Page 55 - DLIS105_REFERENCE_SOURCES_AND_SERVICES

Reference Sources and Services

Notes The library worker and library orientation

What qualities does the library worker need to have to do library orientation?
Personal qualities like enthusiasm, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, friendliness,
patience and experience is very necessary in working with our public.

We as library workers should always remember that we are there to provide a
service to the public-they are the reason why we are working in the library.
Although. we work with books, we serve people. And informed and satisfied
library users are happy library users. Let us strive to build positive relations with
our public, and to make our libraries play a part in creating a better tomorrow -
for all! With library orientation, you have a chance to build this relationship-don’t
blow it. Go for it.

Study the library orientation process of a new batch of students in your university.

Self Assessment

State whether the following statements are true or false:
5. A good library signage system helps to give library a Frendly and welcoming atmosphere.
6. The two types of library orientation are formal and informal.

4.3 Summary

• 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.
• Library orientation is of particular value to users who are coming to the library for the first
time.
• Library orientation makes library users aware of the library and the services it offers. Library
orientation educates people regarding general use of the library, e.g., when the library is open,
where specific items can be found, how to obtain the library material you need, etc. The purpose
of library instruction is to enable library users to obtain the information they need, and
circumvent possible problems.

4.4 Keywords

Orientation : Adjustment
Signage : Indication

4.5 Review Questions

1. Discuss user education programme.
2. Write the aims of library orientation.

50 LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY