Limited English proficient users and the need for improved reference services

Public libraries have long neglected the needs of limited English proficiency (LEP) users. With the changing demographics of the USA, however, services to LEP users will become more important in the future. Current programs that target ethnolinguistic minorities focus mainly on outreach programs, and not on reference services. This paper addresses some of the issues in reference services for LEP users, namely reference interviewing, information‐seeking behavior, foreign language reference materials, and multilingual online catalogs. Possible research avenues and future directions in improving reference service for LEP users conclude the discussion. Libraries must address issues of multiculturalism, and the needs of their limited English users, to survive and flourish in the coming decades.