Thumbs up: a new definition of reference
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this editorial is to examine the changing nature of the role of reference services, and to work towards a new definition of the term “reference”.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper assesses the current situation and looks forward to a new definition of “reference”.
Findings
The paper finds that a new definition of “reference” holds great promise.
Originality/value
A definition of “reference” that takes into account the activities of a twenty‐first century reference librarian will serve to advance reference services and, by so doing, will both impact reference librarians' future and preserve and renew the value of reference librarianship.
Keywords
Citation
Mitchell, E. and Barbara Watstein, S. (2008), "Thumbs up: a new definition of reference", Reference Services Review, Vol. 36 No. 1, pp. 5-6. https://doi.org/10.1108/00907320810851989
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited