Posted September 10, 2004.

Ohio Launches Statewide 24-Hour Online Reference Service

The State Library of Ohio has launched KnowItNow 24x7, an online service providing state residents round-the-clock reference help. The service, funded by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, was inaugurated at a ceremony at the Northwest branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library September 7.

“To use the service, all that Ohio residents need to do is log on to www.KnowItNow.org, and enter their zip code,” said State Librarian Joanne Budler. “From that point, the website offers a variety of reference options.” Once connected, users chat in real time with a reference librarian, who uses print and electronic resources to answer questions. Students can get access to online tutors from 2 to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Afterwards, users are sent a transcript of their session that includes links to the online resources used by the librarian.

During regular library hours KnowItNow is staffed by public librarians around the state. After hours, the service uses its own “KnowItNow After Dark” team of professional librarians.

Posted September 10, 2004.