Virtual Reference Services in Modern Libraries

Abstract

Reference Service is an important personalized in the library and information centers. Traditionally, it is a one-to-one provided by the reference librarian to users. But the present epoch is being transformed by the technology. Thus, with the progression of shifting technology the approaches of providing reference in the libraries are gradually changing. Nowadays it is offered to the user in a fresh and more developed form called as reference service, also known as reference service Mahrana & Panda, n. d.. Virtual reference is reference commenced by electronic means where patrons employ technology a computer or any other form to communicate with the professionals without being physically present. The modes of communication often used in virtual reference include e-mail, instant messaging, chat, Voice-over-IP, videoconferencing, co-browsing etc. RUSA, 2010. Virtual Reference Services VRS have high user satisfaction Mu, Dimitroff, Jordan, & Burclaff, 2011. As libraries make more digital resources available over the web, virtual reference traffic is consequently expected to increase. According to Gray 2000a more internet use is equal to more Virtual reference traffic. The present article aims to discuss the concept of Virtual Reference Services in contemporary libraries. It also assesses nascent modes of providing quality Virtual Reference Services. Further the chapter also discusses reputed Virtual Reference systems of select online Libraries.