Reference, Instruction, and Outreach (RIO)

The discussion was led by Ali Larsen from Siena but had contributions from nearly all the attendees.

The main point dealt with college/university efforts to keep students enrolled until graduation, and that the library can contribute to this retention. In part, by giving the students who frequent the library more connections to the campus, they will be less likely to leave it behind. Also, the library can help teach study skills and research methods, and help ease student adjustment into academia. Students can do better, and be less likely to leave due to frustration. Some students may create bonds with library staff who they find less threatening than faculty.

Student workers in the library have greater reason to stay with the college as well. Not only do they have a fiscal incentive, but it has been found that they usually have a higher GPA as well. However, budget issues may make it harder to keep student workers