Reinventing your Reference Collection

Abstract

School libraries are changing constantly due to technological and organizational changes. One of the areas of the library most affected by change is the print reference collection. This presentation will provide an overview of the changing nature of the reference collection in the school library and a justification for maintaining a reference collection in a 21st century library. A significant part of the presentation will include resources, ideas, and strategies for a reference collection development plan. The presentation will specifically address important decision points for collection development, including selection and de-selection of print resources, electronic reference resources, virtual reference, and integrating the reference collection into an information inquiry program.