwork. Technology. Multi-media. Information seeking: readers. lively and varied materials. Chat. search engine.

Types of business queries

Data/facts Analytical - impact of recession Historical/trends - inflation adjustments Bibliographical - lists of resources on specialized topic

Full time library staff training needs

Depends on the type of library. Fully versed in what resources are available in special and public libraries and how to provide instruction in use to school and academic students Trainers need to test the knowledge of the employee. content of the training needs to be adjusted accordingly. Staff also needs to be educated on types of customers and most common queries

Scientific literature: primary

Describes the results of the original research (new scientific knowledge) Can include: Journals (usually peer reviewed articles) Research reports Theses and dissertations Patents and standards Conference proceedings, transactions Manuscripts

Humanities resources - websites

Dictionary of History of Ideas Internet Encyclopedia of Philosphy Encyclopedia of Music in Canada

Supervisor evaluation

Supervisors normally do performance appraisals after the first month and/or three months of employment and annually as dictated by library policy. Can be one-on-one personal interview combined with job observation. Can serve as an assessment or evaluation of work and encouragement for individual growth.

What is economics?

Economics is a social science concerned with description and analysis of the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Early literature was monographic in nature and contained theories of well known economists. First serial publication was the Quarterly Journal of Economics published in 1886 by Harvard University. Economists now turn to statistics and the manipulation of these statistics (econometrics) produced mainly by governments and international bodies. Two main sub-fields of economics Macroeconomics - study of performance and behavior of national economics as a whole Microeconomics - study of economics as a single unit - how individuals, firms, and households operate with the resources they have.

What is education?

Education is the study of schooling and instruction, the provision of knowledge or training in a controlled area for a particular purpose. Subfields: Education delivery systems Education administration Teaching Learning Occupational education Educational psychology Educational policy Educational philosophy

Characteristics of Humanities Literature

Emphasis on books. Humanist is still interested in works older than twenty or fifty or hundred years or more. Greater "spread" of individual journal titles used by researchers in the humanities. Humanities have a tendency to browse through more literature than scientists. Easy access to electronic information is of benefit to researchers in this area.

Earth sciences - SAIT Databases

Environment Complete

What advantages do up-to-date policies provide?

Establish the framework for the various stakeholders to be informed in terms of what will or will not be done Support the mission, goals, and objectives of the library Inform various stakeholders about library philosophy Provide direction Provide guidance in terms of decision making Useful as a strategic tool for short and long term planning Foster delegation and understanding within the organization Be proactive as opposed to reactive

Why have standards?

Establishes the characteristics of a product Maintains and promotes safety Provides uniformity Meets legal requirements Abides by international trade

What is evaluation of formal library instruction?

Evaluation is the collection and analysis of data to assess strengths and weaknesses of a program and to determine its significance and worth. Should be used as ongoing management and learning tool. Primary function is the subsequent improvement of instruction for patrons. Evaluation can also: Determine the degree that objectives and goals are met, justify a program, assist with staff training, determine quality of the program, verify the usefulness of resources, assess problems, conclude if the program should continue, be revised or eliminated. Results can also be used to justify funding and answer queries from interested parties.

Graduate students, faculty, practitioners and social science

Have very specialized research needs on very specific topics Use types of information located in databases, primary source materials, journals, reliable and authoritative websites

Statistics can come from these sources:

Federal government Provincial/state governments International organizations Private data publishers Industry Non-profit organizations Individual scholars

Volunteer training needs

Flexibility with scheduling and setting up training package. Can have some, little, or no experience They are interested in the work and can capitalize on this with well organized program.

Social sciences references - SAIT databases

Gale World History in Context Hospitality and Tourism Complete Education Research Complete SocIndex with Full Text

Social sciences and the general public:

General public is not usually involved in a formal research process but may need information about issues or facts that concern them Generally require the type of information that can usually be found in handbooks, dictionaries, encyclopedias, directories and journals

What are government documents?

