#2 - Instant Messaging & Virtual Reference

Learning Objectives

• Learn about instant messaging (IM) & text messaging services
• Learn about virtual reference in libraries and "co-browsing"

Skills Practice

• Send a text message to a co-worker or friend using any IM program, phone or IM web page
• Log on to Ask a Librarian (or some other library or commercial virtual assistance service) and participate ina session

Experience Sharing

• Post comments to the hcplc=Lib2.0 blog about your experiences with IM and virtual reference - How could the service be improved for the user?

Resources

1. Library Technology Reports (July/August, 2006) - "Instant Messaging."
2. Pew Internet & American Life Project, "How Americans Use Instant Messaging."
3. Darren Chase, "Transformative Sharing with Instant Messaging, Wikis, Interactive Maps, and Flickr."
4. Rachel Singer Gordon and Michael Stephens, "IM=FASTER Virtual Reference on the Cheap!"
5. Sarah Houghton and Aaron Schmidt, "Web-based Chat vs. Instant Messaging: Who Wins?. "
6. Explore Meebo