Readers’ Services and the Library Catalog

Abstract

The article discusses readers' advisory (RA) services and library catalogs in light of technological developments, noting the importance of joint efforts by library public service personnel and technical services personnel. The author presents proposals for reaching potential library users who feel alienated from libraries and librarians. Topics include the relationship between readers' advisors and catalogers, the possibility of online library catalogs as sites of virtual interactions, and the importance of online social media as an aspect of community.