The subject librarian and social scientists: liaison in a university setting

A review of the human and professional relationships between university social scientists and the subject librarian. Some general principles that concentrate on personal aspects of interaction are put forward for consideration. Problems and techniques in establishing initial contact with users are outlined followed by analysis of formal and informal liaison with the three main groups: undergraduates, postgraduates and staff, the latter in more detail. Attention is paid to wider influence on user/librarian contact. These include social scientists' perception of the library and subject librarian, the siting and organisational context of the subject librarian, and the long‐term need for the liaison role.