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Reference training

Reference Training Modules

Welcome to the Reference Training Modules! These modules will introduce you to reference techniques in general as well as resources and policies specific to Georgia State University's Library.

The following links may be helpful for using the circulation system and learning about finding books on the shelf using Library of Congress call numbers. They are not part of the reference training modules, but are here for your convenience.

Overview

Unit 1 Getting Started and Types of Questions 

  • How to use interface
  • Importance of Reference Work / how it fits with library mission
  • Directional, Technology and Reference Questions
  • LibWizard Unit 1 - This is the tutorial version of this unit. (May be out of date.)
  • Manager's Guide to Unit 1

Unit 2 Introduction to Reference 

  • What's an information need?
  • Misconceptions that may cause the patron to not ask for what they need.
  • Misconceptions common among some student groups
  • Steps in the Reference Process
  • LibWizard Unit 2
  • Manager's Guide to Unit 2

Unit 3 Customer Service & Approachability  

Unit 4 Reference Interview  

Unit 5 Research Tools 

A. Catalog: LibWizard 5A Catalog 

B. Databases: LibWizard 5b Databases

C. Journals search (There is no LibWizard version of 5C)

  • Searching for a journal by title.
  • How to find an article when given the citation.

Unit 6 Reference as Instruction 

Unit 7 Professional Ethics

Unit 8 Keeping Current and Statistics 

Unit 9  Emergencies and Behavior Issues