Information services include circulation, reference, reader’s advisory, and technology assistance and instruction. Circulation activities may include library card registration, check-out and check-in of materials, management of patron accounts, hold placement, and interlibrary loan. Reference services primarily focus on answering informational questions, whether for school research projects, personal interest, or daily life needs. Reader’s advisory encourages the use of collections for recreational purposes, including the suggestion of books and other media through one-on-one conversations, booklists, displays, and other means. Technology assistance and instruction may range from basic internet access, to device assistance, to computer classes, to high-tech digital media labs. These activities may be performed in separate departments or provided at a variety of service points using a range of service models.
In addition, information services may include referral to social service agencies, which, for some libraries, may mean branching into social work services. It may also include facilitation of the use of library spaces like meeting and study rooms and maker spaces. Libraries may opt to provide other services, such as notary, passport applications, or license plate renewal.
Appendices:
Suggested Content for a Reference & Reader's Advisory Policy
Reference & Reader’s Advisory Policy - Decatur Public Library
Suggested Content for a Circulation Policy
Circulation Policy - Joliet Public Library
iREAD Summer Reading Programs
Latest Library JobLine Listings
