Introduction to Reference Work, Volume I: Basic Information Sources

by William A. Katz

This extensively revised and updated book provides a through introduction to the basic information sources found in most libraries. It covers a wide range of basic reference works found in almost any field of interest, from the humanities to the sciences.

Numerous special features are included to help both students and librarians use library sources more effectively. First, each section begins with a comprehensive introduction that explains how a particular reference source is used to answer questions and solve problems. Then, individual title in each reference form are compared extensively, giving the reader a clear set of guidelines for selecting the best information source in a given situation. A through introduction to reference services presents the problems and solutions frequently encountered, and a fine chapter on encyclopedias provide a broad overview of this diverse area.

In the fourth edition, greater coverage is given to computer-assisted reference services. The addition of several sections on automation and databases provides a clear non-technical examination of this most important development. The most up-to-date treatment of all reference sources is offered, and suggested readings at the end of each chapter have been updated to provide a current, easily accessible list of additional background material.

Genres: Nonfiction, Library Science, Reference, Textbooks

398 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1978

Reviews

[Velvetink · Rating 3 out of 5]

Library chuck out.(actually the edition I have is the 7th edition 1997)
(a rather serendipitous find - two textbooks I don't have to spend big bucks on!)

[BlasphemiousOne · Rating 1 out of 5]

what read? do you expect me to say what i think even though i didn't read it? seriously?

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

As I said, I am working on my Library Science degree so I might as well let everyone know what all is on my plate these days.

Katz is quite the entertaining writer for a textbook. He gives many examples of reference materials that libraries can use and should have available. The only problem with the book is that it is quite outdated as far as the Internet is concerned. Many of the reference items discussed in the book that are in book format, are now almost exculsively found online through library websites since most of the reference companies charge for these services.

It is nice to read a textbook that is both enlightening and entertaining. Katz writes in a conversational language that is easy to understand. He does not spend time looking through Thesaurus's looking for long words in order to make him sound intelligent. He lays out the material and explains it in direct, understandable English.

[Jeanne · Rating 2 out of 5]

The technologocial information in this book is dated. There isn't much point in trying the URL's because the majority of them do not work. Most annoying, however, is that this book needs major editing for distracting spelling and punctuation errors.

[John]

nonfiction,library science

[Hana Tandjung · Rating 4 out of 5]

Important Book!!!

[Lisa Lewis Robison]

I almost feel guilty for adding text books, but I am reading them. And they are about all I'm reading these days...

[Velvetink · Rating 3 out of 5]

Library chuck out. (actually the edition I have is the 7th edition 1997)

[Angela · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not as helpful as I would have hoped. Old-school approach to library services.

[Ron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very useful textbook for several classes in my MLS program.

[Jessi · Rating 5 out of 5]

An informative book written with humor and simplicity.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is so out of date! It's time for a new edition.