A transaction is an unscheduled interaction with a patron. Transactions have four major types:
Directional transactions are about PLACE. In these transactions, staff tell a user where they can find something within the library or on campus.
Example questions: “Where is Media and Reserve?” and “Where is the bathroom?”
Information transactions are about BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT THE LIBRARY. These transactions require very little staff expertise to answer as opposed to a more in-depth reference transaction.
Example questions: “How late are you open?” and “What is the library’s street address?”
Referral transactions are about PEOPLE. These transactions direct patrons to others – within the library, on campus, or off campus – who have the expertise to better answer their question.
Example questions: “How do I get the textbook for my class?” and “Can you help me with my wifi problem?”
Reference transactions are about ACCESSING AND USING OUR INFORMATION RESOURCES. In this type of transaction, library staff show patrons how to navigate resources to find the information they need.
Example questions: “I'd like to see the Lloyd Barbee papers” and “Can you help me find a scholarly article for this assignment?”
A consultation relies on special library staff expertise to help a patron with a research question or other issue. A consultation is usually longer than a transaction and can be a scheduled interaction or the result of a referral from a transaction.
Presentations are events organized or led by library staff for multiple patrons that are not consultations. Presentations include workshops, orientations, course-integrated instruction, tours, community programming, book discussions, etc. Presentations have three major types:
A library presentation teaching a course, class, or group HOW TO USE LIBRARY SERVICES OR RESOURCES (e.g. course-integrated instruction, presenting at an orientation, class visits)
A library event for CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL, OR EDUCATIONAL purposes (e.g. book discussions, tours, lectures, study breaks)
A library activity intended to PROMOTE LIBRARY SERVICES OR RESOURCES (e.g. tabling, meet and greets, community visits)
For synchronous, online presentations enter a start time and total minutes for the presentation.
For asynchronous, online presentations do not enter a start time and enter '0' for total minutes.
When considering the broad concept of diversity for events, it should not be limited to race or ethnicity. It should also include gender, race, ethnicity, language, class, sexual orientation, ability, religion, etc.
Some ways to achieve diversity are:
1. diversity of speakers
2. diversity of content
3. clarify that the event is an inclusive space that does not tolerate discriminatory behavior
4. have partnerships in events that showcase the commitment to diversity through their objectives, their support, funding, or participation in anti-racist and equal rights movements.