Technology is sweeping into the library world and enhancing the services that librarians are able to provide to their patrons. One of these technologies is the Ask-a-Librarian feature available at most college and some public library websites. Ask-a-Librarian works as an instant messenger between the reference librarian and students or patrons who are off site. The primary goal of the Ask-A-Librarian service is to provide brief, concise answers to factual questions and/or to suggest information resources and search strategies for research needs.
Complex questions or extensive research needs would still need face to face interaction but for the most part reference librarians that are available to chat can answer any questions you have about library resources or services, finding materials via the library catalog, and selecting and searching useful databases, journals, and websites. The feature is great for students working at home that may need help accessing databases or direction to sources for citations. It can also be handy for patrons of public libraries who aren't comfortable asking for help from the desk, it could help ease some anxiety about finding what they need. Next time you need some help, check out your local public or school library website and see if they offer the chat.
Visit our Ask-a-Librarian chat here at the Palomar College Library - http://www.palomar.edu/library/
This is an excellent choice for this topic. Telephone reference service at the Palomar College Library is almost non-existent now but the numbers for Ask-a-Librarian have risen steadily since service began a couple of years ago.
ReplyDeleteThe service is great and the answers are straightforward. I love it.
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