Department/Program
Claremont Colleges Library
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-18-2016
Abstract
Reference services are at a cross-roads. While many academic libraries continue to offer reference services from behind a desk, others are moving to roving and embedded reference models. Meanwhile, libraries are also engaged in the development of collaborative learning spaces—often rich with technology, such as makerspaces and learning labs—but these spaces are often removed from the reference services environment. Beta spaces are another type of collaborative environment used in both public and academic libraries with the potential to infuse energy into the reference space and emphasize research support through experimentation, collaboration, and user contribution. Beta spaces are user-oriented environments with a focus on innovation and experimentation, much like a makerspace but with an emphasis on ideas over technology. A beta space model for reference services would enhance opportunities for active learning, help make the research process visible and tangible, and effectively demonstrate the value of reference.
Rights Information
© 2016 Madelynn Dickerson
Recommended Citation
Dickerson, M. (2016). Beta Spaces as a Model for Recontextualizing Reference Services in Libraries. In The Library With The Lead Pipe. Retrieved from http://www.inthelibrarywiththeleadpipe.org/2016/reference-as-beta-space/
