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Digital reference service: trends in academic health science libraries
1University of South Florida, School of Library and Information Science, Tampa 33620, USA. cdee@cas.usf.edu
Medical Reference Services Quarterly
|March 12, 2005
Summary
Academic health science libraries offering digital reference chat services increased by 6% between 2002 and 2004. This growth indicates a continuing trend in digital reference adoption by these institutions.
Area of Science:
- Library and Information Science
- Health Sciences Librarianship
- Digital Reference Services
Background:
- The initial 2002 study identified 25 academic health science libraries (21%) offering digital reference chat.
- Digital reference services represent a growing area of library support in academic health sciences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a follow-up study in 2004 to assess the current state of digital reference chat services.
- To identify trends and growth in the adoption of digital reference chat services in academic health science libraries.
Main Methods:
- Exploration of academic health science library websites.
- Digital correspondence with library personnel via email and chat.
Main Results:
- In 2004, 36 (27%) of the examined academic health science libraries provided digital chat reference services.
- This represents a 6% increase in service provision compared to the 2002 study.
- The number of libraries offering these services is projected to continue growing.
Conclusions:
- Digital reference chat services are increasingly adopted by academic health science libraries.
- The trend indicates a sustained expansion of digital support in health sciences librarianship.