Getting it Right: The Evolution of Reference Collections
| Reference Type | Journal Article |
|---|---|
| Year of Publication |
2005
|
| Author | |
| Journal |
Reference Librarian
|
| Volume |
91/92
|
| Pagination |
5-22
|
| Language |
English
|
| Region | |
| Library Type | |
| Chronological Period | |
| Abstract |
Reference works were present in the earliest libraries; and their numbers have grown inexorably ever since. They consume an increasing share of library acquisitions budgets. This article traces the evolution of reference collections, drawing on experiences at the author's library. The author concludes that while reference questions will always be with us; it is perhaps less certain that they will always be answered from "reference works" in collections labeled "reference". |
| Annotation |
Starts with a discussion of genealogical lists, dictionaries and other "reference works" in ancient libraries, then focuses on reference in the United States since 1876, concluding with the ongoing transition to online reference resources. |
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