Government documents are original papers printed by the order of government as the official record of its activities. They include government administration, research documents for specialists and popular sources of information for general public.

Government document reference resources - provincial government (alberta)

Government of Alberta website

Government document reference resources - Canada

Government of Canada web pages

Organizing Government document collections

Government resources may be grouped together in one physical location, usually with their own specific classification scheme. Separate collection justification is the volume of publications swamps the library and necessitates special consideration of organization and classification. The isolation from the main collection assists library staff and users to find answers specifically from those special documents. In smaller libraries, documents may be individually catalogued and integrated within the appropriate subject section in the collection.

Who publishes standards?

Governments (Federal, State/Provincial, Municipal) Government Agencies Associations and Organizations Companies

General sciences - SAIT Databases

Guide to Reference Access Science Proquest Science Journals Physics and Chemistry

Types of instructional materials:

Handouts, pamphlets, brochures, bookmarks, workbooks, displays, audio materials, videos, online modules covering specific topics, forms encouraging feedback from users, web pages.

Characteristics of a millenial

Have an affinity for electronic communication Heavy users of chat and instant messaging Want more choices for receiving information and flexibility with the system Desire personalization and customization Expect convenience Results orientated Proficient at multitasking Learn on a need to know basis

What is history?

History is a chronological record of significant events that can be either the actual records of historical happenings or the interpretation/description of past events. The "historical method" comprises the techniques and guidelines by which historians use primary sources and other evidence to research and then to write history. History resources are either Primary Source Material - anything produced during a time that will create an image of what was happening at the time Secondary source material - resources that examine a specific period, event or person written by people who did not participate in the event or did not live at the same time they are describing.

Human Resources (Industry Canada)

Human resources topics include human resources planning; employee relations; motivation; hiring, terminations and layoffs; compensation; communications; training and development; health and safety; and literacy.

What is Humanities?

Humanities is a major branch of knowledge that concerns itself with human thought and culture; the stories, ideas, and words that help us to make sense of our lives and the world around us. Focuses on the analysis of meaning and exchange of ideas derived from an individual's appreciation of values and from the unique ability of the human spirit to express itself.

International Standards' Issuing Bodies

ISO: International Organization for Standardization IEC: International Electrotechnical Commission

Why is staff training important

Identifies new staff member as part of library team Understanding of job expectations Promotes job satisfaction Enhances productivity Promotes an atmosphere that facilities learning Ensures high quality service

Types of training - 3. Continuing Education

Important to keep staff up-to-date and informed with increase in information, evolution in types of information, and technological advances. Can include; Attendance at conferences, lectures, workshops Presentations by database vendors Online courses Reading professional literature Formal education/courses

Government document topics

Include the realm of government business from agriculture to science, health to education, business and consumer information like banking and finance, social and cultural issues, human rights, employment and labour issues.

What is included on evaluation forms

Inclusion of course name, instructor, and library staff name Subject coverage Length Clarity of instructions What questions are asked Will these questions enable you to gain information on effectiveness of content presented Comprehensive, broad or narrow focus Grammar, language and use of library jargon Opportunity for overall comments.

Positive results of developing new models of reference with introduction of virtual reference

Increase in patrons who would not usually come into the library Greater efforts to provide remote services to remote users More and different points of service Opportunity to join with other libraries that want to include the library in a network and share the staffing of the service.

Specialized Industry resources

Industry is the commercial production and sale of goods. Four key industrial economic sectors: 1. The primary sector, largely raw material extraction industries 2. The secondary sector, involving refining, construction and manufacturing 3. The tertiary sector, which deals with the services and the distribution of manufactured goods 4. The quaternary sector, new type of knowledge industry focusing on technological research, design and development. Calgary Industry Sector Profiles Alberta Industry Sectors

Government document reference resources - international

Intergovernmental Organizations (IGO's) - group of 3 or more member countries working together on one or more long-term common interests United Nations Nongovernmental Organizations (NGO's) - non-profit, voluntary citizen's group. Local national or international level. CIA Fact Book - list population, government, etc for nations recognized by United States

Secondary humanities resources

Materials that interpret and analyze primary sources. One step removed from the event being described or studied. Examples: journals, periodicals, biographies, bibliographies, encyclopedias, indexes, monographs.

