Two new libraries will begin staffing Chat with a Librarian!

We’re pleased to announce that the Berks County Library System and Saint Francis University will soon be staffing Chat with a Librarian.  Saint Francis University, which already uses LibAnswers, is excited to be able to provide chat using the platform of their choice while being able to harness the power of the 24/7 Reference Cooperative to expand reference service for their users, and for residents throughout Pennsylvania.

To learn more about these new Chat with a Librarian staffing libraries, please visit:
Berks County – https://www.berkslibraries.org/
St. Francis University Library – https://www.francis.edu/Library/

Don’t forget – Increased participation has a direct impact on the cost of providing the service.  So long as PA librarians respond to at least 40% of the questions asked by PA patrons, the POWER Library avoids a 20% surcharge on the annual subscription to the software and participation in the 24/7 chat reference cooperative.  It’s the right thing to do.

The success of this service would not be possible without the efforts of participating public and academic libraries that contribute staff to Chat with a Librarian and I want to extend thanks to those libraries. View the list of libraries and add your name to the list!

If you would like to learn more about Chat with a Librarian and how your library can participate, please, contact HSLC.

—Susan Banks, MLIS | Director, Bureau of Library Development
Office of Commonwealth Libraries | Pennsylvania Department of Education