Academic Libraries Glossary
128 terms total — 4 showing — Last updated 26 Oct 2026
Authority Control
The standardization and management of name headings, subject terms, and other access points in bibliographic records to ensure consistency across a catalog. Authority control links variant forms of names and terms to a single authorized form, improving discoverability and reducing confusion.
Reference desk
The physical or virtual service point where librarians provide research assistance, answer patron inquiries, and help us...
Reference Interview
A structured conversation between a librarian and a user to clarify information needs and determine the most appropriate...
Reference Service
The library function providing direct assistance to users in locating information, conducting research, answering factua...
Reference Services
The provision of information assistance and research support to library users through direct interaction, including answ...