The Death Of Reference?

The Death of Reference?

Well not quite according to Kate Sheehan from the Darian Library, Joseph Murphy from Yale University and Ellen Petersen of Maui Community Library. But could it be the death of the Reference Desk? Maybe...

Both Kate and Joseph have implemented text messaging at their respective libraries. Could texting be the next logical step from IM reference?

On the other hand Kate at the Darian Public Library found herself and her staff without a reference desk during renovations...the solution...Roving Reference.

Each library is utilizing innovative ways to answer their users questions and maybe that what it's all about?

Free them from their desks and laptops?

Yes!

Yale University Science Libraries have implemented the reference service "Txt a Science Librarian", this is offered in conjunction with their IM, Email and web-form reference service!

Michael Stephens' blog, Tame the Web has a post with Joe Murphy the General Science Librarian & Instruction Coordinator at the Kline Science Library describing how the Library offeres this service (they use iPhones) and,
"As instant message reference freed patrons from having to come to the library, text messaging reference frees them from their desks or laptops"

This service has limited hours and the number to text is not on public pages because Yale is only offering the service to students, faculity and staff.

The Microsoft Subsidiary Tell Me allowes you to text or call in your question and they'll text the answer back to you. Or there is the service Ask Me Now.

*Note SCLS will be holding a program Hand Held Libraries, which will be about mobile technologies like phones and PDAs April 22!