Why is library instruction important?

It promotes basic information literacy principles of life-long learning. Enables people to find information they want now and learn how to find information for themselves in the future.

What are key fields?

Key fields of social sciences include: sociology psychology education political science economics anthropology history

Formal Instruction 4. Exercises/Assignments

Key purpose of any exercises specifically compiled for library instruction is to provide learners with opportunities to practice new skills. Can be in-print or online web training formats.

New skills necessary for virtual reference:

Keyboarding Ability to multitask Ability to deal with stress Can use short informative messages Able to briefly explain what you are doing to customer Overlook typographical errors Work client's name into conversation Troubleshoot technical difficulties Apply reference policies in an online environment

Basic business resource information needs

Large companies - fields of specialization. Many large companies have their own special libraries. Small Companies - Information requested by small companies can be generally or locally oriented - demographics, prices, etc Colleges and Universities - Usually requests are course related and support curriculum needs Government - Have specialized business needs - regulatory, legal, economics, trend data General public - Can include wide variety of topics - financial/investment, consumer, etc.

Virtual reference policies - Services

Level of service to be provided should be will defined so staff and patrons will understand how the service operates. guidelines should be established for determining which queries cannot or should not be handled by this service and how to respond in those cases. Procedures for staff operations should include: Staffing issues How will queries be referred to another staff for more/different assistance? Hours of availability Confidentiality

What is library instruction?

Library Instruction is the term most generally used to describe the way library staff teach patrons about the use of the library, its resources and its facilities. Originally "orientation" or "bibliographic instruction," later, "user instruction." Can mean one-on-one teaching or group instruction.

Government Document Acquisition - Standing Orders

Library can be put on mailing list for individual government department to automatically receive print publications or notices of web files. Good acquisition method for loose-leaf type publications.

Peer evaluations

Library may also adopt the peer evaluation process where individual staff member is observed and evaluated while working with other staff. Employees are asked to judge behaviors and skills with a view to positive reinforcement, encouragement and critique.

Literature

Literature is any symbolic record, encompassing everything from images and sculptures to letters. The study of imaginative and creative writing. Sub fields can be defined: 1. Form a. Prose b. Poetry c. Drama 2. Historical period 3. Scope or audience related

Statistical reference sources - government - municipal/local

Majority of towns and cities have produced their own local websites with local information on peoples, companies, facilities, events, clubs, etc.

Specialized Marketing/Advertising sources

Marketing is the management process through which goods and services move from concept to customer. Based on thinking about business in terms of customer needs and their satisfaction. Coordination of four elements, called the 4's 1. Identification, selection, and development of a product 2. Determination of its price 3. Selection of a distribution channel to reach the customer's place 4. Development and implementation of a promotional strategy

undergraduates and social science

May need term paper or coursework support that is scholarly in nature that could include information of test, measurements, scales in social science research, definitions of specialized terms and topics Generally require information that can be located in academic books and journals, databases, indexes, authoritative websites

Disadvantages of email service

May not be appropriate for more complex questions or ones that require more research time. Must rely on follow-up questions and answers that contain little non-verbal communication that's essential to in-person service. Often lengthly response time between when the query is submitted and the answer. If the query requires several back and forth emails, process could frustrate the person.

Instant Messaging and advantages

More features and capabilities than the chat service Adopted by many academic libraries Advantages: Immediate and interactive Allows collaborative browsing Files, images, illustrations can be sent to patron's computer Can use customized pre-defined and canned text messages to save time Ensures e-queing of patrons Allows for online resource demonstrations

Key sources of sociology information

Most commonly used form of information gathering from a representative part of the population from any societal grouping is the survey method. Information also gathered from fieldwork, case studies, participant observation, and statistical data analysis.

