REFERENCE SERVICES REVIEW

Scope & Guideline

Transforming reference services for the digital age.

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of REFERENCE SERVICES REVIEW with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0090-7324
PublisherEMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1973 to 2024
AbbreviationREF SERV REV / Ref. Serv. Rev.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressFloor 5, Northspring 21-23 Wellington Street, Leeds, W YORKSHIRE LS1 4DL, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

REFERENCE SERVICES REVIEW focuses on the evolving landscape of reference services in libraries, emphasizing the integration of innovative practices, inclusivity, and the adaptation of library services to meet diverse user needs.
  1. Innovative Library Practices:
    The journal explores new methodologies and practices in library reference services, including the implementation of technology and unique instructional strategies that enhance user engagement.
  2. Inclusivity in Library Services:
    A significant focus is on creating inclusive library environments and services, addressing the needs of diverse populations, including marginalized and underrepresented groups.
  3. Impact of Technology on Reference Services:
    The journal examines how technological advancements, such as virtual reference systems and chatbots, are transforming traditional reference practices and enhancing accessibility.
  4. Research and Evaluation:
    There is a strong emphasis on research studies that evaluate the effectiveness of library services, instructional practices, and user experiences, providing evidence-based insights for improvement.
  5. Professional Development and Training:
    The journal highlights the importance of ongoing professional development for librarians, focusing on strategies for training staff to better meet user needs and adapt to changing environments.
The journal has seen a rise in interest surrounding several emerging themes that reflect the current challenges and opportunities in library services. This section outlines these trending areas of focus.
  1. Universal Design for Learning (UDL):
    There is a growing emphasis on UDL principles in library services and instruction, aiming to create more accessible and inclusive learning environments for all users.
  2. Peer-Led Library Services:
    The trend of incorporating peer-led initiatives in library services is gaining traction, focusing on the benefits of peer interaction and support in enhancing user engagement and learning outcomes.
  3. Trauma-Informed Librarianship:
    Recognition of the importance of trauma-informed approaches in library services is emerging, highlighting the need for sensitivity and awareness in supporting users with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
  4. Community-Centric Library Practices:
    Increasingly, libraries are focusing on community engagement and responsiveness, with research highlighting the importance of aligning library services with the specific needs of local populations.
  5. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Initiatives:
    There is a significant uptick in discussions surrounding DEIA initiatives within libraries, reflecting a commitment to fostering equitable and inclusive environments for all library users.

Declining or Waning

While some themes continue to thrive, others have seen a decline in focus within the journal. This section highlights those waning topics that may reflect shifting priorities in library services and research.
  1. Traditional Reference Desk Usage:
    There has been a noticeable decrease in discussions surrounding the traditional reference desk model, as libraries increasingly explore alternative service delivery methods like virtual reference.
  2. Print Collection Management:
    Although still relevant, the emphasis on managing physical print collections appears to be waning as more libraries focus on digital resources and the rightsizing of collections to better align with user needs.
  3. Conventional Information Literacy Frameworks:
    The journal's focus on traditional information literacy frameworks is declining, with a shift towards more dynamic, inclusive, and user-centered approaches to information literacy.
  4. Static Library Services:
    There is a diminishing interest in static, one-size-fits-all library services as the literature increasingly emphasizes tailored, responsive services that adapt to the unique contexts of diverse user groups.
  5. Disciplinary-Specific Reference Services:
    Discussions that are narrowly focused on disciplinary-specific reference services are decreasing, with a broader trend towards interdisciplinary and holistic approaches in library services.

Similar Journals

Digital Library Perspectives

Advancing Knowledge in Library and Information Sciences
Publisher: EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 2059-5816Frequency: 4 issues/year

Digital Library Perspectives, published by Emerald Group Publishing Ltd, is a pivotal journal in the dynamic fields of Education, Information Systems, and Library and Information Sciences. With an impressive Scopus ranking that places it in the Q1 category for Library and Information Sciences and Q2 for both Education and Information Systems, this journal has established itself as a significant resource for scholars and practitioners alike. The journal's ISSN is 2059-5816 and its E-ISSN is 2054-1694, facilitating broad accessibility to cutting-edge research and innovative practices within digital library environments. Published since 2016, it continues to offer a platform for the exploration of emerging trends, challenges, and technologies affecting digital libraries and information services. Researchers, professionals, and students will find that the journal not only highlights critical advancements but also fosters discussions around best practices and future directions in the industry. While it operates under a subscription model, it remains a crucial contributor to the scholarly dialogue in this essential sector.

