Virtual reference has been around for a while now, mostly as chat or email. Video is somewhat newer and offers so many more possibilities.
I’m not sure that I would do a first reference interview with a person using Skype, a Mondopad or Google Hangouts. I would much rather have the first interaction be in person, to better gauge a person’s interest level and ask more in depth questions, if necessary. Should the patron have more questions, a virtual setting would be ideal, especially if information would be transmitted electronically.
I particularly like using Google Hangouts, and the ability to share your screen. This would be useful for guiding a patron through using the databases, assisting with catalog searches, even giving tutorials on how to use Office products or their free online equivalents.
Virtual communications could also be helpful for homebound patrons, those who are unable to come to the library but still enjoy conversations with librarians. Also, students in long distance education programs could use the technology to “attend” an on campus class. Something that might be fun is having a conversation with a native speaker of a language you are learning – virtual pen pals!
T's Tech Tips 