Ref Type: Journal Article
Authors: Lupien,Pascal,
Title: Bilingual virtual reference: It's better than searching the open web
Publication Full: Computers in Libraries
Year: 2004 Volume: 24 Issue: 5
Start Page: 6 Other Pages: 8; 53-54; 56
Descriptors: INFORMATION services, ELECTRONIC information resources, BILINGUALISM, LANGUAGE & languages, PUBLIC libraries — Reference services, LIBRARIES, NEW Brunswick, CANADA,
Abstract:
This article presents account from a former emerging services librarian with the New Brunswick Public Library Service, who was responsible for developing bilingual online services, including a real-time virtual reference service in French and English. A growing number of librarians that serve diverse communities have been investigating the potential of offering virtual reference in languages other than English. In terms of promoting the library and its services, there are many benefits for libraries that serve diverse linguistic populations. In January 2002, the author investigated the options, and he realized that little had been done in this area. Not only were there few virtual reference services operating in languages other than English. In New Brunswick, where government services must be offered in both English and French, there was little choice in the matter. When he started to develop a bilingual reference service in the winter of 2002, his first task was to prepare a feasibility study that would address all issues, from software selection to staffing. From early on, he wanted to explore the possibility of working with other libraries on virtual reference. This allows libraries not only to increase the hours of service they can offer, but also to share experiences and exchange knowledge with colleagues from virtually anywhere.
Notes:
M3: Article; Source Information: May2004, Vol. 24 Issue 5, p6; Subject Term: INFORMATION services; Subject Term: ELECTRONIC information resources; Subject Term: BILINGUALISM; Subject Term: LANGUAGE & languages; Subject Term: PUBLIC libraries — Reference services; Subject Term: LIBRARIES; Geographic Subject: NEW Brunswick; Geographic Subject: CANADA; Number of Pages: 6p; Illustrations: 1c; Document Type: Article; Full Text Word Count: 3000
Links: NULL
Extra Data: NULL
URL: NULL
Retrieved Date:January 1, 1970
Editors: NULL
Book Title: NULL
Series Title: NULL
Publisher: Information Today Inc
Place Of Publication: NULL
Issn Isbn: 10417915