Nauchnye i Tekhnicheskie Biblioteki-Scientific and Technical Libraries

Fostering Scholarly Communication in a Digital Age
Publisher: RUSSIAN NATL PUBLIC LIBRARY SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGYISSN: 0130-9765Frequency: 12 issues/year

Nauchnye i Tekhnicheskie Biblioteki-Scientific and Technical Libraries is a vital resource in the field of library and information science, particularly focusing on the integration of scientific and technical knowledge within library services. Published by the Russian National Public Library Science & Technology, this journal serves as a platform for researchers, professionals, and students to explore innovative approaches in library management, information dissemination, and technological advancements that shape the future of scientific libraries. With the ISSN 0130-9765, the journal aims to promote scholarly communication and provide insights into the latest trends and methodologies in the realm of scientific and technical libraries. Though currently not designated as an open-access journal, its content is an important contribution to the body of literature that supports the evolution of library services in the fast-paced information age. Located in Moscow, Russia, the journal embodies a commitment to enhancing the scientific community's access to quality library resources, thereby fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and continual professional development.

PORTAL-LIBRARIES AND THE ACADEMY

Innovating Scholarly Communication Through Library Science
Publisher: JOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESSISSN: 1531-2542Frequency: 4 issues/year

PORTAL: Libraries and the Academy is an esteemed academic journal published by Johns Hopkins University Press, focusing on the intersection of library and information science, academic practice, and scholarly communication. With an ISSN of 1531-2542 and an E-ISSN of 1530-7131, this journal offers rigorous peer-reviewed research essential for librarians, researchers, and information professionals committed to enhancing academic libraries and fostering innovative practices in higher education. It holds a strong position in its field, ranking in the 61st percentile within Social Sciences and Library and Information Sciences, and categorized as Q2 in both Development and Library and Information Sciences for 2023. Though the journal is not Open Access, its content is invaluable for anyone interested in staying abreast of the latest trends and challenges in library services and academic environments. Since its inception in 2001, PORTAL has continuously contributed to the discourse on the evolving role of libraries in academia, making it a critical resource for those striving to bridge the gap between information access and higher education pedagogy.

Metodos de informacion

Fostering innovation in library studies.
Publisher: COLLEGI OFICIAL BIBLIOTECARIS & DOCUMENTALISTES COMUNITAT VALENCIISSN: 1134-2838Frequency: 2 issues/year

Metodos de informacion is a distinguished open access journal published by the Colegi Oficial Bibliotecaris & Documentalistes Comunitat Valenciana, dedicated to advancing the field of information science and library studies. Since its inception, this journal has been committed to fostering innovative research and dissemination of knowledge related to information management and documentational practices, making it a vital resource for scholars, practitioners, and students alike. With an emphasis on high-quality, peer-reviewed content, Metodos de informacion has been available as an open access publication since 2010, ensuring that cutting-edge information is freely accessible to a global audience. The journal functions as a platform for disseminating research findings, theoretical discussions, and practical applications, thereby contributing significantly to the evolving landscape of information sciences. Researchers and professionals in the field can rely on this journal for its commitment to scholarly excellence and its role in shaping the future of information management.

LIBRARY & INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH

Elevating the discourse in library and information studies.
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCIENCE INCISSN: 0740-8188Frequency: 4 issues/year

LIBRARY & INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH is a premier academic journal dedicated to advancing the field of library and information sciences. Published by Elsevier Science Inc, this journal has established its reputation for rigorous research and impactful scholarship since its inception in 1987. With an impressive Q1 ranking in Library and Information Sciences and a Q2 ranking in Information Systems for 2023, it reflects the growing importance of library sciences in an increasingly digital world. The journal serves as an essential platform for researchers, professionals, and students, offering insightful articles that address emerging trends and challenges in the realm of information dissemination and management. Although not an open-access journal, its contributions are widely recognized, as evidenced by its strong Scopus rankings, with a position of #53 out of 280 in Library and Information Sciences. If you are looking to deepen your understanding of the dynamic interplay between libraries, technology, and information systems, LIBRARY & INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH is an indispensable resource in your academic journey.

Qualitative & Quantitative Methods in Libraries

Transforming Library Practices with Research-Driven Insights
Publisher: INT SOC ART SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY-ISASTISSN: 2241-1925Frequency: 4 issues/year

Qualitative & Quantitative Methods in Libraries is an essential journal in the field of library and information science, published by the esteemed International Society for Art, Science and Technology (ISAST). With its ISSN 2241-1925, the journal focuses on the application of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies in the realm of library studies, offering insights that are crucial for advancing practices and policies within the sector. Although it currently does not offer open access, its rigorously peer-reviewed articles ensure high-quality contributions that cater to researchers, practitioners, and students alike. This journal is committed to fostering innovative research that bridges theory with practice, making it a vital resource for anyone looking to enhance their understanding and application of research methods in library science. With its base in Athina, Greece, it serves as an international platform for scholarly exchange, contributing to the global discourse in the field.

