Models of reference services in Australian academic libraries

Abstract

This article reports on a project which was undertaken in 2006 to investigate the current modes and methods for delivering reference services in Australian academic libraries. The project included a literature review to assist in providing a definition of reference services as well as a snapshot of statistics showing staff and patron numbers from 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000 and 2005. These statistics provide a context within which Australian academic libraries deliver reference services. A survey of the 40 Australian university libraries was also conducted. This article explores how the delivery and model of reference services in Australian academic libraries has changed in recent decades. It concludes with an assessment as to whether reference services will continue to form part of academic library services into the 21st century.