Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Method 9 - Chat and Instant Messaging

Instant messaging is a very attractive addition to traditional reference services in person or by telephone. As with other Web 2.0 applications, it has the potential to reach a whole new array of users. In some instances it would be useful to be able to type out information to a patron rather than spell it out over the phone.

Using chat was extremely simple. Naomi at TSLACDL responded to questions promptly. In some ways chat provided a level of confidentiality and privacy that in person or a phone call might not provide. Some users might have a greater comfort level with this. Having the Meebo box so easily accessible and right there on the same page as the course information is certainly a big plus.

My library is investigating offering chat and will probably do so in the near future.

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