Supplying information is not the end of the reference transaction. We are also responsible for determining if the student is satisfied with the results of the search, and referring them to other sources if necessary.
What we can do:
- We ask the student if his/her questions have been completely answered.
- We encourage the student to return if he/she has further questions by making a statement such as “If you don’t find what you are looking for, or need additional information, please come back and we’ll try something else.”
- We consult with other staff members or experts in the field when additional subject expertise is needed.
- We make the student aware of other available reference pathways (e-mail, phone, AskAway).
