Being engaged in the 'one-to-one' process when teaching in the reference atmosphere is a helpful way to integrate much needed teaching elements into the library science field. Without more positive and informative interaction during the reference process the library is at risk of limiting possible patrons through the destruction of the appropriate atmosphere that is needed when people are in a learning environment.
Elmborg's mention of learning to ask questions rather than always supplying answers hit home as I often have a difficult time remembering this when I am assisting a patron with a dilemma or concern. It is much easier to supply a solution that it is to teach an individual to navigate the path to find the solution on their own. Guiding these questions based on the student's methods and learning style is another important part of this process. Asking questions blindly is just as unhelpful as not asking any at all. Through the process of asking relevant questions, the librarian can show that they are making the best possible effort to assist those who are in need of their reference skills.
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