Arieh Down Ress: Librarian, Photographer, Tutorialsmith, Problem Solver. What Can I Do For You Today?
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Reference Services

I have been providing reference since before I knew the correct term for it: I was the go-to person to ask for directions, instructions, reviews and other information needed by my friends and family. I wasn't just good at finding such things, but enjoyed doing so.

I truly enjoy reference: the variety of topics, the excitement of seeing patrons gain an understanding of the available tools and how to use them, the oft quirky but ever enjoyable customer service experience; it incorporates aspects of jobs I have held and loved over the years.  

While attending the University at Buffalo I got my first taste of virtual reference, utilizing first Meebo and then the LibraryH3lp platforms.
I also filled in on the reference desk in their Health Science Library finding science and medical reference truly
edifying and enjoyable.

For two and a half years I
have spent my days providing business reference, both in person and through LibraryH3lp, in a busy digital commons environment at NYU.  At times I filled in on the science queue as well, and once a week worked a night shift of general reference.

Here's what some of my patrons have had to say about my service:
He went way out of his way to help me with my research. He was super kind, patient, interested...
-Jake G.
Thank you so much... this was very useful, now I understand how to use this [sic] resources.
-
Elba Z.
Wow, huge information!!! Thank you for your kind help!!! It's really helpful!
-Yan Z.
2015, Arieh Down Ress