I’ve been thinking about the signs we put up at the reference desk and have been wondering how many (if any) we actually need to have when the desk is open. My assumption is that the more cluttered the reference desk is, the more of a barrier it creates to those who may hesitate to ask us a question. The more stuff we have on the desk, the more it appears to be “our” desk. As much as possible, I think we should aim to have a reference desk that is as inviting to users as possible, that doesn’t make potential question askers worry that they are invading our space or bothering us.
So, what are your thoughts about signs on the desk (library hours, library events)? Are they a barrier or not? Do you think they are looked at often enough to merit staying on the desk?
thanks for asking this question! I prefer the front counter to be completely void of signs, except when the reference desk is closed. I want people to ask me questions, so questions about the hours can be opportunities to interact. I also think we should keep the desk staff schedule to the side of the desk.
In my experience, people look at the hours sign all the time. Since it’s a common question, and since our hours change so frequently, I think it’s more convenient to quickly refer to the printed sign rather than have to constantly look it up on the website.
With the exception of the hours, I think the other signs aren’t necessary and they do make the desk appear cluttered.