Tracking the changes: the impact of end-user searching on the reference librarian's role

Abstract

This essay tracks the changes that have occurred in the reference librarian's role since the introduction of end-user searching in the 1970s. It explores reference librarians perceptions of end-user searching as being either a threat or benefit to academic reference services. Background information is provided on the traditional role of the reference librarian, and the history of end-user searching. Themes and issues are then introduced chronologically as they relate to the nature and scope of the 1980s which includes CD-ROMs and the wider acceptance of information technology, and the 1990s which includes the empowerment of end-users and CD-ROM networking. The subject discipline of medicine and health science is used to illustrate the impact of end-user searching on a reference librarian's role. This discipline is chosen to provide examples of the debate for and against the use of an intermediary. The emergence of a 'new' role for the reference librarian is discussed, as are projections for the future.