Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Chatting About Questionpoint And Docutek, Dana Mervar, Matthew Loving

The Southeastern Librarian

The following article describes our experience using two popular interactive chat services: OCLC QuestionPoint and Docutek VRLplus. A search of the library literature revealed that no similar comparisons had been done. Regardless of the future of chat technology, the current buzz surrounding its use is prompting libraries across the country to seek out ways of acquiring a chat service. OCLC has strong name recognition due to its traditional role in providing library technology solutions. This factor plays an important role in marketing its QuestionPoint chat product. Docutek also offers library technology solutions with the idea of making technology simple and …

Striving For Success: Practical Advice For Reference Graduate Assistants (And Other New Reference Providers), D. Brett Spencer, Amia Baker, Richard A. Stoddart, Sheri Helt, Adrienne R. Lee, Bryan Paul Tronstad

The Southeastern Librarian

With a little reflection, most librarians can recall the excitement, anticipation, and fear that filled their early days at the reference desk:

“What will people ask me?”

“What if I don’t know how to help someone?”

“What do I need to do to be successful?”

Many librarians first experienced this emotional turbulence while working as graduate assistants (GAs) in academic library reference departments. Although demanding, working as a reference graduate assistant yields many benefits. An assistantship introduces participants to basics of reference librarianship like customer service, search techniques, and teamwork. Assistantships also help students get their foot in the door …

Live Virtual Reference And The Database Dilemma, Jennifer Mcclure

The Southeastern Librarian

Live virtual reference programs in the university setting have blossomed in recent years as librarians have aspired to become as “virtual” as the resources they offer. While some libraries have chosen to limit their service to affiliated members, many have preferred to open their programs to the wider community. The motivation to do so is perhaps particularly strong among public university librarians, who often feel a dual responsibility to their own affiliates and to the citizens of their state. However, the decision to offer a chat reference service to the public raises a number of legal, ethical, and practical questions …