A National Laboratory and University Branch Campus Library Partnership: Shared Benefits and Challenges from Combined Reference Services

• Published in: The Reference librarian 2004-03, Vol.40 (83-84), p.251-262
• Main Authors: Buxton, Karen A., Gover, Harvey R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: combined libraries; combined reference desk; consolidated libraries; Hanford Technical Library; Max E. Benitz Memorial Library; merged libraries; merged reference; Pacific Northwest National Laboratory; Washington State University Tri-Cities
• ISSN: 0276-3877; 1541-1117
• DOI: 10.1300/J120v40n83_20

The Hanford Technical Library of the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and the Max E. Benitz Memorial Library of the Washington State University Tri-Cities Branch Campus have functioned both separately and in combination since moving into the same space within the Consolidated Information Center in 1997. The libraries have successfully partnered to serve different clientele at a combined reference desk since June 1997. Although having separate staffs, catalogs, and collections, the libraries share a single reference/information desk. The reference staffs work together to serve a very diverse clientele including students, faculty, engineers, scientists, contractors, regulators, and the public. The combined libraries offer significant benefits to both library staffs and their users. The libraries have expanded access to collections and information expertise, enhanced staff training opportunities, and provided additional hours of reference service to patrons while at the same time maintaining the individual identities of the two libraries.