Recording statistics
Introduction
This page provides guidance on recording statistics about reference and research services.
READ Scale
Dalhousie Libraries categorizes reference and research assistance transactions according to the six-point READ Scale (Reference Effort Assessment Data). The READ Scale is a widely adopted tool used by libraries to record qualitative statistics about the effort, knowledge, skills, and techniques used to provide reference and research assistance services.
READ Scale | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
R1 | Directional/Hours/Locations/Services Least amount of effort, no specialized knowledge, skills, or expertise No consultation of resources | Directional enquiry Question about service point hours and locations
|
R2 | Call Numbers/Printing/Policies Answers may need nominal consultation of resources | Help finding call numbers / reference codes Question about library policies |
R3 | Instruction on catalogue or website/Direction to subject guide Requires some time and effort Reference knowledge and skills come into play | Email exchange to help user find specific archival resources Basic instruction on searching the Archives Catalogue Provide on-site access to files that user has previously requested (e.g., via email to archives@dal.ca) |
R4 | Instruction on best sources/Focusing question/Finding more sources Answers require consulting multiple sources Reference knowledge and skills required | Transaction that results in a referral to digitization services Digitization requests Transaction that requires consultation with subject specialist |
R5 | Discussion of needs between specialist and user/In-depth Requires more substantial time and effort Needs consultation with subject specialist Needs reference and research skills | One-on-one archival research consultation Help finding resources beyond Dalhousie Archives |
R6 | In-depth, ongoing or mediated research/Faculty or PhD, Most time and effort Primary and secondary resources may be required
| Faculty or PhD research questions Supplying supporting materials for publication, exhibits, etc. Working with outside vendors to fulfill research needs |
Datasets
Dalhousie Libraries records information about reference and research services in two datasets:
Service Point: Dataset for recording service point transactions, including R1-R3 by Service Point staff.
Reference and Research Assistance: Dataset for recording reference and research assistance transactions. Used by librarians, interns and research assistance providers. Used by service point staff for questions above R3.
During shift on Information Desk
Use Service Point form to record R1-R3 questions.
Use Reference and Research Assistance form to record R4-R6 questions.
Off-desk
Use Reference and Research Assistance form to record R1-R6 questions.