Janet Murray and Cindy Tschernitz
This paper seeks to examine the impact of greater access to electronic information, both free and fee‐based, on reference enquiries.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper seeks to examine the impact of greater access to electronic information, both free and fee‐based, on reference enquiries.
Design/methodology/approach
The research methodology included an extensive literature review and interviews with reference services librarians both in Australia and overseas.
Findings
The assumption that greater internet access and use equal a decline in public and state library reference enquiries is not proven.
Originality/value
The paper concludes with a summary of trends, predictions and scenarios of usage of state and public library reference services in an increasingly electronic age, paying special attention and emphasis to the Australian environment.