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Peer Research Consultants: Introduction

Welcome!

Why Peer Research support?  Students have questions and need basic research help. Students are also more likely to ask a friend or a peer for help. We hope that by having you in the library that we'll be able to help more students.  The goal of this guide is to provide you with readings and training exercises that will help you succeed. 

As a Peer Research Consultant, you will:

  • Be the first point of contact for students needing research help at the library’s research desk and provide basic research services to patrons. 
  • Help students with the first research steps (finding a specific book, choosing a database, etc.). 
  • Assist students in connecting with subject area librarians and/or making an appointment for more help and refer to a librarian when necessary. 
  • Answer questions about printing, computers, and Wi-Fi, and refer to the ITS help desk as necessary.

Responsibilities

Please make sure you show up on time and are ready to begin your shift.

When you start your shift:

  • Log in to LibApps. 
  • Use LibAnswers to record your reference statistics. 
  • Make sure you know which librarians are here, say hello to whoever is working at the info desk to let them know you're available 
  • Check your email for any updates/news from your supervisor

During your shift

  • Your priority is to assist students with research.
  • Be approachable and friendly. 
  • Keep statistics on everything that happens 
  • Ask for help when you need it. 
  • Stay primarily at the desk, but you can move to other locations in the library, use the restroom/grab a drink as needed. 

At the end of your shift

  • Email your supervisor with any lingering questions, issues, etc. 
  • Log out of LibApps 
  • Leave the space tidy 

Customer Service

Students may be reluctant to seek help at the reference desk .  You can provide good service by:

  • Being attentive and approachable-smile, welcome the student
  • Greeting students with eye contact and open body language
  • Putting the student first 
  • Treating student interactions as educational opportunities to create good library users
  • Providing the same quality of service regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, language, culture, or ability
  • Providing access to materials without censorship or bias
  • Recognizing, honoring, and responding appropriately to diversity and cultural differences
  • Engaging in discussion and express interest in individual experiences related to information needs
  • Understanding and apply laws and policies governing confidentiality and rights to privacy
  • If there is another student waiting, acknowledge them. Indicate to the waiting patron that it may be a few minutes, but that you'll be with them shortly.