Scenario planning for the future of reference: five white papers posit the future and raise the bar for us all

Abstract

Provides an examination of conference papers as illustrations of scenario planning in action. Includes a summary of each author’s understanding of whether or not reference service has a future, and presents highlights of each author’s future vision for reference services. Acknowledges that white paper authors have succeeded on two levels – in looking beyond their current models of reality and in considering a future that is radically different. Suggests that this is a challenge that confronts all librarians involved in planning for, administering, delivering, and otherwise supporting reference services.

Citation

Barbara Watstein, S. (2003), "Scenario planning for the future of reference: five white papers posit the future and raise the bar for us all", Reference Services Review, Vol. 31 No. 1, pp. 36-38. https://doi.org/10.1108/00907320310460889