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I had asked the question, "How do you decide if a book is reference?" Over 30 people responded so first of all, thank you for your gracious responses. I did not respond to all but I truly appreciate your expertise and detailed answers. I took the liberty of summarizing all the responses because most fell into the following catagories. The comments are some characteristics to consider when placing a book on the reference shelf. Here are my findings: FORMAT -contains an index -if it has an A-Z format of overviews, not detailed info -provides quick answers usually with the patron standing by the shelf -contains lists -is overly large or bulky -is an older book, still used often but irreplacable -purely entertainment but fragile, pull outs etc. -contains stats. USAGE -the book is always in high demand -the student would only need it for a short time or could easily copy the info -is usually replaced each year with an update (the older version goes to the regular shelf) -you would be without access to the same info if student checked it out, and you are looking for it often -classes do reports on certain topics often and that info needs to be accessible EXPENSE -it costs over $50 - it is part of a set that would be costly to replace SOME SUGGESTIONS: * If you have an extremely popular book have two copies, one for regular shelf, one for reference ( ex.: Silverstein poetry, Guinness.) * Consider teachers sometimes place limits on how many reference books can be used. * Check with State Dept. of Ed.(Some states have standards stating what the reference section should contain.) * Check the Follett or Wilson guides. * Keep the reference section small but up to date in comparison to the regular collection. * Create "dummies" for books you think would be of interest but you have to put in reference. * Good article about referencing in Jan/Feb "Book Report." * Consider the availability of info you have on a particular subject on the regular shelf; if you do not have much, consider reference. * Sometimes it matters where the money you bought a book came from; the contributer may set limits. * For class sets, or other books you don't want to go out for 2 weeks, you can make them overnight. Pick up after school, return before. THANK YOU EVER SO MUCH FOR ALL YOUR HELP!!!!ENJOY!!!!! -- DaShannon Lovin, Library Media Specialist Blanchester High School Blanchester Ohio mailto: lovind@blanchester.k12.oh.us =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-= All postings to LM_NET are protected under copyright law. To quit LM_NET (or set-reset NOMAIL or DIGEST), send email to: listserv@listserv.syr.edu In the message write EITHER: 1) SIGNOFF LM_NET 2) SET LM_NET NOMAIL or 3) SET LM_NET DIGEST 3) SET LM_NET MAIL * Please allow for confirmation from Listserv For LM_NET Help & Archives see: http://ericir.syr.edu/lm_net/ =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=