Scientific resources

Most fields of science have handbooks and manuals that include data, tables, formulas, charts, dictionaries and statistics. Handbooks are frequently updated. Marked decrease in the time between publications of new print editions.

Standards and Types of Libraries

Most libraries have some standards especially related to health and safety. Special libraries - special libraries supporting architectural, engineering, legal, oil and gas companies typically have large collection of standards in their fields of business. Public libraries - usually have local buildings and electrical codes School libraries - not many demands on school libraries, but if shop/industrial courses are offered, standards will be a requirement Academic libraries - Standards that affect specific courses of programs will be required

Points to consider when examining virtual tour:

Navigational instructions and organization - clear directions on how to use and follow the tour Content - consider inclusion of index, maps, photos, other graphics Insertion of additional information on services and collections Use of audio or video Appropriate pace Effectiveness of presentation Overall Impression

Self assessment

Normally a checklist containing desirable behaviours and list of sources that the employee should be able to access and use is confirmed by the staff member. Sometimes difficult to evaluate. Best used in conjunction with supervisor evaluation

Problems with library policies?

Not accurate reflections of current practice not accurate reflections of the library's priorities Not updated regularly Do not address all of the issues that need to be addressed Often written in narrative format that makes it difficult to separate policy statements, regulations, procedures and guidelines May be poorly written and hard to understand Access to policy manuals may be difficult Developed by people who do not understand the concerns of the staff who will be charged with implementing those policies Conflict with local, etc regulations Distinctions among policy statements, regulations, procedures, guidelines are unclear Policy statements, regulations, procedures, and guidelines contradict each other.

How do scientific facts accumulate over time?

They cumulate because of the process of data collection through observation and experimentation and the formulation and testing of hypotheses (explanations, reasoned proposals)

Government Document reference resources - United States

State Government Offices, Local US Government, City and Federal Government 0 directory of official state, country and local government websites. United States Government official web portal - information and website access to government resources, services and forms for individuals, businesses and visitors.

Statistical reference sources - United states and international

Statistical Abstract of the United States NGOs and IGOs OECD: Worldwise Statistical Sources World FactBook UNESCO Institute for Statistics

Statistical reference sources - Government - Canada

Statistics Canada Canada Census Community Profiles

What are statistics?

Statistics deal with the collation, interpretation, organization and analysis of numerical data. Can be treated as a discipline.

Types of Evaluation

Questionnaires or surveys, print, sent out, web, telephone. Focus groups, interviews, observations, pre and post text Statistics - usage statistics, examination of grades pre- and post instruction Use of clickers.

Biological science

Science that is concerned with the study of living organisms, their characteristics, classification and behaviors and their interaction with each other and their environment

What is scientific research?

Scientific research is the study of the natural world by means of experimentation and observation. To be termed scientific, a method of inquiry must be based on the "systematic pursuit of knowledge, gathering observable, empirical and measurable evidence." Distinguishing feature of science is this reliance on the scientific method.

The scientific method: Stage III: Experimental

Scientist will design and carry out series of experiments that will prove or disprove the hypothesis. Often the hypothesis will be modified or changed if the expected results are not achieved. Can be repeated by both scientists and researchers to confirm results.

The scientific method: Stage II: Hypotheses

Scientist will formulate (construct) a hypothesis to answer the question or determine cause and effect relationships. States what he/she thinks will happen. Can be considered "educated guess"

Problems in using and obtaining standards

Overlap - information may be same in different sets of standards or the information may be incomplete in one standard as it's covered by another issuing body. Cost - very expensive to purchase and keep up-to-date. Staying current: Some standards can be placed on standing order. For others, library has to try and keep track when new standards or revisions are published. Conversion to metric: For those standards published in the US, user must determine if standards measurements, statistics or number needs to be translated into metric.

