Listening your way to better RA
Everyone knows listening is a major starting point to any readers’ advisory (RA) transaction and listening to podcasts can play an important role before the interview even starts.
“Twenty Questions” works: Recommending e-resources
For library staff, it is important to assess whether or not a patron is interested in formats other than print.
RA in a Day 2018: Bringing Readers’ Advisory online
Every year, the OPLA Readers’ Advisory Committee brings together some of the best readers’ advisory advocates to share their knowledge and expertise on meeting the needs of adult readers.
Just-in-time training: DIY online RA education
Nothing lasts forever—especially when it comes to training. Consistently learning, growing and refreshing your skills is not just for new professionals, but a value-added…
Uncovering “next reads”: Moving from popular fiction to less visible titles
There’s nothing more thrilling for me than having conversations with readers about what they’re reading. It’s definitely easier to have these exchanges if we’ve…
Annotations: Writing short & sweet reader guides
If you work in a public library, chances are you’ve been asked to write an annotation. While it seems relatively simple—write a few words…
From pilot to perfect: Improving RA skills by investing in training
Practice makes perfect—or at least staff can benefit from targeted readers’ advisory training, particularly when they have time to practice and reflect on their…
Listeners’ advisory: When audiobook title recommendations are not enough
Imagine this . . . you’re getting ready for a long road trip, you have just downloaded an audiobook from the library and are…
Read more and prosper
Science fiction. It’s a genre that is loved by many, but largely misunderstood. The question “Can you recommend a good science fiction book?” has…
Interview skills: Avoid the RA nightmare
Has anyone else had this recurring dream? A patron comes up to you and asks for something good to read and your only response…
My five-month mission: To boldly go where …
I have not gone before. Mission background: To make a “Best Bets” list of titles for this year’s RA in a Day, an annual…
Remembering What You Read: Reading Journals & Collection Knowledge
Has your mind ever drawn a blank when a customer asks your opinion about a book? You know you read it but can’t remember…
Investing in RA: Skill-Building Strategies
It’s one of the skills all library staff should know, but few are truly comfortable with: readers’ advisory. What do you do when a…