Resource Thursday: Virtual Reference
Today, I’d like to feature a public library resource called virtual reference. In Maryland, where I work, this service is called AskUsNow, but it’s available under other names all over the United States and even in the United Kingdom.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you can log onto VR through your local library’s webpage and get connected with a reference librarian who can assist you with any questions you might have. VR librarians are able to help with homework questions, research, ebook downloads, navigating the library catalog, internet searches, and more, and they are trained to provide fast service and reputable sources.
In the past 10 years, Maryland’s AskUsNow providers have answered 376,000 questions! The next time you need research help, even in the middle of the night, check your library’s page to see if you can get connected too.
