This document discusses Text a Librarian, a web-based text messaging reference service for libraries. It launched in January 2009 and was built based on feedback from libraries. It allows patrons to text reference questions to libraries, extending their outreach. Libraries need to consider security, privacy, costs, implementation, features, reporting, marketing, ease of use, and support when providing text reference. Features of Text a Librarian include patron privacy, notifications, auto-responders, collaborative features, text translation, searchable archiving, reporting, marketing materials, and integration with other reference tools and social media.
2. About Text a Librarian:
• Launched in January 09
• Built for libraries from feedback and conversations with
library professionals
• Web Based Interface
• Secure & Reliable – Privacy Features / Mobile Carrier
certification
• Easy to implement, learn, use, and market to patrons
3. Texting messaging on the rise:
• 3.5 Billion Text Messages per Day in 2008 – CTIA Wireless
• Americans now send twice as many text messages as they make
phone calls – Nielsen Mobile
Text Message Reference enables libraries to:
• Connect with patrons anywhere
• Extend their outreach
• Increase reference productivity
4. Things to consider when providing Text Message Reference:
• Security
• Privacy
• Cost
• Implementation
• Features
• Reporting
• Marketing
• Ease of Use / Functionality
• Support
15. • Virtual Reference - Email, IM, SMS
• Social Media – Facebook, Twitter, Delicious, Flickr
• “Enhanced” Search: WorldCat, The Library of Congress,
Librarian’s Internet Index, Google, Bing, Twitter
One-click access to your favorite reference search tools, Web 2.0 sites
and social networks.