Components a policy should include:

Subject coverage Definitions Audience Rationale List of procedures and regulations

Training methods

Personal presentations Group presentations and demonstrations Written guides Video Web guides Workbooks Hands-on practice Checklists Coaching or mentoring

major fields of humanitites

Philosophy Languages Literature Visual arts Performing arts religion classics

How do difference areas of science use the scientific method?

Physical, biological and applied sciences use the scientific method to study the natural, physical or material world. The social sciences and humanities use it to study behavior and society.

Virtual reference policies - Evaluation

Policy considerations include: Goals of the service Types of data that need to be collected to measure progress towards the goals Cost evaluation - is service worth the time and effort?

What is political science?

Political science is a social science concerned with the study of governing, the description and analysis of political systems and governmental institutions, and the administration and control of governments' internal and external affairs. Questions at reference desk can range from political news figures, situations or stories in the media, or the analysis of the political process Sub fields: Study of Government international politics Political Theory

The three types of scientific literature

Primary Secondary Tertiary

Types of Training - 1. Staff Orientation

Process of familiarizing a new employee with the work environment and the basic operation of the library. Should include basic and general information like benefits, personal, safety and security, equipment and supplies use, physical facility as well as administration. Can be stressful. Most libraries will break up training into more manageable packages.

ACRL guidelines for instruction programs in academic libraries

Program Design: A. Statement of purpose B. Identification of content of instruction C. Identification of modes of instruction D. Program structures E. Evaluation and assessment Human resources (Personnel) Support A. Instructional facilities B. Instructional support facilities C. Financial support D. Support for continuing education, training, development

Ways the information literacy field has expanded:

Proliferation of information in a wide variety of formats Availability of multimedia including graphical text, digital, audio Increase in library computer networks and expanded personal computing Expansion of information available outside the library Diverse information locations Information obtained in unfiltered formats

Humanities resources - SAIT Databases

Proquest Contemporary Authors Film and Television Literature Index with Full Text SAIT E-Books

what is psychology?

Psychology is the study of individual human behavior and the mental and social processes that influence the behavior. Subfields Experimental psychology Physiological psychology Developmental psychology Social psychology Educational psychology Industrial psychology Psychometrics

More on statistics

Reference queries usually involve statistics covering human populations, health, education, weather, crime, population, characteristics and numbers, labor and employment. The US federal government is the largest statistical gathering agency in the world. Companies or business establishments are identified by name only when the mission of the statistical program specifically calls for it.

Definition of virtual reference

Reference service initiated electronically, often in real-time, where patrons employ computers or other internet technology to communicate with reference staff, without being physically present. Frequently used communication channels: chat, videoconferencing, Voice over internet protocol (VOIP), co-browsing, email, instant messaging.

Terms to describe virtual reference service

Reference service through a computer has been identified in a variety of terms - digital, virtual, live, real time, interactive, web-based

Information literacy in public libraries

Reference staff should be aware of the relationship of reference to literacy. One-on-one reference service is a form of literacy development. Minimum, providing answer with brief explanation of where it came from and how it was located. Maximum, instructing the user on search strategy, appropriate resources, how to access and use the information and how to evaluate. Reference staff need to approach a query as a "teaching" moment. Libraries do offer programs involving computer literacy, career development, readers' advisory services, and current and new information resources. Key elements of information literacy skills should be integrated into these programs as the situations arise.

Visual arts

Refers to the creation of works which are primarily visual in nature. Sub fields: Pictorial Plastic Building Minor

Characteristics of government documents

Reliable Accurate Authoritative Inexpensive (or free) Original - Contain original research or information from original sources Varied in size - single page, pamphlet, etc Varied in intellectual content - elementary to very technical and academic Updates are kept current

When providing information related to businesses it must be:

Reliable Trustworthy Authenticated Timely/current Cost effective Complete

Medicine - scientific resources

SAIT databases: Mediline with Full Text Websites; Merck Manual Online Medical Dictionary

Physical Science

Science that analyzes the property of energy and non-living matter. The main fields of physical science are: Chemistry - study of the composition, structure, and properties of substances and of matter at the atomic and molecular level Physics - Study of the interaction of matter and energy and the forces of the universe, their interactions and the results of the interactions Earth Science - Study of the earth's materials and their origin, structure and physical developments that shape the earth Astronomy - Study of celestial objects (stars, planets, etc) and their observable actions that originate in space.

