GLC Reference Services and Research Support 3

Question 1

What is 'virtual reference service' (also called digital reference or chat reference)?

Accepted Answer

The provision of reference assistance through online channels such as chat, email, or text messaging

Answer

Virtual reference service extends library reference assistance beyond physical walls by using digital communication channels—chat, email, text, or video—to connect patrons with librarians remotely.

Question 2

What does 'roving reference' involve in a library setting?

Accepted Answer

A librarian moving proactively through the library to offer assistance rather than waiting at a desk

Answer

Roving reference involves librarians leaving the reference desk and actively approaching patrons throughout the library to offer proactive assistance, making service more accessible and approachable.

Question 3

When a patron's research question exceeds a librarian's expertise, what is the most professionally appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Refer the patron to a subject specialist or another appropriate resource while remaining helpful

Answer

Professional reference practice requires honesty about the limits of one's knowledge; referring patrons to subject specialists or other resources ensures their needs are met while maintaining professional integrity.

Question 4

What is the primary goal of 'embedded librarianship'?

Accepted Answer

Placing librarians physically within academic departments, classrooms, or community organizations to integrate library services into users' workflows

Answer

Embedded librarianship moves the librarian out of the traditional library space and into the communities they serve—classrooms, labs, or departments—to provide contextually relevant research support.

Question 5

Which federal program provides free public access to government science and technology research through an online portal?

Accepted Answer

Science.gov / OSTI.GOV

Answer

Science.gov and OSTI.GOV (Office of Scientific and Technical Information) are federal portals that provide free access to U.S. government-funded scientific and technical research results.

(GLC) Georgia Librarian Certification Practice Test

(GLC) Georgia Librarian Certification Practice Test

GLC Reference Services and Research Support 3