Introduction

As an information services  librarian in an academic library, I am interested in exploring how I can expand my role as a teacher at the reference desk (regardless of whether that desk is real or virtual). In an era of information overload and technostress, it's important to me to use what limited time I have with students to help them become information literate. This website, which is my own personal site and is not affiliated with where I work, has been created so that I can develop, present, and later revise my own thoughts on how to make the most of educational opportunities with students.

Topics explored or linked to:

• using the Internet to enhance services to users
• digital reference (or virtual or electronic reference) vs. face-to-face reference
• strengths and weaknesses of digital reference
• evaluating digital reference service
• whether reference interviews differ when most of the resources users need are only available online
• assisting distance learners through reference services
• unique library needs of distance learners
• information literacy in the classroom and in reference services