Reference services in public libraries are changing dramatically. The Internet, online databases, and shrinking budgets are all making it necessary for non-traditional reference staff to become familiar with online reference tools. Recognizing the need for cross-training, Chesapeake Public Library (CPL) developed a program called the Database Derby. Six of CPL's online databases were taught using a competitive "horse race" concept, whereby "jockeys" from each of CPL's area libraries raced against one another by answering questions from the databases. During each race, jockeys had the opportunity to earn prizes for themselves and accumulate points for their home library. (Contains 1 figure.)