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Review of Module FourSearch StrategiesWhat have you learned?Get the real question before you devise a search strategy! It also helps to know the patron's source. Searching successfully requires an understanding of library subject headings used in the library catalog and in the different kinds of indexes used to locate reference resources -- indexes to whole books, parts of books, articles, or other literary works. Providing accurate and current information is critical, and looking up answers, even when we think we know, is always necessary. When the answers aren't in the library, know when and where to refer patrons or to use interlibrary loan. Throughout the process, keep track and keep your patron informed. Do the following to review:
Get the real question through a good reference interview, then
search for answers! Break down complex questions into manageable parts. Look for answers
in resources in many formats. Consider all possible index terms. Consider asking experts. All materials in your library are potential reference sources,
but the best place to start may be with the patron's original source. To develop a successful strategy for finding the best
resources, you must know the subject headings and terms to look under in the library
catalog, in the index of the reference resource, or in online sources. Indexes help you locate other resources or locate topics
within a resource. Books such as encyclopedias have indexes, there are indexes to magazine
articles (or poetry, plays, short stories), and the online catalog is an index to the
library's collection. Reliable sites that review and categorize helpful Web sites help you
locate appropriate sites. Do not give opinions even when you think you know. Always look
up the answers and cite your sources. Use appropriate search engines, and more than one if
necessary. Citing the source, print or Web, lets patrons determine for themselves the
accuracy and currency of the information. Your search is not complete until you can give the patron the
most current and accurate information. Your job is to meet the patron's information need in whatever
way works best. The best search strategy may be to ask experts in your library or
community. Your search should consider that patrons often have needs that
require the services of groups or agencies, for social or health problems as an example.
Your library may have a list, directory, or database of these agencies to be used for
Information and Referral. If the answer isn't in your library, and if Information &
Referral to another agency isn't needed, you may need to refer a patron or refer the
patron's question. Find out about your library's policy on referrals. Types of referral
include referral to another library, state level reference services, or interlibrary loan. Keep track while working on complicated searches in case you
are interrupted or the question needs to be referred later, or if others in your library
will be working on the question. Keep track of the number of transactions, according to
your library's practice. The reference interview does not end when the search begins.
Keep the patron informed throughout the search. Continue asking questions and end with a
follow-up question that lets you know the patron is completely satisfied. Get the patron's real question first, then search for answers. Know your library's resources, the resources available in other libraries, and when to refer. Keep the patron informed.
What to do when you finish the quiz...When you have completed the exercises and quiz for this module, take
them to your supervisor.
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Finding the best resources to fill a need requires good strategy. |
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Overview
Interview
People
Resources
Ethics