Applied Science

Science that applies scientific knowledge to practical problems. Main fields are: Engineering - The application of scientific and mathematical principles to any number of practical conclusions like the design, manufacture, and operation of structures, machines and systems. Medicine - The science of dealing with the maintenance of health and the prevention or cure of disease Computer science/technology - The study of the foundations of information and the practical techniques for its implementation and application in computer systems technology Mathematics - the study of measurement, properties, operations, and interrelationships of quantities using numbers and symbols.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade (Canada)

Services for business includes extensive information for Canadian and non-Canadian businesses involved in foreign investment and trade. Foreign policy area provides information about Canada's role in the global marketplace

Virtual reference policies - clientele

Should define the patron population and publicize this policy on the service's website, or other places where patrons may access it. Guidelines for appropriate behaviour made available to patrons Marketing plan developed and implemented as part of planning and ongoing operation of service.

Student training needs

Similar to volunteers in terms of knowledge. Well organized instructional program and good supervisor skills can lead to development of strong work ethic.

Government Document Acquisition - Municipal Documents

Some municipal departments may automatically send the library its latest documents May also be available on the city/town website for downloading and printing.

The stages of the scientific method

Stage I - Observation Stage II - Hypothesis Stage III - Experimental Stage IV - Conclusion

Interpreting the code for a standard

Standard: CAN/CGSB - 2.19 M86 The initials (CAN/CGSB) refer to the standards body responsible for creation The first number (2) is a broad subject classification number The second number (19) is an individual number assigned to the standard within the subject classification

Chat service disadvantages

Takes time to adjust to style of message sent. Staff can't rely on body language Queries must be handled one at a time Difficult to multi-task during chat session Typing can be insufficient Task can be challenging for library staff with the pressure to respond quickly and need to understand the question from the short print query.

Collaborative virtual reference service

The Collaborative Digital Reference Service (CDRS) pilot project of the Library of Congress to provide 24/7 live web reference by collaborating and resource sharing among member libraries around the world. Has evolved into QuestionPoint. Patrons can submit questions at any time, they will be answered online by qualified library staff from the patron's or participating library. Available by subscription. Will supplement and complement the ongoing personal services

What is a policy

The generic term used for the policy statement, regulations, procedures and guidelines that apply to a specific issue

Government Document Acquisition - Depository Services Program

The government has identified specific libraries where government documents are guaranteed to be free and available. DSP was established in 1927 as link between the Canadian federal government and its clients. The primary objective is to ensure Canadians have ready and equal access to federal government information. They supply materials to network of more than 790 libraries in Canada and another 147 institutions around the world. the Program is administered by Public Works and Government Services Canada. 52 full depository libraries. Federal departments play a role in ensuring the success of the program by providing copies of their publications to the DSP for distribution. The program absorbs all costs of operation and manages the distribution of priced publications to government depositories. The strict distribution controls ensure only approved depositories receive documents free of charge that meet their user needs. Access to government publications at minimal cost to taxpayer.

research in the social sciences can take many directions, depending on:

The nature of the query The interdisciplinary approach that may be needed The chronological or geographical parameters The need for current or retrospective information The resources available The sophistication of the patron

The scientific method: Stage IV: Conclusion

The scientist will proven or disproven the hypothesis. A disproven hypothesis will result with the scientist either modifying the original hypothesis or abandoning it altogether. Once they are comfortable with the results, it will be communicated to the scientific community.

Philosphy

The study of matters like existence, knowledge, justification, truth, justice, right and wrong, beauty, validity, mind, and language. Pursuit of wisdom by intellectual means and considers the meaning of life and the reasons for our thoughts and actions. Main subfields: logic, ethics, metaphysics, epistemology.

