The all-in-one “Reference reference” you’ve been waiting for, this invaluable book offers a concise introduction to reference sources and services for a variety of readers, from library staff members who are asked to work in the reference department to managers and others who wish to familiarize themselves with this important area of librarianship. Written in an accessible style and designed for everyday use, it presents an overview of the basic tools and techniques of reference work, including “Reference Services,” a section addressing such important topics as telephone reference, the reference interview, and electronic reference “Reference Sources,” chapters which focus on types of reference tools, including encyclopedias, dictionaries, directories, handbooks, and almanacs.

Includes index.

Reference sources -- Encyclopedias -- Websites -- Dictionaries -- Almanacs, handbooks, and yearbooks -- Indexes -- Directories -- Geographical sources -- Biographical sources -- Statistical sources -- Reference services -- The reference interview -- Reference service in person -- Telephone reference service -- Online reference service -- Reference service to children and young adults -- Reference service in special subjects -- Reference policies -- Reference standards -- Reference evaluation -- Appendix. ALA documents.