Reference at a remote field station: a case study of ecology, environmental science and geology fieldwork at an embedded library

Purpose Field station libraries, particularly those serving biological and marine research stations, represent a unique but understudied class of special libraries. This case study investigates reference services at the remote University of Michigan Biological Station (UMBS) to provide a baseline assessment of how such services support the information needs related to research in ecology, geology and environmental science. Design/methodology/approach The study recorded, coded and analyzed 209 reference transactions from the 2022 and 2023 summer sessions, revealing trends in patron inquiries and the role of the reference desk. Further, the case study examined the organizational structure, community interaction and mission of the field station library. Findings The study concludes that UMBS's field station library functions as a form of embedded librarianship, characterized by shared administration between the main campus library and the field station, deep integration into the community and subject matter expertise in relevant scientific disciplines. The in-person reference desk is a well-utilized library service that has documented increased use in recent years, contrary to national trends. Originality/value This is the first time reference services at a remote field research station have been examined. It will inform field station librarians and administrators, as well as main campus ecology, geology and environmental science subject specialist librarians in working with the needs of their community. This investigation lays the groundwork for a broader survey to enhance understanding and development of field station libraries as a distinct type of special library. Understanding the field station library as a type of embedded library will assist in assessing the library as well as improving services and patron experience.