Nice article on LOC and National Archives

This is a great article to remind us of the mission and purpose of both the Library of Congress and the National Archives. What's the difference? by Stephen Wessen

Traditionalist by Habit Scholar

Traditionalist by Habit Scholar.

The Traditionalist by Habit Scholar is one that uses traditional methods of research, heavy in print references and print journals because he has always been a great scholar and loves the written word -- he is a traditionalist.  The habit though is simply that, a habit.  The professional librarian needs to develop a close working relationship with this scholar.  By building trust and rapport, the librarians can help the Traditionalist by Habit Scholar to make his adjustment into the 21st century and find the same quality research information in an alternative form.  The goal of the librarian is not to prune him from print, but to help him develop a comfort zone with virtual research.  As Pearson reports, “relationship building has a lot to do with the key factors of empathy and listening” (Pearson, 2014, p. 258)

Field-loving Scholar

Field-loving Scholar.

The Field-loving Scholar is very much self identifying.  This scholar loves to be in the field, especially working anthropologists.  To help envision this scholar, think Jurassic Park’s Dr. Alan Grant.  This scholar is not comfortable in the classroom, prefers collecting data even more so than writing up the research.  Libraries are a necessity but not the favorite place for the Field-loving Scholar.  Working alone or with a close-knit team, this scholar may be seen in-between field projects or during teaching semesters.  He may be asking the librarian for background knowledge to prepare for the next project.  When working with the Field-loving Scholar, he may not elaborate a great deal on the kinds of materials that he needs.  Using research methods similar to the historical scholar, this person may need to have a probing reference interview to clarify specific journals or sources that are needed.  The Field-loving Scholar may also be a traditionalist, preferring print and will enjoy browsing through some of the great print reference materials for background information (Kumar, et al., 2011)

The Vague Scholar

Vague Scholar.

The Vague Scholar is an intelligent scholar who struggles a little with communicating his needs.  This scholar may approach the librarian with confidence but fail to explain enough background information in his opening request, that the Librarian is left feeling like they just walked through a fog and struggles not to frown in the fashion of “What did you say you were looking for?”  This professional librarian knows how to handle the vague scholar - keeping facial puzzlement perfectly absent, continues to probe with exploratory questions.  The Vague Scholar could be a student or faculty member from any social studies discipline.  Not always conscious of a research methodology, they sort of stumble into the right resources due to the librarians patience and assistance.  Having an awareness of research steps and models for social scientists is very beneficial in helping the Vague Scholar (Harvey, 2009, p. 2).