Reference service in archives: challenges and opportunities

Abstract

The service and the work of reference developed in archives are considered as one of the most succesful activities that make possible the relationship between patrons and arranged documents, showing the traditional social interest provided by archives. It is also analysed the useful interest derived from the conexion of reference services in libraries and archives. Moreover, the characteristics of the professional profile of the reference archivist are the keys to strengthen the archival reference service. Some items like developments of web finding aids allow the so called electronic reference to be one of the most interesting areas in the process of providing attention and service to the patrons. Finally, there is a reflection about the different ways that users choose to face the search and access to archival documents. Finally, the reference interview process is also reviewed.