Top 10 Questions for Reference Assistant Interview

1. What are the key responsibilities of a Reference Assistant?

• Providing research and reference services to library patrons
• Answering reference questions in person, by phone, email, and live chat
• Developing and maintaining reference collections
• Providing instruction on library resources and services
• Working with other library staff to provide seamless reference services

2. What are the essential skills and qualifications for a Reference Assistant?

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in library science or a related field
• 1-2 years of experience working in a library or information center

Skills

• Excellent research and reference skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in using library databases and other research tools
• Knowledge of library resources and services

3. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest library trends and technologies?

• Reading library journals and blogs
• Attending library conferences and workshops
• Taking online courses
• Participating in professional organizations
• Networking with other librarians

4. What are some of the challenges you have faced as a Reference Assistant?

• Answering difficult reference questions
• Dealing with patrons who are frustrated or angry
• Keeping up with the latest library trends and technologies
• Working long hours
• Balancing multiple tasks

5. What are your strengths as a Reference Assistant?

• Excellent research and reference skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in using library databases and other research tools
• Knowledge of library resources and services

6. What are your weaknesses as a Reference Assistant?

• I am sometimes too detail-oriented
• I can be a bit of a perfectionist
• I sometimes have difficulty saying no to requests
• I can be a bit of a workaholic
• I am not always the most organized person

7. Why are you interested in this position?

• I am passionate about helping people find the information they need
• I am excited about the opportunity to work with a team of dedicated librarians
• I am confident that my skills and experience would be a valuable asset to your library
• I am eager to learn and grow as a reference librarian
• I am committed to providing excellent customer service

8. What are your salary expectations?

This is a difficult question to answer, as salary expectations can vary depending on a number of factors, including experience, education, and location. However, I am confident that my skills and experience are commensurate with the salary range for this position.

9. Are you available to work evenings and weekends?

Yes, I am available to work evenings and weekends.

10. Do you have any questions for me?

I do have a few questions:

• What is the library’s mission and vision?
• What are the library’s strategic priorities?
• What is the library’s organizational structure?
• What are the library’s biggest challenges?
• What are the library’s biggest opportunities?

Reference Assistants are responsible for providing exceptional assistance to library patrons and researchers by providing access to reference materials and research databases.

1. Providing Reference Services

Providing reference services is one of the key responsibilities of Reference Assistants. This includes answering reference questions, conducting literature searches, and providing research guidance.

• Answer reference questions from patrons via phone, email, chat, or in person.
• Conduct literature searches to locate relevant materials for patrons.
• Provide research guidance to patrons, helping them develop research strategies and identify appropriate resources.

2. Assisting with Library Resources

Reference Assistants also assist patrons with using library resources. This includes helping them find books, articles, and other materials in the library’s collection.

• Help patrons locate books, articles, and other materials in the library’s collection.
• Provide instruction on how to use the library’s catalog and other research tools.
• Assist patrons with accessing online resources and databases.

3. Providing Instruction and Training

Reference Assistants may also provide instruction and training to patrons and staff. This can include teaching classes on how to use the library’s resources or conducting workshops on research methods.

• Teach classes on how to use the library’s resources.
• Conduct workshops on research methods.
• Provide training to library staff on new resources and services.

4. Other Duties

In addition to the above responsibilities, Reference Assistants may also perform other duties, such as:

• Answering phones and emails.
• Maintaining the reference collection.
• Working at the circulation desk.

Preparing for a Reference Assistant interview can help you impress the hiring manager and land the job. Here are a few tips:

1. Research the Library and the Position

Before your interview, take some time to research the library and the specific position you are applying for. This will help you understand the library’s mission and values, as well as the specific duties and responsibilities of the Reference Assistant position.

• Visit the library’s website to learn about its history, mission, and services.
• Read the job description carefully and make note of the specific requirements and qualifications.
• Talk to a librarian or other staff member at the library to get an insider’s perspective on the position.

2. Highlight Your Skills and Experience

In your interview, be sure to highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the Reference Assistant position. This includes your ability to provide excellent customer service, your knowledge of library resources, and your research skills.

• Describe your experience providing reference services in a previous position.
• Highlight your knowledge of library resources, such as databases and online catalogs.
• Share examples of research projects you have completed.

3. Be Enthusiastic and Professional

Throughout the interview, be enthusiastic and professional. Show the hiring manager that you are passionate about providing excellent customer service and that you are eager to learn more about the library and the Reference Assistant position.

• Make eye contact with the hiring manager and speak clearly and confidently.
• Be positive and upbeat, even if you are nervous.
• Ask questions about the position and the library to show your interest.

4. Follow Up

After the interview, be sure to send a thank-you note to the hiring manager. This is a great way to reiterate your interest in the position and to thank the hiring manager for their time.

• Send a thank-you note within 24 hours of the interview.
• In your note, thank the hiring manager for their time and reiterate your interest in the position.
• You can also use your thank-you note to address any concerns or questions that you may have.