The document discusses how providing reference services to council staff can benefit libraries and the local government organization in several ways. It can improve the profile and perceived professional skills of librarians, increase use of library resources, and improve the quality of information used by council officers in their work. The document provides examples of reference requests from council staff and models of virtual and physical library services that can be provided, such as access to databases, current awareness services, and use of web 2.0 tools. It recommends starting reference services for council staff by promoting the library through cards, inductions, newsletters and training.