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Basic Library Techniques-Reference ends on a rousing note!
October 21st & 28th at Stevens Memorial Library, North Andover

To the tune of a tinny version of "pomp & circumstances," played on a NMRLS laptop, thirty-eight attendees "graduated" from the two-day Basic Library Techniques-Reference and received their BLT completion certificates. This was the largest BLT class NMRLS has experienced in three years! Attendees participated in two days worth of lectures as well as completing reference homework between the two classes.

The primary instructors were Eleanor Sathan, Regional Reference Librarian, and Glenda Schaake, Coordinator of Reference Services, both of Memorial Hall Library, Andover. Using their own experience and expertise, Glenda and Eleanor reviewed "core" reference resources, selection criteria for reference books and websites, and reference interview techniques. The attendees got to put these interview techniques into practice on their fellow classmates in an in-class exercise. NMRLS staff provided an overview of the Regional databases, reference for youth services, and reference policies and ethics.

The homework consisted of 10 reference questions based on the real-life experience of Eleanor Sathan, who wrote and researched the questions. The attendees thoroughly researched all the questions with a professionalism that impressed the workshop instructors and led to a lively and informative discussion at the beginning of day two of the workshop. Some of the questions answered include the following:

  • What is the name of the publication of the Domino Players Association of America?
  • Why do men's clothing button left over right and women's clothing button right over left?
  • How can I get a passport?
  • What is the Maine personal tax rate for a married individual who makes $49,000/year?

If you are interested in search strategies, or just the answers, contact Eleanor Sathan, Regional Reference Librarian at the Regional Reference Center, Memorial Hall Library, Andover (978-623-8401 x17 / esathan@mhl.org / www.mhl.org/region).