| Pilot project allows users to ask questions by instant messaging AU researchers now have yet another way to communicate with reference librarians for term paper and other support. In a new pilot project, users of the popular AOL service, commonly known as IM or AIM or “instant messaging,” can contact reference librarians for research assistance. The library’s screen name is “AskAULibrary.” During the pilot project the service will be available from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, and any other hours that reference librarians are available to log on and chat with users about their research. The instant messaging project premiered on Monday, Jan. 30, and will be promoted with special collectible stickers and candy giveaways in the library on Valentine’s Day. Many students and faculty already have AIM software installed on their computers. New users can click on “Contact a Librarian” on the AU Library home page at www.library.american.edu to find a link to another page with information about how to download the AIM software and use the service. The Web page was designed by librarian Anne Osterman (aosterma@american.edu) who provided leadership along with Andres Ciriello and Alex Hodges for implementing the project. In addition to AIM, all other contact points for library research assistance continue to be available. Researchers can visit the reference desk on the first floor of the University Library, call the reference desk at 202-995-3238, e-mail research@american.edu, enter a question on a Web form, or use another form of chat reference. The latter service is available on the ALADIN home page under the “Ask A Librarian” link and allows researchers and librarians to browse Web sites simultaneously as well as to chat. |
