Spring Sessions Part II: Running Reference, May 21

The METRO Reference and Instruction Meetup will get together twice this spring: Library Lesson Lab on Wednesday, May 16 and Running Reference on Monday, May 21. Join us for both of these lively and fast-paced sessions!

Meetup Part II: Running Reference
Monday, May 21

We are seeking librarians to facilitate/model quick (10-15 minute) Lightning Talks on the behind the scenes work of running Reference well.

Running Reference - With or without slides/handouts, we are seeking to stimulate discussion on the multiple functions of steering a successful reference desk. We are seeking strategies and examples for successful Reference practice.

Possible considerations:
Staff training and professional development
-->How do you provide reference staff with up-to-date information?
-->What are some strategies to adequately train and transfer knowledge at the desk?

Scheduling and Staffing
-->How is the desk staffed? What tools and strategies help to address staffing challenges?
-->Are highly trained students or paraprofessionals able to provide reference or just librarians?

Reference Consultations
-->What workflows are needed to support longer one-on-one private meetings with students?

The Reference Desk Environment
-->What does your reference desk look like and what are some successes in furnishings that allow for optimal reference service? Hand-outs, swivel monitors, printer? A comfy couch?
-->How do we attend to the emotional environment at the desk?

Software and Assessment
-->How do we meaningfully assess reference both quantitatively and qualitatively?
-->Can we tie reference to the ACRL framework?
-->What software is used to track reference questions and how is it used by staff?

Submit your proposal with this Google form: http://bit.ly/metrorunningreference
Deadline for submission: Monday, May 14