The SMU library has gone live on the Internet, thanks to a new program started last spring called “Ask a Librarian.”
Students can now access the immediate help of an SMU librarian from any location in the world by simply going to http://www.smu.edu/cul/ask/ and selecting “Start a Chat.”
Within seconds a librarian willing to help you find materials relevant to your research will greet you and immediately access SMU’s extensive library.
The entire process is completed within a matter of minutes.
Distance Learning Librarian Bill Jenkins sees the new service as an extension of SMU’s traditional library services.
“It’s another way to access the library, especially for those who may have never used the library previously,” he said.
Dean and Director of SMU’s Central University Libraries Gillian McCombs echoed his view, saying that some students might be afraid to ask a librarian a question in person.
“This service is geared to what many students are used to [the Internet and chat rooms],” she said. “It provides an anonymity, but also a closeness.”
McCombs added that most of her colleagues at academic libraries throughout the country either have a similar digital reference program in place or are experimenting with starting one.
“This is absolutely a national trend,” she said.
Alex Perez, senior mathematics major, recently used the service to ask a question about Iraq.
“It was really convenient not to have to come into the library,” Perez said. “It looks a little different than most chat formats, but I got used to it pretty fast.”
Perez also said that using the library service was more effective than doing a simple Web search for information on something like Yahoo.
“The librarian helped me to find very specific and credible sources,” Perez said. “Some of what you find on the web is not credible, and professors won’t accept it.”
Jenkins agreed.
“Sometimes you can’t find exactly what you need on the Web. We can help students with research strategies and tips.”
Since the “Ask a Librarian” service started, some very interesting questions have been asked – including how to find research concerning marketing in Spain, depression in children, online dating, Tibetan culture, Indian migration, and one request from someone in Ukraine for information on the sport of hammer throwing.
Jenkins recalled one online question from someone on the fourth floor of Fondren Library who needed assistance locating a particular book. He said that she was directed right to what she was seeking – completely online.
The service is currently offered Monday through Thursday from noon until 6:00 p.m. and Fridays from noon until 3:00 p.m.
