ABSTRACT

The relationship between the library and the information literacy movement is acknowledged, and a further delineation of responsibility at the academic reference service level is examined. Reference librarians’ perspective enables them to serve as “information advisors,” fostering students’ development of information literacy skills. As technology continues to drive information storage and retrieval, this role becomes increasingly important. The need for students to emerge as independent learners is crucial at this stage in their lives. Information literacy abilities are discussed as a by-product of general reference functions. Reference librarians are urged to encourage the growth of these abilities by stimulating students’ understanding of critical thinking.