PurposeThis paper aims to redefine the peer reference model – using student assistants to staff the reference desk – by expanding it to include upper‐level undergraduate students from various disciplines providing full reference service with minimal supervision as well as performing paraprofessional‐level duties.Design/methodology/approachSet within a backdrop of budget cuts, severe time and staffing limitations, and increasing demands for library services, the paper assesses the processes and results of implementing this new model of peer reference at a medium‐sized academic library.FindingsThe findings suggest that undergraduate students are not only capable but perhaps optimal at providing high‐quality reference service to their peers.Originality/valueThis paper redefines the peer reference model, using a case study carried out in a US university library.

is a member of Northeastern University's Gateway Team, a group of faculty expressly devoted to the first-year Engineering Program at Northeastern University. The focus of this team is on providing a consistent, comprehensive, and constructive educational experience that endorses the student-centered and professionally-oriented mission of Northeastern University. Teaching across all academic levels, she is also affiliated with the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at Northeastern University. Margaret Bates, Northeastern University Maggie Bates received a B.S. in History. from Salem State College, and an M.S in Human Resource Counseling. and M.Ed. in College Student Personnel from Northeastern University, where she is currently a member of the Engineering Student Services staff. She serves primarily as an academic advisor to upper-class Chemical and Civil Engineering students. In addition, she teaches with engineering faculty members in Northeastern University's Introduction to the Study of Engineering course for first-year engineering students.