An informal talk about libraries and librarianship. Conversations on reference is a podcast dedicated to those who are seeking to serve communities by providing the best sources to address information needs.
In this episode I tell you about myself.
Email: rhtheturtle@gmail.com
X: @converref
In this episode of Conversations on Reference, Simon Aristeguieta discussed the concept of Reader's Advisory, a service provided by librarians to match users with appropriate reading materials. He explained that Reader's Advisory is a form of reference work that involves conducting a reference interview to understand the user's reading preferences and needs. Simon emphasized the importance of understanding the user's information needs in order to address them effectively. He also touched on the role of the librarian in facilitating the relationship between the user and the book, as well as the potential for expanding this one-on-one relationship to a community-wide engagement with world literature. The episode concluded with a brief overview of how libraries can work towards disseminating diverse narratives and cultures to the American public through various programs and resources.
25 Feb 2026
017-2026 DWL- The Public Library
Disseminating World Literature (DWL)
In this episode of Conversations on Reference, Simon Aristeguieta discussed his vision for developing a manual to help small and medium-sized libraries disseminate world narratives through reader advisory services. He emphasized the library's role as a democratic institution that can introduce American audiences to literature from different cultures. He outlined strategies for selecting books, consulting experts, and connecting with international communities to create multicultural programming. He also highlighted the importance of finding high-quality translations and exploring various formats like audiobooks and electronic resources. The goal is to create a universal narrative reading program that can be implemented in smaller libraries without extensive funding. He shared his personal experience of using literature to explore different cultures as a child and aims to replicate that experience for library patrons through this program.
20 Feb 2026
016 2026 Disseminating World Literature
In this episode of Conversations on Reference, the host announced a focus for the 2026 season on two key areas of librarianship: reader’s advisory and multicultural librarianship. They outlined a goal to create a manual for disseminating world literature to American audiences, particularly for small and medium‑sized libraries that lack specialized staff.
The host explained their approach to developing expertise in Ibero‑American literature, which they see as a foundation for their work, while acknowledging the challenges of accessing and translating literature from other cultures. They discussed strategies for librarians to explore and introduce international narratives, including consulting catalogs, collaborating with experts, and engaging with community members from diverse backgrounds.
They emphasized the importance of libraries as interconnected global institutions and highlighted the potential for programs that foster cultural understanding and shared experiences through literature, music, and other cultural elements.
YouTube video of the presentation: https://youtu.be/1DRecZIGLYwEmail: rhtheturtle@gmail.com
14 Mar 2025
015 - Collaborating with faculty
Collaboration between librarians and faculty is important for several key reasons, all of which contribute to the overall academic success of students, enhance the research environment, and ensure the effective use of library resources.
22 Nov 2024
014 - Improving the reference service
Library services expert, [Host Name], discusses practical strategies to improve reference services, including conducting needs assessments and fostering continuous evaluation and feedback to enhance user satisfaction.
In this week’s episode, we dive into the transformative world of artificial intelligence, exploring how it’s set to reshape the field of librarianship, the structure and services of libraries, and the role of librarians themselves. We’ll discuss the many ways AI could become a valuable tool to enhance library services, making them more efficient, accessible, and adaptable to meet the evolving needs of patrons. Join us as we consider how embracing AI might open new opportunities for libraries to innovate, improve research capabilities, and offer personalized support that could ultimately enrich the user experience.
30 Oct 2024
012 - The reference interview
This week we provide some tips in how to conduct a reference interview.
22 Oct 2024
011 - Ethical issues in librarianship
In this episode, we examine various ethical concerns within the library profession and review the principles outlined in the ALA Code of Ethics.
Make sure to visit the ALA website and read the ALA Code of Ethics at:
ALA Code of Ethics
3 Oct 2024
010 - Why should I attend a conference?
In this episode, we discuss the various benefits you can gain by attending professional conferences.
25 Sept 2024
009 - Is this good information? Assessing and evaluating.
In this week's episode, we talk about assessing and evaluating electronic/online information.
19 Sept 2024
008 - Searching
In this episode, we explore searching, peer review sources and academic databases.
9 Sept 2024
007 - Services for all!!!
In this episode, we discuss the need to serve diverse users with collections, services and programs. We explore the need of volunteers as a strategy to overcome limited funding.
4 Sept 2024
006 - Positive reference
In this week's episode, we explore some elements that make the reference transaction a great experience for both the user and the professional.
26 Aug 2024
005 - Community analysis or knowing your community, part 2
Community analysis or knowing your community is crucial for libraries because it helps them tailor services, programs, and collections to meet the specific needs and interests of the communities they serve, part 2.
21 Aug 2024
004 - Community analysis or knowing your community, part 1
Community analysis or knowing your community is crucial for libraries because it helps them tailor services, programs, and collections to meet the specific needs and interests of the communities they serve.
23 Jul 2024
003 - Evaluation of library services
In this episode, I explore the need to evaluate and assess library services and programs. Also mentioned is the idea of the library as the community hub and as the most democratic institution in America.
Email: rhtheturtle@gmail.com
16 Jul 2024
002 - Reading programs: promoting diverse narratives
In this episode, I talk about a lecture that I did in April 2024 on Latin American literature; and how that experience could be the beginning of promoting diverse literature in public libraries. See this podcast episode in YouTube: https://youtu.be/00OH6_BEHU0
YouTube video of the April 2024 presentation:
https://youtu.be/1DRecZIGLYw
Email: rhtheturtle@gmail.com
11 Jul 2024
001 - Nice to meet you!
An informal talk about libraries and librarianship. Conversations on reference is a podcast dedicated to those who are seeking to serve communities by providing the best sources to address information needs. In this episode I tell you about myself.
Email: rhtheturtle@gmail.com
X: @converref
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