IM a Librarian Today

摘要

Instant messaging and chat have become huge components of Internet use, especially among young people. If you're around teenagers or college students, you've no doubt heard plenty about this phenomenon. So how can libraries take advantage of this trend? We can jump right in by providing live online reference, often known as virtual reference service. Sounds a little scary, doesn't it? As the movement gains momentum, you may hear of pilot projects in your area. If you don't want to be left behind, take a look at Going Live: Starting & Running a Virtual Reference Service.