IM and SMS Reference Services for Libraries

摘要

Virtual reference has gone from being the stuff of science fiction to a standard part of information service in libraries, although it has not had the uptake predicted by some early apostles. The ubiquity of instant messaging (EVI) and short message service phone texting (SMS) among library users makes it logical for libraries to use these channels for reference service. IM and SMS reference services for libraries is part of ALA's Tech Set series: brief practical guides to library technologies. Bielskas and Dreyer give a step by step guide to setting up a virtual reference service using text based, or "chat", channels of communication. They draw heavily on their experience of setting up an Ask a Librarian service at Columbia University Libraries.