Library Databases Banner 'Ads' Link to Real-Time Reference Assistance

[Gerry Mckiernan]

 _Library Database Banner 'Ads' Link to Real-Time Reference Assistance_

   On another e-list there is currently a discussion regarding the appropriateness of having / allowing banner ads on library licensed bibliographic/abstract /full-text databases. Many [but not all ] of those who have responded to the issue believe that it would be inappropriate to have links to commercial banner ads. 

  I'd be interested in knowing how individuals feel about having banner 'ads'
within a library licensed *database* that link users to a library page that informs them of availability of either traditional reference assistance (e.g., the opportunity to make appointment with a subject specialist for individualized training with the database), new reference services such as e-mail reference _or_ emerging services such as real-time, interactive services using MOOs, video conferencing, chat rooms, etc. [See for example RefeXpress at http://moo.nwe.ufl.edu:8080/refexpress/ at the University of Florida. For other see http://web.uflib.ufl.edu/hss/ref/chat/cc3.html and/or my posting on Library Chat Room Registries  at archived at http://sunsite.berkeley.edu/Web4Lib/archive/0008/0209.html ] 

        To me linking At the Point of Need [through a MOO service, for example) is a true and real(-time [:-)) example of a true and real *Virtual* Library!  Such scenarios could revolutionize library reference service  and lead to the restructuring and reconfiguration of these services as we know them! But, hey what the heck! What's wrong with that?

             What-Do-You-Think? Give me call at 515-555-1212 [:-)]

      As Always, Any and All contributions, comments, queries, critiques, criticisms, cosmic insights, etc. etc. are Most Welcome!

/Gerry McKiernan
BANaMAN
http://www.public.iastate.edu/~CYBERSTACKS/Banarama.htm
Iowa State University
Ames IA 50011

gerrymck at iastate.edu 

      'The Best Way To Predict Future to Provide Real-Time Assistance"
                                 With Apologies (Once Again) to Alan Kay