Got a research question? Why, ASK-WA
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SEATTLE -- Here's the problem: You need something from the library, but it's after hours and you just can't wait.
No problem. You don't have to wait.
Just go to the virtual library instead. It's open all day, every day.
Whether you're a music store or a library, you've got to go where the people are.
Dottie Smith, a librarian at the University of Washington, now spends part of her day on her computer, answering questions; from basic information to heavy-duty research.
UW is part of a virtual library system called "ASK-WA." Members include colleges, universities and public libraries across the state and around the nation.
Anyone can use the system. It's free and open for business 24/7. There's always a librarian somewhere in the country, ready to help via online chat. And service is also available in Spanish.
"Some of those librarians are wearing their pajamas and pick up people at 4 in the morning or 2 in the morning, when students are getting started on that paper that's due the same day," said Nancy Huling, head of Reference and Research Services at the UW Library.
It's a great service. but with the Internet and search engines, why would someone need to go to an online library?
"We think the service which is staffed by information professional is definitely quicker, and that we find more reliable information for people than often what they can do on their own," said Huling.
So far this year, ASK-WA has answered about 50,000 questions.
What's next? The program plans to accept questions via text message. For many college students, text messaging is the main way to communicate. And down the road, the program may include online phone chats.
The service user can remain anonymous. And if the librarian can't find the answer right away, you can leave your e-mail and someone will get back to you.
No problem. You don't have to wait.
Just go to the virtual library instead. It's open all day, every day.
Whether you're a music store or a library, you've got to go where the people are.
Dottie Smith, a librarian at the University of Washington, now spends part of her day on her computer, answering questions; from basic information to heavy-duty research.
UW is part of a virtual library system called "ASK-WA." Members include colleges, universities and public libraries across the state and around the nation.
Anyone can use the system. It's free and open for business 24/7. There's always a librarian somewhere in the country, ready to help via online chat. And service is also available in Spanish.
"Some of those librarians are wearing their pajamas and pick up people at 4 in the morning or 2 in the morning, when students are getting started on that paper that's due the same day," said Nancy Huling, head of Reference and Research Services at the UW Library.
It's a great service. but with the Internet and search engines, why would someone need to go to an online library?
"We think the service which is staffed by information professional is definitely quicker, and that we find more reliable information for people than often what they can do on their own," said Huling.
So far this year, ASK-WA has answered about 50,000 questions.
What's next? The program plans to accept questions via text message. For many college students, text messaging is the main way to communicate. And down the road, the program may include online phone chats.
The service user can remain anonymous. And if the librarian can't find the answer right away, you can leave your e-mail and someone will get back to you.
