Reference and Information Services Section
The Reference and Information Service section is responsible for the following library functions;
- Provision of personal assistance to library users on the use of the library.
- Assisting library patrons to search for information both within and outside the library.
- Management of reference collections.
- Question and Answer Service (QAS).
- Library research and evaluation activities
The following shall be the guidelines for the Reference and information services section;
- Every reference question shall be regarded as valid and all questions shall be given equal
- Every effort shall be made to complete each reference transaction successfully, consulting the right sources and expertise.
- Patrons shall be served on first come, first served basis.
- Services to patrons shall take precedence over other duties.
- Staff shall offer to schedule an appointment with patrons if extensive research is needed: The Library shall pass on to patrons any costs incurred while obtaining information for a patron on the internet or outside the library system.
- Patrons shall be notified when their materials are ready for collection.
Reference Patrons’ Privacy
- Library staff shall maintain a high level of respect for the confidentiality of patrons and questions that they ask.
- Data that is collected in the course of reference services shall not be shared outside the C
- Information about the types of questions asked, as well as the content responses to questions may be retained for “Frequently Asked Questions”.