Reference
Reference services continue to evolve with changing patron needs and with varied information resources and formats. Libraries continue to provide unparalleled reference using traditional and emerging tools, formats and resources. Explore topics such as answering health and legal questions, reaching out beyond the reference desk, and innovations in digital or virtual reference.
Self-paced courses and webinar recordings on this topic are freely available in the WebJunction Course Catalog.
Photo: Austin Kleon, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Most Recently Added
Why Wikipedia Matters for Health and Medical Information
Webinar / Last Modified: 15 August 2019
In this webinar learn about the upcoming online training program Wikipedia + Libraries: Health and Medical Information.
Wikipedia + Libraries: Health and Medical Information
News / Last Modified: 05 August 2019
WebJunction and the National Network of Libraries of Medicine will present a free, online course for public library staff about health and medical information on Wikipedia.
When public library staff assist patrons seeking information ...
Tackling Patrons' Legal Questions
Document / Last Modified: 18 July 2019
Dealing with library patrons' legal questions can be challenging. Here are some tips and resources for helping you, and your patrons.
My Experience as a Law Librarian
Document / Last Modified: 31 May 2019
A former academic and public librarian offers some tips for legal research and suggests some favorite online legal resources.
Is That Real? A Crash Course in Verifying Online Content
Webinar / Last Modified: 22 May 2019
In this webinar with the News Literacy Project, learn about tools and skills needed to verify the authenticity of user-generated content, and explore ways to share this information with teen and adult patrons.
Crowdsourcing Alternatives to "There Are No Stupid Questions"
News / Last Modified: 09 May 2019
Libraries are a place for finding answers, but first come the questions. Whether working at the reference desk or teaching a class, you've likely had more than a handful of patrons approach you to say, "I have a stupid question." My respons...
When I’m 64: Financial Literacy Resources for Those Nearing and in Retirement
Webinar / Last Modified: 19 February 2019
This webinar will explore free financial literacy resources for older adults, provided by the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection, and share library programming ideas for patrons related to financial planning and fraud protection.
"How Do I Apply to College?" Helping Patrons Meet Their Higher Education Goals
Webinar / Last Modified: 28 June 2018
A webinar designed to enhance library reference services in support of all types of college-bound students.
Libraries Help Patrons Become Financially Empowered Consumers
Webinar / Last Modified: 14 June 2018
In this webinar, learn about the financial education resources you can use with your patrons, made available by the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau.
Wikipedian in Residence Stops By
News / Last Modified: 22 May 2018
Wikipedia has been a lively subject of debate ever since it hit the public space, and as the tool has grown and adapted, the discussion has evolved from whether it should be used at all to how it can be used more effectively.
Max Klein, a...
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