Implementing Virtual Reference Services: A LITA Guide

by Beth Thomsett-Scott

Social web technologies present an often confusing array of options for answering user reference questions. Applying 20 years experience as a reference librarian working throughthe development of virtual reference and the integration of new tools and technologies into the industry, Thomsett-Scott lays out how libraries are using vendor services such as LibraryH3lp, LibAnswers, and Text a Librarian, as well as free tools like Twitter and Google Voice for their reference needs. Practitioners offer details on virtual reference services such as Twitter Search, instant messaging services such as Google Voice and Chat, and collaborative services such as My Info Quest.

168 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2012

Reviews

[Rachel Walters · Rating 3 out of 5]

Any area dealing with technology becomes quickly outdated in regards to particular services offered and software requirements. However, this book is a good place to start if you want to begin offering VR for your library. There are examples of what can be done with various formats including chat, social media, twitter, chat, wikis, Skype, etc.

[Edward · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read/skimmed this seeking insights on issues relating to vref. I've recently assumed responsibility for a vref system that is already up and running, and quite well at that, so I read this book more as a quick way to familiarize myself with the general landscape. I found it useful for that purpose.

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

Note much new here, uneven chapters, one good chapter was on the use of Twitter to answer reference questions in a class.