Looking for a Good Book?: Assessment of an Asynchronous Readers' Advisory Service Model

This study examines an asynchronous, form-based model of service for Readers' Advisory within a public library setting. Literature addresses some limitations of the traditional model of Readers' Advisory service, including patron reluctance to approach librarians and time constraints for librarians handling multiple tasks and requests. One potential solution to overcoming these limitations is providing an asynchronous, form-based model of Reader's Advisory service. This study introduces a form-based model as an experimental service in a pilot-study with the Chapel Hill (NC) Public Library. To assess the service model, data was collected through survey responses from study participants and interview responses from participant-librarians. Results demonstrate that patrons and library professionals benefit from the provision of a form-based model of Readers' Advisory service. Suggestions for further research considering the form-based service model, and the professional development of Readers' Advisory skills for public librarians are included