Virtual Reference on a Budget: Case Studies - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1586832875 ISBN 13: 9781586832872

Publisher: Linworth, 2007

Synopsis

Use this practical resource to create a virtual reference service in your school or public library using little to no budget money! Learn how to use virtual reference without purchasing expensive hardware and software. Get beneficial resources to help sell virtual reference ideas to administrators and technology coordinators. Find out about providing virtual reference services to special patron populations like hearing-impaired students. These case studies address the knowledge and skills needed for evaluating, acquiring, and using electronic databases, Internet materials, and online services. This book speaks to all librarians―school, public, special, and academic and addresses universal virtual reference needs of library patrons.

About this title

About the Author

Teresa R. Dalston works in the Interdisciplinary Information Science Ph.D. Program at University of North Texas in Denton, TX.

Michael Pullin works in the Interdisciplinary Information Science PhD Program at University of North Texas in Denton, TX.

Reviews

This book, which arose from projects completed during a doctoral course at the University of North Texas School of Library and Information Sciences, offers examples of VRS services that utilize economical software and designs that accommodate low budgets and time restraints. The text begins with an outline of the credentials of the book's 20 contributors who, as a group, have extensive experience in public, academic, and corporate work. The first chapter includes general information about VRS and proposes a model based on the use of an instant-messaging service. It incorporates the exploration of user needs, resources, technology, policy development, staff training, marketing and promotion, and evaluation. The remaining five chapters, each a project from the doctoral course, outline the creation of VRS for deaf students; students in middle school, high school, and college; and training for and promotion of virtual reference services. Current research, templates for instant-messaging services, Web sites, and marketing techniques are included. This book offers an assortment of valuable tools and methods helpful in providing virtual reference services to reach remote users.—Rebecca Sheridan, Easttown Library & Information Center, Berwyn, PA
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Edition details

• Publisher: Linworth
• Publication date: 2007
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1586832875
• ISBN 13: 9781586832872
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 192
• Editor: Dalston Teresa R., Pullin Michael