Ready reference is essentially service that supplies simple answers to simple questions.  For example:

• Does the library have this book (title provided)?
• How do I get to the full text of this e-book (patron has the catalog record open and just needs to know how to proceed)?
• Can someone explain how to find this book (call number provided)?
• What database should I use for articles on psychology (following the Articles →Which Index or Database Should I Use?)

But note that a seemingly simple question may actually hide a deeper or more complex problem that the student is addressing.  See the column to the right.

In general, if the question involves more that locating a specific item, showing basic features of the catalog or database, or providing information about some aspect of library operations, you should consider bringing in a reference librarian.

Don't be afraid to probe a bit and ask questions to ensure you understand what the person is really asking. If the help they need is beyond what you've been trained to give then pass them on to someone at Circulation or a reference librarian.

Reference librarians know that a student's initial (simple) question may not reveal what the student actually wants.

For example, the student may ask, "Where are the books about Shakespeare?" but actually need to do an analysis of the character Cordelia in King Lear.  "Can you show me how to find articles on psychology," may be a starting point for a student's need to find a experimentally based article on the use of Lithium in bipolar disorder.

How can you know when a deeper question is being hidden by a simple one? The answer is that you don't know in most cases.  Here are some things you can ask to determine whether or not this is ready reference or really needs a reference librarian to be brought in:

• Is this an assignment for (guess at a subject discipline)?
• Do you have a copy of your assignment (or can you tell me what the assignment is asking you to do?)
• How many resources do you need?  Books? Articles? etc.

Here is an example:

Student: Can you tell me where the Bible commentaries are?

You: Is this for a course in New Testament?

Student: "Yes, it's Prof. ------'s course in ------.

You: What does Prof. ----- actually want you to do?

Student: I have to write an exposition of Mark 9: 1-13.  It needs 5 commentaries and 2 journal articles, and I have to interact with ancient culture.

You: I think a reference librarian could help you do a lot more than just find a few commentaries.  Would you like me to connect you with one of our librarians?

Student: Yes, thanks.  I'm really worried about this project and I sure could use the help.