DIG_REF is a forum for discussing issues related to bringing reference service to patrons' desktops.

 

LiveReference is another resource for discussing virtual reference topics with other librarians. This list has less traffic than DIG_REF.

Bernie Sloan has compiled an exhaustive Digital Reference Bibiliography.He has also compiled a list of Digital Reference Case Studies and a list of Collaborative Live Reference Services.

The Virtual Reference Desk (VRD) is a "project dedicated to the advancement of digital reference and the successful creation and operation of human-mediated, Internet-based information services. VRD is sponsored by the United States Department of Education." The VRD 2002 Conference Proceedings represent some recent research in virtual reference.

Guide to Selection Criteria for Virtual Reference Software from the forthcoming book A Virtual Reference Primer (ALA editions) provides a comprehensive list of features available in chat software packages, as well as a brief description of each feature.

Live, Digital Reference Marketplace by Buff Hirko presents an introduction to software selection, links to virtual reference software vendor, and a chart comparing several software systems.

Lisa Roberts' Chat Reference Software Checklist  is a very short inventory of some points to consider when shopping around for virtual reference software.

Stephen Francoeur has prepared a Index of Chat Reference Services that sorts virtual reference services by the software they are using. The index allows you to get an idea of the popularity of software packages.

Links to some of the major vendors of VR software can be found below. These products are call center, or web contact software  that enable "real-time" interactions with patrons.

          LiveAssistance