Virtual Reference Staff Role Evaluation (when you were role-playing the patron)

Name of Student Who Played Staff Role: KHCPL Ask-a Librarian (fill out a form)

When you contacted the student to role-play with you, did they respond quickly, arrange a time, and follow through? Please comment.

Filled out the form at 1:19pm on 3/20/14. Had a response by 2:34pm, the same day.Did the student indicate in communications what kinds of resources they would be prepared to demonstrate and what library to use (in time)?

N/ADid the interaction demonstrate that the student was prepared and ready to answer your question/s? Please comment.

The answer was returned in a timely manner, so the librarian answering the question must have known where to look up the subject matter.Did the technology work smoothly? Please elaborate.

The technology worked very well. I was actually surprised how quickly a response came.If you were a real patron, asking the question you chose, would you have felt something like screen sharing would have been helpful in providing the answer? Please elaborate on why or why not.

Again, I dont think the screen sharing would have made any difference in the outcome of the answer. It wouldnt have made it any easier to find or any easier for the librarian to relay to information to me.Please share any other observations on the experience.

I think like the fill-out-a form better than the live chat because you can send in your question, and then go do something else while you wait for an answer. However, the live chat is better if youre on a deadline and need an answer right away.Your name as Patron and Peer-evaluator: Teresa Howard