Reference Work

Abstract

In doing reference work, reference librarians direct, instruct, teach, assist, advise, and answer questions for patrons. In a catch-all, reference work encompasses reference librarians connecting patrons with resources, referrals, and answers to any library-related or research request. In academic law libraries, most reference questions are uniquely focused on legal resources, leading reference work to generally be performed by librarians with law degrees and library science degrees.

In this chapter, we will discuss reference work in academic law libraries in the following areas: the basics of reference services, including the reference interview; typical and difficult reference questions; and unique reference services for specific patrons (law students, law faculty, other academic community members, and the public).

Keywords: law librarianship, reference, faculty services, law students, law faculty, legislative history, foreign and international law