QuestionPoint consists of two elements. The foundation of the service is a best-in-class reference management service, on which a flexible 24/7 reference cooperative can be built. More powerful to the reference librarian when used together, but they can be selected individually.
- The Reference Management Service provides the front-end systems for communicating with users in a virtual environment, and the administrative and reporting tools for better managing your reference tasks. It also includes access to the Global Reference Network, a worldwide system of libraries that route questions and answers to each other based on profiles of expertise.
- A 24/7 Reference Cooperative is custom-created to provide round-the-clock coverage for a specific group of libraries, and to bolster service when and where it is needed most. Librarians at participating locations in the cooperative utilize the QuestionPoint management environment in order to provide virtual reference to all member libraries, contributing a fraction of time in order to receive complete coverage.
Ask a Librarian virtual reference is a unique benefit. Libraries providing the service include all those operating on the QuestionPoint platform, plus nearly 150 other U.S. libraries that run virtual reference desks on other platforms and have provided links to OCLC. Open WorldCat users can submit questions electronically to the online reference service of an OCLC member library near them through “Ask a Librarian” links. Linking to reference services extends the benefits of Open WorldCat even further, allowing:
- Information seekers in your community to connect with your librarians
- Your current customers to find another way to reach you
- New customers to discover your online services
