Keywords
Reference, Academic Libraries, Reference Service, Tele-Reference, Alternative to Tradition Reference Service
Abstract
This presentation was given at the virtual SEFLIN 2021 Conference, titled, "Whose Library is it Anyway: Improvisation in Improbable Times." The presentation was part of a concurrent breakout session that was held on July 29, 2021.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Central Florida (UCF) Libraries’ Research & Information Services Department (RIS) implemented a virtual reference service called Tele-Reference providing a safe alternative to in-person reference desk service. This session will explore how the UCF Libraries RIS Department pivoted during the public health crisis and examined reference services to meet the needs of the community. It will highlight the formation and implementation of Tele-Reference, as well as explore future plans for utilizing this innovative technology. Perspectives from librarians who have staffed Tele-Reference will also be shared. Attendees will learn about the benefits and challenges of this service to help them implement and leverage virtual reference services in new and dynamic ways to meet the needs of their community and institution.
Publication Date
7-23-2021
Document Type
Conference Presentation
Copyright Status
Author retained
Publication Version
Author's version
Rights
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
College
Academic Affairs
Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
Department
UCF Libraries
STARS Citation
Avila, Sandy; Harrison, Richard; Norris, Sarah; and Tong, Min, "Responding in a Crisis: Pivoting to a Tele-Reference Service Model During Improbable Times" (2021). Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works. 1010.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/ucfscholar/1010