Page 53 - DLIS105_REFERENCE_SOURCES_AND_SERVICES

Reference Sources and Services

Notes Library signage serves a multitude of functions.

Signs:
• identify and locate the library
• advertise specific events and programmes presented by the library
• advertise available services and explain how to use them
• Create an image and encourage library users to feel welcome.
If your library has a good signage system, the new library user will feel much more comfortable.
They will know where to ask for assistance.

Self Assessment

Multiple Choice Question:
4. The basic aim of user education is to familiarize the user with:
(a) all books of library (b) tools and techniques of library
(c) all members of staff (d) all of these.

4.2.2 The Process of Library Orientation

Library orientation can be done in different ways. Your choice of a method will depend on different
variables, e.g., Does the library have a computer? Does the library have enough personnel to do informal
library orientation, or would formal orientation also be necessary? What target groups do you want
to reach?

Informal library orientation
Informal library orientation takes place when library workers do library orientation (or “user
orientation”-orientating them towards the library) continuously, on a one-to-one basis.
When a new library user joins the library, the library worker explains to the new user how the library
operates, e.g., the hours that the library is open, the number of items a user can borrow from the
library, what the rules are for using the library material, etc.
The library worker also takes the new library user on a guided tour through the library, showing
him/her all the different sections in the library. As they go through the library, the library worker
should explain to the library user how the material in the different sections is arranged. The library
worker can also show the library user sections that might be of particular interest to that user, e.g.,
books for newly literates, books on the user’s hobbies, where to find the Reference Section if needed,
where to find the newspapers and magazines, places to sit down for a quiet read, study facilities,
etc.
The library worker can also explain to the user how to find information in the library by either
using the card catalogue (if available), or the computer. Show the user how each operates, if the
user has time and is interested. It is very important that users know that they can return to you if
they need more help finding information in the catalogue or on the computer, or if they have any
other queries.
The different kinds of services offered by the library can also be promoted during this informal
library orientation session. Tell library users about services that might be of interest to them and
explain what they entail. Encourage them to ask questions, and respond to the best of your ability.
Take the opportunity to market the library and all its services to new library users. They will tell

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