Virtual Reference Services (VRS) are now available at Thomas Cooper Library. Using, cutting edge technology, librarians can now assist patrons on the Web using VRS, a more advanced version of chat rooms and discussion boards.
Using VRS, patrons will be able to "chat" and co-browse with a librarian online. Co-browsing gives librarians and their patrons access to new capabilities. For example, librarians can show users how to search within catalogs and databases rather than telling them. Also, librarians can demonstrate proper search strategies, point out important parts of a record, push Web pages, and even use PowerPoint presentations. These features will be available not only to the librarian but also to the patron.
VRS also provides benefits for patrons with disabilities, giving those patrons greater access to librarians to fulfill their research needs.
To use VRS, go to Internet Explorer. (Other browsers can be used, but to realize the true potential of VRS, Internet Explorer works best.) After opening the network browser, go to www.sc.edu/library/ and click on "Ask a Librarian." That page links patrons to all access points to the Reference Desk. To begin, click on the "Online" link, logging into the system, and submitting your question.
For questions or more information, call e-mail Joshua Garris at jbgarris@gwm.sc.edu or call the Reference Desk at 7-4866
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