What is sociology?

The study of the collective behaviors of a human group and how these groups influence human behavior. Broadest of all social science fields and can be hard to define. A group of sub-fields that examine different dimensions of society.

Language

The study of the nature and structure of human speech and use of sounds and written symbols in organized patterns to express and communicate thoughts and feelings. Contemporary and classical languages form backbone of modern study of humanities.

What is social science?

The study of the social life and interactions and interrelationships of individuals and groups as members of society. Study of sociocultural aspects of humans in their collective organization. Concerned with all group activities: economic, social, political, religious, cultural.

What is a practice

The way things are actually done in the library

Primary humanities resources

These are original works published at the time of an event under study. Examples include manuscripts, works of art, memories, photographs, archival records, diaries, letters, etc

Scientific literature: Secondary literature

These sources interpret and analyze primary sources that summarize and synthesize knowledge for scientists or other interested users Based on primary literature and represent "repackaged" scientific knowledge, not new knowledge. Present scientific knowledge in more organized and convenient format and synthesized for easier access. Can include: Indexing and abstracting services Monographs and textbooks Popular journals and magazines Handbooks and manuals Review articles

Information Literacy in Academic Libraries

They play a role in the education mission of the school. Integrating information literacy skills into library instruction programs should be a fundamental consideration. How to find resource, when and why to use it, and application of reasoning and critical thinking on how to evaluate and analyze the final product.

Importance of library policies

They should provide written direction and guidelines for library staff and stakeholders. In a public library includes: Library staff and administration, library board and trustees, city council, provincial (state) department responsible for libraries, friends of the library, and vendors. Without the policy, inconsistent decisions can be made and lead to conflict between library service areas, patron complaints and legal challenges.

Government Document Acquisition - Weekly Checklist

This weekly publication is particularly valuable for identifying the most current publications available.

How to libraries use webpages?

To introduce and promote new services, define products, assist with online circulation functions, offer remote access to the catalogue, present personnel account information, outline activities for kids, teens, seniors, advertise programs.

How can history be divided?

Traditional classifications (sub-fields) of Arrangement by time period - ancient, medival, modern Arrangement by subject - political, diplomatic, economics Arrangement by geographical area - European, Latin American, Asian New classifications (sub-fields) of: Social history - historical evidence fromt he point of view of developing social trends and social norms and behaviors Cultural history - records and narrative descriptions of past knowledge, customs, and arts of a group of people Area studies - interdisciplinary fields of research and scholarship pertaining to particular geographical, national or cultural region

What are the types of library instruction?

Two categories: informal instruction and formal instruction Two factors distinguish formal from informal library instruction: The component of advance preparation by the instructor The nature of the encounter with the audience

Formal Instruction 2. Classroom Instruction

Two main formats: Lectures - Instructor presents a series of facts. Lecture is a way to inform and a means of "telling" Demonstrations - Instructors prepare a skill to be taught showing student what to do and how to do it. The expectation for both is that they will be quick-paced presenting stimulating material Good instructors should have ability to hold an audience's attention by having a good sense of humour, knowledge and compelling presentation.

Three concepts of scientific research to keep in the back of your mind

Understand what scientific research is Interpret the steps of scientific method recognize the 3 types of scientific literature

Performing arts

Use the artist's own body, face, and presence as a medium of communication Subfields: Music Theatre Speech Dance

Formal Instruction 5. Tutorials

Usually focus on how to use resources in a step-by-step format. Can be self-paced and in-print or online.

Search strategy for statistical research

Verify the following: The subject of your query Time frame The geographic area The source of the statistic How the statistics were collected Know when to stop. Do not give up early. You can also always contact data producers to see if they have additional statistical materials that aren't available on the internet.

Formal Instruction 3. Workshops

Workshops are seminars that emphasize interaction and exchange of information among a usually small number or participants