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1. EVALUATION SOURCES
JAMILA VALLEJO BLIS 2A

2. Evaluating reference sources is a fundamental part
of developing and maintaining a high-quality
reference collection. Each source must be assessed
to determine whether it is appropriate for the
library’s mission, user community, and quality
standards. As libraries increasingly invest large
portions of their budgets in online resources—which
are often expensive—selection decisions frequently
involve choosing entire aggregated databases rather
than individual reference books. Applying consistent
evaluation criteria helps librarians make informed
decisions and develop a reference collection that
effectively meets user needs.
General evaluation criteria apply to all formats, while
additional criteria are specific to electronic or print
resources.

3. A. CONTENT
Content relevance is usually the first factor considered when selecting reference materials. Librarians must
evaluate how well a resource meets the information needs of their service community and whether it fills
gaps in the existing collection. Collection development should be approached holistically, taking into
account anticipated changes such as new academic programs, demographic shifts, or economic and
business trends.
Special attention should be given to the diversity of the library’s constituency, including potential users and
marginalized groups. A strong reference collection reflects multiple viewpoints and serves users of
different ages, reading levels, and cultural backgrounds.
Content evaluation also includes assessing a resource’s scope, accuracy, completeness, and currency.
Because many reference materials cannot be reviewed in person before purchase, librarians often rely on
professional reviews and selection aids. The expected level of currency varies by resource type; some
online resources are updated daily, while print resources may take years to reflect new developments.
Libraries may prefer online formats for resources requiring frequent updates.
Illustrations should enhance understanding, be relevant, and meet quality expectations. Additionally,
content should be appropriate for the intended audience’s age and reading level.

4. B. AUTHORITY
Authority refers to the credibility and reputation of the author, publisher, or
database producer. Librarians may examine academic credentials,
publishing history, awards, and previous works held by the library. For
multi-entry reference works, signed entries and contributor credentials
strengthen authority.
It is important to recognize that mainstream publishing does not always
represent marginalized voices adequately. Librarians are encouraged to
intentionally seek authoritative materials from underrepresented groups,
including those published through non-traditional channels, to ensure
inclusivity and balanced representation.

5. C. FORMAT
Reference sources may exist in many formats, including print, electronic,
microforms, maps, CD-ROMs, and other specialized formats. The chosen
format should enhance usability and support effective information
retrieval.
Studies show a strong preference among librarians and users—particularly
in academic settings—for electronic formats, especially e-books. However,
preferences vary by library type, and both print and electronic formats
continue to play important roles in reference service.

6. ONLINE RESOURCES
A. User Interface
A well-designed user interface is essential for effective
use of online reference resources. Interfaces should be
visually clean, easy to navigate, and appropriate for the
intended audience. As user expectations evolve,
interfaces should be updated regularly to avoid
becoming outdated.
Effective interfaces offer multiple search options, such
as basic and advanced searches, Boolean searching,
and specialized search fields. High-quality controlled
vocabularies, clear help screens, intuitive result
displays, flexible sorting, and useful limiters enhance
search effectiveness. Users also value tools for saving,
printing, emailing, and exporting search results.

7. ONLINE RESOURCES
B. Branding and Customization
Branding helps remind users that online reference
resources are provided and funded by the library.
Many databases allow libraries to add logos, text,
or links to services such as chat reference.
Customization options may include modifying
search forms, buttons, and limiters to better align
with user needs and library preferences.

8. ONLINE RESOURCES
C. Provision of Full Text
Access to full text is often a deciding factor when
selecting online resources. Users expect
immediate access to articles, reports, and other
documents. Ideally, the database provides full text
directly; alternatively, it should link to full text in
other library resources or clearly indicate
availability.
Full text may be provided in HTML or PDF formats,
each with advantages. Some databases also offer
audio versions, which support accessibility and
diverse learning needs. Currency remains critical,
particularly for frequently updated publications.

9. ONLINE RESOURCES
D. Accessibility
Accessibility is a crucial consideration in selecting
online resources. Remote access is often essential,
especially for academic, public, and organizational
libraries. Resources should support users with visual,
auditory, or physical disabilities through features
such as text-only pages, audio files, screen-reader
compatibility, and captioned videos.
Mobile access is increasingly important, as many
users rely on smartphones and tablets. Integration
with discovery services is also vital, as resources not
accessible through these systems may experience
reduced usage or eventual cancellation.

10. ONLINE RESOURCES
E. Cost and Licensing
Online resources may be purchased outright, licensed
through subscriptions, or acquired through
alternative pricing models. Costs, inflation history,
cost per use, licensing terms, and compatibility with
library systems are key factors in selection decisions.
Budget sustainability is a major concern, especially
given the rising costs of electronic resources.

11. PRINT RESOURCES
Print reference materials should
be durable, well-bound, and
physically suitable for frequent
use. Layout, typography, and
illustration quality also affect
usability.
A. Physical Attributes

12. High-quality indexing is essential
for effective information
retrieval in print resources. A
clear, comprehensive index
significantly enhances the value
of a reference work.
B. Indexing

13. Cost considerations include
the purchase price and any
ongoing expenses, such as
supplements or replacement
needs. Libraries must weigh
cost against anticipated use
and long-term value.
C. Cost

14. COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT OF FREE INTERNET SOURCES
Free Internet resources can enhance
reference collections but require careful
evaluation. Librarians must assess
content quality, authority, stability,
accuracy, and long-term availability
before including them in the collection.

15. SELECTION
AIDS
Selection aids support
librarians in evaluating and
choosing reference
materials. These include
professional reviews,
guides, vendor information,
trial access, and comparison
tools.

16. SOURCES OF REVIEWS
Professional reviews are essential because
librarians cannot examine every source
before purchase. Major review sources
include American Reference Books Annual
(ARBA), Booklist, The Charleston Advisor,
Choice, ccAdvisor, Library Journal, School
Library Journal, and Reference & User Services
Quarterly (RUSQ). Subject-specific journals,
vendor databases, library catalogs, and
consortium catalogs also provide valuable
reviews.
The most useful reviews describe the
resource, critically evaluate its strengths and
weaknesses, and compare it with similar
tools. Trials of online resources can further
support informed decision-making.

17. GUIDES TO
REFERENCE
SOURCES
Guides published by organizations
such as the American Library
Association support both collection
development and reference service.
These guides help librarians evaluate
existing collections, select new
materials, and identify appropriate
resources in unfamiliar subject areas.
Older guides remain useful for
assessing legacy collections.

18. REFERENCE COLLECTIONS IN
TRANSITION
Reference collections have been
evolving since the introduction of
electronic resources in the 1970s. While
many libraries reduce print holdings and
expand online collections, print
reference materials continue to be
published and used. Until print
resources are no longer needed, libraries
must maintain balanced print and
electronic collections to support diverse
reference services and user preferences.