Are Science, Engineering, and Medical Libraries Moving away from the Reference Desk? Results of a Survey of New Jersey Libraries

Abstract

An online survey, conducted in 2009, of New Jersey academic libraries' provides data for studying different types of reference models being used in a subset of libraries involved in science, engineering, medical, nursing, or allied health subject areas. Based on the results, the traditional library reference desk is still the primary mode for delivering reference services. However, some of these libraries are supplementing the traditional service with nontraditional forms of reference and are experimenting with a variety of virtual, Web 2.0 tools. Community colleges, private and state universities and private and state colleges participated in this study.

Keywords:

• reference models
• Brandeis model
• roving librarian
• information commons
• field librarian
• my librarian
• research consultation
• virtual reference
• Web 2.0
• online survey