LIBR 246-12: Web 2.0 and Social Networking Tools (Fall 2008)

Prior to this assignment, I've used both types of virtual reference technology and have an idea on what to expect from each service. AskNow and Meebo have different interfaces. AskNow is more like a chatroom while the Meebo interface is a widget on the library's page. It took a while to get a response from AskNow because I had to first fill out a form and and then wait for the system to connect and then wait for a librarian to pick up my question. The librarian was busy and mentioned that she was working with other patrons. She provided me a link (same as the one provided for this assignment) which contains information regarding the question I posed, but she did not give me a direct answer. The good thing about the AskNow interface is that the online resource appears on the right screen (it does not work for Macs). While she did not specifically answer my question, I appreciated the fact that she asked if there was anything else I needed help with. I also like the feature where the chat transcript is sent to my email. I then tried an online IM service (Meebo) offered by a private university's library. Unlike AskNow, the librarian on the other side of the conversation works for the specific library and the service is provided for the patrons of that library. The response was quick. I got a specific answer along with a reference. However, the reference was outdated. The librarian also used the World Fact Book--the 2007 edition. Thus, it would help to be very specific. These types of services are prefect for ready reference types of questions.

Transcripts:

Ask Now

Chat Session Transcript:

Chat Transcript: What is the Gross Domestic Product per capita of Bahrain?

[Librarian 16:45:03]: Librarian '--- (24/7 Librarian)' has joined the session.

[Librarian 16:45:16]: Hello, Jasmin!

[Librarian 16:45:20]: My name is ---. I'm a reference librarian with the Question Point chat service. Your librarians have asked our librarians to staff this 24-hour service when they are unavailable. I'm reading your question now to see how I can help you.

[Librarian 16:45:32]: I'll try to find that for you. One moment please.

[Jasmin 16:45:36]: Thanks

[Librarian 16:49:24]: I'm sorry for any delays. I'm working with several patrons at one time. I'll be back with you in just a moment.

[Jasmin 16:49:43]: It's ok.

[Librarian 16:51:02]: I'm thinking it might be here.

[Librarian 16:51:05]: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ba.html#Econ

[Librarian 16:51:11]: I'll look over...

[Librarian 16:53:51]: There are several GDP statistic on the left side under "Economy." Are those what you need?

[Jasmin 16:54:46]: Yes

[Jasmin 16:55:54]: I got it. Thank you.

[Librarian 16:57:45]: Good. Anything else I can help with today?

[Jasmin 16:58:00]: That's all. Thanks.

[Jasmin 16:58:46]: Patron ended chat session.

Meebo

[16:45] meeboguest660875: What is the Gross Domestic Product per capita of Bahrain?

[16:46] librarianchat: Let me check it for you. Would you please give me your e-mail? Thanks!

[16:48] meeboguest660875: Thank you. It's cja0958@lausd.net

[16:50] librarianchat: I have checked World FActbook 2007, it is $25,300 (2006 est)

[16:50] meeboguest660875: Thank you very much.

[16:50] librarianchat: You are very welcome!