Roving Librarians: Taking it to the Streets

Abstract

The idea of the roving librarian on a college campus is not new. This mobile information service allows students, faculty, staff, and community library users access to personalized information service in a variety of areas and promotes library service. A roving librarian project gives librarians the time to focus on serving patrons as individuals rather than on the building as the primary resource. It also allows librarians the opportunity to have formal and informal conversations with students which can enhance information services. Roving may well contribute to the retention of community college students and may also serve to strengthen the quality of students’ educational experiences and aid in their academic success.