However, the title (which is really Introduction to Reference Work in the Digital Age) is a tad deceiving, in that I expected a bit more discussion of traditional reference services and their integration with digital elements. Even though we are clearly moving more deeply into digital resources in nearly all aspects of reference work, we still are more in a transitional period, and I expect that it will still be some years before we have a truly digital reference librarianship. This is likely to remain the case until e-book resources and technology are able to overcome paper entirely, which I view as still being quite some years off, although we can start to see the outline of that era developing.

That caveat aside, Janes' book is a quick read, doesn't overload with details or technical data, and is thus an excellent overview for reference librarians and library administrators.


A Smart, Honest, and Concise Look at New Reference   January 2, 2007
 2 out of 2 found this review helpful

This book was required for my Reference course, and thank goodness it was! Written in an informal, easy-to-read, no-nonsense tone, Joseph Janes (of Internet Public Library fame) looks at how the digital world has begun to change the nature of reference services. Although it's been out for a few years and is a little bit outdated, almost all of the concepts and technologies discussed are relevant and still in play. Janes will walk you through the ways in which reference work is being reconceived, repackaged, and assessed -- asking just as many questions as he answers about where we're headed and how to go get there. The book balances concise theory with practical discussions, making it conceptual but immediately applicable at the same time. And the best part? It's an enjoyable, fast read. Probably a must for anyone who intends to become a librarian.


Not bad, not bad.   June 30, 2006
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

Smart and written in a casual tone. Definitely not overly didactic and easily gets his points across.