Answerland: News

Thu, 17 Apr 2003 03:45:41 GMT

We Wonder about Wondir

Yet another ask-an-expert service, but this one's free and incorporates plenty of interesting ideas and tries to be an easy way to allow people to help each other using the Web. Read more...

Tue, 11 Mar 2003 18:06:19 GMT

Clique of Instant Messagers Expands Into the Workplace

Instant messaging, long used by teenagers, is moving into the workplace with an impact that is rivaling rival e-mail and the cellphone. Read this and consider the cultural implications and how they support virtual reference. By Amy Harmon. [New York Times: Technology]

Tue, 11 Mar 2003 16:52:41 GMT

The Technological Challenges of Digital Reference

Written by Jeff Penka, OCLC's QuestionPoint Manager, the article focuses on the need to understand the technical environment within which digital reference occurs, from issues of patron definition and access, to the role of cooperative relationships and networks in meeting the shared needs of librarians and patrons. Mr. Penka provides an overview of today's reference environment along with data and practical examples from services like QuestionPoint, to demonstrate the importance and effect understanding audiences, appropriately using technology and working cooperatively can have for libraries in digital reference.

Mon, 10 Mar 2003 17:50:33 GMT

New Ways to Untether Travelers

Broadband wireless Internet and e-mail services are becoming available on airplanes, in public places and in hotel rooms. By Joe Sharkey. [New York Times: Technology]

Thu, 20 Feb 2003 00:59:45 GMT

Why Virtual Reference

Marcia Keyser compiled this discussion from the Dig-Ref listserv in December, 2002. It's a thread based on the Charleston Advisor article, Virtual Reference: Overrated, Inflated, and Not Even Real. [LISNews.com]