Journal of the Canadian Health Libraries Association

Transforming health information access for communities across Canada.
Publisher: CANADIAN HEALTH LIBRARIES ASSOCISSN: 1708-6892Frequency: 3 issues/year

The Journal of the Canadian Health Libraries Association is a pivotal open-access journal dedicated to advancing the field of health librarianship and information sciences. Published by the Canadian Health Libraries Association, this journal has been fostering the dissemination of innovative research and practices since its inception in 2004. With a focus on critical issues in library and information sciences as well as miscellaneous medicine, it has achieved commendable rankings, noted as Q2 in Library and Information Sciences and Q3 in Medicine (miscellaneous) as of 2023. The journal serves as a vital platform for health librarians, researchers, and practitioners in Canada and beyond, providing valuable insights and fostering collaborations in an ever-evolving information landscape. With its address based in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, and an ISSN of 1708-6892, the journal invites contributions that aim to enhance understanding and improve practices within the health information sector, making it an essential resource for anyone engaged in health libraries and information management.

Investigacion Bibliotecologica

Connecting Scholars and Ideas in Library Science
Publisher: UNIV NACIONAL AUTONOMA MEXICOISSN: 0187-358XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Investigacion Bibliotecologica, published by the National Autonomous University of Mexico, stands as a vital resource in the field of library and information sciences. With a legacy of open access publishing since 1986, this journal endeavors to disseminate high-quality research which aims to advance knowledge and practices within the library and information sector. With an ISSN of 0187-358X and E-ISSN 2448-8321, it has secured its position in the competitive landscape of scholarly communication, earning a commendable Q3 ranking in its category as of 2023. The journal's influence is reflected in its Scopus ranking within the library and information sciences field, where it ranks #151 among 280 journals. Located in Mexico City, it provides scholars, professionals, and students with open access to its content, facilitating knowledge sharing and academic collaboration. As it continues its publication journey from 2008 to 2024, Investigacion Bibliotecologica remains an essential platform for innovative inquiries, practical insights, and the latest developments in library science.

LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE

Championing knowledge for a digitally informed society.
Publisher: MITA SOC LIBRARY INFORMATION SCIENCEISSN: 0373-4447Frequency: 2 issues/year

LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE is a specialized academic journal dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and scholarship in the field of library and information sciences. Published by MITA SOC LIBRARY INFORMATION SCIENCE, this esteemed journal has been a crucial platform for scholarly communication since 1980, addressing the dynamic challenges and developments in the information landscape. Although it holds a Q4 category ranking in the Library and Information Sciences according to the 2023 Scopus Ranking, the journal serves a unique niche, providing insights and fostering discussions among a diverse audience of researchers, professionals, and students. With no Open Access options currently available, its valuable research contributions are accessible through institutional subscriptions and library access. The journal aims to disseminate innovative research, case studies, and theoretical explorations that enhance our understanding of information behavior, retrieval systems, library management, and emerging technologies, thus promoting an informed society in an increasingly digital world. Given its focused scope and enduring presence, LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE continues to be an essential resource for anyone invested in the future of libraries and information services.

LIBRARY RESOURCES & TECHNICAL SERVICES

Connecting Ideas, Resources, and Services in Library Science
Publisher: AMER LIBRARY ASSOCISSN: 0024-2527Frequency: 4 issues/year

LIBRARY RESOURCES & TECHNICAL SERVICES, published by the American Library Association, is an esteemed journal dedicated to advancing the fields of library science and information technology. With an ISSN of 0024-2527 and E-ISSN 2159-9610, this journal has been a vital resource since its inception in 1978, converging years and evolving to remain relevant through to 2024. Recognized for its academic rigor, it currently holds a Q3 ranking in Information Systems and a Q2 ranking in Library and Information Sciences, showcasing its contribution to growing knowledge in these crucial areas. Although not an Open Access journal, LIBRARY RESOURCES & TECHNICAL SERVICES provides a platform for innovative research, case studies, and discussions that are critical for researchers, library professionals, and students alike. With a commitment to fostering professional development and sharing best practices, the journal serves as a crucial repository of information that aids in the advancement of library resources and technical services.