Sample interview questions: Can you provide an example of a time when you had to assist a library patron with locating resources related to a specific historical period or event?
Sample answer:
Certainly! I recall a time when a library patron approached me seeking resources related to the American Civil War. The patron, a history enthusiast, was particularly interested in understanding the impact of the war on the local community.
To assist the patron, I began by asking specific questions to better understand their research needs. I inquired about their preferred format, such as books, articles, or primary sources, and whether they were looking for general information or specific aspects of the Civil War. This allowed me to tailor my assistance accordingly.
Firstly, I directed the patron to our library’s online catalog, where I demonstrated how to search for relevant books using keywords like “American Civil War,” “local history,” and the specific state or region they were interested in. I explained how to navigate the search results, including how to assess the availability of books and their location within the library.
Knowing that primary sources add depth to historical research, I suggested exploring our library’s digital collections, which included digitized newspapers, diaries, and letters from the Civil War era. I highlighted the importance of primary sources in gaining a firsthand perspective and understanding of the historical period.
Additionally, I recommended the patron visit our library’s reference section, where we housed specialized encyclopedias, atlases, and historical dictionaries. These resources would provide … Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/18_0_2/Reference%20Librarian