Page 49 - DLIS006_INFORMATION SOURCES AND SERVICES

Information Sources and Services

Notes F. Thinking Skills
1. Problem Solving
cannot physically locate titles requested by users. They re-check their databases to
confirm the status of requested titles and place holds. If users require titles
immediately, they check availability at other locations and request inter-library
loans.
receive last minute cancellations for scheduled programs.

Example: When guest lecturers cancel on short notice, librarians determine if the lecturers
can be rescheduled, if alternate guest presenters are available and, if not, offer apologies when
cancelling the lectures.
cannot complete assigned tasks due to disruptions.

Example: When dissatisfied users constantly complain about long waits for computer
access, librarians create and post sign up sheets, monitor the appropriate use of computers and
suggest users access computers on other floors.
When users are being too noisy, they ask them to respect library rules and be
quieter. They may ask unruly users to leave.

are unable to complete job tasks due to process and equipment failures.

Example: When users arrive to collect requested resources, librarians may find that
there are no records of the requests. They identify causes such as data entry errors and resolve
them by teaching the users the proper processes to follow.
When equipment fails they carry out basic diagnostic and repair procedures found
in service manuals and contact information technology departments for additional
assistance.
2. Decision Making

decide which library programs to offer. They consider the cost of new and existing
programs and the staff time needed for each. They review attendance data from
programs operated in the past.

choose to repair, replace and cull library resources such as books and videotapes.
They review circulation histories, publication dates, reprint availabilities and
numbers of titles by the same authors. They check to see if newer editions are
available.

choose titles to add to collections. They consider summaries in publishers’ catalogues,
consult colleagues and question users’ about their interests .They consider existing
titles in their collections, the value of new acquisitions for library users and the
demographics of their library communities. They analyze circulation data for similar
titles as indicators of potential usage demand.

3. Critical Thinking
Evaluate performance of library assistants, technicians, clerks and volunteers. They
review employment records for data on shifts worked and sick days taken. They
observe assistants’ interactions with library users. They read and listen to users’
comments about assistants, technicians, clerks and volunteers.

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