The reference and information services team - An alternative model for managing reference services

During the late 1990s, The Ohio State University Health Sciences Library's administration instituted the Reference and Information Services Team and gave it the responsibility and authority to manage the library's reference services as well as to oversee access, outreach, and education services. The reasons for this change to permanent self-directed team management of the library's public services, the "growing pains" experienced during the transition from a traditional model for managing reference services, and the eventual success of the team in integrating itself into the overall library management structure, are discussed. Suggestions are also provided for those interested in using a similar management structure.