The Reality of Reference: Responsibilities and Competencies for Current Reference Librarians

Abstract

Academic reference services face great challenges as they cope with the pace of technological change, competition from other information service providers, and tight budgets. In fact, some critics suggest that reference services are no longer relevant or necessary as more information moves online. This study examines a nationwide survey that reveals that reference librarians are indeed engaged in a wide variety of activities requiring a range of competencies and skills. Results of this study suggest that reference services are not dying but are evolving, with most academic reference librarians engaged in multifunction positions involving both traditional and nontraditional reference activities.