We are in the midst of a reference revolution. Technology now enables librarians to provide reference assistance through the Web, in real time. This session will feature a demonstration of the software that makes this possible, with an opportunity for participants to practice using the software to answer questions. We will also discuss the implications of providing service to remote users, including staffing (and training), the place for traditional reference services, and the challenges and opportunities of a 24/7 reference service.

Susan McGlamery is the Coordinator for Reference Services for the Metropolitan Cooperative Library System (MCLS), a consortia of multi-type libraries in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. She is also the project director of the 24/7 Reference Project, which has developed a set of software tools to enable librarians to provide real-time reference assistance to their patrons through the World Wide Web. In addition to her work at MCLS, Susan is an instructor with the UCLA Department of Information Studies and a trainer in the California State Library's Infopeople project. She has an MLS from St. John's University and a JD from Emory University.

Tel:213/228-7568