Reference Desk FAQ

One joy of being a reference librarian is the unique questions asked at the reference desk. I have been asked for a map of the nuclear power plants in the United States, the number of petals on roses, and once, someone asked me how to spell M.T.A. After some thought, I said, “M as in Metropolitan, T as in Transit, A as in Authority.”

Many questions are not unique, of course. We’re often asked – and happy to answer – familiar questions about library services, finding books, and using our computers. And sometimes a patron asks a question that comes from a misunderstanding about the library. I’m going to list some of the most frequent misunderstandings below with the intention of clearing them up and illustrating what reference librarians can do for our patrons. I want to be clear about what I mean: ask questions at the library. Even if you are unsure how to state it, the librarian will help you get to the bottom of what you need, whether it is research help, a reading recommendation, printing, or anything else.

“Do you work here?”

Was it my staff ID that tipped you off, or was it the fact that I am sitting behind a reference desk? This one cracks me up, but I do understand. I’m sure patrons who ask this know that I work here, and are really saying, “Hello, person. I’m going to ask you a question, but I want to be polite and I want to make sure it’s appropriate to ask.” Thank you, and it is always appropriate to ask a question at the reference desk! Some library patrons apologize for interrupting me, but please be assured that librarians at reference desks are there for you to interrupt. We might catch up on work between helping patrons, which is why we’re typing away or furrowing our brows at our computers, but while we are at the reference desk, we are there to help you. Picture Lucy from Peanuts at her “psychiatric help” booth. The librarian is IN.

“Do you have a list of good books?”

While each librarian will of course have books they think are good and bad, the library as a whole does not classify books this way. We want you to find books that you want to read. Sure, I can find a list of Pulitzer winners, the latest bestseller list, or someone’s “most anticipated books of the year” list. If that will help you find what you are looking for, let’s do it! Instead of telling you what you must read, I’ll start to ask you lots of questions. Do you want to catch up on classics, or on a certain topic? Are you looking for a page-turner? Do you want a book that will broaden your horizons, or one that helps you “escape?” What was a book you enjoyed recently? Do you want to read something else like that? We can help you find books with a certain theme or setting. We can help you find books for your child’s age-range and interests. We can help you find books based on your favorite author, or even TV show. I’m not the arbiter of good taste although, since you ask, I recently loved Happily: A Personal History, with Fairy Tales by Sabrina Orah Mark 9780593242476 and Second Star: And Other Reasons for Lingering by Philippe Delerm 9781953861542. Now, what have you enjoyed recently?

“I don’t have a library card. Is that ok?”

While we would love to sign you up for a library card, there is no requirement that you have one to be in our buildings, read our books, use our computers, or ask us questions. (You do need a library card to check out items.)

“I have a question, but it isn’t about books, is that ok?”

Reference librarians are here to help you with all your information needs. Need to find out how to file for a divorce? Want to put together a business plan? Wondering what the diagnosis you just received means, but you didn’t ask your doctor? We can’t give legal, financial, or medical advice, of course, but we can help you find the information. Our expertise isn’t in any of those things, but it’s in finding answers.

"..." (not asking us anything at all!)

If you’re unsure of how to look up a book, start a research project, sign up for a library program, find a piece of information, or find a place to plug in your laptop, please ask! Whether you’re curious or confused, librarians are here to help.

PS: Want to develop your own research skills? Daniel M. Russell’s The Joy of Search 9780262042871 is a fun place to start.

- by Corina, West Windsor Branch