texas library association 2009 annual conference houston, texas nextgenreference: maximizing space,...
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TEXAS LIBRARY ASSOCIATION2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE
HOUSTON, TEXAS
NextGenReference: Maximizing Space, Staff, and Technology
JEFF BONDDEXTER GOODMAN
LAURA HEINZJEFF LACY
Have you used this technology?
The Hub
Cell phones
Apple Newton
Amazon.com
Webvan.com
#1: Know your users
Know your user base and choose technologies that fit your clientele’s needs.
Don’t fall for the idea that your library must embrace every new technology.
Have a goal.
Example: Instant Messaging
A university library sees a need to improve communication with students.
The library decides to provide a new avenue for students to ask reference questions.
The library decides to try Instant Messaging.
After the program is launched, library staff evaluate the program’s effectiveness and makes changes as needed.
Who said it?
“There is not the slightest indication that nuclear energy will ever be obtainable.”
--Albert Einstein
#2: Experiment
Sometimes, we make mistakes. That’s okay!
Don’t be afraid to experiment or “play” with new technologies or websites.
A new service doesn’t have to be “polished” to be made public.
Try pilot programs.
#2: Experiment
Administrators: Allow your library staff to try new things. Develop a “culture” of experimentation.
Many new technologies are free.
23 Things
Example: Facebook
A library “dips its foot” in the waters.
Without much effort at all, a library adds pictures and puts up basic information.
The page becomes popular. People become “fans” of the page.
Example: Facebook
The library adds a chatbox to the page for reference services
The library adds a widget to allow users to search the OPAC
The page becomes more popular. Library considers exploring more social networking sites.
Two competing companies promote their new, competing products (1976).
Each product has its strong points.After several improvements to the products
and significant promotion, one company concedes defeat. (1988)
vs.
#3: Promote your product
Even if you have the greatest new reference tool, if you don’t promote it, it may fail.
Word-of-mouth advertising will help, but you have to get the ball rolling.
Promotion only goes so far.
#4: Think about staffing issues
Each new reference tool you add will likely add to staff load.
Priorities
Will all reference staff be involved?
What tasks can be performed at a traditional reference desk?
#5: Collaborate
What other units should be involved (inside and outside the library)?
What opportunities exist to involve student workers or volunteers?
What opportunities exist to collaborate between libraries?
What’s hot?
Text message reference
What’s next?
Video chat reference
Quick Response (QR) codes
Online databases with mobile versions
Many, many more!
Challenge!
Choose one new technology tool to implement in relation to reference.
Promote this new tool to your users.
Share your successes with other libraries!
Experiment!
Challenge!
Most of all, find the very best ways to meet your users’ information needs.
