Questionpoint

Ms Diane Nester Kresh Director, Public Service Collections. Library of Congress

	QuestionPoint is a web-based, Library of Congress - Online Computer Library Center co-branded service created by librarians for librarians.
	Why did Library of Congress become involved?
	a History of Professional Innovation and Outreach Bridge multiple audiences - the US Congress, US and International library community and the general public. Redefining role and standards for libraries & librarians in digital age
	QuestionPoint builds on its predecessor, the Collaborative Digital Reference Service (CDRS)
	QuestionPoint supports a local component including web-based question submission forms, email and live chat; enables libraries to refer questions to each other based on expertise and resource availability; provides access to the global archive of Q&A
	QuestionPoint enables member libraries to extend traditional reference services through:
	potential for 24x7 service Access to virtual collections Access to subject/language specialists worldwide
	Where to next with QuestionPoint Development?
	Test digital reference best practices (NISO work); Establish interoperability among reference networks and between local services and global network; Provide public access to global network Language, literacy, and regional context;
	Some challenges to global implementation:
	Accessibility and infrastructure Cultural & political sensitivities Digital divide Intellectual property and service constraints Trade agreements
	QuestionPoint web address: http://www.questionpoint.org

Conference of Directors of National Libraries