Just discovered a neat article with practical ref desk tips for GAAs and other new reference providers. On Kimberley’s suggestion, I’m posting to the blog as well as the GAA list. The citation is:
Spencer, D. B., et. al., Striving for Success: Practical Advice for Reference Graduate Assistants (and Other New Reference Providers). The Southeastern Librarian v. 53 no. 1 (Spring 2005) p. 26-34 (available online)
One of the tips I liked:
Make a list of “magic” words:
GAAs and new librarians sometimes “feel like magicians trying to pull information out of a hat, particularly when searching OPACs for specific types of information such as primary sources, literary criticism, pictures, or speeches.” Compile a list of these “magic words” and synonyms that can be used as keywords to get you to the appropriate subject headings.
For example:
I’d also add:
Anyone else? Add your comments here – I’ll compile them and make a list for the desk.