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software for your chat reference service will be one of your most important
decisions. Fortunately there are many resources available to help you.
Jana
Smith Ronan, Chat
Reference: A Guide to Live Virtual Reference Services, Libraries
Unlimited, 2003.
In Chapter 4 Ronan provides criteria for evaluating
the user and librarian interfaces, the administrative features offered,
costs, system functionality, hardware requirements and network compatibility.
Olivia Olivares, "Helping You Buy: Virtual Reference Systems," Computers in Libraries (May 2004).
The basic features of VR software packages with contact information for seven vendors.
Lisa Roberts’
Chat
Reference Software Checklist.
Things to think about
and features to look for.
Buff Hirko’s
“Live
Digital Reference Marketplace,” in the October 12, 2002
issue of NetConnect.
A thorough article with a chart comparing the features
of eleven different software packages.
In the April 15, 2004 issue of NetConnect, Buff reviews the questions that vendors should be asked in "Get Vendor Savvy."
Stephan
Francoeur’s Index
of Chat Reference Services.
This directory is
arranged by vendor so that you can connect with libraries using
the various software packages.
Because software
is constantly being updated, the best strategy is to use the charts
for comparison purposes only and contact the vendor directly for current
features and pricing. |
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