New service vision statement (approved 4/16/09 by RISG)
This is a group effort to reconsider the reference vision of 2002. We submitted the Reference Vision Progress Report to Steve Gass on Jan. 21, 2009. A group has now convened to develop a new reference vision, more in keeping with current times.
Goals for our group: Talk hypothetically about what reference is and what it means. Think about the big picture of reference in libraries and where it is going, but don't impose any organizational structure on the big picture. Don't define how to implement the vision until after there are decisions about the future state of the Libraries. Write up something that we can either propose from RISG as a new vision, if possible, or can simply include on the wiki for the visioning process so that reference is a service that is considered in the plan for a future state.
Members of Ref Vision 2009 TF: Remlee Green, Stephanie Hartman, Bill Helman, Lisa Horowitz (convenor), Heather McCann, Anita Perkins
Notes for new group to keep in mind when creating reference vision 2009:
- Capture the sense of flexibility, adaptability, and nimbleness
- Capture the entrepreneurial approach to service
- Capture the fundamental unpredictability of services and technologies (e.g., citation management tools and data services). Acknowledge that there is unpredictability but that we are adaptable.
- 2006 photo diaries study -- use these results to see the context of self-sufficiency. Bring that context into the vision. All data is in DSpace.
- Users first go to a "trusted resource." Use this idea of trust.
- Consider results of Angie's work with 3.091.
- Use benchmarks also as part of vision.
- Refer to new mission and desired future vision documents for advice also.
- Lisa suggests also taking a look at RUSA's definition of reference.
- Consider the 2008 Library Services Survey results
2002 vision:
The MIT Libraries will provide a reference environment that enables user self-sufficiency and easy access to information staff. Library space, both physical and virtual, will be intuitive. It will facilitate independent discovery and provide quick connectivity to appropriate experts when needed. The availability of real-time assistance will be extended to better meet community needs. Staff will be well trained in customer service, library policies and procedures, and a core set of information tools and resources. A robust referral system will provide the timely linkage of users to subject and technical experts, and ensure necessary follow-up and assessment.