7. Web 2.0 Communications

Email is a great way to communicate at work when you want to inform other staff of meetings, send minutes and send out information to let everyone know about a particular topic. The problem with email is that we all get too much so we don't have time to get to all of them and may miss some important information.

Instant messaging might be a good way for Reference Librarians to communicate with library patrons. There is a very interesting link with pros and cons of using IM for communication by staff in the library at this site http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA512192.html Using IM here in our library might help with better communication and staff might communicate freely without the email trail of messages.

Webinars are a great way to get training remotely when you can't travel to the workshop or training being offered in another location. A large number of staff can all get the information either at their own computer or in a classroom setting broadcasting the webinar. We use these in our library and they are well attended. There is usually an opportunity to ask question of the presenter even though you are not physically at the location.