Unlock the secrets of virtual reference with this invaluable handbook and CD-ROM. Created by one of the nation's foremost experts and workshop leaders, this toolkit will help you rethink reference policies and workflow, learn new communication skills, and successfully market this breakthrough service. You'll learn how to: handle reference dialogues in the virtual world, revise traditional reference policies and procedures, redesign the library's organization structure, and customize your virtual reference service. You'll also find tips for designing a dynamic virtual reference desk, considerations for planning your work space, pre-scripted messages, and other library models that can make your day-to-day work faster and easier. The CD-ROM contains bookmarks to all Web sites mentioned as well as Word files for forms, checklists and exercises that you can customize for your library's needs. This toolkit delivers and with it, you can too.
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Book Description
Editorial Reviews
From Booklist
When considering whether to launch a reference service into cyberspace, your first step should be to consult this book. The first section, "Making the Decision to Go Virtual," discusses changes in the reference environment, challenges us to redefine "professional" library work, and provides hints on selecting appropriate software. Next is "Moving to the Virtual Reference Desk," in which Lipow provides a checklist of skills for virtual reference, tips on basic chat etiquette, and advice on adjusting library policies in light of a new service. Finally, in "Building a Lively Service," there are suggestions for publicizing and marketing a virtual reference service. Appendixes discuss the reference interview, neutral questioning, real-life tips, and training for change. An absolute essential for any library considering providing virtual reference service as well as any library professional or library school student who needs some grounding in today's (and tomorrow's) world of reference services. RBB
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
Review
"An essential handbook on a crucial new skill..." -- Karen Schneider
"One of the leading experts on reference services...shares her blueprint for success." -- American Libraries, May 2002
"One of the leading experts on reference services...shares her blueprint for success." -- American Libraries, May 2002
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Format:Paperback
The Virtual Reference Librarian's Handbook by Anne Grodzins Lipow (Founder and Director of Library Solutions Institute and Press) is a useful and accessible guide for librarians and students of Library Science regarding the practical advantages of learning and using virtual reference skills and resources. Individual chapters deftly address how to get a virtual reference service started; how to shop for the best software; learning how to utilize a virtual reference desk; and much, much more. An accompanying CD-ROM contains bookmarked useful websites and Word files of a wide variety of serviceable forms and checklists, which librarians can customize as needed. The Virtual Reference Librarian's Handbook is a timely and highly recommended "state-of-the-art" addition to personal, professional, and academic Library Science reference collections and supplemental reading lists.
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