Abstract
This article examines how reference and information service (RIS) expertise is framed by professional associations in their professional competency documents. Taking a discourse analysis approach, we analyzed how professional associations articulate and frame expertise in RIS competency documents. Three discourse categories were identified: expertise as domain knowledge, expertise as technical knowledge, and expertise as performance. Through these discourses, RIS expertise was transformed into a checklist of behaviors that practitioners are expected to perform and excluded core areas of library and information studies theoretical knowledge, such as theories of information behaviors, from professional practice. Understanding how RIS expertise is framed will provide insights into the role that competency documents play in the professional practices of library and information professionals.
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