Tutor profile: Emily G.

What is the Reference Interview and what are some techniques used by librarians?

The Reference Interview is one of the most important skills that a librarian can sharpen. Whether in person or via email or chat, the Reference Interview enables a librarian to get to the crux of the Library user's question, thereby enabling the librarian to find the most useful source or title for the patron. Examples of techniques in this process are presenting a friendly demeanor that allows patrons to open their thoughts to you, showing an interest in their question, listening and asking direct questions that clarifies what they are looking for, searching for answers or book titles and finally, following up with them by asking if what you have found is what they are looking for.

What is the significance of symbols in a story?

A symbol can be an object, such as a sword, key, ghost or flower. It can also be a color, for instance white, black or even red, as is the case with the book Jane Eyre. A person, an idea, an animal, a setting, like a forest or a desert, can also be symbols in stories. Symbolism in literature is a way for the author to convey an underlying meaning and it can effectively enhance suspense, foreshadow future events and deepen the presence of a character.

What is the difference in There, Their and They're?

There, as in "we are going there later," gives direction. Their, as in "the food at their house is delicious," shows belonging to or possession. They're, as in "they're a doctor," meaning "they are."