Research Consultations and Co-Location Adds Value to the Reference & Information Services and Instruction Continuum: Towards to Holistic Learning Experience at the Singapore Management University Library

Abstract

Research Librarians at the Li Ka Shing Library perform multifunctional roles in the areas of collection, information, learning, research and outreach. In this presentation, participants will learn more about the information and learning roles where the former includes the provision of reference and information services and the latter involves the design, development and delivery of instruction and information literacy programmes as part of their student and faculty engagement strategy. They will also learn more about the library’s grounded service offering through a learning roadmap for every student which encompasses the following components: Matriculation [Orientation]> In Class Instruction [Information Literacy]> Research Consultations [Small Group Facilitation]> Thematic Training [Topical Knowledge]. In mid-2014, a library space transformation project became a surprise catalyst for change management impacting the Reference and Information Service (R&IS) where a new service model of a single desk replaced the separate information desks. This also warranted the team to start thinking about an enhanced service offering given the declining number of enquiries and upskilling of the para-professionals. Research Librarians were doing more in class instruction and information literacy sessions for courses and the amount of Research Consultations began to increase as a result. The presenter will share a personal case study how he curates