Instant Messaging Reference

Virtual reference is a vital component in twenty-first century reference service and the time for debate over its virtues and necessity has passed. This book focuses on the practical implementation of instant messaging (IM), including privacy and security and its future potential. Targeting busy practitioners who are looking for comprehensive answers about instant messaging in particular, rather than virtual reference in general, this book addresses questions from the basics of what IM is and how it operates to the more complicated issues such as privacy and security to its future potential as a strong candidate in the virtual reference arena. The strength of the book lies in its accessibility and comprehensive nature., Library Management

Virtual reference: An overview and brief history; IM Basics; Basic IM reference: Set-up and use; Conducting the IM reference interview; Managing patron expectations and staff attitudes; Evaluating/updating service; Taking your service to the next level: Widgets, enterprise IM and collaborative IM; Issues with IM reference; Promoting your IM reference service.