Reference Department Service

Strozier Library Reference and Research Services exist to support the instructional, research and service programs of the Florida State University. Reference services, generally, are those designed to teach patrons to use the library, find materials, and interpret the materials that they find. Our primary user groups are students, faculty and staff of the Florida State University affiliates of other public universities in the State of Florida the general public

I. The public service objectives of the Reference Department staff are:

1. to make sure that each library user is able to make the best use possible of the information resources provided by the Libraries by answering queries and providing research guidance at the Reference Desk, through electronic contacts, by appointment, and in classroom settings.
2. to provide formal and informal instruction on the efficient use of the library and all of its resources.
3. to select, acquire, and maintain a general reference collection that supports the research of our users and to organize the collection for maximum ease of use.

II. Reference service is provided to those patrons who come to the library and to those who telephone, write, or contact the library electronically. All questions, whether for general information or for reference, are treated seriously and answered pleasantly, efficiently, impartially, and non-judgmentally.

No question is to be considered so complex that no assistance is given. Extensive, exhaustive research for patrons is not always possible, but may be undertaken by appointment at the discretion of the librarian. When information is not available locally, appropriate referrals will be made.

Information contacts with users are treated with complete confidentiality.

III. Typical reference services provided include, but are not limited to:

• research assistance
• guidance with library use strategies
• assistance in choosing appropriate indexes and databases
• provision of factual information
• explanation of electronic resources and their uses instruction
• in the operation of information tools counseling on determining
• appropriateness of web sites
• computer support for access of library databases

IV. Print materials in the Reference collection are collected and maintained to provide information to all users whenever the library is open and do not circulate.

June 24, 2002

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