This 2-credit required course for LIS undergraduate students will introduce you to the world of reference and information services, a core function that essentially defines the modern libraries & information institutions.

The design of this course is based on several emerging philosophies of librarianship. First, the idea of evidence-based librarianship calls for the integration of research and practice; it emphasizes services implementation & decision making based on solid research findings. Second, the ideas of “user-oriented services,” “library as a place,” and “blended librarianship” together advocate a “design” approach in which library environment and services are carefully planned from library users’ perspectives in order to enhance their use experiences and maximize customer satisfaction. Skills and sensitivity are essential for achieving the goals. Finally, the ideas of collaborative learning and team librarianship emphasize the importance of group work and the sharing of information and ideas. As such, you are required to actively participate in group based classroom activities. Some assignments are designed to reinforce information exchange and collaboration. Outside the class you are also encouraged to form voluntary study groups in order to help each other survive the heavy workloads, maximize learning gains, and develop good partnerships with your classmates. In summary, the motto of this class would be: “Research, Sensitivity, & Collaboration.”