THOSE BOTHERSOME BETAS - ONE LIBRARY SOLUTION TO BUSINESS REFERENCE QUESTIONS

Many libraries maintain some form of ready reference file, whether in a paper format or an automated database. These files enhance access to reference materials and streamline service at a busy service point. A business ready reference file may be especially useful due to the dif ficult nature of business question's and the inadequacy of standard su bject headings. In this article the authors discuss the process of cre ating and maintaining a subject specific card file. An effort was made to use jargon of the business world when creating the subject heading s, thereby creating a unique thesaurus of business terms. An analysis of subject headings is presented using Library of Congress Subject Hea dings and the ABI/Inform thesaurus for comparison. Results of a survey polling department use of and satisfaction with the file are presente d, as well as the survey instrument itself. Plans to transfer the pape r file into an automated format are discussed.