During the summer of 2008, staff changes at the Seattle Pacific University Library - where I work - led to an open reference desk shift. I was asked to fill in and I accepted, knowing that this was a golden opportunity to gain practical experience in reference. For the last two months of summer break, Fall Quarter 2008 and Winter Quarter 2009, I staffed the reference desk for six hours per week. I also took two eight-hour weekend shifts per quarter, totaling approximately 70 reference hours per quarter.


 Even though I first received an overview of SPU reference desk procedures and training about specific portions of the reference collection, I was still nervous the first few times I staffed the reference desk, even with a more experienced librarian there to help. However, I gradually became more confident. By the middle of Fall Quarter, I was comfortable at the desk and able to answer most questions without consulting my colleagues. Having the librarians available to help me if I got a question I could not answer was invaluable. I found that I also used difference concepts I had learned in classes to help patrons. The "reference interview" model that I learned in LIS 520 and the different learning styles that I learned about in LIS 560 gave me tools to connect with users and to help them find what they needed. Sitting in on information literacy sessions at the library during Fall Quarter also provided further context for many of the reference questions I encountered.

 My reference desk duty gave me experience in working with many different reference materials, both print and digital. I also gained real-world experience in being part of a team. I learned the importance of communicating with other team members about things like shift changes and common reference questions. I have confidence now in my ability to work successfully with a team and also to help patrons fill their information needs.