Reference tools in Second Life^®: implications for real life libraries

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an in‐depth discussion of reference tools in the virtual world of Second Life.

Design/methodology/approach

A description is given of the scripted functions employed by the author, a community virtual library reference desk volunteer of three years.

Findings

The paper finds that each tool can meet the information needs of community virtual library patrons.

Originality/value

The paper reveals that reference desk tool programs that run in the virtual world have implications for real world reference desks of the future.

Citation

Tang, F. (2010), "Reference tools in Second Life^®: implications for real life libraries", New Library World, Vol. 111 No. 11/12, pp. 513-525. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074801011094886